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Asad Z, Fakheir Y, Abukhaled Y, Khalil R. Implications of altered pyramidal cell morphology on clinical symptoms of neurodevelopmental disorders. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 60:4877-4892. [PMID: 39054743 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16484] [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: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
The prevalence of pyramidal cells (PCs) in the mammalian cerebral cortex underscore their value as they play a crucial role in various brain functions, ranging from cognition, sensory processing, to motor output. PC morphology significantly influences brain connectivity and plays a critical role in maintaining normal brain function. Pathological alterations to PC morphology are thought to contribute to the aetiology of neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizophrenia. This review explores the relationship between abnormalities in PC morphology in key cortical areas and the clinical manifestations in schizophrenia and ASD. We focus largely on human postmortem studies and provide evidence that dendritic segment length, complexity and spine density are differentially affected in these disorders. These morphological alterations can lead to disruptions in cortical connectivity, potentially contributing to the cognitive and behavioural deficits observed in these disorders. Furthermore, we highlight the importance of investigating the functional and structural characteristics of PCs in these disorders to illuminate the underlying pathogenesis and stimulate further research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zummar Asad
- School of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Yara Fakheir
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Yara Abukhaled
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Reem Khalil
- Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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2
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Tonna M. The Evolution of Symbolic Thought: At the Intersection of Schizophrenia Psychopathology, Ethnoarchaeology, and Neuroscience. Cult Med Psychiatry 2024:10.1007/s11013-024-09873-5. [PMID: 38995487 DOI: 10.1007/s11013-024-09873-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
The human capacity for symbolic representation arises, evolutionarily and developmentally, from the exploitation of a widespread sensorimotor network, along a fundamental continuity between embodied and symbolic modes of experience. In this regard, the fine balancing between constrained sensorimotor connections (responsible for self-embodiment processing) and more untethered neural associations (responsible for abstract and symbolic processing) is context dependent and plastically neuromodulated, thus intersubjectively constructed within a specific socio-cultural milieu. Instead, in the schizophrenia spectrum this system falls off catastrophically, due to an unbalance toward too unconstrained sensorimotor connectivity, leading to a profound distortion of self/world relation with a symbolic activity detached from its embodied ground. For this very reason, however, schizophrenia psychopathology may contribute to unveil, in a distorted or magnified way, ubiquitous structural features of human symbolic activity, beneath the various, historically determined cultural systems. In this respect, a comparative approach, linking psychopathology and ethnoarchaeology, allows highlight the following invariant formal characteristics of symbolic processing: (1) Emergence of salient perceptive fragments, which stand out from the perceptual field. (2) Spreading of a multiplicity of new significances with suspension of common-sense meaning. (3) Dynamic and passive character through which meaning proliferation is experienced. This study emphasizes the importance of fine-grained psychopathology to elucidate, within a cross-disciplinary framework, the evolutionarily and developmental pathways that shape the basic structures of human symbolization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Tonna
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Psychiatric Unit, University of Parma, Ospedale Maggiore, Padiglione Braga, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126, Parma, Italy.
- Department of Mental Health, Local Health Service, Parma, Italy.
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3
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Kreutzmann JC, Kahl E, Fendt M. Sex-specific modulation of safety learning in Shank2-deficient mice. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2024; 132:110973. [PMID: 38369099 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2024.110973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired perceptual processing and social communication, intellectual disabilities, and repetitive behaviors. Interestingly, while not a core symptom, anxiety disorders frequently co-occur in individuals with ASD and deficits in safety learning have been described in patients with anxiety-related disorders. Because genetic factors, such as SHANK deficiency (loss-of-function mutations), have been linked to ASD, the aim of the present study was to investigate whether Shank2 deficiency interferes with associative fear and safety signal learning. To first investigate trait anxiety, male and female Shank2-deficient mice were exposed to a light-dark box test. Mice were then submitted to a combination of contextual fear conditioning and single-cue safety conditioning. The results show that Shank2 deficiency increases trait anxiety but reduces contextual fear learning. In male but not female Shank2-deficient mice, reduced single-cued safety learning was observed. This safety learning deficit was not caused by altered anxiety levels, increased locomotor activity, or reduced contextual fear since these changes were also observed in female Shank2-deficient mice. Concluding, our data indicate that the observed safety learning deficits in Shank2-deficient male mice could contribute to the emotional symptoms observed in ASD and the high comorbidity with anxiety-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith C Kreutzmann
- Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Germany.; Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Evelyn Kahl
- Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Markus Fendt
- Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Germany.; Center of Behavioral Brain Sciences, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Germany.
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4
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Aerts T, Boonen A, Geenen L, Stulens A, Masin L, Pancho A, Francis A, Pepermans E, Baggerman G, Van Roy F, Wöhr M, Seuntjens E. Altered socio-affective communication and amygdala development in mice with protocadherin10-deficient interneurons. Open Biol 2024; 14:240113. [PMID: 38889770 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.240113] [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: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of neurodevelopmental conditions associated with deficits in social interaction and communication, together with repetitive behaviours. The cell adhesion molecule protocadherin10 (PCDH10) is linked to ASD in humans. Pcdh10 is expressed in the nervous system during embryonic and early postnatal development and is important for neural circuit formation. In mice, strong expression of Pcdh10 in the ganglionic eminences and in the basolateral complex (BLC) of the amygdala was observed at mid and late embryonic stages, respectively. Both inhibitory and excitatory neurons expressed Pcdh10 in the BLC at perinatal stages and vocalization-related genes were enriched in Pcdh10-expressing neurons in adult mice. An epitope-tagged Pcdh10-HAV5 mouse line revealed endogenous interactions of PCDH10 with synaptic proteins in the young postnatal telencephalon. Nuanced socio-affective communication changes in call emission rates, acoustic features and call subtype clustering were primarily observed in heterozygous pups of a conditional knockout (cKO) with selective deletion of Pcdh10 in Gsh2-lineage interneurons. These changes were less prominent in heterozygous ubiquitous Pcdh10 KO pups, suggesting that altered anxiety levels associated with Gsh2-lineage interneuron functioning might drive the behavioural effects. Together, loss of Pcdh10 specifically in interneurons contributes to behavioural alterations in socio-affective communication with relevance to ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Aerts
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Division of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Lab of Developmental Neurobiology, KU Leuven , Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Anneleen Boonen
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Division of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Lab of Developmental Neurobiology, KU Leuven , Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Lieve Geenen
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Division of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Lab of Developmental Neurobiology, KU Leuven , Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Anne Stulens
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Division of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Lab of Developmental Neurobiology, KU Leuven , Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Luca Masin
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Division of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Lab of Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven , Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Anna Pancho
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Division of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Lab of Developmental Neurobiology, KU Leuven , Leuven 3000, Belgium
- Developmental Genetics, Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel , Basel 4058, Switzerland
| | - Annick Francis
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Division of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Lab of Developmental Neurobiology, KU Leuven , Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Elise Pepermans
- Centre for Proteomics, University of Antwerp , Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Geert Baggerman
- Centre for Proteomics, University of Antwerp , Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Computer Science, University of Antwerp , Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Frans Van Roy
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology; Inflammation Research Center, VIB, Ghent University , Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG) 9000, Belgium
| | - Markus Wöhr
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Research Unit Brain and Cognition, Laboratory of Biological Psychology, Social and Affective Neuroscience Research Group, KU Leuven , Leuven 3000, Belgium
- KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute , Leuven 3000, Belgium
- Faculty of Psychology, Experimental and Biological Psychology, Behavioral Neuroscience, Philipps-University of Marburg , Marburg 35032, Germany
- Center for Mind, Brain and Behavior, Philipps-University of Marburg , Marburg 35032, Germany
| | - Eve Seuntjens
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Division of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology, Lab of Developmental Neurobiology, KU Leuven , Leuven 3000, Belgium
- KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute , Leuven 3000, Belgium
- KU Leuven, Leuven Institute for Single Cell Omics , Leuven 3000, Belgium
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5
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Godoy Muñoz JM, Neset L, Markússon S, Weber S, Krokengen OC, Sutinen A, Christakou E, Lopez AJ, Bramham CR, Kursula P. Structural characterization of two nanobodies targeting the ligand-binding pocket of human Arc. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300453. [PMID: 38683783 PMCID: PMC11057775 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated protein (Arc) is a complex regulator of synaptic plasticity in glutamatergic neurons. Understanding its molecular function is key to elucidate the neurobiology of memory and learning, stress regulation, and multiple neurological and psychiatric diseases. The recent development of anti-Arc nanobodies has promoted the characterization of the molecular structure and function of Arc. This study aimed to validate two anti-Arc nanobodies, E5 and H11, as selective modulators of the human Arc N-lobe (Arc-NL), a domain that mediates several molecular functions of Arc through its peptide ligand binding site. The structural characteristics of recombinant Arc-NL-nanobody complexes were solved at atomic resolution using X-ray crystallography. Both anti-Arc nanobodies bind specifically to the multi-peptide binding site of Arc-NL. Isothermal titration calorimetry showed that the Arc-NL-nanobody interactions occur at nanomolar affinity, and that the nanobodies can displace a TARPγ2-derived peptide from the binding site. Thus, both anti-Arc-NL nanobodies could be used as competitive inhibitors of endogenous Arc ligands. Differences in the CDR3 loops between the two nanobodies indicate that the spectrum of short linear motifs recognized by the Arc-NL should be expanded. We provide a robust biochemical background to support the use of anti-Arc nanobodies in attempts to target Arc-dependent synaptic plasticity. Function-blocking anti-Arc nanobodies could eventually help unravel the complex neurobiology of synaptic plasticity and allow to develop diagnostic and treatment tools.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lasse Neset
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | | | - Sarah Weber
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | | | - Aleksi Sutinen
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine & Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | | | - Andrea J. Lopez
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | | | - Petri Kursula
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine & Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
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6
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Vilela J, Martiniano H, Marques AR, Santos JX, Asif M, Rasga C, Oliveira G, Vicente AM. Identification of Neurotransmission and Synaptic Biological Processes Disrupted in Autism Spectrum Disorder Using Interaction Networks and Community Detection Analysis. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2971. [PMID: 38001974 PMCID: PMC10668950 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11112971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by communication deficits and repetitive behavioral patterns. Hundreds of candidate genes have been implicated in ASD, including neurotransmission and synaptic (NS) genes; however, the genetic architecture of this disease is far from clear. In this study, we seek to clarify the biological processes affected by NS gene variants identified in individuals with ASD and the global networks that link those processes together. For a curated list of 1216 NS candidate genes, identified in multiple databases and the literature, we searched for ultra-rare (UR) loss-of-function (LoF) variants in the whole-exome sequencing dataset from the Autism Sequencing Consortium (N = 3938 cases). Filtering for population frequency was carried out using gnomAD (N = 60,146 controls). NS genes with UR LoF variants were used to construct a network of protein-protein interactions, and the network's biological communities were identified by applying the Leiden algorithm. We further explored the expression enrichment of network genes in specific brain regions. We identified 356 variants in 208 genes, with a preponderance of UR LoF variants in the PDE11A and SYTL3 genes. Expression enrichment analysis highlighted several subcortical structures, particularly the basal ganglia. The interaction network defined seven network communities, clustering synaptic and neurotransmitter pathways with several ubiquitous processes that occur in multiple organs and systems. This approach also uncovered biological pathways that are not usually associated with ASD, such as brain cytochromes P450 and brain mitochondrial metabolism. Overall, the community analysis suggests that ASD involves the disruption of synaptic and neurotransmitter pathways but also ubiquitous, but less frequently implicated, biological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Vilela
- Departamento de Promoção da Saúde e Doenças Não Transmissíveis, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Avenida Padre Cruz, 1649-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (J.V.); (H.M.); (A.R.M.); (J.X.S.); (M.A.); (C.R.)
- BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisboa, Campo Grande, C8, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Hugo Martiniano
- Departamento de Promoção da Saúde e Doenças Não Transmissíveis, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Avenida Padre Cruz, 1649-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (J.V.); (H.M.); (A.R.M.); (J.X.S.); (M.A.); (C.R.)
- BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisboa, Campo Grande, C8, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana Rita Marques
- Departamento de Promoção da Saúde e Doenças Não Transmissíveis, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Avenida Padre Cruz, 1649-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (J.V.); (H.M.); (A.R.M.); (J.X.S.); (M.A.); (C.R.)
- BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisboa, Campo Grande, C8, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - João Xavier Santos
- Departamento de Promoção da Saúde e Doenças Não Transmissíveis, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Avenida Padre Cruz, 1649-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (J.V.); (H.M.); (A.R.M.); (J.X.S.); (M.A.); (C.R.)
- BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisboa, Campo Grande, C8, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Muhammad Asif
- Departamento de Promoção da Saúde e Doenças Não Transmissíveis, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Avenida Padre Cruz, 1649-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (J.V.); (H.M.); (A.R.M.); (J.X.S.); (M.A.); (C.R.)
- BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisboa, Campo Grande, C8, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Célia Rasga
- Departamento de Promoção da Saúde e Doenças Não Transmissíveis, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Avenida Padre Cruz, 1649-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (J.V.); (H.M.); (A.R.M.); (J.X.S.); (M.A.); (C.R.)
- BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisboa, Campo Grande, C8, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Guiomar Oliveira
- Unidade de Neurodesenvolvimento e Autismo, Serviço do Centro de Desenvolvimento da Criança, Centro de Investigação e Formação Clínica, Hospital Pediátrico, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra (CHUC), 3000-602 Coimbra, Portugal;
- Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, University Clinic of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-602 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Astrid Moura Vicente
- Departamento de Promoção da Saúde e Doenças Não Transmissíveis, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Avenida Padre Cruz, 1649-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (J.V.); (H.M.); (A.R.M.); (J.X.S.); (M.A.); (C.R.)
- BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisboa, Campo Grande, C8, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
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Yamada T, Watanabe T, Sasaki Y. Are sleep disturbances a cause or consequence of autism spectrum disorder? Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2023; 77:377-385. [PMID: 36949621 PMCID: PMC10871071 DOI: 10.1111/pcn.13550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by core symptoms such as atypical social communication, stereotyped behaviors, and restricted interests. One of the comorbid symptoms of individuals with ASD is sleep disturbance. There are two major hypotheses regarding the neural mechanism underlying ASD, i.e., the excitation/inhibition (E/I) imbalance and the altered neuroplasticity hypotheses. However, the pathology of ASD remains unclear due to inconsistent research results. This paper argues that sleep is a confounding factor, thus, must be considered when examining the pathology of ASD because sleep plays an important role in modulating the E/I balance and neuroplasticity in the human brain. Investigation of the E/I balance and neuroplasticity during sleep might enhance our understanding of the neural mechanisms of ASD. It may also lead to the development of neurobiologically informed interventions to supplement existing psychosocial therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Yamada
- Department of Cognitive, Linguistic, and Psychological Sciences, Brown University, Providence, 02912, USA
| | - Takeo Watanabe
- Department of Cognitive, Linguistic, and Psychological Sciences, Brown University, Providence, 02912, USA
| | - Yuka Sasaki
- Department of Cognitive, Linguistic, and Psychological Sciences, Brown University, Providence, 02912, USA
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Wang Y, Lin J, Li J, Yan L, Li W, He X, Ma H. Chronic Neuronal Inactivity Utilizes the mTOR-TFEB Pathway to Drive Transcription-Dependent Autophagy for Homeostatic Up-Scaling. J Neurosci 2023; 43:2631-2652. [PMID: 36868861 PMCID: PMC10089247 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0146-23.2023] [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: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Activity-dependent changes in protein expression are critical for neuronal plasticity, a fundamental process for the processing and storage of information in the brain. Among the various forms of plasticity, homeostatic synaptic up-scaling is unique in that it is induced primarily by neuronal inactivity. However, precisely how the turnover of synaptic proteins occurs in this homeostatic process remains unclear. Here, we report that chronically inhibiting neuronal activity in primary cortical neurons prepared from embryonic day (E)18 Sprague Dawley rats (both sexes) induces autophagy, thereby regulating key synaptic proteins for up-scaling. Mechanistically, chronic neuronal inactivity causes dephosphorylation of ERK and mTOR, which induces transcription factor EB (TFEB)-mediated cytonuclear signaling and drives transcription-dependent autophagy to regulate αCaMKII and PSD95 during synaptic up-scaling. Together, these findings suggest that mTOR-dependent autophagy, which is often triggered by metabolic stressors such as starvation, is recruited and sustained during neuronal inactivity to maintain synaptic homeostasis, a process that ensures proper brain function and if impaired can cause neuropsychiatric disorders such as autism.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT In the mammalian brain, protein turnover is tightly controlled by neuronal activation to ensure key neuronal functions during long-lasting synaptic plasticity. However, a long-standing question is how this process occurs during synaptic up-scaling, a process that requires protein turnover but is induced by neuronal inactivation. Here, we report that mTOR-dependent signaling, which is often triggered by metabolic stressors such as starvation, is "hijacked" by chronic neuronal inactivation, which then serves as a nucleation point for transcription factor EB (TFEB) cytonuclear signaling that drives transcription-dependent autophagy for up-scaling. These results provide the first evidence of a physiological role of mTOR-dependent autophagy in enduing neuronal plasticity, thereby connecting major themes in cell biology and neuroscience via a servo loop that mediates autoregulation in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Wang
- Department of Neurobiology, Affiliated Mental Health Center and Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain-machine Integration, State Key Laboratory of Brain-machine Intelligence, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311121, China
- National Health Commission of the PRC (NHC) and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jingran Lin
- Department of Neurobiology, Affiliated Mental Health Center and Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain-machine Integration, State Key Laboratory of Brain-machine Intelligence, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311121, China
- National Health Commission of the PRC (NHC) and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jiarui Li
- Department of Neurobiology, Affiliated Mental Health Center and Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain-machine Integration, State Key Laboratory of Brain-machine Intelligence, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311121, China
- National Health Commission of the PRC (NHC) and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Lu Yan
- Department of Neurobiology, Affiliated Mental Health Center and Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain-machine Integration, State Key Laboratory of Brain-machine Intelligence, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311121, China
- National Health Commission of the PRC (NHC) and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Wenwen Li
- Department of Neurobiology, Affiliated Mental Health Center and Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain-machine Integration, State Key Laboratory of Brain-machine Intelligence, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311121, China
- National Health Commission of the PRC (NHC) and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xingzhi He
- Department of Neurobiology, Affiliated Mental Health Center and Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain-machine Integration, State Key Laboratory of Brain-machine Intelligence, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311121, China
- National Health Commission of the PRC (NHC) and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Huan Ma
- Department of Neurobiology, Affiliated Mental Health Center and Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain-machine Integration, State Key Laboratory of Brain-machine Intelligence, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311121, China
- National Health Commission of the PRC (NHC) and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Research Units for Emotion and Emotion disorders, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100050, China
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9
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Zong W, Lu X, Dong G, Zhang L, Li K. Molecular mechanisms of exercise intervention in alleviating the symptoms of autism spectrum disorder: Targeting the structural alterations of synapse. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1096503. [PMID: 37065903 PMCID: PMC10102432 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1096503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex and heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by stereotyped behaviors, specific interests, and impaired social and communication skills. Synapses are fundamental structures for transmitting information between neurons. It has been reported that synaptic deficits, such as the increased or decreased density of synapses, may contribute to the onset of ASD, which affects the synaptic function and neuronal circuits. Therefore, targeting the recovery of the synaptic normal structure and function may be a promising therapeutic strategy to alleviate ASD symptoms. Exercise intervention has been shown to regulate the structural plasticity of synapses and improve ASD symptoms, but the underlying molecular mechanisms require further exploration. In this review, we highlight the characteristics of synaptic structural alterations in the context of ASD and the beneficial effects of an exercise intervention on improving ASD symptoms. Finally, we explore the possible molecular mechanisms of improving ASD symptoms through exercise intervention from the perspective of regulating synaptic structural plasticity, which contributes to further optimizing the related strategies of exercise intervention promoting ASD rehabilitation in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhao Zong
- School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- Department of Sports, Quzhou University, Quzhou, China
- College of Sports and Health, Shandong Sport University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaowen Lu
- Department of Sports, Quzhou University, Quzhou, China
| | - Guijun Dong
- Department of Sports, Quzhou University, Quzhou, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Guangdong-HongKong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kefeng Li
- Department of Medicine, Quzhou College of Technology, Quzhou, China
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10
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PCDH19 in Males: Are Hemizygous Variants Linked to Autism? Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14030598. [PMID: 36980870 PMCID: PMC10048232 DOI: 10.3390/genes14030598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental disability that impairs the social communication and interaction of affected individuals and leads to restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is genetically heterogeneous, with inheritable and de novo genetic variants in more than hundreds of genes contributing to the disease. However, these account for only around 20% of cases, while the molecular basis of the majority of cases remains unelucidated as of yet. Material and methods: Two unrelated Lebanese patients, a 7-year-old boy (patient A) and a 4-year-old boy (patient B), presenting with ASD were included in this study. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was carried out for these patients to identify the molecular cause of their diseases. Results: WES analysis revealed hemizygous variants in PCDH19 (NM_001184880.1) as being the candidate causative variants: p.Arg787Leu was detected in patient A and p.Asp1024Asn in patient B. PCDH19, located on chromosome X, encodes a membrane glycoprotein belonging to the protocadherin family. Heterozygous PCDH19 variants have been linked to epilepsy in females with mental retardation (EFMR), while mosaic PCDH19 mutations in males are responsible for treatment-resistant epilepsy presenting similarly to EFMR, with some reported cases of comorbid intellectual disability and autism. Interestingly, a hemizygous PCDH19 variant affecting the same amino acid that is altered in patient A was previously reported in a male patient with ASD. Conclusion: Here, we report hemizygous PCDH19 variants in two males with autism without epilepsy. Reporting further PCDH19 variants in male patients with ASD is important to assess the possible involvement of this gene in autism.
