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Tusnim J, Kutuzov P, Grasman JM. In Vitro Models for Peripheral Nerve Regeneration. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2401605. [PMID: 39324286 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202401605] [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: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injury (PNI) resulting in lesions is highly prevalent clinically, but current therapeutic approaches fail to provide satisfactory outcomes in many patients. While peripheral nerves have intrinsic regenerative capacity, the regenerative capabilities of peripheral nerves are often insufficient to restore full functionality. This highlights an unmet need for developing more effective strategies to repair damaged peripheral nerves and improve regenerative success. Consequently, researchers are actively exploring a variety of therapeutic strategies, encompassing the local delivery of trophic factors or bioactive molecules, the design of advanced biomaterials that interact with regenerating axons, and augmentation with nerve guidance conduits or complex prostheses. However, clinical translation of these technologies remains limited, emphasizing the need for continued research on peripheral nerve regeneration modalities that can enhance functional restoration. Experimental models that accurately recapitulate key aspects of peripheral nerve injury and repair biology can accelerate therapeutic development by enabling systematic testing of new techniques. Advancing regenerative therapies for PNI requires bridging the gap between basic science discoveries and clinical application. This review discusses different in vitro models of peripheral nerve injury and repair, including their advantages, limitations, and potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarin Tusnim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, 07102, USA
| | - Peter Kutuzov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, 07102, USA
| | - Jonathan M Grasman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, 07102, USA
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2
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van Eyll J, Prior R, Celanire S, Van Den Bosch L, Rombouts F. Therapeutic indications for HDAC6 inhibitors in the peripheral and central nervous disorders. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2024:1-19. [PMID: 39305025 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2024.2404571] [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: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 09/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Inhibition of the enzymatic function of HDAC6 is currently being explored in clinical trials ranging from peripheral neuropathies to cancers. Advances in selective HDAC6 inhibitor discovery allowed studying highly efficacious brain penetrant and peripheral restrictive compounds for treating PNS and CNS indications. AREAS COVERED This review explores the multifactorial role of HDAC6 in cells, the common pathological hallmarks of PNS and CNS disorders, and how HDAC6 modulates these mechanisms. Pharmacological inhibition of HDAC6 and genetic knockout/knockdown studies as a therapeutic strategy in PNS and CNS indications were analyzed. Furthermore, we describe the recent developments in HDAC6 PET tracers and their utility in CNS indications. Finally, we explore the advancements and challenges with HDAC6 inhibitor compounds, such as hydroxamic acid, fluoromethyl oxadiazoles, HDAC6 degraders, and thiol-based inhibitors. EXPERT OPINION Based on extensive preclinical evidence, pharmacological inhibition of HDAC6 is a promising approach for treating both PNS and CNS disorders, given its involvement in neurodegeneration and aging-related cellular processes. Despite the progress in the development of selective HDAC6 inhibitors, safety concerns remain regarding their chronic administration in PNS and CNS indications, and the development of novel compound classes and modalities inhibiting HDAC6 function offer a way to mitigate some of these safety concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sylvain Celanire
- Augustine Therapeutics, Research and Development, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- VIB, Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, Leuven, Belgium
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3
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Prior R, Silva A, Vangansewinkel T, Idkowiak J, Tharkeshwar AK, Hellings TP, Michailidou I, Vreijling J, Loos M, Koopmans B, Vlek N, Agaser C, Kuipers TB, Michiels C, Rossaert E, Verschoren S, Vermeire W, de Laat V, Dehairs J, Eggermont K, van den Biggelaar D, Bademosi AT, Meunier FA, vandeVen M, Van Damme P, Mei H, Swinnen JV, Lambrichts I, Baas F, Fluiter K, Wolfs E, Van Den Bosch L. PMP22 duplication dysregulates lipid homeostasis and plasma membrane organization in developing human Schwann cells. Brain 2024; 147:3113-3130. [PMID: 38743588 PMCID: PMC11370802 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awae158] [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: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A (CMT1A) is the most common inherited peripheral neuropathy caused by a 1.5 Mb tandem duplication of chromosome 17 harbouring the PMP22 gene. This dose-dependent overexpression of PMP22 results in disrupted Schwann cell myelination of peripheral nerves. To obtain better insights into the underlying pathogenic mechanisms in CMT1A, we investigated the role of PMP22 duplication in cellular homeostasis in CMT1A mouse models and in patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells differentiated into Schwann cell precursors (iPSC-SCPs). We performed lipidomic profiling and bulk RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) on sciatic nerves of two developing CMT1A mouse models and on CMT1A patient-derived iPSC-SCPs. For the sciatic nerves of the CMT1A mice, cholesterol and lipid metabolism was downregulated in a dose-dependent manner throughout development. For the CMT1A iPSC-SCPs, transcriptional analysis unveiled a strong suppression of genes related to autophagy and lipid metabolism. Gene ontology enrichment analysis identified disturbances in pathways related to plasma membrane components and cell receptor signalling. Lipidomic analysis confirmed the severe dysregulation in plasma membrane lipids, particularly sphingolipids, in CMT1A iPSC-SCPs. Furthermore, we identified reduced lipid raft dynamics, disturbed plasma membrane fluidity and impaired cholesterol incorporation and storage, all of which could result from altered lipid storage homeostasis in the patient-derived CMT1A iPSC-SCPs. Importantly, this phenotype could be rescued by stimulating autophagy and lipolysis. We conclude that PMP22 duplication disturbs intracellular lipid storage and leads to a more disordered plasma membrane owing to an alteration in the lipid composition, which might ultimately lead to impaired axo-glial interactions. Moreover, targeting lipid handling and metabolism could hold promise for the treatment of patients with CMT1A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Prior
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven—University of Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven 3000, Belgium
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn 53127, Germany
| | - Alessio Silva
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven—University of Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Tim Vangansewinkel
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven 3000, Belgium
- UHasselt—Hasselt University, Biomedical Research Institute, Diepenbeek 3590, Belgium
| | - Jakub Idkowiak
- Laboratory of Lipid Metabolism and Cancer, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemical Technology, University of Pardubice, Pardubice 532 10, Czech Republic
| | - Arun Kumar Tharkeshwar
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven—University of Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Tom P Hellings
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, The Netherlands
| | - Iliana Michailidou
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen Vreijling
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten Loos
- InnoSer Nederland B.V., 2333 CK Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Nina Vlek
- InnoSer Nederland B.V., 2333 CK Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Cedrick Agaser
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Sequencing Analysis Support Core, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas B Kuipers
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Sequencing Analysis Support Core, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, The Netherlands
| | - Christine Michiels
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven—University of Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Elisabeth Rossaert
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven—University of Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Stijn Verschoren
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven—University of Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Wendy Vermeire
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven—University of Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Vincent de Laat
- Laboratory of Lipid Metabolism and Cancer, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Jonas Dehairs
- Laboratory of Lipid Metabolism and Cancer, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Kristel Eggermont
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven—University of Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Diede van den Biggelaar
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven—University of Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Adekunle T Bademosi
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Frederic A Meunier
- Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Martin vandeVen
- UHasselt—Hasselt University, Biomedical Research Institute, Diepenbeek 3590, Belgium
| | - Philip Van Damme
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven—University of Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven 3000, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Hailiang Mei
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Sequencing Analysis Support Core, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes V Swinnen
- Laboratory of Lipid Metabolism and Cancer, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Ivo Lambrichts
- UHasselt—Hasselt University, Biomedical Research Institute, Diepenbeek 3590, Belgium
| | - Frank Baas
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, The Netherlands
| | - Kees Fluiter
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden 2333 ZA, The Netherlands
| | - Esther Wolfs
- UHasselt—Hasselt University, Biomedical Research Institute, Diepenbeek 3590, Belgium
| | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven—University of Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven 3000, Belgium
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4
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Nebol A, Gouti M. A new era in neuromuscular junction research: current advances in self-organized and assembled in vitro models. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2024; 87:102229. [PMID: 39047588 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2024.102229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the development and function of the human neuromuscular system is crucial for deciphering the mechanisms of neuromuscular disorders and developing effective therapies. However, limitations of animal models necessitate the development of human-specific in vitro models to study such complex diseases effectively. Here, we discuss different approaches for in vitro neuromuscular junction (NMJ) modeling: complex self-organized models that rely on the inherent abilities of cells to form NMJs based on embryonic developmental principles and assembled models that depend on integrating different cell types for controlled NMJ formation. Finally, we discuss the advantages and limitations of these models and the need for continued advancements enhanced by bioengineering approaches to deepen our understanding of human NMJ biology and pave the way for personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aylin Nebol
- Max Delbrück Center, Berlin 13125, Germany. https://twitter.com/@aylinnebol
| | - Mina Gouti
- Max Delbrück Center, Berlin 13125, Germany.
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5
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Van Lent J, Prior R, Pérez Siles G, Cutrupi AN, Kennerson ML, Vangansewinkel T, Wolfs E, Mukherjee-Clavin B, Nevin Z, Judge L, Conklin B, Tyynismaa H, Clark AJ, Bennett DL, Van Den Bosch L, Saporta M, Timmerman V. Advances and challenges in modeling inherited peripheral neuropathies using iPSCs. Exp Mol Med 2024; 56:1348-1364. [PMID: 38825644 PMCID: PMC11263568 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-024-01250-x] [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: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Inherited peripheral neuropathies (IPNs) are a group of diseases associated with mutations in various genes with fundamental roles in the development and function of peripheral nerves. Over the past 10 years, significant advances in identifying molecular disease mechanisms underlying axonal and myelin degeneration, acquired from cellular biology studies and transgenic fly and rodent models, have facilitated the development of promising treatment strategies. However, no clinical treatment has emerged to date. This lack of treatment highlights the urgent need for more biologically and clinically relevant models recapitulating IPNs. For both neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases, patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are a particularly powerful platform for disease modeling and preclinical studies. In this review, we provide an update on different in vitro human cellular IPN models, including traditional two-dimensional monoculture iPSC derivatives, and recent advances in more complex human iPSC-based systems using microfluidic chips, organoids, and assembloids.
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Grants
- Wellcome Trust
- R01 NS119678 NINDS NIH HHS
- U01 ES032673 NIEHS NIH HHS
- DOC-PRO4 Universiteit Antwerpen (University of Antwerp)
- This work was supported in part by the University of Antwerp (DOC-PRO4 PhD fellowship to J.V.L. and TOP-BOF research grant no. 38694 to V.T.), the Association Française contre les Myopathies (AFM research grant no. 24063 to V.T.), Association Belge contre les Maladies Neuromusculaires (ABMM research grant no. 1 to J.V.L and V.T), the interuniversity research fund (iBOF project to. L.V.D.B, E.W. and V.T.). V.T. is part of the μNEURO Research Centre of Excellence of the University of Antwerp and is an active member of the European Network for Stem Cell Core Facilities (CorEUStem, COST Action CA20140). Work in the M.L.K group was supported by the NHMRC Ideas Grant (APP1186867), CMT Australia Grant awarded to M.L.K and G.P.-S and the Australian Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) Genomics Health Futures Mission Grant 2007681. B.M.C. is supported by the American Academy of Neurology and the Passano Foundation. L.M.J. and B.R.C. are supported by the Charcot-Marie-Tooth Association, NINDS R01 NS119678, NIEHS U01 ES032673. H.T. is supported by Academy of Finland Centre of Excellence in Stem Cell Metabolism and Sigrid Juselius Foundation. Work in the D.L.B. group is supported by a Wellcome Investigator Grant (223149/Z/21/Z), the MRC (MR/T020113/1), and with funding from the MRC and Versus Arthritis to the PAINSTORM consortium as part of the Advanced Pain Discovery Platform (MR/W002388/1).