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Cipriani C, Tartaglione AM, Giudice M, D’Avorio E, Petrone V, Toschi N, Chiarotti F, Miele MT, Calamandrei G, Garaci E, Matteucci C, Sinibaldi-Vallebona P, Ricceri L, Balestrieri E. Differential Expression of Endogenous Retroviruses and Inflammatory Mediators in Female and Male Offspring in a Mouse Model of Maternal Immune Activation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232213930. [PMID: 36430402 PMCID: PMC9695919 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232213930] [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: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal infections during pregnancy and the consequent maternal immune activation (MIA) are the major risk factors for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Epidemiological evidence is corroborated by the preclinical models in which MIA leads to ASD-like behavioral abnormalities and altered neuroinflammatory profiles, with an increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines and microglial markers. In addition to neuroinflammatory response, an abnormal expression of endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) has been identified in neurodevelopmental disorders and have been found to correlate with disease severity. Our aim was to evaluate the transcriptional profile of several ERV families, ERV-related genes, and inflammatory mediators (by RT real-time PCR) in mouse offspring of both sexes, prenatally exposed to polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (Poly I:C), a synthetic double-stranded RNA molecule targeting TLR-3 that mimics viral maternal infection during pregnancy. We found that prenatal exposure to Poly I:C deregulated the expression of some ERVs and ERV-related genes both in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus, while no changes were detected in the blood. Interestingly, sex-related differences in the expression levels of some ERVs, ERV-related genes, and inflammatory mediators that were higher in females than in males emerged only in PFC. Our findings support the tissue specificity of ERV and ERV-related transcriptional profiles in MIA mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Cipriani
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Tartaglione
- Center for Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Martina Giudice
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Erica D’Avorio
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Vita Petrone
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Toschi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University of Rome, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Flavia Chiarotti
- Center for Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Martino Tony Miele
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Gemma Calamandrei
- Center for Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Enrico Garaci
- University San Raffaele, 00166 Rome, Italy
- IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, 00163 Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Matteucci
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Sinibaldi-Vallebona
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Research Council, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Ricceri
- Center for Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuela Balestrieri
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
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12
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Sheng Z, Liu Q, Cheng C, Li M, Barash J, Kofke WA, Shen Y, Xie Z. Fentanyl induces autism-like behaviours in mice by hypermethylation of the glutamate receptor gene Grin2b. Br J Anaesth 2022; 129:544-554. [PMID: 35697546 DOI: 10.1016/j.bja.2022.04.027] [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: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Environmental factors contribute to autism spectrum disorder. Fentanyl, one of the most widely used opioid analgesics in anaesthesia, can induce neurotoxicity, but its role in autism remains unknown. We determined whether fentanyl induced autism-like behaviours in young mice and the underlying mechanisms. METHODS Young male and female mice received fentanyl at postnatal days 6, 8, and 10, and performed behavioural tests, including three-chamber social preference, elevated plus maze, grooming behaviour, and open-field test, from postnatal days 30-32. Expression of Grin2b, the gene encoding the GluN2B subunit of the N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor, was assessed in the anterior cingulate cortex of male mice using fluorescence in situ hybridisation histochemistry. We used bisulfite target sequencing to determine Grin2b hypermethylation sites after fentanyl treatment. In the specific activation and rescue experiments, we injected the mu opioid receptor agonist [D-Ala,2 N-MePhe,4 Gly-ol]-enkephalin (DAMGO) or Grin2b overexpression lentivirus into the anterior cingulate cortex of male mice. RESULTS Fentanyl induced autism-like behaviours in both young male and female mice, and downregulated Grin2b expression (0.49-fold [0.08] vs 1.00-fold [0.09]; P<0.01) and GluN2B protein amounts (0.38-fold [0.07] vs 1.00-fold [0.12]; P<0.01) in the anterior cingulate cortex through hypermethylation of Grin2b. The mu-opioid receptor antagonist naloxone and overexpression of Grin2b in anterior cingulate cortex attenuated the fentanyl-induced effects, whereas DAMGO injection into the anterior cingulate cortex induced autism-like behaviours. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that fentanyl induces autism-like behaviours in young mice via an epigenetic mechanism. Further research is required to determine possible clinical relevance to autism risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihao Sheng
- Anesthesia and Brain Research Institute, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China; Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qidong Liu
- Anesthesia and Brain Research Institute, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chun Cheng
- Anesthesia and Brain Research Institute, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengzhu Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jed Barash
- Department of Medicine, Soldiers' Home, Chelsea, MA, USA
| | - W Andrew Kofke
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Yuan Shen
- Anesthesia and Brain Research Institute, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Zhongcong Xie
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA.
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13
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Hoshina N, Johnson-Venkatesh EM, Rally VR, Sant J, Hoshina M, Seiglie MP, Umemori H. ASD/OCD-Linked Protocadherin-10 Regulates Synapse, But Not Axon, Development in the Amygdala and Contributes to Fear- and Anxiety-Related Behaviors. J Neurosci 2022; 42:4250-4266. [PMID: 35504727 PMCID: PMC9145243 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1843-21.2022] [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: 09/11/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The Protocadherin-10 (PCDH10) gene is associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and major depression (MD). The PCDH10 protein is a homophilic cell adhesion molecule that belongs to the δ2-protocadherin family. PCDH10 is highly expressed in the developing brain, especially in the basolateral nucleus of the amygdala (BLA). However, the role of PCDH10 in vivo has been debatable: one paper reported that a Pcdh10 mutant mouse line showed changes in axonal projections; however, another Pcdh10 mutant mouse line was reported to have failed to detect axonal phenotypes. Therefore, the actual roles of PCDH10 in the brain remain to be elucidated. We established a new Pcdh10 KO mouse line using the CRISPR/Cas9 system, without inserting gene cassettes to avoid nonspecific effects, examined the roles of PCDH10 in the brain, and studied the behavioral consequences of Pcdh10 inactivation. Here, we show that Pcdh10 KO mice do not show defects in axonal development. Instead, we find that Pcdh10 KO mice exhibit impaired development of excitatory synapses in the dorsal BLA. We further demonstrate that male Pcdh10 KO mice exhibit reduced anxiety-related behaviors, impaired fear conditioning, decreased stress-coping responses, and mildly impaired social recognition and communication. These results indicate that PCDH10 plays a critical role in excitatory synapse development, but not axon development, in the dorsal BLA and that PCDH10 regulates anxiety-related, fear-related, and stress-related behaviors. Our results reveal the roles of PCDH10 in the brain and its relationship to relevant psychiatric disorders such as ASD, OCD, and MD.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTProtocadherin-10 (PCDH10) encodes a cell adhesion molecule and is implicated in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and major depression (MD). PCDH10 is highly expressed in the basolateral nucleus of the amygdala (BLA). However, the phenotypes of previously published Pcdh10 mutant mice are debatable, and some are possibly because of the nonspecific effects of the LacZ/Neo cassette inserted in the mice. We have generated a new Pcdh10 mutant mouse line without the LacZ/Neo cassette. Using our new mouse line, we reveal the roles of PCDH10 for excitatory synapse development in the BLA. The mutant mice exhibit anxiety-related, fear-related, and stress-related behaviors, which are relevant to ASD, OCD, and MD, suggesting a possible treatment strategy for such psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naosuke Hoshina
- Department of Neurology, F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Erin M Johnson-Venkatesh
- Department of Neurology, F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Veronica R Rally
- Department of Neurology, F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Jaanvi Sant
- Department of Neurology, F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Miyuki Hoshina
- Department of Neurology, F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Mariel P Seiglie
- Department of Neurology, F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Hisashi Umemori
- Department of Neurology, F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
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14
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Paprocka J, Kaminiów K, Kozak S, Sztuba K, Emich-Widera E. Stem Cell Therapies for Cerebral Palsy and Autism Spectrum Disorder-A Systematic Review. Brain Sci 2021; 11:1606. [PMID: 34942908 PMCID: PMC8699362 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11121606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and cerebral palsy (CP) are some of the most common neurodevelopmental diseases. They have multifactorial origin, which means that each case may manifest differently from the others. In patients with ASD, symptoms associated with deficits in social communication and characteristic, repetitive types of behaviors or interests are predominant, while in patients with CP, motor disability is diagnosed with accompanying cognitive impairment of various degrees. In order to minimize their adverse effects, it is necessary to promptly diagnose and incorporate appropriate management, which can significantly improve patient quality of life. One of the therapeutic possibilities is stem cell therapy, already known from other branches of medicine, with high hopes for safe and effective treatment of these diseases. Undoubtedly, in the future we will have to face the challenges that will arise due to the still existing gaps in knowledge and the heterogeneity of this group of patients. The purpose of this systematic review is to summarize briefly the latest achievements and advances in stem cell therapy for ASD and CP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Paprocka
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, 40-752 Katowice, Poland;
| | - Konrad Kaminiów
- Students’ Scientific Society, Department of Pediatric Neurology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, 40-752 Katowice, Poland; (K.K.); (S.K.); (K.S.)
| | - Sylwia Kozak
- Students’ Scientific Society, Department of Pediatric Neurology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, 40-752 Katowice, Poland; (K.K.); (S.K.); (K.S.)
| | - Karolina Sztuba
- Students’ Scientific Society, Department of Pediatric Neurology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, 40-752 Katowice, Poland; (K.K.); (S.K.); (K.S.)
| | - Ewa Emich-Widera
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, 40-752 Katowice, Poland;
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15
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Vallés AS, Barrantes FJ. Dendritic spine membrane proteome and its alterations in autistic spectrum disorder. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2021; 128:435-474. [PMID: 35034726 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2021.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Dendritic spines are small protrusions stemming from the dendritic shaft that constitute the primary specialization for receiving and processing excitatory neurotransmission in brain synapses. The disruption of dendritic spine function in several neurological and neuropsychiatric diseases leads to severe information-processing deficits with impairments in neuronal connectivity and plasticity. Spine dysregulation is usually accompanied by morphological alterations to spine shape, size and/or number that may occur at early pathophysiological stages and not necessarily be reflected in clinical manifestations. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is one such group of diseases involving changes in neuronal connectivity and abnormal morphology of dendritic spines on postsynaptic neurons. These alterations at the subcellular level correlate with molecular changes in the spine proteome, with alterations in the copy number, topography, or in severe cases in the phenotype of the molecular components, predominantly of those proteins involved in spine recognition and adhesion, reflected in abnormally short lifetimes of the synapse and compensatory increases in synaptic connections. Since cholinergic neurotransmission participates in the regulation of cognitive function (attention, memory, learning processes, cognitive flexibility, social interactions) brain acetylcholine receptors are likely to play an important role in the dysfunctional synapses in ASD, either directly or indirectly via the modulatory functions exerted on other neurotransmitter receptor proteins and spine-resident proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Sofía Vallés
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (UNS-CONICET), Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Francisco J Barrantes
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (BIOMED), UCA-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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16
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Nardella C, Visconti L, Malagrinò F, Pagano L, Bufano M, Nalli M, Coluccia A, La Regina G, Silvestri R, Gianni S, Toto A. Targeting PDZ domains as potential treatment for viral infections, neurodegeneration and cancer. Biol Direct 2021; 16:15. [PMID: 34641953 PMCID: PMC8506081 DOI: 10.1186/s13062-021-00303-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The interaction between proteins is a fundamental event for cellular life that is generally mediated by specialized protein domains or modules. PDZ domains are the largest class of protein-protein interaction modules, involved in several cellular pathways such as signal transduction, cell-cell junctions, cell polarity and adhesion, and protein trafficking. Because of that, dysregulation of PDZ domain function often causes the onset of pathologies, thus making this family of domains an interesting pharmaceutical target. In this review article we provide an overview of the structural and functional features of PDZ domains and their involvement in the cellular and molecular pathways at the basis of different human pathologies. We also discuss some of the strategies that have been developed with the final goal to hijack or inhibit the interaction of PDZ domains with their ligands. Because of the generally low binding selectivity of PDZ domain and the scarce efficiency of small molecules in inhibiting PDZ binding, this task resulted particularly difficult to pursue and still demands increasing experimental efforts in order to become completely feasible and successful in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Nardella
- Istituto Pasteur - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche "A. Rossi Fanelli" and Istituto di Biologia e Patologia Molecolari del CNR, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Visconti
- Istituto Pasteur - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche "A. Rossi Fanelli" and Istituto di Biologia e Patologia Molecolari del CNR, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Malagrinò
- Istituto Pasteur - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche "A. Rossi Fanelli" and Istituto di Biologia e Patologia Molecolari del CNR, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Livia Pagano
- Istituto Pasteur - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche "A. Rossi Fanelli" and Istituto di Biologia e Patologia Molecolari del CNR, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Marianna Bufano
- Laboratory Affiliated with the Institute Pasteur Italy - Cenci Bolognetti Foundation, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Marianna Nalli
- Laboratory Affiliated with the Institute Pasteur Italy - Cenci Bolognetti Foundation, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Coluccia
- Laboratory Affiliated with the Institute Pasteur Italy - Cenci Bolognetti Foundation, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe La Regina
- Laboratory Affiliated with the Institute Pasteur Italy - Cenci Bolognetti Foundation, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Romano Silvestri
- Laboratory Affiliated with the Institute Pasteur Italy - Cenci Bolognetti Foundation, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy.
| | - Stefano Gianni
- Istituto Pasteur - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche "A. Rossi Fanelli" and Istituto di Biologia e Patologia Molecolari del CNR, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00185, Rome, Italy.
| | - Angelo Toto
- Istituto Pasteur - Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche "A. Rossi Fanelli" and Istituto di Biologia e Patologia Molecolari del CNR, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00185, Rome, Italy.
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17
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Khanal P, Hotulainen P. Dendritic Spine Initiation in Brain Development, Learning and Diseases and Impact of BAR-Domain Proteins. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092392. [PMID: 34572042 PMCID: PMC8468246 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Dendritic spines are small, bulbous protrusions along neuronal dendrites where most of the excitatory synapses are located. Dendritic spine density in normal human brain increases rapidly before and after birth achieving the highest density around 2-8 years. Density decreases during adolescence, reaching a stable level in adulthood. The changes in dendritic spines are considered structural correlates for synaptic plasticity as well as the basis of experience-dependent remodeling of neuronal circuits. Alterations in spine density correspond to aberrant brain function observed in various neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders. Dendritic spine initiation affects spine density. In this review, we discuss the importance of spine initiation in brain development, learning, and potential complications resulting from altered spine initiation in neurological diseases. Current literature shows that two Bin Amphiphysin Rvs (BAR) domain-containing proteins, MIM/Mtss1 and SrGAP3, are involved in spine initiation. We review existing literature and open databases to discuss whether other BAR-domain proteins could also take part in spine initiation. Finally, we discuss the potential molecular mechanisms on how BAR-domain proteins could regulate spine initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pushpa Khanal
- Minerva Foundation Institute for Medical Research, Tukholmankatu 8, 00290 Helsinki, Finland;
- HiLIFE-Neuroscience Center, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pirta Hotulainen
- Minerva Foundation Institute for Medical Research, Tukholmankatu 8, 00290 Helsinki, Finland;
- Correspondence:
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18
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Wan L, Ai JQ, Yang C, Jiang J, Zhang QL, Luo ZH, Huang RJ, Tu T, Pan A, Tu E, Manavis J, Xiao B, Yan XX. Expression of the Excitatory Postsynaptic Scaffolding Protein, Shank3, in Human Brain: Effect of Age and Alzheimer's Disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:717263. [PMID: 34504419 PMCID: PMC8421777 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.717263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Shank3 is a postsynaptic scaffolding protein of excitatory synapses. Mutations or variations of SHANK3 are associated with various psychiatric and neurological disorders. We set to determine its normal expression pattern in the human brain, and its change, if any, with age and Alzheimer’s disease (AD)-type β-amyloid (Aβ) and Tau pathogenesis. In general, Shank3 immunoreactivity (IR) exhibited largely a neuropil pattern with differential laminar/regional distribution across brain regions. In youth and adults, subsets of pyramidal/multipolar neurons in the cerebrum, striatum, and thalamus showed moderate IR, while some large-sized neurons in the brainstem and the granule cells in the cerebellar cortex exhibited light IR. In double immunofluorescence, Shank3 IR occurred at the sublemmal regions in neuronal somata and large dendrites, apposing to synaptophysin-labeled presynaptic terminals. In aged cases, immunolabeled neuronal somata were reduced, with disrupted neuropil labeling seen in the molecular layer of the dentate gyrus in AD cases. In immunoblot, levels of Shank3 protein were positively correlated with that of the postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD95) among different brain regions. Levels of Shank3, PSD95, and synaptophysin immunoblotted in the prefrontal, precentral, and cerebellar cortical lysates were reduced in the aged and AD relative to youth and adult groups. Taken together, the differential Shank3 expression among brain structures/regions indicates the varied local density of the excitatory synapses. The enriched Shank3 expression in the forebrain subregions appears inconsistent with a role of this protein in the modulation of high cognitive functions. The decline of its expression in aged and AD brains may relate to the degeneration of excitatory synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily Wan
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jia-Qi Ai
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Chen Yang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Juan Jiang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Qi-Lei Zhang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Zhao-Hui Luo
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Rou-Jie Huang
- Medical Doctor Program, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Tian Tu
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Aihua Pan
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Ewen Tu
- Department of Neurology, Brain Hospital of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Jim Manavis
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Bo Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiao-Xin Yan
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha, China
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19
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Dinneen TJ, Ghrálaigh FN, Walsh R, Lopez LM, Gallagher L. How does genetic variation modify ND-CNV phenotypes? Trends Genet 2021; 38:140-151. [PMID: 34364706 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2021.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Rare copy-number variants (CNVs) associated with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), i.e., ND-CNVs, provide an insight into the neurobiology of NDDs and, potentially, a link between biology and clinical outcomes. However, ND-CNVs are characterised by incomplete penetrance resulting in heterogeneous carrier phenotypes, ranging from non-affected to multimorbid psychiatric, neurological, and physical phenotypes. Recent evidence indicates that other variants in the genome, or 'other hits', may partially explain the variable expressivity of ND-CNVs. These may be other rare variants or the aggregated effects of common variants that modify NDD risk. Here we discuss the recent findings, current questions, and future challenges relating to other hits research in the context of ND-CNVs and their potential for improved clinical diagnostics and therapeutics for ND-CNV carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J Dinneen
- Department of Psychiatry, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Fiana Ní Ghrálaigh
- Department of Psychiatry, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Department of Biology, National University of Ireland Maynooth, Maynooth, Ireland
| | - Ruth Walsh
- Department of Psychiatry, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lorna M Lopez
- Department of Psychiatry, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Department of Biology, National University of Ireland Maynooth, Maynooth, Ireland
| | - Louise Gallagher
- Department of Psychiatry, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
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20
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Benítez-Burraco A, Ferretti F, Progovac L. Human Self-Domestication and the Evolution of Pragmatics. Cogn Sci 2021; 45:e12987. [PMID: 34170029 DOI: 10.1111/cogs.12987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
As proposed for the emergence of modern languages, we argue that modern uses of languages (pragmatics) also evolved gradually in our species under the effects of human self-domestication, with three key aspects involved in a complex feedback loop: (a) a reduction in reactive aggression, (b) the sophistication of language structure (with emerging grammars initially facilitating the transition from physical aggression to verbal aggression); and (c) the potentiation of pragmatic principles governing conversation, including, but not limited to, turn-taking and inferential abilities. Our core hypothesis is that the reduction in reactive aggression, one of the key factors in self-domestication processes, enabled us to fully exploit our cognitive and interactional potential as applied to linguistic exchanges, and ultimately to evolve a specific form of communication governed by persuasive reciprocity-a trait of human conversation characterized by both competition and cooperation. In turn, both early crude forms of language, well suited for verbal aggression/insult, and later more sophisticated forms of language, well suited for persuasive reciprocity, significantly contributed to the resolution and reduction of (physical) aggression, thus having a return effect on the self-domestication processes. Supporting evidence for our proposal, as well as grounds for further testing, comes mainly from the consideration of cognitive disorders, which typically simultaneously present abnormal features of self-domestication (including aggressive behavior) and problems with pragmatics and social functioning. While various approaches to language evolution typically reduce it to a single factor, our approach considers language evolution as a multifactorial process, with each player acting upon the other, engaging in an intense mutually reinforcing feedback loop. Moreover, we see language evolution as a gradual process, continuous with the pre-linguistic cognitive abilities, which were engaged in a positive feedback loop with linguistic innovations, and where gene-culture co-evolution and cultural niche construction were the main driving forces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Benítez-Burraco