- Australian Medical Association (Australian Medical Association Limited)
- Universiteit Hasselt (UHasselt)
- American Academy of Neurology (AAN)
- Gladstone Institutes (J. David Gladstone Institutes)
- Academy of Finland (Suomen Akatemia)
- Academy of Medical Royal Colleges (AoMRC)
- Wellcome Trust (Wellcome)
- Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust (Oxford University Hospitals National Health Service Trust)
- KU Leuven (Katholieke Universiteit Leuven)
- Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie (Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)
- Miami University | Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine (Miller School of Medicine)
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Van Lent
- Peripheral Neuropathy Research Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610, Antwerp, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neuromuscular Pathology, Institute Born Bunge, 2610, Antwerp, Belgium
- Institute of Oncology Research (IOR), BIOS+, 6500, Bellinzona, Switzerland
- Università della Svizzera Italiana, 6900, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Robert Prior
- Universitätsklinikum Bonn (UKB), University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Gonzalo Pérez Siles
- Northcott Neuroscience Laboratory, ANZAC Research Institute Sydney Local Health District and Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Anthony N Cutrupi
- Northcott Neuroscience Laboratory, ANZAC Research Institute Sydney Local Health District and Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Marina L Kennerson
- Northcott Neuroscience Laboratory, ANZAC Research Institute Sydney Local Health District and Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Molecular Medicine Laboratory, Concord Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Tim Vangansewinkel
- UHasselt - Hasselt University, BIOMED, Laboratory for Functional Imaging and Research on Stem Cells (FIERCE Lab), Agoralaan, 3590, Diepenbeek, Belgium
- VIB-Center for Brain and Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Esther Wolfs
- UHasselt - Hasselt University, BIOMED, Laboratory for Functional Imaging and Research on Stem Cells (FIERCE Lab), Agoralaan, 3590, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | | | | | - Luke Judge
- Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Bruce Conklin
- Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Henna Tyynismaa
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00290, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Alex J Clark
- Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - David L Bennett
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- VIB-Center for Brain and Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, and Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven-University of Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mario Saporta
- Department of Neurology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Vincent Timmerman
- Peripheral Neuropathy Research Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610, Antwerp, Belgium.
- Laboratory of Neuromuscular Pathology, Institute Born Bunge, 2610, Antwerp, Belgium.
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6
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Salzinger A, Ramesh V, Das Sharma S, Chandran S, Thangaraj Selvaraj B. Neuronal Circuit Dysfunction in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Cells 2024; 13:792. [PMID: 38786016 PMCID: PMC11120636 DOI: 10.3390/cells13100792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The primary neural circuit affected in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) patients is the corticospinal motor circuit, originating in upper motor neurons (UMNs) in the cerebral motor cortex which descend to synapse with the lower motor neurons (LMNs) in the spinal cord to ultimately innervate the skeletal muscle. Perturbation of these neural circuits and consequent loss of both UMNs and LMNs, leading to muscle wastage and impaired movement, is the key pathophysiology observed. Despite decades of research, we are still lacking in ALS disease-modifying treatments. In this review, we document the current research from patient studies, rodent models, and human stem cell models in understanding the mechanisms of corticomotor circuit dysfunction and its implication in ALS. We summarize the current knowledge about cortical UMN dysfunction and degeneration, altered excitability in LMNs, neuromuscular junction degeneration, and the non-cell autonomous role of glial cells in motor circuit dysfunction in relation to ALS. We further highlight the advances in human stem cell technology to model the complex neural circuitry and how these can aid in future studies to better understand the mechanisms of neural circuit dysfunction underpinning ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Salzinger
- UK Dementia Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; (A.S.); (V.R.); (S.D.S.); (S.C.)
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Vidya Ramesh
- UK Dementia Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; (A.S.); (V.R.); (S.D.S.); (S.C.)
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Shreya Das Sharma
- UK Dementia Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; (A.S.); (V.R.); (S.D.S.); (S.C.)
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Siddharthan Chandran
- UK Dementia Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; (A.S.); (V.R.); (S.D.S.); (S.C.)
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
- Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic (ARRNC), University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Bhuvaneish Thangaraj Selvaraj
- UK Dementia Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK; (A.S.); (V.R.); (S.D.S.); (S.C.)
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
- Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic (ARRNC), University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
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7
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De Cock L, Bercier V, Van Den Bosch L. New developments in pre-clinical models of ALS to guide translation. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 176:477-524. [PMID: 38802181 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2024.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder in which selective death of motor neurons leads to muscle weakness and paralysis. Most research has focused on understanding and treating monogenic familial forms, most frequently caused by mutations in SOD1, FUS, TARDBP and C9orf72, although ALS is mostly sporadic and without a clear genetic cause. Rodent models have been developed to study monogenic ALS, but despite numerous pre-clinical studies and clinical trials, few disease-modifying therapies are available. ALS is a heterogeneous disease with complex underlying mechanisms where several genes and molecular pathways appear to play a role. One reason for the high failure rate of clinical translation from the current models could be oversimplification in pre-clinical studies. Here, we review advances in pre-clinical models to better capture the heterogeneous nature of ALS and discuss the value of novel model systems to guide translation and aid in the development of precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenja De Cock
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Louvain-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Center for Brain and Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Valérie Bercier
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Louvain-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Center for Brain and Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Louvain-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Center for Brain and Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium.
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8
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De Vitis E, Stanzione A, Romano A, Quattrini A, Gigli G, Moroni L, Gervaso F, Polini A. The Evolution of Technology-Driven In Vitro Models for Neurodegenerative Diseases. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2304989. [PMID: 38366798 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202304989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
The alteration in the neural circuits of both central and peripheral nervous systems is closely related to the onset of neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs). Despite significant research efforts, the knowledge regarding NDD pathological processes, and the development of efficacious drugs are still limited due to the inability to access and reproduce the components of the nervous system and its intricate microenvironment. 2D culture systems are too simplistic to accurately represent the more complex and dynamic situation of cells in vivo and have therefore been surpassed by 3D systems. However, both models suffer from various limitations that can be overcome by employing two innovative technologies: organ-on-chip and 3D printing. In this review, an overview of the advantages and shortcomings of both microfluidic platforms and extracellular matrix-like biomaterials will be given. Then, the combination of microfluidics and hydrogels as a new synergistic approach to study neural disorders by analyzing the latest advances in 3D brain-on-chip for neurodegenerative research will be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora De Vitis
- CNR NANOTEC-Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekn, via Monteroni, Lecce, 73100, Italy
| | - Antonella Stanzione
- CNR NANOTEC-Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekn, via Monteroni, Lecce, 73100, Italy
| | - Alessandro Romano
- IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Milan, 20132, Italy
| | - Angelo Quattrini
- IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Milan, 20132, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Gigli
- CNR NANOTEC-Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekn, via Monteroni, Lecce, 73100, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università Del Salento, Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, Lecce, 73100, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Moroni
- CNR NANOTEC-Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekn, via Monteroni, Lecce, 73100, Italy
- Complex Tissue Regeneration, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, Maastricht, 6229 ER, Netherlands
| | - Francesca Gervaso
- CNR NANOTEC-Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekn, via Monteroni, Lecce, 73100, Italy
| | - Alessandro Polini
- CNR NANOTEC-Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekn, via Monteroni, Lecce, 73100, Italy
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9
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Gao C, Shi Q, Pan X, Chen J, Zhang Y, Lang J, Wen S, Liu X, Cheng TL, Lei K. Neuromuscular organoids model spinal neuromuscular pathologies in C9orf72 amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Cell Rep 2024; 43:113892. [PMID: 38431841 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.113892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Hexanucleotide repeat expansions in the C9orf72 gene are the most common cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia. Due to the lack of trunk neuromuscular organoids (NMOs) from ALS patients' induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), an organoid system was missing to model the trunk spinal neuromuscular neurodegeneration. With the C9orf72 ALS patient-derived iPSCs and isogenic controls, we used an NMO system containing trunk spinal cord neural and peripheral muscular tissues to show that the ALS NMOs could model peripheral defects in ALS, including contraction weakness, neural denervation, and loss of Schwann cells. The neurons and astrocytes in ALS NMOs manifested the RNA foci and dipeptide repeat proteins. Acute treatment with the unfolded protein response inhibitor GSK2606414 increased the glutamatergic muscular contraction 2-fold and reduced the dipeptide repeat protein aggregation and autophagy. This study provides an organoid system for spinal neuromuscular pathologies in ALS and its application for drug testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong Gao
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Brain and Cognitive Science, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qinghua Shi
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xue Pan
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiajia Chen
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuhong Zhang
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiali Lang
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shan Wen
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaodong Liu
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tian-Lin Cheng
- Institute for Translational Brain Research, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institute of Pediatrics, National Children's Medical Center, Children's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kai Lei
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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10
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Amartumur S, Nguyen H, Huynh T, Kim TS, Woo RS, Oh E, Kim KK, Lee LP, Heo C. Neuropathogenesis-on-chips for neurodegenerative diseases. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2219. [PMID: 38472255 PMCID: PMC10933492 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46554-8] [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: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Developing diagnostics and treatments for neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) is challenging due to multifactorial pathogenesis that progresses gradually. Advanced in vitro systems that recapitulate patient-like pathophysiology are emerging as alternatives to conventional animal-based models. In this review, we explore the interconnected pathogenic features of different types of ND, discuss the general strategy to modelling NDs using a microfluidic chip, and introduce the organoid-on-a-chip as the next advanced relevant model. Lastly, we overview how these models are being applied in academic and industrial drug development. The integration of microfluidic chips, stem cells, and biotechnological devices promises to provide valuable insights for biomedical research and developing diagnostic and therapeutic solutions for NDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarnai Amartumur
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Huong Nguyen
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Thuy Huynh
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Testaverde S Kim
- Center for Integrated Nanostructure Physics (CINAP), Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Ran-Sook Woo
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Eulji University, Daejeon, 34824, Korea
| | - Eungseok Oh
- Department of Neurology, Chungnam National University Hospital, Daejeon, 35015, Korea
| | - Kyeong Kyu Kim
- Department of Precision Medicine, Graduate School of Basic Medical Science (GSBMS), Institute for Anti-microbial Resistance Research and Therapeutics, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Luke P Lee
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea.
- Harvard Medical School, Division of Engineering in Medicine and Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Department of Bioengineering, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA.
| | - Chaejeong Heo
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea.
- Center for Integrated Nanostructure Physics (CINAP), Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Suwon, 16419, Korea.