- Department of Spanish, Linguistics and Theory of Literature (Linguistics), Faculty of Philology, University of Seville
| | - Francesco Ferretti
- Department of Philosophy, Communication and Performing Arts. Roma Tre University
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21
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Freitag CM, Chiocchetti AG, Haslinger D, Yousaf A, Waltes R. [Genetic risk factors and their influence on neural development in autism spectrum disorders]. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR KINDER-UND JUGENDPSYCHIATRIE UND PSYCHOTHERAPIE 2021; 50:187-202. [PMID: 34128703 DOI: 10.1024/1422-4917/a000803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Genetic risk factors and their influence on neural development in autism spectrum disorders Abstract. Abstract. Autism spectrum disorders are etiologically based on genetic and specific gene x biologically relevant environmental risk factors. They are diagnosed based on behavioral characteristics, such as impaired social communication and stereotyped, repetitive behavior and sensory as well as special interests. The genetic background is heterogeneous, i. e., it comprises diverse genetic risk factors across the disorder and high interindividual differences of specific genetic risk factors. Nevertheless, risk factors converge regarding underlying biological mechanisms and shared pathways, which likely cause the autism-specific behavioral characteristics. The current selective literature review summarizes differential genetic risk factors and focuses particularly on mechanisms and pathways currently being discussed by international research. In conclusion, clinically relevant aspects and open translational research questions are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine M Freitag
- Klinik für Psychiatrie, Psychosomatik und Psychotherapie des Kindes- und Jugendalters, Universitätsklinikum Frankfurt, Goethe-Universität, Frankfurt am Main
| | - Andreas G Chiocchetti
- Klinik für Psychiatrie, Psychosomatik und Psychotherapie des Kindes- und Jugendalters, Universitätsklinikum Frankfurt, Goethe-Universität, Frankfurt am Main
| | - Denise Haslinger
- Klinik für Psychiatrie, Psychosomatik und Psychotherapie des Kindes- und Jugendalters, Universitätsklinikum Frankfurt, Goethe-Universität, Frankfurt am Main
| | - Afsheen Yousaf
- Klinik für Psychiatrie, Psychosomatik und Psychotherapie des Kindes- und Jugendalters, Universitätsklinikum Frankfurt, Goethe-Universität, Frankfurt am Main
| | - Regina Waltes
- Klinik für Psychiatrie, Psychosomatik und Psychotherapie des Kindes- und Jugendalters, Universitätsklinikum Frankfurt, Goethe-Universität, Frankfurt am Main
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22
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Benítez-Burraco A, Progovac L. Language evolution: examining the link between cross-modality and aggression through the lens of disorders. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2021; 376:20200188. [PMID: 33745319 PMCID: PMC8059641 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2020.0188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
We demonstrate how two linguistic phenomena, figurative language (implicating cross-modality) and derogatory language (implicating aggression), both demand a precise degree of (dis)inhibition in the same cortico-subcortical brain circuits, in particular cortico-striatal networks, whose connectivity has been significantly enhanced in recent evolution. We examine four cognitive disorders/conditions that exhibit abnormal patterns of (dis)inhibition in these networks: schizophrenia (SZ), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), synaesthesia and Tourette's syndrome (TS), with the goal of understanding why the two phenomena altered reactive aggression and altered cross-modality cluster together in these disorders. Our proposal is that enhanced cross-modality (necessary to support language, in particular metaphoricity) was a result, partly a side-effect, of self-domestication (SD). SD targeted the taming of reactive aggression, but reactive impulses are controlled by the same cortico-subcortical networks that are implicated in cross-modality. We further add that this biological process of SD did not act alone, but was engaged in an intense feedback loop with the cultural emergence of early forms of language/grammar, whose high degree of raw metaphoricity and verbal aggression also contributed to increased brain connectivity and cortical control. Consequently, in conjunction with linguistic expressions serving as approximations/'fossils' of the earliest stages of language, these cognitive disorders/conditions serve as confident proxies of brain changes in language evolution, helping us reconstruct certain crucial aspects of early prehistoric languages and cognition, as well as shed new light on the nature of the disorders. This article is part of the theme issue 'Reconstructing prehistoric languages'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Benítez-Burraco
- Department of Spanish, Linguistics and Theory of Literature (Linguistics), Faculty of Philology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - Ljiljana Progovac
- Linguistics Program, Department of English, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
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23
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León A, Aparicio GI, Scorticati C. Neuronal Glycoprotein M6a: An Emerging Molecule in Chemical Synapse Formation and Dysfunction. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2021; 13:661681. [PMID: 34017241 PMCID: PMC8129562 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2021.661681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying neuropsychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders show that most of them can be categorized as synaptopathies-or damage of synaptic function and plasticity. Synaptic formation and maintenance are orchestrated by protein complexes that are in turn regulated in space and time during neuronal development allowing synaptic plasticity. However, the exact mechanisms by which these processes are managed remain unknown. Large-scale genomic and proteomic projects led to the discovery of new molecules and their associated variants as disease risk factors. Neuronal glycoprotein M6a, encoded by the GPM6A gene is emerging as one of these molecules. M6a has been involved in neuron development and synapse formation and plasticity, and was also recently proposed as a gene-target in various neuropsychiatric disorders where it could also be used as a biomarker. In this review, we provide an overview of the structure and molecular mechanisms by which glycoprotein M6a participates in synapse formation and maintenance. We also review evidence collected from patients carrying mutations in the GPM6A gene; animal models, and in vitro studies that together emphasize the relevance of M6a, particularly in synapses and in neurological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Camila Scorticati
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas “Rodolfo A. Ugalde”, Universidad Nacional de San Martín and Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (IIBio-UNSAM-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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24
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Chakraborty R, Vijay Kumar MJ, Clement JP. Critical aspects of neurodevelopment. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2021; 180:107415. [PMID: 33647449 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2021.107415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Organisms have the unique ability to adapt to their environment by making use of external inputs. In the process, the brain is shaped by experiences that go hand-in-hand with optimisation of neural circuits. As such, there exists a time window for the development of different brain regions, each unique for a particular sensory modality, wherein the propensity of forming strong, irreversible connections are high, referred to as a critical period of development. Over the years, this domain of neurodevelopmental research has garnered considerable attention from many scientists, primarily because of the intensive activity-dependent nature of development. This review discusses the cellular, molecular, and neurophysiological bases of critical periods of different sensory modalities, and the disorders associated in cases the regulators of development are dysfunctional. Eventually, the neurobiological bases of the behavioural abnormalities related to developmental pathologies are discussed. A more in-depth insight into the development of the brain during the critical period of plasticity will eventually aid in developing potential therapeutics for several neurodevelopmental disorders that are categorised under critical period disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranabir Chakraborty
- Neuroscience Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Jakkur, Bengaluru. Karnataka. India
| | - M J Vijay Kumar
- Neuroscience Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Jakkur, Bengaluru. Karnataka. India
| | - James P Clement
- Neuroscience Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Jakkur, Bengaluru. Karnataka. India.
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25
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Wan L, Liu D, Xiao WB, Zhang BX, Yan XX, Luo ZH, Xiao B. Association of SHANK Family with Neuropsychiatric Disorders: An Update on Genetic and Animal Model Discoveries. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2021; 42:1623-1643. [PMID: 33595806 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-021-01054-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The Shank family proteins are enriched at the postsynaptic density (PSD) of excitatory glutamatergic synapses. They serve as synaptic scaffolding proteins and appear to play a critical role in the formation, maintenance and functioning of synapse. Increasing evidence from genetic association and animal model studies indicates a connection of SHANK genes defects with the development of neuropsychiatric disorders. In this review, we first update the current understanding of the SHANK family genes and their encoded protein products. We then denote the literature relating their alterations to the risk of neuropsychiatric diseases. We further review evidence from animal models that provided molecular insights into the biological as well as pathogenic roles of Shank proteins in synapses, and the potential relationship to the development of abnormal neurobehavioral phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily Wan
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Du Liu
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.,Taikang Tongji Hospital, Wuhan, 430050, Hubei, China
| | - Wen-Biao Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Bo-Xin Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Xiao-Xin Yan
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Zhao-Hui Luo
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
| | - Bo Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
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26
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Zhang C, Xu L, Zheng X, Liu S, Che F. Role of Ash1l in Tourette syndrome and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Dev Neurobiol 2020; 81:79-91. [PMID: 33258273 PMCID: PMC8048680 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Ash1l potentially contributes to neurodevelopmental diseases. Although specific Ash1l mutations are rare, they have led to informative studies in animal models that may bring therapeutic advances. Ash1l is highly expressed in the brain and correlates with the neuropathology of Tourette syndrome (TS), autism spectrum disorder, and intellectual disability during development, implicating shared epigenetic factors and overlapping neuropathological mechanisms. Functional convergence of Ash1l generated several significant signaling pathways: chromatin remodeling and transcriptional regulation, protein synthesis and cellular metabolism, and synapse development and function. Here, we systematically review the literature on Ash1l, including its discovery, expression, function, regulation, implication in the nervous system, signaling pathway, mutations, and putative involvement in TS and other neurodevelopmental traits. Such findings highlight Ash1l pleiotropy and the necessity of transcending a single gene to complicated mechanisms of network convergence underlying these diseases. With the progress in functional genomic analysis (highlighted in this review), and although the importance and necessity of Ash1l becomes increasingly apparent in the medical field, further research is required to discover the precise function and molecular regulatory mechanisms related to Ash1l. Thus, a new perspective is proposed for basic scientific research and clinical interventions for cross‐disorder diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Eleventh Clinical Medical College of Qingdao University, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, China
| | - Lulu Xu
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xueping Zheng
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Shiguo Liu
- Medical Genetic Department, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Fengyuan Che
- Department of Neurology, The Eleventh Clinical Medical College of Qingdao University, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, China
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27