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11
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Das S, Hilman MC, Yang F, Mourkioti F, Yang W, Cullen DK. Motor neurons and endothelial cells additively promote development and fusion of human iPSC-derived skeletal myocytes. Skelet Muscle 2024; 14:5. [PMID: 38454511 PMCID: PMC10921694 DOI: 10.1186/s13395-024-00336-4] [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: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurovascular cells have wide-ranging implications on skeletal muscle biology regulating myogenesis, maturation, and regeneration. Although several in vitro studies have investigated how motor neurons and endothelial cells interact with skeletal myocytes independently, there is limited knowledge about the combined effect of neural and vascular cells on muscle maturation and development. METHODS Here, we report a triculture system comprising human-induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived skeletal myocytes, human iPSC-derived motor neurons, and primary human endothelial cells maintained under controlled media conditions. Briefly, iPSCs were differentiated to generate skeletal muscle progenitor cells (SMPCs). These SMPCs were seeded at a density of 5 × 104 cells/well in 12-well plates and allowed to differentiate for 7 days before adding iPSC-derived motor neurons at a concentration of 0.5 × 104 cells/well. The neuromuscular coculture was maintained for another 7 days in coculture media before addition of primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) also at 0.5 × 104 cells/well. The triculture was maintained for another 7 days in triculture media comprising equal portions of muscle differentiation media, coculture media, and vascular media. Extensive morphological, genetic, and molecular characterization was performed to understand the combined and individual effects of neural and vascular cells on skeletal muscle maturation. RESULTS We observed that motor neurons independently promoted myofiber fusion, upregulated neuromuscular junction genes, and maintained a molecular niche supportive of muscle maturation. Endothelial cells independently did not support myofiber fusion and downregulated expression of LRP4 but did promote expression of type II specific myosin isoforms. However, neurovascular cells in combination exhibited additive increases in myofiber fusion and length, enhanced production of Agrin, along with upregulation of several key genes like MUSK, RAPSYN, DOK-7, and SLC2A4. Interestingly, more divergent effects were observed in expression of genes like MYH8, MYH1, MYH2, MYH4, and LRP4 and secretion of key molecular factors like amphiregulin and IGFBP-4. CONCLUSIONS Neurovascular cells when cultured in combination with skeletal myocytes promoted myocyte fusion with concomitant increase in expression of various neuromuscular genes. This triculture system may be used to gain a deeper understanding of the effects of the neurovascular niche on skeletal muscle biology and pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suradip Das
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
- Center for Neurotrauma, Neurodegeneration & Restoration, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| | - Melanie C Hilman
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Center for Neurotrauma, Neurodegeneration & Restoration, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Feikun Yang
- Department of Medicine, Penn Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Cardiovascular Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Foteini Mourkioti
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Musculoskeletal Program, Penn Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Wenli Yang
- Department of Medicine, Penn Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Cardiovascular Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - D Kacy Cullen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
- Center for Neurotrauma, Neurodegeneration & Restoration, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Musculoskeletal Program, Penn Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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12
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Silvestri B, Mochi M, Mawrie D, de Turris V, Colantoni A, Borhy B, Medici M, Anderson EN, Garone MG, Zammerilla CP, Pandey UB, Rosa A. HuD (ELAVL4) gain-of-function impairs neuromuscular junctions and induces apoptosis in in vitro and in vivo models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.08.22.554258. [PMID: 38464028 PMCID: PMC10925158 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.22.554258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Early defects at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) are among the first hallmarks of the progressive neurodegenerative disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). According to the "dying back" hypothesis, disruption of the NMJ not only precedes, but is also a trigger for the subsequent degeneration of the motoneuron in both sporadic and familial ALS, including ALS caused by the severe FUS pathogenic variant P525L. However, the mechanisms linking genetic and environmental factors to NMJ defects remain elusive. By taking advantage of co-cultures of motoneurons and skeletal muscle derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), we show that the neural RNA binding protein HuD (ELAVL4) may underlie NMJ defects and apoptosis in FUS-ALS. HuD overexpression in motoneurons phenocopies the severe FUSP525L mutation, while HuD knockdown in FUSP525L co-cultures produces phenotypic rescue. We validated these findings in vivo in a Drosophila FUS-ALS model. Neuronal-restricted overexpression of the HuD-related gene, elav, produces per se a motor phenotype, while neuronal-restricted elav knockdown significantly rescues motor dysfunction caused by FUS. Finally, we show that HuD levels increase upon oxidative stress in human motoneurons and in sporadic ALS patients with an oxidative stress signature. On these bases, we propose HuD as an important player downstream of FUS mutation in familial ALS, with potential implications for sporadic ALS related to oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Silvestri
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Center for Life Nano-& Neuro-Science, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Rome, Italy
| | - Michela Mochi
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Darilang Mawrie
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, PA, USA
| | - Valeria de Turris
- Center for Life Nano-& Neuro-Science, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Rome, Italy
| | - Alessio Colantoni
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Center for Life Nano-& Neuro-Science, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Rome, Italy
| | - Beatrice Borhy
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Margherita Medici
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Eric Nathaniel Anderson
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, PA, USA
| | - Maria Giovanna Garone
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Udai Bhan Pandey
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, PA, USA
- Children's Neuroscience Institute, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA USA
| | - Alessandro Rosa
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies "Charles Darwin", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Center for Life Nano-& Neuro-Science, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Rome, Italy
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13
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Van de Vondel L, De Winter J, Timmerman V, Baets J. Overarching pathomechanisms in inherited peripheral neuropathies, spastic paraplegias, and cerebellar ataxias. Trends Neurosci 2024; 47:227-238. [PMID: 38360512 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2024.01.004] [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: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
International consortia collaborating on the genetics of rare diseases have significantly boosted our understanding of inherited neurological disorders. Historical clinical classification boundaries were drawn between disorders with seemingly different etiologies, such as inherited peripheral neuropathies (IPNs), spastic paraplegias, and cerebellar ataxias. These clinically defined borders are being challenged by the identification of mutations in genes displaying wide phenotypic spectra and by shared pathomechanistic themes, which are valuable indications for therapy development. We highlight common cellular alterations that underlie this genetic landscape, including alteration of cytoskeleton, axonal transport, mitochondrial function, and DNA repair response. Finally, we discuss venues for future research using the long axonopathies of the PNS as a model to explore other neurogenetic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liedewei Van de Vondel
- Translational Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Laboratory of Neuromuscular Pathology, Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jonathan De Winter
- Translational Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Laboratory of Neuromuscular Pathology, Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Neuromuscular Reference Centre, Department of Neurology, Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Vincent Timmerman
- Laboratory of Neuromuscular Pathology, Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Peripheral Neuropathy Research Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jonathan Baets
- Translational Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Laboratory of Neuromuscular Pathology, Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Neuromuscular Reference Centre, Department of Neurology, Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium.
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14
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Van Schoor E, Strubbe D, Braems E, Weishaupt J, Ludolph AC, Van Damme P, Thal DR, Bercier V, Van Den Bosch L. TUBA4A downregulation as observed in ALS post-mortem motor cortex causes ALS-related abnormalities in zebrafish. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1340240. [PMID: 38463699 PMCID: PMC10921936 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1340240] [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: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Disease-associated variants of TUBA4A (alpha-tubulin 4A) have recently been identified in familial ALS. Interestingly, a downregulation of TUBA4A protein expression was observed in familial as well as sporadic ALS brain tissue. To investigate whether a decreased TUBA4A expression could be a driving factor in ALS pathogenesis, we assessed whether TUBA4A knockdown in zebrafish could recapitulate an ALS-like phenotype. For this, we injected an antisense oligonucleotide morpholino in zebrafish embryos targeting the zebrafish TUBA4A orthologue. An antibody against synaptic vesicle 2 was used to visualize motor axons in the spinal cord, allowing the analysis of embryonic ventral root projections. Motor behavior was assessed using the touch-evoked escape response. In post-mortem ALS motor cortex, we observed reduced TUBA4A levels. The knockdown of the zebrafish TUBA4A orthologue induced a motor axonopathy and a significantly disturbed motor behavior. Both phenotypes were dose-dependent and could be rescued by the addition of human wild-type TUBA4A mRNA. Thus, TUBA4A downregulation as observed in ALS post-mortem motor cortex could be modeled in zebrafish and induced a motor axonopathy and motor behavior defects reflecting a motor neuron disease phenotype, as previously described in embryonic zebrafish models of ALS. The rescue with human wild-type TUBA4A mRNA suggests functional conservation and strengthens the causal relation between TUBA4A protein levels and phenotype severity. Furthermore, the loss of TUBA4A induces significant changes in post-translational modifications of tubulin, such as acetylation, detyrosination and polyglutamylation. Our data unveil an important role for TUBA4A in ALS pathogenesis, and extend the relevance of TUBA4A to the majority of ALS patients, in addition to cases bearing TUBA4A mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelien Van Schoor
- Laboratory of Neuropathology, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven (University of Leuven) and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven (University of Leuven) and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Brain and Disease Research, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dufie Strubbe
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven (University of Leuven) and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Brain and Disease Research, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Elke Braems
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven (University of Leuven) and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Brain and Disease Research, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Albert C. Ludolph
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen, Ulm, Germany
| | - Philip Van Damme
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven (University of Leuven) and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Brain and Disease Research, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dietmar Rudolf Thal
- Laboratory of Neuropathology, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven (University of Leuven) and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Valérie Bercier
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven (University of Leuven) and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Brain and Disease Research, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven (University of Leuven) and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Brain and Disease Research, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
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15
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Tziortzouda P, Steyaert J, Scheveneels W, Sicart A, Stoklund Dittlau K, Barbosa Correia AM, Burg T, Pal A, Hermann A, Van Damme P, Moens TG, Van Den Bosch L. PP2A and GSK3 act as modifiers of FUS-ALS by modulating mitochondrial transport. Acta Neuropathol 2024; 147:41. [PMID: 38363426 PMCID: PMC10873455 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-024-02689-y] [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: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease which currently lacks effective treatments. Mutations in the RNA-binding protein FUS are a common cause of familial ALS, accounting for around 4% of the cases. Understanding the mechanisms by which mutant FUS becomes toxic to neurons can provide insight into the pathogenesis of both familial and sporadic ALS. We have previously observed that overexpression of wild-type or ALS-mutant FUS in Drosophila motor neurons is toxic, which allowed us to screen for novel genetic modifiers of the disease. Using a genome-wide screening approach, we identified Protein Phosphatase 2A (PP2A) and Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 (GSK3) as novel modifiers of FUS-ALS. Loss of function or pharmacological inhibition of either protein rescued FUS-associated lethality in Drosophila. Consistent with a conserved role in disease pathogenesis, pharmacological inhibition of both proteins rescued disease-relevant phenotypes, including mitochondrial trafficking defects and neuromuscular junction failure, in patient iPSC-derived spinal motor neurons (iPSC-sMNs). In FUS-ALS flies, mice, and human iPSC-sMNs, we observed reduced GSK3 inhibitory phosphorylation, suggesting that FUS dysfunction results in GSK3 hyperactivity. Furthermore, we found that PP2A acts upstream of GSK3, affecting its inhibitory phosphorylation. GSK3 has previously been linked to kinesin-1 hyperphosphorylation. We observed this in both flies and iPSC-sMNs, and we rescued this hyperphosphorylation by inhibiting GSK3 or PP2A. Moreover, increasing the level of kinesin-1 expression in our Drosophila model strongly rescued toxicity, confirming the relevance of kinesin-1 hyperphosphorylation. Our data provide in vivo evidence that PP2A and GSK3 are disease modifiers, and reveal an unexplored mechanistic link between PP2A, GSK3, and kinesin-1, that may be central to the pathogenesis of FUS-ALS and sporadic forms of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paraskevi Tziortzouda
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N5, Herestraat 49, PB 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jolien Steyaert
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N5, Herestraat 49, PB 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Wendy Scheveneels
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N5, Herestraat 49, PB 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Adria Sicart
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N5, Herestraat 49, PB 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Katarina Stoklund Dittlau
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N5, Herestraat 49, PB 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Adriana Margarida Barbosa Correia
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N5, Herestraat 49, PB 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
- Instituto Superior Técnico-Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Thibaut Burg
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N5, Herestraat 49, PB 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Arun Pal
- Dresden High Magnetic Field Laboratory (HLD-EMFL), Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden Rossendorf, 01328, Dresden, Germany
- Division of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurology, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Andreas Hermann
- Division of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurology, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307, Dresden, Germany
- Translational Neurodegeneration Section "Albrecht Kossel", Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Rostock, University of Rostock, 18147, Rostock, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Fur Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE) Rostock/Greifswald, 18147, Rostock, Germany
- Center for Transdisciplinary Neurosciences Rostock (CTNR), University Medical Center Rostock, University of Rostock, 18147, Rostock, Germany
| | - Philip Van Damme
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N5, Herestraat 49, PB 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Thomas G Moens
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
- Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N5, Herestraat 49, PB 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
- Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N5, Herestraat 49, PB 602, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
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16
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Liu ML, Ma S, Tai W, Zhong X, Ni H, Zou Y, Wang J, Zhang CL. Screens in aging-relevant human ALS-motor neurons identify MAP4Ks as therapeutic targets for the disease. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:4. [PMID: 38177100 PMCID: PMC10766628 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06395-7] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Effective therapeutics is much needed for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), an adult-onset neurodegenerative disease mainly affecting motor neurons. By screening chemical compounds in human patient-derived and aging-relevant motor neurons, we identify a neuroprotective compound and show that MAP4Ks may serve as therapeutic targets for treating ALS. The lead compound broadly improves survival and function of motor neurons directly converted from human ALS patients. Mechanistically, it works as an inhibitor of MAP4Ks, regulates the MAP4Ks-HDAC6-TUBA4A-RANGAP1 pathway, and normalizes subcellular distribution of RANGAP1 and TDP-43. Finally, in an ALS mouse model we show that inhibiting MAP4Ks preserves motor neurons and significantly extends animal lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Lu Liu
- Department of Molecular Biology, Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Shuaipeng Ma
- Department of Molecular Biology, Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Wenjiao Tai
- Department of Molecular Biology, Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Xiaoling Zhong
- Department of Molecular Biology, Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Haoqi Ni
- Department of Molecular Biology, Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Yuhua Zou
- Department of Molecular Biology, Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Jingcheng Wang
- Department of Molecular Biology, Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Chun-Li Zhang
- Department of Molecular Biology, Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA.