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Fóthi Á, Soorya L, Lőrincz A. The Autism Palette: Combinations of Impairments Explain the Heterogeneity in ASD. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:503462. [PMID: 33343403 PMCID: PMC7738611 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.503462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous neuropsychiatric condition traditionally defined by core symptoms in social behavior, speech/communication, repetitive behavior, and restricted interests. Beyond the core symptoms, autism has strong association with other disorders such as intellectual disability (ID), epilepsy, schizophrenia among many others. This paper outlines a theory of ASD with capacity to connect heterogeneous "core" symptoms, medical and psychiatric comorbidities as well as other etiological theories of autism in a unifying cognitive framework rooted in neuroscience and genetics. Cognition is embedded into an ever-developing structure modified by experiences, including the outcomes of environment influencing behaviors. The key constraint of cognition is that the brain can handle only 7±2 relevant variables at a time, whereas sensory variables, i.e., the number of sensory neurons is orders of magnitude larger. As a result, (a) the extraction, (b) the encoding, and (c) the capability for the efficient cognitive manipulation of the relevant variables, and (d) the compensatory mechanisms that counteract computational delays of the distributed components are critical. We outline our theoretical model to describe a Cartesian Factor (CF) forming, autoencoder-like cognitive mechanism which breaks combinatorial explosion and is accelerated by internal reinforcing machineries and discuss the neural processes that support CF formation. Impairments in any of these aspects may disrupt learning, cognitive manipulation, decisions on interactions, and execution of decisions. We suggest that social interactions are the most susceptible to combinations of diverse small impairments and can be spoiled in many ways that pile up. Comorbidity is experienced, if any of the many potential impairments is relatively strong. We consider component spoiling impairments as the basic colors of autism, whereas the combinations of individual impairments make the palette of autism. We put forth arguments on the possibility of dissociating the different main elements of the impairments that can appear together. For example, impairments of generalization (domain general learning) and impairments of dealing with many variable problems, such as social situations may appear independently and may mutually enhance their impacts. We also consider mechanisms that may lead to protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ábel Fóthi
- Institute of Enzymology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Artificial Intelligence, Faculty of Informatics, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Latha Soorya
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush Medical College, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - András Lőrincz
- Department of Artificial Intelligence, Faculty of Informatics, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
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Cunniff MM, Markenscoff-Papadimitriou E, Ostrowski J, Rubenstein JLR, Sohal VS. Altered hippocampal-prefrontal communication during anxiety-related avoidance in mice deficient for the autism-associated gene Pogz. eLife 2020; 9:e54835. [PMID: 33155545 PMCID: PMC7682992 DOI: 10.7554/elife.54835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Many genes have been linked to autism. However, it remains unclear what long-term changes in neural circuitry result from disruptions in these genes, and how these circuit changes might contribute to abnormal behaviors. To address these questions, we studied behavior and physiology in mice heterozygous for Pogz, a high confidence autism gene. Pogz+/- mice exhibit reduced anxiety-related avoidance in the elevated plus maze (EPM). Theta-frequency communication between the ventral hippocampus (vHPC) and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) is known to be necessary for normal avoidance in the EPM. We found deficient theta-frequency synchronization between the vHPC and mPFC in vivo. When we examined vHPC-mPFC communication at higher resolution, vHPC input onto prefrontal GABAergic interneurons was specifically disrupted, whereas input onto pyramidal neurons remained intact. These findings illustrate how the loss of a high confidence autism gene can impair long-range communication by causing inhibitory circuit dysfunction within pathways important for specific behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret M Cunniff
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, and Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoUnited States
| | - Eirene Markenscoff-Papadimitriou
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, and Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoUnited States
| | - Julia Ostrowski
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, and Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoUnited States
| | - John LR Rubenstein
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, and Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoUnited States
| | - Vikaas Singh Sohal
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, and Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoUnited States
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29
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Niego A, Benítez-Burraco A. Autism and Williams syndrome: truly mirror conditions in the socio-cognitive domain? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2020; 68:399-415. [PMID: 35937179 PMCID: PMC9351567 DOI: 10.1080/20473869.2020.1817717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and Williams Syndrome (WS) are frequently characterized as mirror conditions in the socio-cognitive domain, with ASD entailing restrictive social interests and with WS exhibiting hypersociability. In this review paper, we examine in detail the strong points and deficits of people with ASD or WS in the socio-cognitive domain and show that both conditions also share some common features. Moreover, we explore the neurobiological basis of the social profile of ASD and WS and found a similar mixture of common affected areas and condition-specific impaired regions. We discuss these findings under the hypothesis of a continuum of the socio-cognitive abilities in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Niego
- Faculty of Philology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - Antonio Benítez-Burraco
- Department of Spanish, Linguistics, and Theory of Literature (Linguistics), Faculty of Philology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
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30
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Javed S, Selliah T, Lee YJ, Huang WH. Dosage-sensitive genes in autism spectrum disorders: From neurobiology to therapy. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 118:538-567. [PMID: 32858083 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of heterogenous neurodevelopmental disorders affecting 1 in 59 children. Syndromic ASDs are commonly associated with chromosomal rearrangements or dosage imbalance involving a single gene. Many of these genes are dosage-sensitive and regulate transcription, protein homeostasis, and synaptic function in the brain. Despite vastly different molecular perturbations, syndromic ASDs share core symptoms including social dysfunction and repetitive behavior. However, each ASD subtype has a unique pathogenic mechanism and combination of comorbidities that require individual attention. We have learned a great deal about how these dosage-sensitive genes control brain development and behaviors from genetically-engineered mice. Here we describe the clinical features of eight monogenic neurodevelopmental disorders caused by dosage imbalance of four genes, as well as recent advances in using genetic mouse models to understand their pathogenic mechanisms and develop intervention strategies. We propose that applying newly developed quantitative molecular and neuroscience technologies will advance our understanding of the unique neurobiology of each disorder and enable the development of personalized therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sehrish Javed
- Centre for Research in Neuroscience, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Tharushan Selliah
- Centre for Research in Neuroscience, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Yu-Ju Lee
- Centre for Research in Neuroscience, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Wei-Hsiang Huang
- Centre for Research in Neuroscience, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
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31
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Loss of Cochlear Ribbon Synapse Is a Critical Contributor to Chronic Salicylate Sodium Treatment-Induced Tinnitus without Change Hearing Threshold. Neural Plast 2020; 2020:3949161. [PMID: 32774354 PMCID: PMC7397434 DOI: 10.1155/2020/3949161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2020] [Revised: 05/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Tinnitus is a common auditory disease worldwide; it is estimated that more than 10% of all individuals experience this hearing disorder during their lifetime. Tinnitus is sometimes accompanied by hearing loss. However, hearing loss is not acquired in some other tinnitus generations. In this study, we injected adult rats with salicylate sodium (SS) (200 mg/kg/day for 10 days) and found no significant hearing threshold changes at 2, 4, 8, 12, 14, 16, 20, or 24 kHz (all p > 0.05). Tinnitus was confirmed in the treated rats via Behaviour Testing of Acoustic Startle Response (ASR) and Gap Prepulse Inhibition Test of Acoustic Startle Reflex (GPIAS). A immunostaining study showed that there is significant loss of anti-CtBP2 puncta (a marker of cochlear inner hair cell (HC) ribbon synapses) in treated animals in apical, middle, and basal turns (all p < 0.05). The ABR wave I amplitudes were significantly reduced at 4, 8, 12, 14, 16, and 20 kHz (all p < 0.05). No significant losses of outer HCs, inner HCs, or HC cilia were observed (all p > 0.05). Thus, our study suggests that loss of cochlear inner HC ribbon synapse after SS exposure is a contributor to the development of tinnitus without changing hearing threshold.
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32
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Lin BD, Colas F, Nijman IJ, Medic J, Brands W, Parr JR, van Eijk KR, Klauck SM, Chiocchetti AG, Freitag CM, Maestrini E, Bacchelli E, Coon H, Vicente A, Oliveira G, Pagnamenta AT, Gallagher L, Ennis S, Anney R, Bourgeron T, Luykx JJ, Vorstman J. The role of rare compound heterozygous events in autism spectrum disorder. Transl Psychiatry 2020; 10:204. [PMID: 32572023 PMCID: PMC7308334 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-020-00866-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The identification of genetic variants underlying autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) may contribute to a better understanding of their underlying biology. To examine the possible role of a specific type of compound heterozygosity in ASD, namely, the occurrence of a deletion together with a functional nucleotide variant on the remaining allele, we sequenced 550 genes in 149 individuals with ASD and their deletion-transmitting parents. This approach allowed us to identify additional sequence variants occurring in the remaining allele of the deletion. Our main goal was to compare the rate of sequence variants in remaining alleles of deleted regions between probands and the deletion-transmitting parents. We also examined the predicted functional effect of the identified variants using Combined Annotation-Dependent Depletion (CADD) scores. The single nucleotide variant-deletion co-occurrence was observed in 13.4% of probands, compared with 8.1% of parents. The cumulative burden of sequence variants (n = 68) in pooled proband sequences was higher than the burden in pooled sequences from the deletion-transmitting parents (n = 41, X2 = 6.69, p = 0.0097). After filtering for those variants predicted to be most deleterious, we observed 21 of such variants in probands versus 8 in their deletion-transmitting parents (X2 = 5.82, p = 0.016). Finally, cumulative CADD scores conferred by these variants were significantly higher in probands than in deletion-transmitting parents (burden test, β = 0.13; p = 1.0 × 10-5). Our findings suggest that the compound heterozygosity described in the current study may be one of several mechanisms explaining variable penetrance of CNVs with known pathogenicity for ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bochao Danae Lin
- Department of Psychiatry, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Informatics, Bioinformatics Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Fabrice Colas
- Department of Psychiatry, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Isaac J Nijman
- Department of Medical Informatics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jelena Medic
- Department of Psychiatry, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - William Brands
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jeremy R Parr
- Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK
| | - Kristel R van Eijk
- Department of Psychiatry, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sabine M Klauck
- Division of Molecular Genome Analysis and Division of Cancer Genome Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andreas G Chiocchetti
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Frankfurt, JW Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Christine M Freitag
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Frankfurt, JW Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Elena Maestrini
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elena Bacchelli
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Hilary Coon
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Astrid Vicente
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Avenida Padre Cruz, Lisboa, Portugal
| | | | - Alistair T Pagnamenta
- NIHR Oxford BRC, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Louise Gallagher
- Neuropsychiatric Genetics Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, Trinity College Dublin, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sean Ennis
- Academic Centre on Rare Diseases, School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Richard Anney
- Medical Research Council Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Thomas Bourgeron
- Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions, Institut Pasteur, UMR3571 CNRS, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Jurjen J Luykx
- Department of Psychiatry, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- GGNet Mental Health, Apeldoorn, The Netherlands
| | - Jacob Vorstman
- Department of Psychiatry, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Research Institute, and Department of Psychiatry, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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33
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Varderidou-Minasian S, Verheijen BM, Schätzle P, Hoogenraad CC, Pasterkamp RJ, Altelaar M. Deciphering the Proteome Dynamics during Development of Neurons Derived from Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. J Proteome Res 2020; 19:2391-2403. [PMID: 32357013 PMCID: PMC7281779 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.0c00070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
![]()
Neuronal development is a complex
multistep process that shapes
neurons by progressing though several typical stages, including axon
outgrowth, dendrite formation, and synaptogenesis. Knowledge of the
mechanisms of neuronal development is mostly derived from the study
of animal models. Advances in stem cell technology now enable us to
generate neurons from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs).
Here we provide a mass spectrometry-based quantitative proteomic signature
of human iPSC-derived neurons, i.e., iPSC-derived induced glutamatergic
neurons and iPSC-derived motor neurons, throughout neuronal differentiation.