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17
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Kim H, Kim GS, Hyun SH, Kim E. Advancements in 2D and 3D In Vitro Models for Studying Neuromuscular Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17006. [PMID: 38069329 PMCID: PMC10707046 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242317006] [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: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuromuscular diseases (NMDs) are a genetically or clinically heterogeneous group of diseases that involve injury or dysfunction of neuromuscular tissue components, including peripheral motor neurons, skeletal muscles, and neuromuscular junctions. To study NMDs and develop potential therapies, remarkable progress has been made in generating in vitro neuromuscular models using engineering approaches to recapitulate the complex physical and biochemical microenvironments of 3D human neuromuscular tissues. In this review, we discuss recent studies focusing on the development of in vitro co-culture models of human motor neurons and skeletal muscles, with the pros and cons of each approach. Furthermore, we explain how neuromuscular in vitro models recapitulate certain aspects of specific NMDs, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and muscular dystrophy. Research on neuromuscular organoids (NMO) will continue to co-develop to better mimic tissues in vivo and will provide a better understanding of the development of the neuromuscular tissue, mechanisms of NMD action, and tools applicable to preclinical studies, including drug screening and toxicity tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haneul Kim
- Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Cell Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea;
| | - Gon Sup Kim
- Research Institute of Life Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea;
| | - Sang-Hwan Hyun
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology, Veterinary Medical Center and College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea;
- Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Chengju 28644, Republic of Korea
- Graduate School of Veterinary Biosecurity and Protection, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunhye Kim
- Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Cell Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea;
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18
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Gupta R, Advani D, Yadav D, Ambasta RK, Kumar P. Dissecting the Relationship Between Neuropsychiatric and Neurodegenerative Disorders. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:6476-6529. [PMID: 37458987 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03502-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) and neuropsychiatric disorders (NPDs) are two common causes of death in elderly people, which includes progressive neuronal cell death and behavioral changes. NDDs include Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, and motor neuron disease, characterized by cognitive defects and memory impairment, whereas NPDs include depression, seizures, migraine headaches, eating disorders, addictions, palsies, major depressive disorders, anxiety, and schizophrenia, characterized by behavioral changes. Mounting evidence demonstrated that NDDs and NPDs share an overlapping mechanism, which includes post-translational modifications, the microbiota-gut-brain axis, and signaling events. Mounting evidence demonstrated that various drug molecules, namely, natural compounds, repurposed drugs, multitarget directed ligands, and RNAs, have been potentially implemented as therapeutic agents against NDDs and NPDs. Herein, we highlighted the overlapping mechanism, the role of anxiety/stress-releasing factors, cytosol-to-nucleus signaling, and the microbiota-gut-brain axis in the pathophysiology of NDDs and NPDs. We summarize the therapeutic application of natural compounds, repurposed drugs, and multitarget-directed ligands as therapeutic agents. Lastly, we briefly described the application of RNA interferences as therapeutic agents in the pathogenesis of NDDs and NPDs. Neurodegenerative diseases and neuropsychiatric diseases both share a common signaling molecule and molecular phenomenon, namely, pro-inflammatory cytokines, γCaMKII and MAPK/ERK, chemokine receptors, BBB permeability, and the gut-microbiota-brain axis. Studies have demonstrated that any alterations in the signaling mentioned above molecules and molecular phenomena lead to the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, namely, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and neuropsychiatric disorders, such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohan Gupta
- Molecular Neuroscience and Functional Genomics Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University, Shahbad Daulatpur, Bawana Road, New Delhi, Delhi, 110042, India
| | - Dia Advani
- Molecular Neuroscience and Functional Genomics Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University, Shahbad Daulatpur, Bawana Road, New Delhi, Delhi, 110042, India
| | - Divya Yadav
- Molecular Neuroscience and Functional Genomics Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University, Shahbad Daulatpur, Bawana Road, New Delhi, Delhi, 110042, India
| | - Rashmi K Ambasta
- Molecular Neuroscience and Functional Genomics Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University, Shahbad Daulatpur, Bawana Road, New Delhi, Delhi, 110042, India
| | - Pravir Kumar
- Molecular Neuroscience and Functional Genomics Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University, Shahbad Daulatpur, Bawana Road, New Delhi, Delhi, 110042, India.
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19
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Gazzola M, Martinat C. Unlocking the Complexity of Neuromuscular Diseases: Insights from Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Neuromuscular Junctions. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15291. [PMID: 37894969 PMCID: PMC10607237 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past 20 years, the use of pluripotent stem cells to mimic the complexities of the human neuromuscular junction has received much attention. Deciphering the key mechanisms underlying the establishment and maturation of this complex synapse has been driven by the dual goals of addressing developmental questions and gaining insight into neuromuscular disorders. This review aims to summarise the evolution and sophistication of in vitro neuromuscular junction models developed from the first differentiation of human embryonic stem cells into motor neurons to recent neuromuscular organoids. We also discuss the potential offered by these models to decipher different neuromuscular diseases characterised by defects in the presynaptic compartment, the neuromuscular junction, and the postsynaptic compartment. Finally, we discuss the emerging field that considers the use of these techniques in drug screening assay and the challenges they will face in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan Gazzola
- INSERM U861, Institute for Stem Cell Therapy and Exploration of Monogenic Diseases, 91100 Corbeil-Essonnes, France;
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20
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Villar-Pazos S, Thomas L, Yang Y, Chen K, Lyles JB, Deitch BJ, Ochaba J, Ling K, Powers B, Gingras S, Kordasiewicz HB, Grubisha MJ, Huang YH, Thomas G. Neural deficits in a mouse model of PACS1 syndrome are corrected with PACS1- or HDAC6-targeting therapy. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6547. [PMID: 37848409 PMCID: PMC10582149 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42176-8] [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: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
PACS1 syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) caused by a recurrent de novo missense mutation in PACS1 (p.Arg203Trp (PACS1R203W)). The mechanism by which PACS1R203W causes PACS1 syndrome is unknown, and no curative treatment is available. Here, we use patient cells and PACS1 syndrome mice to show that PACS1 (or PACS-1) is an HDAC6 effector and that the R203W substitution increases the PACS1/HDAC6 interaction, aberrantly potentiating deacetylase activity. Consequently, PACS1R203W reduces acetylation of α-tubulin and cortactin, causing the Golgi ribbon in hippocampal neurons and patient-derived neural progenitor cells (NPCs) to fragment and overpopulate dendrites, increasing their arborization. The dendrites, however, are beset with varicosities, diminished spine density, and fewer functional synapses, characteristic of NDDs. Treatment of PACS1 syndrome mice or patient NPCs with PACS1- or HDAC6-targeting antisense oligonucleotides, or HDAC6 inhibitors, restores neuronal structure and synaptic transmission in prefrontal cortex, suggesting that targeting PACS1R203W/HDAC6 may be an effective therapy for PACS1 syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Villar-Pazos
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna Biocenter Campus (VBC), Vienna, Austria
| | - Laurel Thomas
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA
| | - Yunhan Yang
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA
| | - Kun Chen
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jenea B Lyles
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA
| | - Bradley J Deitch
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA
| | | | - Karen Ling
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Carlsbad, CA, USA
| | | | - Sebastien Gingras
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Melanie J Grubisha
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Translational Neuroscience Program, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Yanhua H Huang
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Translational Neuroscience Program, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Gary Thomas
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA.
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21
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Costamagna D, Bastianini V, Corvelyn M, Duelen R, Deschrevel J, De Beukelaer N, De Houwer H, Sampaolesi M, Gayan-Ramirez G, Campenhout AV, Desloovere K. Botulinum Toxin Treatment of Adult Muscle Stem Cells from Children with Cerebral Palsy and hiPSC-Derived Neuromuscular Junctions. Cells 2023; 12:2072. [PMID: 37626881 PMCID: PMC10453788 DOI: 10.3390/cells12162072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Botulinum neurotoxin type-A (BoNT) injections are commonly used as spasticity treatment in cerebral palsy (CP). Despite improved clinical outcomes, concerns regarding harmful effects on muscle morphology have been raised, and the BoNT effect on muscle stem cells remains not well defined. This study aims at clarifying the impact of BoNT on growing muscles (1) by analyzing the in vitro effect of BoNT on satellite cell (SC)-derived myoblasts and fibroblasts obtained from medial gastrocnemius microbiopsies collected in young BoNT-naïve children (t0) compared to age ranged typically developing children; (2) by following the effect of in vivo BoNT administration on these cells obtained from the same children with CP at 3 (t1) and 6 (t2) months post BoNT; (3) by determining the direct effect of a single and repeated in vitro BoNT treatment on neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) differentiated from hiPSCs. In vitro BoNT did not affect myogenic differentiation or collagen production. The fusion index significantly decreased in CP at t2 compared to t0. In NMJ cocultures, BoNT treatment caused axonal swelling and fragmentation. Repeated treatments impaired the autophagic-lysosomal system. Further studies are warranted to understand the long-term and collateral effects of BoNT in the muscles of children with CP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domiziana Costamagna
- Neurorehabilitation Group, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (D.C.); (V.B.); (N.D.B.)
- Stem Cell and Developmental Biology Unit, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (M.C.); (R.D.); (M.S.)
| | - Valeria Bastianini
- Neurorehabilitation Group, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (D.C.); (V.B.); (N.D.B.)
| | - Marlies Corvelyn
- Stem Cell and Developmental Biology Unit, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (M.C.); (R.D.); (M.S.)
| | - Robin Duelen
- Stem Cell and Developmental Biology Unit, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (M.C.); (R.D.); (M.S.)
- Cardiology, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jorieke Deschrevel
- Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases and Thoracic Surgery, Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (J.D.); (G.G.-R.)
| | - Nathalie De Beukelaer
- Neurorehabilitation Group, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (D.C.); (V.B.); (N.D.B.)
- Willy Taillard Laboratory of Kinesiology, Geneva University Hospitals and University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Hannah De Houwer
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (H.D.H.); (A.V.C.)
| | - Maurilio Sampaolesi
- Stem Cell and Developmental Biology Unit, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (M.C.); (R.D.); (M.S.)
| | - Ghislaine Gayan-Ramirez
- Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases and Thoracic Surgery, Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (J.D.); (G.G.-R.)
| | - Anja Van Campenhout
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (H.D.H.); (A.V.C.)
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kaat Desloovere
- Neurorehabilitation Group, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (D.C.); (V.B.); (N.D.B.)
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22
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Liu ML, Ma S, Tai W, Zhong X, Ni H, Zou Y, Wang J, Zhang CL. Chemical screens in aging-relevant human motor neurons identify MAP4Ks as therapeutic targets for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.24.538014. [PMID: 37162962 PMCID: PMC10168247 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.24.538014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Effective therapeutics is much needed for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), an adult-onset neurodegenerative disease mainly affecting motor neurons. By screening chemical compounds in human patient-derived and aging-relevant motor neurons, we identify a neuroprotective compound and show that MAP4Ks may serve as therapeutic targets for treating ALS. The lead compound broadly improves survival and function of motor neurons directly converted from human ALS patients. Mechanistically, it works as an inhibitor of MAP4Ks, regulates the MAP4Ks-HDAC6-TUBA4A-RANGAP1 pathway, and normalizes subcellular distribution of RANGAP1 and TDP-43. Finally, in an ALS mouse model we show that inhibiting MAP4Ks preserves motor neurons and significantly extends animal lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Lu Liu
- Department of Molecular Biology, Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Shuaipeng Ma
- Department of Molecular Biology, Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Wenjiao Tai
- Department of Molecular Biology, Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Xiaoling Zhong
- Department of Molecular Biology, Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Haoqi Ni
- Department of Molecular Biology, Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Yuhua Zou
- Department of Molecular Biology, Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Jingcheng Wang
- Department of Molecular Biology, Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Chun-Li Zhang
- Department of Molecular Biology, Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
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23
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Abstract
Neurons are markedly compartmentalized, which makes them reliant on axonal transport to maintain their health. Axonal transport is important for anterograde delivery of newly synthesized macromolecules and organelles from the cell body to the synapse and for the retrograde delivery of signaling endosomes and autophagosomes for degradation. Dysregulation of axonal transport occurs early in neurodegenerative diseases and plays a key role in axonal degeneration. Here, we provide an overview of mechanisms for regulation of axonal transport; discuss how these mechanisms are disrupted in neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, hereditary spastic paraplegia, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease; and discuss therapeutic approaches targeting axonal transport.