Tandem mass tag 10-plex labeling was carried out to perform proteomic
profiling of cells at different time points. Our analysis reveals
significant expression changes (FDR < 0.001) of several key proteins
during the differentiation process, e.g., proteins involved in the
Wnt and Notch signaling pathways. Overall, our data provide a rich
resource of information on protein expression during human iPSC neuron
differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzy Varderidou-Minasian
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Utrecht, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Netherlands Proteomics Center, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Bert M Verheijen
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Philipp Schätzle
- Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Casper C Hoogenraad
- Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - R Jeroen Pasterkamp
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, UMC Utrecht Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten Altelaar
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Utrecht, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Netherlands Proteomics Center, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands
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34
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Genes dysregulated in the blood of people with Williams syndrome are enriched in protein-coding genes positively selected in humans. Eur J Med Genet 2020; 63:103828. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmg.2019.103828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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35
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Arold ST. Intrinsic negative feedback as a limiting factor for the evolution of higher forms of intelligence. F1000Res 2020; 9:34. [PMID: 34504689 PMCID: PMC8408545 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.22039.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Longstanding scientific efforts have been dedicated to answer why and how our particular intelligence is generated by our brain but not by the brain of other species. However, surprisingly little effort has been made to ask why no other species ever developed an intelligence similar to ours. Here, I explore this question based on genetic and paleontologic evidence. Contrary to the established view, this review suggests that the developmental hurdles alone are not high enough to explain the uniqueness of human intelligence (HI). As an additional explanation I propose that HI is normally not retained by natural selection, because it is, under most conditions, an intrinsically unfavourable trait. This unfavourableness, however, cannot be explained by physical constraints alone; rather, it may also be rooted in the same emotional and social complexity that is necessary for the development of HI. Thus, a major obstacle towards HI may not be solely the development of the required physical assets, but also to cope with harmful individual, social and environmental feedback intrinsically associated with this trait.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan T Arold
- Division of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, MK, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia.,Centre de Biologie Structurale, CNRS, INSERM, Université de Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France
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36
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Benítez-Burraco A. Genes Positively Selected in Domesticated Mammals Are Significantly Dysregulated in the Blood of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Mol Syndromol 2020; 10:306-312. [PMID: 32021604 PMCID: PMC6995977 DOI: 10.1159/000505116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Human self-domestication (i.e., the presence of traits in our species that are commonly found in domesticated animals) has been hypothesized to have contributed to the emergence of many human-specific features, including aspects of our cognition and behavior. Signs of self-domestication have been claimed to be attenuated in individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), this conceivably accounting for facets of their distinctive cognitive and behavioral profile, although this possibility needs to be properly tested. In this study, we have found that candidate genes for mammal domestication, but not for neural crest development and function, are significantly dysregulated in the blood of subjects with ASD. The set of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) is enriched in biological and molecular processes, as well as in pathological phenotypes, of relevance for the etiology of ASD, like lipid metabolism, cell apoptosis, the activity of the insulin-like growth factor, gene expression regulation, skin/hair anomalies, musculoskeletal abnormalities, and hearing impairment. Moreover, among the DEGs, there are known candidates for ASD and/or genes involved in biological processes known to be affected in ASD. Our findings give support to the view that one important aspect of the etiopathogenesis of ASD is the abnormal manifestation of features of human self-domestication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Benítez-Burraco
- Department of Spanish, Linguistics, and Theory of Literature (Linguistics), Faculty of Philology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
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37
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Mossa A, Manzini MC. Molecular causes of sex-specific deficits in rodent models of neurodevelopmental disorders. J Neurosci Res 2019; 99:37-56. [PMID: 31872500 PMCID: PMC7754327 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Revised: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) such as intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder consistently show a male bias in prevalence, but it remains unclear why males and females are affected with different frequency. While many behavioral studies of transgenic NDD models have focused only on males, the requirement by the National Institutes of Health to consider sex as a biological variable has promoted the comparison of male and female performance in wild-type and mutant animals. Here, we review examples of rodent models of NDDs in which sex-specific deficits were identified in molecular, physiological, and/or behavioral responses, showing sex differences in susceptibility to disruption of genes mutated in NDDs. Haploinsufficiency in genes involved in mechanisms such as synaptic function (GABRB3 and NRXN1), chromatin remodeling (CHD8, EMHT1, and ADNP), and intracellular signaling (CC2D1A and ERK1) lead to more severe behavioral outcomes in males. However, in the absence of behavioral deficits, females can still present with cellular and electrophysiological changes that could be due to compensatory mechanisms or differential allocation of molecular and cellular functions in the two sexes. By contrasting these findings with mouse models where females are more severely affected (MTHFR and AMBRA1), we propose a framework to approach the study of sex-specific deficits possibly leading to sex bias in NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adele Mossa
- Child Health Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - M Chiara Manzini
- Child Health Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.,Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
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38
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Yang G, Shcheglovitov A. Probing disrupted neurodevelopment in autism using human stem cell-derived neurons and organoids: An outlook into future diagnostics and drug development. Dev Dyn 2019; 249:6-33. [PMID: 31398277 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) represent a spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by impaired social interaction, repetitive or restrictive behaviors, and problems with speech. According to a recent report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in 68 children in the US is diagnosed with ASDs. Although ASD-related diagnostics and the knowledge of ASD-associated genetic abnormalities have improved in recent years, our understanding of the cellular and molecular pathways disrupted in ASD remains very limited. As a result, no specific therapies or medications are available for individuals with ASDs. In this review, we describe the neurodevelopmental processes that are likely affected in the brains of individuals with ASDs and discuss how patient-specific stem cell-derived neurons and organoids can be used for investigating these processes at the cellular and molecular levels. Finally, we propose a discovery pipeline to be used in the future for identifying the cellular and molecular deficits and developing novel personalized therapies for individuals with idiopathic ASDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang Yang
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Alex Shcheglovitov
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
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39
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Sohal VS, Rubenstein JLR. Excitation-inhibition balance as a framework for investigating mechanisms in neuropsychiatric disorders. Mol Psychiatry 2019; 24:1248-1257. [PMID: 31089192 PMCID: PMC6742424 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-019-0426-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 464] [Impact Index Per Article: 92.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Revised: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In 2003 Rubenstein and Merzenich hypothesized that some forms of Autism (ASD) might be caused by a reduction in signal-to-noise in key neural circuits, which could be the result of changes in excitatory-inhibitory (E-I) balance. Here, we have clarified the concept of E-I balance, and updated the original hypothesis in light of the field's increasingly sophisticated understanding of neuronal circuits. We discuss how specific developmental mechanisms, which reduce inhibition, affect cortical and hippocampal functions. After describing how mutations of some ASD genes disrupt inhibition in mice, we close by suggesting that E-I balance represents an organizing framework for understanding findings related to pathophysiology and for identifying appropriate treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikaas S. Sohal
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, and Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - John L. R. Rubenstein
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, and Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
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40
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Adams JW, Cugola FR, Muotri AR. Brain Organoids as Tools for Modeling Human Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Physiology (Bethesda) 2019; 34:365-375. [PMID: 31389776 PMCID: PMC6863377 DOI: 10.1152/physiol.00005.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Revised: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain organoids recapitulate in vitro the specific stages of in vivo human brain development, thus offering an innovative tool by which to model human neurodevelopmental disease. We review here how brain organoids have been used to study neurodevelopmental disease and consider their potential for both technological advancement and therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason W Adams
- Department of Pediatrics/Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, Stem Cell Program, Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny (CARTA), Kavli Institute for Brain and Mind, La Jolla, California
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California
| | - Fernanda R Cugola
- Department of Pediatrics/Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, Stem Cell Program, Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny (CARTA), Kavli Institute for Brain and Mind, La Jolla, California
| | - Alysson R Muotri
- Department of Pediatrics/Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, Stem Cell Program, Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny (CARTA), Kavli Institute for Brain and Mind, La Jolla, California
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41
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Demirci E, Guler Y, Ozmen S, Canpolat M, Kumandas S. Levels of Salivary Sialic Acid in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder; Could It Be Related to Stereotypes and Hyperactivity? CLINICAL PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE 2019; 17:415-422. [PMID: 31352708 PMCID: PMC6705111 DOI: 10.9758/cpn.2019.17.3.415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Revised: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Objective Sialic acid (Sia) is an essential nutrient for brain development, learning, memory and cognition and plays a role in neurodevelopment of infants. The aim of this study was to determine whether Sia levels are significantly associated with the autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Methods Forty-six ASD children and 30 typically developing children aged 3 to 10 years were included in the study. Behavioral symptoms in ASD children was assessed by the Autism Behavior Checklist (AuBC), the Childhood Autism Rating Scale, and the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC). After the collection of saliva samples, the supernatant was separated. All the samples kept at −80°C until Sia analysis was done. Results Sia level was found to be significantly lower in the ASD group when compared to healthy controls (p = 0.013). There was no correlation between severity of ASD and salivary Sia levels. We found a negative correlation between AuBC scores and Sia levels and a negative correlation in both ABC Stereotypic Behavior and Hyperactivity/Noncompliance subscales with Sia levels in ASD group. Conclusion The obtained data indicate that Sia levels could have an effect on autism-like behaviors, particularly on stereotypes and hyperactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esra Demirci
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Yunus Guler
- Department of Pediatrics, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Sevgi Ozmen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Canpolat
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Sefer Kumandas
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey
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42
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Agarwal M, Johnston MV, Stafstrom CE. SYNGAP1 mutations: Clinical, genetic, and pathophysiological features. Int J Dev Neurosci 2019; 78:65-76. [PMID: 31454529 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2019.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Revised: 08/13/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
SYNGAP1 is a gene that encodes the cytosolic protein SYNGAP1 (SYNaptic GTPase Activating Protein), an essential component of the postsynaptic density at excitatory glutamatergic neurons. SYNGAP1 plays critical roles in synaptic development, structure, function, and plasticity. Mutations in SYNGAP1 result in a neurodevelopmental disorder termed Mental retardation-type 5 (MRD5, OMIM #612621) with a phenotype consisting of intellectual disability, motor impairments, and epilepsy, attesting to the importance of this protein for normal brain development. Here we review the clinical and pathophysiological aspects of SYNGAP1 mutations with a focus on their effect on synaptogenesis, neural circuit function, and cellular plasticity. We conclude by comparing the molecular pathogenesis of SYNGAP1 mutations with those of another neurodevelopmental disorder that affects dendritic function and cellular plasticity, fragile X syndrome. Insights into the molecular similarities and differences underlying these disorders could lead to rationale therapy development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mudit Agarwal
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Michael V Johnston
- Department of Neurology and Developmental Medicine, The Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Carl E Stafstrom
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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43
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Benítez-Burraco A, Murphy E. Why Brain Oscillations Are Improving Our Understanding of Language. Front Behav Neurosci 2019; 13:190. [PMID: 31551725 PMCID: PMC6736581 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2019.00190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We explore the potential that brain oscillations have for improving our understanding of how language develops, is processed in the brain, and initially evolved in our species. The different synchronization patterns of brain rhythms can account for different perceptual and cognitive functions, and we argue that this includes language. We aim to address six distinct questions-the What, How, Where, Who, Why, and When questions-pertaining to oscillatory investigations of language. Language deficits found in clinical conditions like autism, schizophrenia and dyslexia can be satisfactorily construed in terms of an abnormal, disorder-specific pattern of brain rhythmicity. Lastly, an eco-evo-devo approach to language is defended with explicit reference to brain oscillations, embracing a framework that considers language evolution to be the result of a changing environment surrounding developmental paths of the primate brain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elliot Murphy
- Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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44
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Kuo HY, Liu FC. Synaptic Wiring of Corticostriatal Circuits in Basal Ganglia: Insights into the Pathogenesis of Neuropsychiatric Disorders. eNeuro 2019; 6:ENEURO.0076-19.2019. [PMID: 31097624 PMCID: PMC6553570 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0076-19.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The striatum is a key hub in the basal ganglia for processing neural information from the sensory, motor, and limbic cortices. The massive and diverse cortical inputs entering the striatum allow the basal ganglia to perform a repertoire of neurological functions ranging from basic level of motor control to high level of cognition. The heterogeneity of the corticostriatal circuits, however, also renders the system susceptible to a repertoire of neurological diseases. Clinical and animal model studies have indicated that defective development of the corticostriatal circuits is linked to various neuropsychiatric disorders, including attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Tourette syndrome, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and schizophrenia. Importantly, many neuropsychiatric disease-risk genes have been found to form the molecular building blocks of the circuit wiring at the synaptic level. It is therefore imperative to understand how corticostriatal connectivity is established during development. Here, we review the construction during development of these corticostriatal circuits at the synaptic level, which should provide important insights into the pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric disorders related to the basal ganglia and help the development of appropriate therapies for these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiao-Ying Kuo
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Fu-Chin Liu
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
- Brain Research Center, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
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45
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Trained Innate Immunity Not Always Amicable. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20102565. [PMID: 31137759 PMCID: PMC6567865 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20102565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Revised: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The concept of „trained innate immunity" is understood as the ability of innate immune cells to remember invading agents and to respond nonspecifically to reinfection with increased strength. Trained immunity is orchestrated by epigenetic modifications leading to changes in gene expression and cell physiology. Although this phenomenon was originally seen mainly as a beneficial effect, since it confers broad immunological protection, enhanced immune response of reprogrammed innate immune cells might result in the development or persistence of chronic metabolic, autoimmune or neuroinfalmmatory disorders. This paper overviews several examples where the induction of trained immunity may be essential in the development of diseases characterized by flawed innate immune response.