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24
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Mukhamedyarov MA, Khabibrakhmanov AN, Khuzakhmetova VF, Giniatullin AR, Zakirjanova GF, Zhilyakov NV, Mukhutdinova KA, Samigullin DV, Grigoryev PN, Zakharov AV, Zefirov AL, Petrov AM. Early Alterations in Structural and Functional Properties in the Neuromuscular Junctions of Mutant FUS Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:9022. [PMID: 37240370 PMCID: PMC10218837 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24109022] [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: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is manifested as skeletal muscle denervation, loss of motor neurons and finally severe respiratory failure. Mutations of RNA-binding protein FUS are one of the common genetic reasons of ALS accompanied by a 'dying back' type of degeneration. Using fluorescent approaches and microelectrode recordings, the early structural and functional alterations in diaphragm neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) were studied in mutant FUS mice at the pre-onset stage. Lipid peroxidation and decreased staining with a lipid raft marker were found in the mutant mice. Despite the preservation of the end-plate structure, immunolabeling revealed an increase in levels of presynaptic proteins, SNAP-25 and synapsin 1. The latter can restrain Ca2+-dependent synaptic vesicle mobilization. Indeed, neurotransmitter release upon intense nerve stimulation and its recovery after tetanus and compensatory synaptic vesicle endocytosis were markedly depressed in FUS mice. There was a trend to attenuation of axonal [Ca2+]in increase upon nerve stimulation at 20 Hz. However, no changes in neurotransmitter release and the intraterminal Ca2+ transient in response to low frequency stimulation or in quantal content and the synchrony of neurotransmitter release at low levels of external Ca2+ were detected. At a later stage, shrinking and fragmentation of end plates together with a decrease in presynaptic protein expression and disturbance of the neurotransmitter release timing occurred. Overall, suppression of synaptic vesicle exo-endocytosis upon intense activity probably due to alterations in membrane properties, synapsin 1 levels and Ca2+ kinetics could be an early sign of nascent NMJ pathology, which leads to neuromuscular contact disorganization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marat A. Mukhamedyarov
- Department of Normal Physiology, Kazan State Medial University, 49 Butlerova St., Kazan 420012, Russia; (M.A.M.)
| | - Aydar N. Khabibrakhmanov
- Department of Normal Physiology, Kazan State Medial University, 49 Butlerova St., Kazan 420012, Russia; (M.A.M.)
| | - Venera F. Khuzakhmetova
- Kazan Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Federal Research Center ‘‘Kazan Scientific Center of RAS”, 2/31 Lobachevsky St., P.O. Box 30, Kazan 420111, Russia (N.V.Z.)
| | - Arthur R. Giniatullin
- Department of Normal Physiology, Kazan State Medial University, 49 Butlerova St., Kazan 420012, Russia; (M.A.M.)
- Kazan Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Federal Research Center ‘‘Kazan Scientific Center of RAS”, 2/31 Lobachevsky St., P.O. Box 30, Kazan 420111, Russia (N.V.Z.)
| | - Guzalia F. Zakirjanova
- Department of Normal Physiology, Kazan State Medial University, 49 Butlerova St., Kazan 420012, Russia; (M.A.M.)
- Kazan Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Federal Research Center ‘‘Kazan Scientific Center of RAS”, 2/31 Lobachevsky St., P.O. Box 30, Kazan 420111, Russia (N.V.Z.)
| | - Nikita V. Zhilyakov
- Kazan Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Federal Research Center ‘‘Kazan Scientific Center of RAS”, 2/31 Lobachevsky St., P.O. Box 30, Kazan 420111, Russia (N.V.Z.)
| | - Kamilla A. Mukhutdinova
- Department of Normal Physiology, Kazan State Medial University, 49 Butlerova St., Kazan 420012, Russia; (M.A.M.)
| | - Dmitry V. Samigullin
- Kazan Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Federal Research Center ‘‘Kazan Scientific Center of RAS”, 2/31 Lobachevsky St., P.O. Box 30, Kazan 420111, Russia (N.V.Z.)
- Department of Radiophotonics and Microwave Technologies, Kazan National Research Technical University, 10 K. Marx St., Kazan 420111, Russia
| | - Pavel N. Grigoryev
- Department of Normal Physiology, Kazan State Medial University, 49 Butlerova St., Kazan 420012, Russia; (M.A.M.)
| | - Andrey V. Zakharov
- Department of Normal Physiology, Kazan State Medial University, 49 Butlerova St., Kazan 420012, Russia; (M.A.M.)
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan 420008, Russia
| | - Andrey L. Zefirov
- Department of Normal Physiology, Kazan State Medial University, 49 Butlerova St., Kazan 420012, Russia; (M.A.M.)
| | - Alexey M. Petrov
- Department of Normal Physiology, Kazan State Medial University, 49 Butlerova St., Kazan 420012, Russia; (M.A.M.)
- Kazan Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Federal Research Center ‘‘Kazan Scientific Center of RAS”, 2/31 Lobachevsky St., P.O. Box 30, Kazan 420111, Russia (N.V.Z.)
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25
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Hedges EC, Cocks G, Shaw CE, Nishimura AL. Generation of an Open-Access Patient-Derived iPSC Biobank for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Disease Modelling. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1108. [PMID: 37239468 PMCID: PMC10218399 DOI: 10.3390/genes14051108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting the upper and lower motor neurons, causing patients to lose control over voluntary movement, and leading to gradual paralysis and death. There is no cure for ALS, and the development of viable therapeutics has proved challenging, demonstrated by a lack of positive results from clinical trials. One strategy to address this is to improve the tool kit available for pre-clinical research. Here, we describe the creation of an open-access ALS iPSC biobank generated from patients carrying mutations in the TARDBP, FUS, ANXA11, ARPP21, and C9ORF72 genes, alongside healthy controls. To demonstrate the utilisation of these lines for ALS disease modelling, a subset of FUS-ALS iPSCs were differentiated into functionally active motor neurons. Further characterisation revealed an increase in cytoplasmic FUS protein and reduced neurite outgrowth in FUS-ALS motor neurons compared to the control. This proof-of-principle study demonstrates that these novel patient-derived iPSC lines can recapitulate specific and early disease-related ALS phenotypes. This biobank provides a disease-relevant platform for discovery of ALS-associated cellular phenotypes to aid the development of novel treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin C. Hedges
- United Kingdom Dementia Research Institute, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, 5 Cutcombe Rd., London SE5 9RT, UK;
| | - Graham Cocks
- Genome Editing and Embryology Core, King’s College London, London SE1 1UL, UK;
| | - Christopher E. Shaw
- United Kingdom Dementia Research Institute, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, 5 Cutcombe Rd., London SE5 9RT, UK;
- Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Agnes L. Nishimura
- United Kingdom Dementia Research Institute, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, 5 Cutcombe Rd., London SE5 9RT, UK;
- Blizard Institute, Neuroscience, Surgery and Trauma, Queen Mary University of London, 4 Newark Street, London E1 2AT, UK
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26
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Marshall KL, Rajbhandari L, Venkatesan A, Maragakis NJ, Farah MH. Enhanced axonal regeneration of ALS patient iPSC-derived motor neurons harboring SOD1 A4V mutation. Sci Rep 2023; 13:5597. [PMID: 37020097 PMCID: PMC10076424 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-31720-7] [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: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease, characterized by degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons that leads to muscle weakness, paralysis, and death, but the effects of disease-causing mutations on axonal outgrowth of neurons derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC)-derived motor neurons (hiPSC-MN) are poorly understood. The use of hiPSC-MN is a promising tool to develop more relevant models for target identification and drug development in ALS research, but questions remain concerning the effects of distinct disease-causing mutations on axon regeneration. Mutations in superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) were the first to be discovered in ALS patients. Here, we investigated the effect of the SOD1A4V mutation on axonal regeneration of hiPSC-MNs, utilizing compartmentalized microfluidic devices, which are powerful tools for studying hiPSC-MN distal axons. Surprisingly, SOD1+/A4V hiPSC-MNs regenerated axons more quickly following axotomy than those expressing the native form of SOD1. Though initial axon regrowth was not significantly different following axotomy, enhanced regeneration was apparent at later time points, indicating an increased rate of outgrowth. This regeneration model could be used to identify factors that enhance the rate of human axon regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine L Marshall
- Neuromuscular Division, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, The John G. Rangos Sr. Building, Room 239, 855 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Labchan Rajbhandari
- Neuromuscular Division, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, The John G. Rangos Sr. Building, Room 239, 855 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Arun Venkatesan
- Neuromuscular Division, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, The John G. Rangos Sr. Building, Room 239, 855 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Nicholas J Maragakis
- Neuromuscular Division, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, The John G. Rangos Sr. Building, Room 239, 855 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Mohamed H Farah
- Neuromuscular Division, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, The John G. Rangos Sr. Building, Room 239, 855 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
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Gatti M, Dittlau KS, Beretti F, Yedigaryan L, Zavatti M, Cortelli P, Palumbo C, Bertucci E, Van Den Bosch L, Sampaolesi M, Maraldi T. Human Neuromuscular Junction on a Chip: Impact of Amniotic Fluid Stem Cell Extracellular Vesicles on Muscle Atrophy and NMJ Integrity. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054944. [PMID: 36902375 PMCID: PMC10003237 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) are specialized synapses, crucial for the communication between spinal motor neurons (MNs) and skeletal muscle. NMJs become vulnerable in degenerative diseases, such as muscle atrophy, where the crosstalk between the different cell populations fails, and the regenerative ability of the entire tissue is hampered. How skeletal muscle sends retrograde signals to MNs through NMJs represents an intriguing field of research, and the role of oxidative stress and its sources remain poorly understood. Recent works demonstrate the myofiber regeneration potential of stem cells, including amniotic fluid stem cells (AFSC), and secreted extracellular vesicles (EVs) as cell-free therapy. To study NMJ perturbations during muscle atrophy, we generated an MN/myotube co-culture system through XonaTM microfluidic devices, and muscle atrophy was induced in vitro by Dexamethasone (Dexa). After atrophy induction, we treated muscle and MN compartments with AFSC-derived EVs (AFSC-EVs) to investigate their regenerative and anti-oxidative potential in counteracting NMJ alterations. We found that the presence of EVs reduced morphological and functional in vitro defects induced by Dexa. Interestingly, oxidative stress, occurring in atrophic myotubes and thus involving neurites as well, was prevented by EV treatment. Here, we provided and validated a fluidically isolated system represented by microfluidic devices for studying human MN and myotube interactions in healthy and Dexa-induced atrophic conditions-allowing the isolation of subcellular compartments for region-specific analyses-and demonstrated the efficacy of AFSC-EVs in counteracting NMJ perturbations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Gatti
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Katarina Stoklund Dittlau
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven—University of Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- VIB, Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Francesca Beretti
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Laura Yedigaryan
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, KU Leuven—University of Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Manuela Zavatti
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Pietro Cortelli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM), University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Carla Palumbo
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Emma Bertucci
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Mothers, Children and Adults, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Policlinico, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven—University of Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- VIB, Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Maurilio Sampaolesi
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, KU Leuven—University of Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Histology and Medical Embryology Unit, Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Tullia Maraldi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
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28
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Massih B, Veh A, Schenke M, Mungwa S, Seeger B, Selvaraj BT, Chandran S, Reinhardt P, Sterneckert J, Hermann A, Sendtner M, Lüningschrör P. A 3D cell culture system for bioengineering human neuromuscular junctions to model ALS. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:996952. [PMID: 36866276 PMCID: PMC9973451 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.996952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The signals that coordinate and control movement in vertebrates are transmitted from motoneurons (MNs) to their target muscle cells at neuromuscular junctions (NMJs). Human NMJs display unique structural and physiological features, which make them vulnerable to pathological processes. NMJs are an early target in the pathology of motoneuron diseases (MND). Synaptic dysfunction and synapse elimination precede MN loss suggesting that the NMJ is the starting point of the pathophysiological cascade leading to MN death. Therefore, the study of human MNs in health and disease requires cell culture systems that enable the connection to their target muscle cells for NMJ formation. Here, we present a human neuromuscular co-culture system consisting of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived MNs and 3D skeletal muscle tissue derived from myoblasts. We used self-microfabricated silicone dishes combined with Velcro hooks to support the formation of 3D muscle tissue in a defined extracellular matrix, which enhances NMJ function and maturity. Using a combination of immunohistochemistry, calcium imaging, and pharmacological stimulations, we characterized and confirmed the function of the 3D muscle tissue and the 3D neuromuscular co-cultures. Finally, we applied this system as an in vitro model to study the pathophysiology of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and found a decrease in neuromuscular coupling and muscle contraction in co-cultures with MNs harboring ALS-linked SOD1 mutation. In summary, the human 3D neuromuscular cell culture system presented here recapitulates aspects of human physiology in a controlled in vitro setting and is suitable for modeling of MND.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bita Massih
- Institute of Clinical Neurobiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Veh
- Institute of Clinical Neurobiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Maren Schenke
- Institute for Food Quality and Safety, Research Group Food Toxicology and Alternative/Complementary Methods to Animal Experiments, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Simon Mungwa
- Institute of Clinical Neurobiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Bettina Seeger
- Institute for Food Quality and Safety, Research Group Food Toxicology and Alternative/Complementary Methods to Animal Experiments, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Bhuvaneish T. Selvaraj
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- UK Dementia Research Institute at University of Edinburgh, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Siddharthan Chandran
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- UK Dementia Research Institute at University of Edinburgh, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Reinhardt
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Jared Sterneckert
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus of TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Andreas Hermann
- Translational Neurodegeneration Section “Albrecht-Kossel”, Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Rostock, Rostock, Germany
- Center for Transdisciplinary Neurosciences Rostock, University Medical Center Rostock, Rostock, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE) Rostock/Greifswald, Rostock, Germany
| | - Michael Sendtner
- Institute of Clinical Neurobiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Patrick Lüningschrör
- Institute of Clinical Neurobiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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29
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Limone F, Guerra San Juan I, Mitchell JM, Smith JLM, Raghunathan K, Meyer D, Ghosh SD, Couto A, Klim JR, Joseph BJ, Gold J, Mello CJ, Nemesh J, Smith BM, Verhage M, McCarroll SA, Pietiläinen O, Nehme R, Eggan K. Efficient generation of lower induced motor neurons by coupling Ngn2 expression with developmental cues. Cell Rep 2023; 42:111896. [PMID: 36596304 PMCID: PMC10117176 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) are a powerful tool for disease modeling of hard-to-access tissues (such as the brain). Current protocols either direct neuronal differentiation with small molecules or use transcription-factor-mediated programming. In this study, we couple overexpression of transcription factor Neurogenin2 (Ngn2) with small molecule patterning to differentiate hPSCs into lower induced motor neurons (liMoNes/liMNs). This approach induces canonical MN markers including MN-specific Hb9/MNX1 in more than 95% of cells. liMNs resemble bona fide hPSC-derived MN, exhibit spontaneous electrical activity, express synaptic markers, and can contact muscle cells in vitro. Pooled, multiplexed single-cell RNA sequencing on 50 hPSC lines reveals reproducible populations of distinct subtypes of cervical and brachial MNs that resemble their in vivo, embryonic counterparts. Combining small molecule patterning with Ngn2 overexpression facilitates high-yield, reproducible production of disease-relevant MN subtypes, which is fundamental in propelling our knowledge of MN biology and its disruption in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Limone
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Stanley Centre for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Leiden University Medical Center, LUMC, 2333 ZA Leiden, the Netherlands.
| | - Irune Guerra San Juan
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Stanley Centre for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Human Genetics, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jana M Mitchell
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Stanley Centre for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Janell L M Smith
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Kavya Raghunathan
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Stanley Centre for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Daniel Meyer
- Stanley Centre for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Sulagna Dia Ghosh
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Stanley Centre for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Alexander Couto
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Joseph R Klim
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Stanley Centre for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Brian J Joseph
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Departments of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Centre, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - John Gold
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Curtis J Mello
- Stanley Centre for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - James Nemesh
- Stanley Centre for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Brittany M Smith
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Matthijs Verhage
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Human Genetics, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Steven A McCarroll
- Stanley Centre for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Olli Pietiläinen
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Stanley Centre for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Neuroscience Center, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ralda Nehme
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Stanley Centre for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Kevin Eggan
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA.
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30
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Ackerman HD, Gerhard GS. Bile Acids Induce Neurite Outgrowth in Nsc-34 Cells via TGR5 and a Distinct Transcriptional Profile. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:174. [PMID: 37259326 PMCID: PMC9963315 DOI: 10.3390/ph16020174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence supports a neuroprotective role for bile acids in major neurodegenerative disorders. We studied major human bile acids as signaling molecules for their two cellular receptors, farnesoid X receptor (FXR or NR1H4) and G protein-coupled bile acid receptor 1 (GPBAR1 or TGR5), as potential neurotrophic agents. Using quantitative image analysis, we found that 20 μM deoxycholic acid (DCA) could induce neurite outgrowth in NSC-34 cells that was comparable to the neurotrophic effects of the culture control 1 μM retinoic acid (RA), with lesser effects observed for chenodexoycholic acid (CDCA) at 20 μM, and similar though less robust neurite outgrowth in SH-SY5Y cells. Using chemical agonists and antagonists of FXR, LXR, and TGR5, we found that TGR5 agonism was comparable to DCA stimulation and stronger than RA, and that neither FXR nor liver X receptor (LXR) inhibition could block bile acid-induced neurite growth. RNA sequencing identified a core set of genes whose expression was regulated by DCA, CDCA, and RA. Our data suggest that bile acid signaling through TGR5 may be a targetable pathway to stimulate neurite outgrowth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley D Ackerman
- Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
- Department of Molecular Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Glenn S Gerhard
- Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
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31
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Stoklund Dittlau K, Van Den Bosch L. Why should we care about astrocytes in a motor neuron disease? FRONTIERS IN MOLECULAR MEDICINE 2023; 3:1047540. [PMID: 39086676 PMCID: PMC11285655 DOI: 10.3389/fmmed.2023.1047540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common motor neuron disease in adults, causing progressive degeneration of motor neurons, which results in muscle atrophy, respiratory failure and ultimately death of the patients. The pathogenesis of ALS is complex, and extensive efforts have focused on unravelling the underlying molecular mechanisms with a large emphasis on the dying motor neurons. However, a recent shift in focus towards the supporting glial population has revealed a large contribution and influence in ALS, which stresses the need to explore this area in more detail. Especially studies into astrocytes, the residential homeostatic supporter cells of neurons, have revealed a remarkable astrocytic dysfunction in ALS, and therefore could present a target for new and promising therapeutic entry points. In this review, we provide an overview of general astrocyte function and summarize the current literature on the role of astrocytes in ALS by categorizing the potentially underlying molecular mechanisms. We discuss the current efforts in astrocyte-targeted therapy, and highlight the potential and shortcomings of available models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarina Stoklund Dittlau
- KU Leuven—University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, and Leuven Brain Institute, Leuven, Belgium
- VIB Center for Brain and Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- KU Leuven—University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, and Leuven Brain Institute, Leuven, Belgium
- VIB Center for Brain and Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, Leuven, Belgium
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32
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FUS-ALS hiPSC-derived astrocytes impair human motor units through both gain-of-toxicity and loss-of-support mechanisms. Mol Neurodegener 2023; 18:5. [PMID: 36653804 PMCID: PMC9847053 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-022-00591-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Astrocytes play a crucial, yet not fully elucidated role in the selective motor neuron pathology in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Among other responsibilities, astrocytes provide important neuronal homeostatic support, however this function is highly compromised in ALS. The establishment of fully human coculture systems can be used to further study the underlying mechanisms of the dysfunctional intercellular interplay, and has the potential to provide a platform for revealing novel therapeutic entry points. METHODS In this study, we characterised human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived astrocytes from FUS-ALS patients, and incorporated these cells into a human motor unit microfluidics model to investigate the astrocytic effect on hiPSC-derived motor neuron network and functional neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) using immunocytochemistry and live-cell recordings. FUS-ALS cocultures were systematically compared to their CRISPR-Cas9 gene-edited isogenic control systems. RESULTS We observed a dysregulation of astrocyte homeostasis, which resulted in a FUS-ALS-mediated increase in reactivity and secretion of inflammatory cytokines. Upon coculture with motor neurons and myotubes, we detected a cytotoxic effect on motor neuron-neurite outgrowth, NMJ formation and functionality, which was improved or fully rescued by isogenic control astrocytes. We demonstrate that ALS astrocytes have both a gain-of-toxicity and loss-of-support function involving the WNT/β-catenin pathway, ultimately contributing to the disruption of motor neuron homeostasis, intercellular networks and NMJs. CONCLUSIONS Our findings shine light on a complex, yet highly important role of astrocytes in ALS, and provides further insight in to their pathological mechanisms.
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Castillo Bautista CM, Sterneckert J. Progress and challenges in directing the differentiation of human iPSCs into spinal motor neurons. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 10:1089970. [PMID: 36684437 PMCID: PMC9849822 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1089970] [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: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Motor neuron (MN) diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, progressive bulbar palsy, primary lateral sclerosis and spinal muscular atrophy, cause progressive paralysis and, in many cases, death. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of pathogenesis is urgently needed to identify more effective therapies. However, studying MNs has been extremely difficult because they are inaccessible in the spinal cord. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) can generate a theoretically limitless number of MNs from a specific patient, making them powerful tools for studying MN diseases. However, to reach their potential, iPSCs need to be directed to efficiently differentiate into functional MNs. Here, we review the reported differentiation protocols for spinal MNs, including induction with small molecules, expression of lineage-specific transcription factors, 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional cultures, as well as the implementation of microfluidics devices and co-cultures with other cell types, including skeletal muscle. We will summarize the advantages and disadvantages of each strategy. In addition, we will provide insights into how to address some of the remaining challenges, including reproducibly obtaining mature and aged MNs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jared Sterneckert
- Center for Regenerative Therapies TU Dresden (CRTD), Technische Universität (TU) Dresden, Dresden, Germany,Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus of TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany,*Correspondence: Jared Sterneckert,
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34
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Gharib G, Bütün İ, Muganlı Z, Kozalak G, Namlı İ, Sarraf SS, Ahmadi VE, Toyran E, van Wijnen AJ, Koşar A. Biomedical Applications of Microfluidic Devices: A Review. BIOSENSORS 2022; 12:1023. [PMID: 36421141 PMCID: PMC9688231 DOI: 10.3390/bios12111023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Both passive and active microfluidic chips are used in many biomedical and chemical applications to support fluid mixing, particle manipulations, and signal detection. Passive microfluidic devices are geometry-dependent, and their uses are rather limited. Active microfluidic devices include sensors or detectors that transduce chemical, biological, and physical changes into electrical or optical signals. Also, they are transduction devices that detect biological and chemical changes in biomedical applications, and they are highly versatile microfluidic tools for disease diagnosis and organ modeling. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the significant advances that have been made in the development of microfluidics devices. We will discuss the function of microfluidic devices as micromixers or as sorters of cells and substances (e.g., microfiltration, flow or displacement, and trapping). Microfluidic devices are fabricated using a range of techniques, including molding, etching, three-dimensional printing, and nanofabrication. Their broad utility lies in the detection of diagnostic biomarkers and organ-on-chip approaches that permit disease modeling in cancer, as well as uses in neurological, cardiovascular, hepatic, and pulmonary diseases. Biosensor applications allow for point-of-care testing, using assays based on enzymes, nanozymes, antibodies, or nucleic acids (DNA or RNA). An anticipated development in the field includes the optimization of techniques for the fabrication of microfluidic devices using biocompatible materials. These developments will increase biomedical versatility, reduce diagnostic costs, and accelerate diagnosis time of microfluidics technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghazaleh Gharib
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Science, Sabanci University, Istanbul 34956, Turkey
- Sabanci University Nanotechnology Research and Application Centre (SUNUM), Istanbul 34956, Turkey
- Center of Excellence for Functional Surfaces and Interfaces for Nano Diagnostics (EFSUN), Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Istanbul 34956, Turkey
| | - İsmail Bütün
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Science, Sabanci University, Istanbul 34956, Turkey
| | - Zülâl Muganlı
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Science, Sabanci University, Istanbul 34956, Turkey
| | - Gül Kozalak
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Science, Sabanci University, Istanbul 34956, Turkey
- Center of Excellence for Functional Surfaces and Interfaces for Nano Diagnostics (EFSUN), Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Istanbul 34956, Turkey
| | - İlayda Namlı
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Science, Sabanci University, Istanbul 34956, Turkey
| | | | | | - Erçil Toyran
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Science, Sabanci University, Istanbul 34956, Turkey
| | - Andre J. van Wijnen
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Vermont, 89 Beaumont Avenue, Burlington, VT 05405, USA
| | - Ali Koşar
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Science, Sabanci University, Istanbul 34956, Turkey
- Sabanci University Nanotechnology Research and Application Centre (SUNUM), Istanbul 34956, Turkey
- Center of Excellence for Functional Surfaces and Interfaces for Nano Diagnostics (EFSUN), Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Istanbul 34956, Turkey
- Turkish Academy of Sciences (TÜBA), Çankaya, Ankara 06700, Turkey
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35
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Sasserath T, Robertson AL, Mendez R, Hays TT, Smith E, Cooper H, Akanda N, Rumsey JW, Guo X, Farkhondeh A, Pradhan M, Baumgaertel K, Might M, Rodems S, Zheng W, Hickman JJ. An induced pluripotent stem cell-derived NMJ platform for study of the NGLY1-Congenital Disorder of Deglycosylation. ADVANCED THERAPEUTICS 2022; 5:2200009. [PMID: 36589922 PMCID: PMC9798846 DOI: 10.1002/adtp.202200009] [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: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
There are many neurological rare diseases where animal models have proven inadequate or do not currently exist. NGLY1 Deficiency, a congenital disorder of deglycosylation, is a rare disease that predominantly affects motor control, especially control of neuromuscular action. In this study, NGLY1-deficient, patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) were differentiated into motoneurons (MNs) to identify disease phenotypes analogous to clinical disease pathology with significant deficits apparent in the NGLY1-deficient lines compared to the control. A neuromuscular junction (NMJ) model was developed using patient and wild type (WT) MNs to study functional differences between healthy and diseased NMJs. Reduced axon length, increased and shortened axon branches, MN action potential (AP) bursting and decreased AP firing rate and amplitude were observed in the NGLY1-deficient MNs in monoculture. When transitioned to the NMJ-coculture system, deficits in NMJ number, stability, failure rate, and synchronicity with indirect skeletal muscle (SkM) stimulation were observed. This project establishes a phenotypic NGLY1 model for investigation of possible therapeutics and investigations into mechanistic deficits in the system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor Sasserath
- Hesperos, Inc., 12501 Research Parkway, Suite 100, Orlando, FL 32826 USA
| | - Ashley L Robertson
- Hesperos, Inc., 12501 Research Parkway, Suite 100, Orlando, FL 32826 USA
| | - Roxana Mendez
- University of Central Florida, NanoScience Technology Center, 12424 Research Parkway, Suite 400, Orlando, FL 32826 USA
| | - Tristan T Hays
- Hesperos, Inc., 12501 Research Parkway, Suite 100, Orlando, FL 32826 USA
| | - Ethan Smith
- Hesperos, Inc., 12501 Research Parkway, Suite 100, Orlando, FL 32826 USA
| | - Helena Cooper
- Hesperos, Inc., 12501 Research Parkway, Suite 100, Orlando, FL 32826 USA