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Lee Y, Kang H, Jin C, Zhang Y, Kim Y, Han K. Transcriptome analyses suggest minimal effects of Shank3 dosage on directional gene expression changes in the mouse striatum. Anim Cells Syst (Seoul) 2019; 23:270-274. [PMID: 31489248 PMCID: PMC6711111 DOI: 10.1080/19768354.2019.1595142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Revised: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Both deletions and duplications of the SH3 and multiple ankyrin repeat domains 3 (SHANK3) gene, encoding excitatory postsynaptic scaffolds, are causally associated with various brain disorders, suggesting that proper Shank3 dosage is critical for normal brain development and function. In addition to its well-established synaptic functions, recent studies have suggested that Shank3 can also affect gene expression in the nucleus. However, it has not been investigated whether there are a group of genes whose directional expression is regulated in a Shank3 dosage-dependent manner (i.e. showing opposite changes in expression following Shank3 reduction and overexpression). This is an important issue to be examined for better understanding why neuronal development and function are sensitive to Shank3 dosage, and how much transcriptional changes contribute to neuronal phenotypes affected by Shank3 dosage. To examine this, we performed transcriptome analyses on the striatum of Shank3 heterozygous and knock-out mice, which identified three and 17 differentially expressed genes, respectively. We then compared the results to those of our previous striatal transcriptome analysis of Shank3 overexpressing mice and identified 31 candidate genes showing directional expression changes in a Shank3 dosage-dependent manner. However, overall, their Shank3 dosage-dependent fold changes were very subtle (average of absolute log2(fold change) was 0.139). Meanwhile, the gene set enrichment analyses of the striatal transcriptome suggested that Shank3 dosage may affect anchoring junction-related functions. Taken together, these results suggest that Shank3 dosage minimally affects directional gene expression changes in the mouse striatum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeunkum Lee
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyojin Kang
- Division of National Supercomputing, KISTI, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Chunmei Jin
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yinhua Zhang
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yoonhee Kim
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kihoon Han
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
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47
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Peter B, Dinu V, Liu L, Huentelman M, Naymik M, Lancaster H, Vose C, Schrauwen I. Exome Sequencing of Two Siblings with Sporadic Autism Spectrum Disorder and Severe Speech Sound Disorder Suggests Pleiotropic and Complex Effects. Behav Genet 2019; 49:399-414. [DOI: 10.1007/s10519-019-09957-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2017] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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48
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La Barbera L, Vedele F, Nobili A, D'Amelio M, Krashia P. Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Functional Role of Ambra1 in Autism and Schizophrenia. Mol Neurobiol 2019; 56:6716-6724. [PMID: 30915711 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-019-1557-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The activating molecule in Beclin-1-regulated autophagy (Ambra1) is a highly intrinsically disordered protein best known for its role as a mediator in autophagy, by favoring the formation of autophagosomes. Additional studies have revealed that Ambra1 is able to coordinate cell responses to stress conditions such as starvation, and it actively participates in cell proliferation, cytoskeletal modification, apoptosis, mitochondria removal, and cell cycle downregulation. All these functions highlight the importance of Ambra1 in crucial physiological events, including metabolism, cell death, and cell division. Importantly, Ambra1 is also crucial for proper embryonic development, and its complete absence in knock-out animal models leads to severe brain morphology defects. In line with this, it has recently been implicated in neurodevelopmental disorders affecting humans, particularly autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia. Here, we discuss the recent links between Ambra1 and neurodevelopment, particularly focusing on its role during the maturation of hippocampal parvalbumin interneurons and its importance for maintaining a proper excitation/inhibition balance in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livia La Barbera
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurosciences, Department of Experimental Neurosciences, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy.,Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Rome, Italy
| | - Francescangelo Vedele
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurosciences, Department of Experimental Neurosciences, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy.,Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Rome, Italy
| | - Annalisa Nobili
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurosciences, Department of Experimental Neurosciences, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy.,Unit of Molecular Neurosciences, Department of Medicine, University Campus-Biomedico, Rome, Italy
| | - Marcello D'Amelio
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurosciences, Department of Experimental Neurosciences, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy. .,Unit of Molecular Neurosciences, Department of Medicine, University Campus-Biomedico, Rome, Italy.
| | - Paraskevi Krashia
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurosciences, Department of Experimental Neurosciences, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy. .,Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Rome, Italy.
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49
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Bacchelli E, Loi E, Cameli C, Moi L, Vega-Benedetti AF, Blois S, Fadda A, Bonora E, Mattu S, Fadda R, Chessa R, Maestrini E, Doneddu G, Zavattari P. Analysis of a Sardinian Multiplex Family with Autism Spectrum Disorder Points to Post-Synaptic Density Gene Variants and Identifies CAPG as a Functionally Relevant Candidate Gene. J Clin Med 2019; 8:E212. [PMID: 30736458 PMCID: PMC6406497 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8020212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of neurodevelopmental disorders with high heritability, although their underlying genetic factors are still largely unknown. Here we present a comprehensive genetic characterization of two ASD siblings from Sardinia by genome-wide copy number variation analysis and whole exome sequencing (WES), to identify novel genetic alterations associated with this disorder. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array data revealed a rare microdeletion involving CAPG, ELMOD3, and SH2D6 genes, in both siblings. CAPG encodes for a postsynaptic density (PSD) protein known to regulate spine morphogenesis and synaptic formation. The reduced CAPG mRNA and protein expression levels in ASD patients, in the presence of hemizygosity or a particular genetic and/or epigenetic background, highlighted the functional relevance of CAPG as a candidate gene for ASD. WES analysis led to the identification in both affected siblings of a rare frameshift mutation in VDAC3, a gene intolerant to loss of function mutation, encoding for a voltage-dependent anion channel localized on PSD. Moreover, four missense damaging variants were identified in genes intolerant to loss of function variation encoding for PSD proteins: PLXNA2, KCTD16, ARHGAP21, and SLC4A1. This study identifies CAPG and VDAC3 as candidate genes and provides additional support for genes encoding PSD proteins in ASD susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Bacchelli
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Eleonora Loi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Biology and Genetics, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Cinzia Cameli
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Loredana Moi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Biology and Genetics, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy.
| | | | - Sylvain Blois
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Biology and Genetics, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Antonio Fadda
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Biology and Genetics, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Elena Bonora
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, DIMEC, St. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Sandra Mattu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Oncology and Molecular Pathology, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Roberta Fadda
- Department of Pedagogy, Psychology, Philosophy, University of Cagliari, 09123 Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Rita Chessa
- Center for Pervasive Developmental Disorders, AO Brotzu, 09134 Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Elena Maestrini
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Doneddu
- Center for Pervasive Developmental Disorders, AO Brotzu, 09134 Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Patrizia Zavattari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Biology and Genetics, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy.
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50
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Tomasi D, Volkow ND. Reduced Local and Increased Long-Range Functional Connectivity of the Thalamus in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Cereb Cortex 2019; 29:573-585. [PMID: 29300843 PMCID: PMC6319176 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhx340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Revised: 11/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
It is hypothesized that brain network abnormalities in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) reflect local overconnectivity and long-range underconnectivity. However, this is not a consistent finding in recent studies, which could reflect the developmental nature and the heterogeneity of ASD. Here, we tested 565 ASD and 602 neurotypical (NT) males, and 91 ASD and 233 NT females using local functional connectivity density (lFCD) mapping and seed-voxel correlation analyses to assess how local and long-range connectivities differ in ASD. Compared with NT males, ASD males had lower and weaker age-related increases in thalamic lFCD, which were associated with symptoms of autism. Post-hoc seed-voxel correlation analyses for the thalamus cluster revealed stronger connectivity with auditory, somatosensory, motoric, and interoceptive cortices for ASD than for NT, both in males and in females, which decreased with age in both ASD and NT. These results document the disruption of local thalamic connectivity and dysregulation of thalamo-cortical networks, which might contribute to perceptual, motoric, and interoceptive impairments, and are also consistent with a developmental delay in functional connectivity in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dardo Tomasi
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Nora D Volkow
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Bethesda, MD, USA
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, Bethesda, MD, USA
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