| | - Nesar Akanda
- University of Central Florida, NanoScience Technology Center, 12424 Research Parkway, Suite 400, Orlando, FL 32826 USA
| | - John W Rumsey
- Hesperos, Inc., 12501 Research Parkway, Suite 100, Orlando, FL 32826 USA
| | - Xiufang Guo
- University of Central Florida, NanoScience Technology Center, 12424 Research Parkway, Suite 400, Orlando, FL 32826 USA
| | - Atena Farkhondeh
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, 9800 Medical Center Drive, Building C, Room 310W Rockville, MD 20850, USA
| | - Manisha Pradhan
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, 9800 Medical Center Drive, Building C, Room 310W Rockville, MD 20850, USA
| | - Karsten Baumgaertel
- Travere Therapeutics, 3611 Valley Centre Drive, Suite 300, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Matthew Might
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Hugh Kaul Precision Medicine Institute, 510 20th St S, Office 858B, Birmingham, AL 35210, USA
| | - Steven Rodems
- Travere Therapeutics, 3611 Valley Centre Drive, Suite 300, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Wei Zheng
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, 9800 Medical Center Drive, Building C, Room 310W Rockville, MD 20850, USA
| | - James J Hickman
- Hesperos, Inc., 12501 Research Parkway, Suite 100, Orlando, FL 32826 USA
- University of Central Florida, NanoScience Technology Center, 12424 Research Parkway, Suite 400, Orlando, FL 32826 USA
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36
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Costamagna D, Casters V, Beltrà M, Sampaolesi M, Van Campenhout A, Ortibus E, Desloovere K, Duelen R. Autologous iPSC-Derived Human Neuromuscular Junction to Model the Pathophysiology of Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia. Cells 2022; 11:3351. [PMID: 36359747 PMCID: PMC9655384 DOI: 10.3390/cells11213351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) is a heterogeneous group of genetic neurodegenerative disorders, characterized by progressive lower limb spasticity and weakness resulting from retrograde axonal degeneration of motor neurons (MNs). Here, we generated in vitro human neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) from five HSP patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) lines, by means of microfluidic strategy, to model disease-relevant neuropathologic processes. The strength of our NMJ model lies in the generation of lower MNs and myotubes from autologous hiPSC origin, maintaining the genetic background of the HSP patient donors in both cell types and in the cellular organization due to the microfluidic devices. Three patients characterized by a mutation in the SPG3a gene, encoding the ATLASTIN GTPase 1 protein, and two patients with a mutation in the SPG4 gene, encoding the SPASTIN protein, were included in this study. Differentiation of the HSP-derived lines gave rise to lower MNs that could recapitulate pathological hallmarks, such as axonal swellings with accumulation of Acetyl-α-TUBULIN and reduction of SPASTIN levels. Furthermore, NMJs from HSP-derived lines were lower in number and in contact point complexity, denoting an impaired NMJ profile, also confirmed by some alterations in genes encoding for proteins associated with microtubules and responsible for axonal transport. Considering the complexity of HSP, these patient-derived neuronal and skeletal muscle cell co-cultures offer unique tools to study the pathologic mechanisms and explore novel treatment options for rescuing axonal defects and diverse cellular processes, including membrane trafficking, intracellular motility and protein degradation in HSP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domiziana Costamagna
- Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Research Group for Neurorehabilitation, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Valérie Casters
- Research Group for Neurorehabilitation, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marc Beltrà
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, 10125 Torino, Italy
| | - Maurilio Sampaolesi
- Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Anja Van Campenhout
- Locomotor and Neurological Disorder, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Els Ortibus
- Locomotor and Neurological Disorder, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kaat Desloovere
- Research Group for Neurorehabilitation, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Clinical Motion Analysis Laboratory, University Hospitals Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Robin Duelen
- Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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37
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Butchbach MER, Scott RC. Biological networks and complexity in early-onset motor neuron diseases. Front Neurol 2022; 13:1035406. [PMID: 36341099 PMCID: PMC9634177 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.1035406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Motor neuron diseases (MNDs) are neuromuscular disorders where the spinal motor neurons-either the cell bodies themselves or their axons-are the primary cells affected. To date, there are 120 different genes that are lost or mutated in pediatric-onset MNDs. Most of these childhood-onset disorders, aside from spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), lack viable therapeutic options. Previous research on MNDs has focused on understanding the pathobiology of a single, specific gene mutation and targeting therapies to that pathobiology. This reductionist approach has yielded therapeutic options for a specific disorder, in this case SMA. Unfortunately, therapies specific for SMA have not been effective against other pediatric-onset MNDs. Pursuing the same approach for the other defined MNDs would require development of at least 120 independent treatments raising feasibility issues. We propose an alternative to this this type of reductionist approach by conceptualizing MNDs in a complex adaptive systems framework that will allow identification of common molecular and cellular pathways which form biological networks that are adversely affected in early-onset MNDs and thus MNDs with similar phenotypes despite diverse genotypes. This systems biology approach highlights the complexity and self-organization of the motor system as well as the ways in which it can be affected by these genetic disorders. Using this integrated approach to understand early-onset MNDs, we would be better poised to expand the therapeutic repertoire for multiple MNDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew E. R. Butchbach
- Division of Neurology, Nemours Children's Hospital Delaware, Wilmington, DE, United States,Department of Pediatrics, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States,Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States,*Correspondence: Matthew E. R. Butchbach
| | - Rod C. Scott
- Division of Neurology, Nemours Children's Hospital Delaware, Wilmington, DE, United States,Department of Pediatrics, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States,Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, United States,Neurosciences Unit, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom,Rod C. Scott
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38
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Sen T, Thummer RP. CRISPR and iPSCs: Recent Developments and Future Perspectives in Neurodegenerative Disease Modelling, Research, and Therapeutics. Neurotox Res 2022; 40:1597-1623. [PMID: 36044181 PMCID: PMC9428373 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-022-00564-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are prominent causes of pain, suffering, and death worldwide. Traditional approaches modelling neurodegenerative diseases are deficient, and therefore, improved strategies that effectively recapitulate the pathophysiological conditions of neurodegenerative diseases are the need of the hour. The generation of human-induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) has transformed our ability to model neurodegenerative diseases in vitro and provide an unlimited source of cells (including desired neuronal cell types) for cell replacement therapy. Recently, CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing has also been gaining popularity because of the flexibility they provide to generate and ablate disease phenotypes. In addition, the recent advancements in CRISPR/Cas9 technology enables researchers to seamlessly target and introduce precise modifications in the genomic DNA of different human cell lines, including iPSCs. CRISPR-iPSC-based disease modelling, therefore, allows scientists to recapitulate the pathological aspects of most neurodegenerative processes and investigate the role of pathological gene variants in healthy non-patient cell lines. This review outlines how iPSCs, CRISPR/Cas9, and CRISPR-iPSC-based approaches accelerate research on neurodegenerative diseases and take us closer to a cure for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, and so forth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tirthankar Sen
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati - 781039, Assam, India
| | - Rajkumar P Thummer
- Laboratory for Stem Cell Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati - 781039, Assam, India.
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39
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Filippi M, Buchner T, Yasa O, Weirich S, Katzschmann RK. Microfluidic Tissue Engineering and Bio-Actuation. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2108427. [PMID: 35194852 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202108427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Bio-hybrid technologies aim to replicate the unique capabilities of biological systems that could surpass advanced artificial technologies. Soft bio-hybrid robots consist of synthetic and living materials and have the potential to self-assemble, regenerate, work autonomously, and interact safely with other species and the environment. Cells require a sufficient exchange of nutrients and gases, which is guaranteed by convection and diffusive transport through liquid media. The functional development and long-term survival of biological tissues in vitro can be improved by dynamic flow culture, but only microfluidic flow control can develop tissue with fine structuring and regulation at the microscale. Full control of tissue growth at the microscale will eventually lead to functional macroscale constructs, which are needed as the biological component of soft bio-hybrid technologies. This review summarizes recent progress in microfluidic techniques to engineer biological tissues, focusing on the use of muscle cells for robotic bio-actuation. Moreover, the instances in which bio-actuation technologies greatly benefit from fusion with microfluidics are highlighted, which include: the microfabrication of matrices, biomimicry of cell microenvironments, tissue maturation, perfusion, and vascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Filippi
- Soft Robotics Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Buchner
- Soft Robotics Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Oncay Yasa
- Soft Robotics Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Weirich
- Soft Robotics Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Robert K Katzschmann
- Soft Robotics Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
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40
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Bauer US, Fiskum V, Nair RR, van de Wijdeven R, Kentros C, Sandvig I, Sandvig A. Validation of Functional Connectivity of Engineered Neuromuscular Junction With Recombinant Monosynaptic Pseudotyped ΔG-Rabies Virus Tracing. Front Integr Neurosci 2022; 16:855071. [PMID: 35669734 PMCID: PMC9163662 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2022.855071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Current preclinical models of neurodegenerative disease, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), can significantly benefit from in vitro neuroengineering approaches that enable the selective study and manipulation of neurons, networks, and functional units of interest. Custom-designed compartmentalized microfluidic culture systems enable the co-culture of different relevant cell types in interconnected but fluidically isolated microenvironments. Such systems can thus be applied for ALS disease modeling, as they enable the recapitulation and study of neuromuscular junctions (NMJ) through co-culturing of motor neurons and muscle cells in separate, but interconnected compartments. These in vitro systems are particularly relevant for investigations of mechanistic aspects of the ALS pathological cascade in engineered NMJ, as progressive loss of NMJ functionality may constitute one of the hallmarks of disease related pathology at early onset, in line with the dying back hypothesis. In such models, ability to test whether motor neuron degeneration in ALS starts at the nerve terminal or at the NMJ and retrogradely progresses to the motor neuron cell body largely relies on robust methods for verification of engineered NMJ functionality. In this study, we demonstrate the functionality of engineered NMJs within a microfluidic chip with a differentially perturbable microenvironment using a designer pseudotyped ΔG-rabies virus for retrograde monosynaptic tracing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich Stefan Bauer
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Vegard Fiskum
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Rajeevkumar Raveendran Nair
- Centre for Neural Computation, Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Rosanne van de Wijdeven
- Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Clifford Kentros
- Centre for Neural Computation, Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, United States
| | - Ioanna Sandvig
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Axel Sandvig
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Umeå University Hospital, Umeå, Sweden
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- *Correspondence: Axel Sandvig,
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41
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Hagemann C, Moreno Gonzalez C, Guetta L, Tyzack G, Chiappini C, Legati A, Patani R, Serio A. Axonal Length Determines Distinct Homeostatic Phenotypes in Human iPSC Derived Motor Neurons on a Bioengineered Platform. Adv Healthc Mater 2022; 11:e2101817. [PMID: 35118820 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202101817] [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: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Stem cell-based experimental platforms for neuroscience can effectively model key mechanistic aspects of human development and disease. However, conventional culture systems often overlook the engineering constraints that cells face in vivo. This is particularly relevant for neurons covering long range connections such as spinal motor neurons (MNs). Their axons extend up to 1m in length and require a complex interplay of mechanisms to maintain cellular homeostasis. However, shorter axons in conventional cultures may not faithfully capture important aspects of their longer counterparts. Here this issue is directly addressed by establishing a bioengineered platform to assemble arrays of human axons ranging from micrometers to centimeters, which allows systematic investigation of the effects of length on human axonas for the first time. This approach reveales a link between length and metabolism in human MNs in vitro, where axons above a "threshold" size induce specific molecular adaptations in cytoskeleton composition, functional properties, local translation, and mitochondrial homeostasis. The findings specifically demonstrate the existence of a length-dependent mechanism that switches homeostatic processes within human MNs. The findings have critical implications for in vitro modeling of several neurodegenerative disorders and reinforce the importance of modeling cell shape and biophysical constraints with fidelity and precision in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathleen Hagemann
- Centre for Craniofacial & Regenerative Biology, King's College London, London, SE1 1UL, UK
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Carmen Moreno Gonzalez
- Centre for Craniofacial & Regenerative Biology, King's College London, London, SE1 1UL, UK
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Ludovica Guetta
- Centre for Craniofacial & Regenerative Biology, King's College London, London, SE1 1UL, UK
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Giulia Tyzack
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Ciro Chiappini
- Centre for Craniofacial & Regenerative Biology, King's College London, London, SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Andrea Legati
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Rickie Patani
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Andrea Serio
- Centre for Craniofacial & Regenerative Biology, King's College London, London, SE1 1UL, UK
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
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42
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Johns AE, Maragakis NJ. Exploring Motor Neuron Diseases Using iPSC Platforms. Stem Cells 2022; 40:2-13. [PMID: 35511862 PMCID: PMC9199844 DOI: 10.1093/stmcls/sxab006] [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: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The degeneration of motor neurons is a pathological hallmark of motor neuron diseases (MNDs), but emerging evidence suggests that neuronal vulnerability extends well beyond this cell subtype. The ability to assess motor function in the clinic is limited to physical examination, electrophysiological measures, and tissue-based or neuroimaging techniques which lack the resolution to accurately assess neuronal dysfunction as the disease progresses. Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA), hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are all MNDs with devastating clinical outcomes that contribute significantly to disease burden as patients are no longer able to carry out normal activities of daily living. The critical need to accurately assess the cause and progression of motor neuron dysfunction, especially in the early stages of those diseases, has motivated the use of human iPSC-derived motor neurons (hiPSC-MN) to study the neurobiological mechanisms underlying disease pathogenesis and to generate platforms for therapeutic discovery and testing. As our understanding of MNDs has grown, so too has our need to develop more complex in vitro models which include hiPSC-MN co-cultured with relevant non-neuronal cells in 2D as well as in 3D organoid and spheroid systems. These more complex hiPSC-derived culture systems have led to the implementation of new technologies, including microfluidics, multielectrode array, and machine learning which offer novel insights into the functional correlates of these emerging model systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra E Johns
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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43
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Del Rosso G, Carlomagno Y, Todd TW, Jones CY, Prudencio M, Daughrity LM, Yue M, Jansen-West K, Tong J, Shao W, Wu Y, Castanedes-Casey M, Tabassian L, Oskarsson B, Ling K, Rigo F, Dickson DW, Yao TP, Petrucelli L, Cook CN, Zhang YJ. HDAC6 Interacts With Poly (GA) and Modulates its Accumulation in c9FTD/ALS. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 9:809942. [PMID: 35096836 PMCID: PMC8790530 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.809942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The aberrant translation of a repeat expansion in chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 (C9orf72), the most common cause of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), results in the accumulation of toxic dipeptide repeat (DPR) proteins in the central nervous system We have found that, among the sense DPR proteins, HDAC6 specifically interacts with the poly (GA) and co-localizes with inclusions in both patient tissue and a mouse model of this disease (c9FTD/ALS). Overexpression of HDAC6 increased poly (GA) levels in cultured cells independently of HDAC6 deacetylase activity, suggesting that HDAC6 can modulate poly (GA) pathology through a mechanism that depends upon their physical interaction. Moreover, decreasing HDAC6 expression by stereotaxic injection of antisense oligonucleotides significantly reduced the number of poly (GA) inclusions in c9FTD/ALS mice. These findings suggest that pharmacologically reducing HDAC6 levels could be of therapeutic value in c9FTD/ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Del Rosso
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Yari Carlomagno
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Tiffany W Todd
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Caroline Y Jones
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Mercedes Prudencio
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | | | - Mei Yue
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Karen Jansen-West
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Jimei Tong
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Wei Shao
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Yanwei Wu
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | | | - Lilia Tabassian
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Björn Oskarsson
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Karen Ling
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Carlsbad, CA, United States
| | - Frank Rigo
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Carlsbad, CA, United States
| | - Dennis W Dickson
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Tso-Pang Yao
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Leonard Petrucelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Casey N Cook
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Yong Jie Zhang
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Jacksonville, FL, United States
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44
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Hines TJ, Lutz C, Murray SA, Burgess RW. An Integrated Approach to Studying Rare Neuromuscular Diseases Using Animal and Human Cell-Based Models. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 9:801819. [PMID: 35047510 PMCID: PMC8762301 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.801819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
As sequencing technology improves, the identification of new disease-associated genes and new alleles of known genes is rapidly increasing our understanding of the genetic underpinnings of rare diseases, including neuromuscular diseases. However, precisely because these disorders are rare and often heterogeneous, they are difficult to study in patient populations. In parallel, our ability to engineer the genomes of model organisms, such as mice or rats, has gotten increasingly efficient through techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, allowing the creation of precision human disease models. Such in vivo model systems provide an efficient means for exploring disease mechanisms and identifying therapeutic strategies. Furthermore, animal models provide a platform for preclinical studies to test the efficacy of those strategies. Determining whether the same mechanisms are involved in the human disease and confirming relevant parameters for treatment ideally involves a human experimental system. One system currently being used is induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), which can then be differentiated into the relevant cell type(s) for in vitro confirmation of disease mechanisms and variables such as target engagement. Here we provide a demonstration of these approaches using the example of tRNA-synthetase-associated inherited peripheral neuropathies, rare forms of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT). Mouse models have led to a better understanding of both the genetic and cellular mechanisms underlying the disease. To determine if the mechanisms are similar in human cells, we will use genetically engineered iPSC-based models. This will allow comparisons of different CMT-associated GARS alleles in the same genetic background, reducing the variability found between patient samples and simplifying the availability of cell-based models for a rare disease. The necessity of integrating mouse and human models, strategies for accomplishing this integration, and the challenges of doing it at scale are discussed using recently published work detailing the cellular mechanisms underlying GARS-associated CMT as a framework.
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Cossu G, Tonlorenzi R, Brunelli S, Sampaolesi M, Messina G, Azzoni E, Benedetti S, Biressi S, Bonfanti C, Bragg L, Camps J, Cappellari O, Cassano M, Ciceri F, Coletta M, Covarello D, Crippa S, Cusella-De Angelis MG, De Angelis L, Dellavalle A, Diaz-Manera J, Galli D, Galli F, Gargioli C, Gerli MFM, Giacomazzi G, Galvez BG, Hoshiya H, Guttinger M, Innocenzi A, Minasi MG, Perani L, Previtali SC, Quattrocelli M, Ragazzi M, Roostalu U, Rossi G, Scardigli R, Sirabella D, Tedesco FS, Torrente Y, Ugarte G. Mesoangioblasts at 20: From the embryonic aorta to the patient bed. Front Genet 2022; 13:1056114. [PMID: 36685855 PMCID: PMC9845585 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.1056114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In 2002 we published an article describing a population of vessel-associated progenitors that we termed mesoangioblasts (MABs). During the past decade evidence had accumulated that during muscle development and regeneration things may be more complex than a simple sequence of binary choices (e.g., dorsal vs. ventral somite). LacZ expressing fibroblasts could fuse with unlabelled myoblasts but not among themselves or with other cell types. Bone marrow derived, circulating progenitors were able to participate in muscle regeneration, though in very small percentage. Searching for the embryonic origin of these progenitors, we identified them as originating at least in part from the embryonic aorta and, at later stages, from the microvasculature of skeletal muscle. While continuing to investigate origin and fate of MABs, the fact that they could be expanded in vitro (also from human muscle) and cross the vessel wall, suggested a protocol for the cell therapy of muscular dystrophies. We tested this protocol in mice and dogs before proceeding to the first clinical trial on Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy patients that showed safety but minimal efficacy. In the last years, we have worked to overcome the problem of low engraftment and tried to understand their role as auxiliary myogenic progenitors during development and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Cossu
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine. University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Muscle Research Unit, Charité Medical Faculty and Max Delbrück Center, Berlin, Germany
- *Correspondence: Giulio Cossu, ; Rossana Tonlorenzi, ; Silvia Brunelli, ; Maurilio Sampaolesi, ; Graziella Messina,
| | - Rossana Tonlorenzi
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Giulio Cossu, ; Rossana Tonlorenzi, ; Silvia Brunelli, ; Maurilio Sampaolesi, ; Graziella Messina,
| | - Silvia Brunelli
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Giulio Cossu, ; Rossana Tonlorenzi, ; Silvia Brunelli, ; Maurilio Sampaolesi, ; Graziella Messina,
| | - Maurilio Sampaolesi
- Translational Cardiomyology Laboratory, Stem Cell and Developmental Biology Unit, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Histology and Medical Embryology Unit, Department of Anatomy, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Giulio Cossu, ; Rossana Tonlorenzi, ; Silvia Brunelli, ; Maurilio Sampaolesi, ; Graziella Messina,
| | - Graziella Messina
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Giulio Cossu, ; Rossana Tonlorenzi, ; Silvia Brunelli, ; Maurilio Sampaolesi, ; Graziella Messina,
| | - Emanuele Azzoni
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Benedetti
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health and NIHR GOSH Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stefano Biressi
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO) and Dulbecco Telethon Institute, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Chiara Bonfanti
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Laricia Bragg
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine. University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Jordi Camps
- Bayer AG, Research and Development, Pharmaceuticals, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ornella Cappellari
- Department of Pharmacy-Drug Sciences, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Fabio Ciceri
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Marcello Coletta
- Histology and Medical Embryology Unit, Department of Anatomy, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Stefania Crippa
- San Raffaele-Telethon Institute of Gene Theray, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Luciana De Angelis
- Histology and Medical Embryology Unit, Department of Anatomy, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Jordi Diaz-Manera
- John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, Newcastle University, United Kingdom
| | - Daniela Galli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Francesco Galli
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine. University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Cesare Gargioli
- Department of Biology, University of Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Mattia F. M. Gerli
- UCL Department of Surgical Biotechnology and Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Beatriz G. Galvez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Anna Innocenzi
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - M. Giulia Minasi
- Lavitaminasi, Clinical Nutrition and Reproductive Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Perani
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Mattia Quattrocelli
- Division of Molecular Cardiovascular Biology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | | | - Urmas Roostalu
- Roche Institute for Translational Bioengineering (ITB), pRED Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Giuliana Rossi
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Research Council, Rome, Italy
| | - Raffaella Scardigli
- Columbia Stem Cell Initiative, Department of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine, Columbia University, New York, United States
| | - Dario Sirabella
- University College London, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children and the Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Francesco Saverio Tedesco
- Laboratory of Neuroscience, Faculty of Chemistry and Biology, University of Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Yvan Torrente
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health and NIHR GOSH Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gonzalo Ugarte
- Laboratory of Neuroscience, Faculty of Chemistry and Biology, University of Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Histone Deacetylase Inhibition Regulates Lipid Homeostasis in a Mouse Model of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222011224. [PMID: 34681883 PMCID: PMC8541517 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an incurable and fatal neurodegenerative disorder of the motor system. While the etiology is still incompletely understood, defects in metabolism act as a major contributor to the disease progression. Recently, histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibition using ACY-738 has been shown to restore metabolic alterations in the spinal cord of a FUS mouse model of ALS, which was accompanied by a beneficial effect on the motor phenotype and survival. In this study, we investigated the specific effects of HDAC inhibition on lipid metabolism using untargeted lipidomic analysis combined with transcriptomic analysis in the spinal cord of FUS mice. We discovered that symptomatic FUS mice recapitulate lipid alterations found in ALS patients and in the SOD1 mouse model. Glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids, and cholesterol esters were most affected. Strikingly, HDAC inhibition mitigated lipid homeostasis defects by selectively targeting glycerophospholipid metabolism and reducing cholesteryl esters accumulation. Therefore, our data suggest that HDAC inhibition is a potential new therapeutic strategy to modulate lipid metabolism defects in ALS and potentially other neurodegenerative diseases.
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