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Fang X, Liu S, Muhammad B, Zheng M, Ge X, Xu Y, Kan S, Zhang Y, Yu Y, Zheng K, Geng D, Liu CF. Gut microbiota dysbiosis contributes to α-synuclein-related pathology associated with C/EBPβ/AEP signaling activation in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:2081-2088. [PMID: 38227539 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.391191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202409000-00042/figure1/v/2024-01-16T170235Z/r/image-tiff Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by motor and gastrointestinal dysfunction. Gastrointestinal dysfunction can precede the onset of motor symptoms by several years. Gut microbiota dysbiosis is involved in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease, whether it plays a causal role in motor dysfunction, and the mechanism underlying this potential effect, remain unknown. CCAAT/enhancer binding protein β/asparagine endopeptidase (C/EBPβ/AEP) signaling, activated by bacterial endotoxin, can promote α-synuclein transcription, thereby contributing to Parkinson's disease pathology. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of the gut microbiota in C/EBPβ/AEP signaling, α-synuclein-related pathology, and motor symptoms using a rotenone-induced mouse model of Parkinson's disease combined with antibiotic-induced microbiome depletion and fecal microbiota transplantation. We found that rotenone administration resulted in gut microbiota dysbiosis and perturbation of the intestinal barrier, as well as activation of the C/EBP/AEP pathway, α-synuclein aggregation, and tyrosine hydroxylase-positive neuron loss in the substantia nigra in mice with motor deficits. However, treatment with rotenone did not have any of these adverse effects in mice whose gut microbiota was depleted by pretreatment with antibiotics. Importantly, we found that transplanting gut microbiota derived from mice treated with rotenone induced motor deficits, intestinal inflammation, and endotoxemia. Transplantation of fecal microbiota from healthy control mice alleviated rotenone-induced motor deficits, intestinal inflammation, endotoxemia, and intestinal barrier impairment. These results highlight the vital role that gut microbiota dysbiosis plays in inducing motor deficits, C/EBPβ/AEP signaling activation, and α-synuclein-related pathology in a rotenone-induced mouse model of Parkinson's disease. Additionally, our findings suggest that supplementing with healthy microbiota may be a safe and effective treatment that could help ameliorate the progression of motor deficits in patients with Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Fang
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Sha Liu
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Bilal Muhammad
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Mingxuan Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xing Ge
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Shu Kan
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yinghua Yu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Kuiyang Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Deqin Geng
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Chun-Feng Liu
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Research Center of Neurological Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Disease and Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
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2
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Bennett KJ, Leese J, Davis JC, Eng JJ, Liu-Ambrose T. Exploring the experience of cognitive changes among community-dwelling stroke survivors: a qualitative study. Disabil Rehabil 2024; 46:1870-1877. [PMID: 37212368 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2023.2210309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cognitive deficits are common among stroke survivors and impact their functional independence. Despite the prevalence of cognitive deficits after stroke, cognitive function is largely overlooked in post-stroke care. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore the experiences of individuals living with post-stroke cognitive changes to understand the impact of these changes on their daily lives. MATERIALS AND METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposeful sample of thirteen community-dwelling adults 50 years and older with chronic stroke who self-identified cognitive changes post-stroke. Interviews were transcribed and an inductive thematic analysis was completed. RESULTS Four key themes were identified: 1) inability to maintain everyday activities; 2) experiencing emotional responses to living with post-stroke cognitive changes; 3) a shrinking social world and; 4) seeking care for cognitive health post-stroke. CONCLUSIONS Post-stroke cognitive changes were described by participants as a driving force behind negative shifts in their daily lives, emotional health, and social connections after stroke. Despite seeking care for their post-stroke cognitive changes, many participants were unable to find support in mainstream healthcare. There is a demonstrated need to further elucidate the gaps in care for post-stroke cognitive deficits and implement community interventions targeting cognitive health post-stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly J Bennett
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Centre for Aging SMART at Vancouver Coastal Health, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Jenny Leese
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
- Centre for Implementation Research at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Jennifer C Davis
- Centre for Aging SMART at Vancouver Coastal Health, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Applied Health Economics Laboratory, Faculty of Management, University of British Columbia-Okanagan, Kelowna, Canada
| | - Janice J Eng
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Rehabilitation Research Program, G. F. Strong Rehabilitation Centre, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Teresa Liu-Ambrose
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Centre for Aging SMART at Vancouver Coastal Health, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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3
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Hart DA. The Heterogeneity of Post-Menopausal Disease Risk: Could the Basis for Why Only Subsets of Females Are Affected Be Due to a Reversible Epigenetic Modification System Associated with Puberty, Menstrual Cycles, Pregnancy and Lactation, and, Ultimately, Menopause? Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3866. [PMID: 38612676 PMCID: PMC11011715 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
For much of human evolution, the average lifespan was <40 years, due in part to disease, infant mortality, predators, food insecurity, and, for females, complications of childbirth. Thus, for much of evolution, many females did not reach the age of menopause (45-50 years of age) and it is mainly in the past several hundred years that the lifespan has been extended to >75 years, primarily due to public health advances, medical interventions, antibiotics, and nutrition. Therefore, the underlying biological mechanisms responsible for disease risk following menopause must have evolved during the complex processes leading to Homo sapiens to serve functions in the pre-menopausal state. Furthermore, as a primary function for the survival of the species is effective reproduction, it is likely that most of the advantages of having such post-menopausal risks relate to reproduction and the ability to address environmental stresses. This opinion/perspective will be discussed in the context of how such post-menopausal risks could enhance reproduction, with improved survival of offspring, and perhaps why such risks are preserved. Not all post-menopausal females exhibit risk for this set of diseases, and those who do develop such diseases do not have all of the conditions. The diseases of the post-menopausal state do not operate as a unified complex, but as independent variables, with the potential for some overlap. The how and why there would be such heterogeneity if the risk factors serve essential functions during the reproductive years is also discussed and the concept of sets of reversible epigenetic changes associated with puberty, pregnancy, and lactation is offered to explain the observations regarding the distribution of post-menopausal conditions and their potential roles in reproduction. While the involvement of an epigenetic system with a dynamic "modification-demodification-remodification" paradigm contributing to disease risk is a hypothesis at this point, validation of it could lead to a better understanding of post-menopausal disease risk in the context of reproduction with commonalities may also lead to future improved interventions to control such risk after menopause.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Hart
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Kinesiology, and McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
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4
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Zheng M, Ye H, Yang X, Shen L, Dang X, Liu X, Gong Y, Wu Q, Wang L, Ge X, Fang X, Hou B, Zhang P, Tang R, Zheng K, Huang XF, Yu Y. Probiotic Clostridium butyricum ameliorates cognitive impairment in obesity via the microbiota-gut-brain axis. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 115:565-587. [PMID: 37981012 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2023.11.016] [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: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a risk factor for cognitive dysfunction and neurodegenerative disease, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). The gut microbiota-brain axis is altered in obesity and linked to cognitive impairment and neurodegenerative disorders. Here, we targeted obesity-induced cognitive impairment by testing the impact of the probiotic Clostridium butyricum, which has previously shown beneficial effects on gut homeostasis and brain function. Firstly, we characterized and analyzed the gut microbial profiles of participants with obesity and the correlation between gut microbiota and cognitive scores. Then, using an obese mouse model induced by a Western-style diet (high-fat and fiber-deficient diet), the effects of Clostridium butyricum on the microbiota-gut-brain axis and hippocampal cognitive function were evaluated. Finally, fecal microbiota transplantation was performed to assess the functional link between Clostridium butyricum remodeling gut microbiota and hippocampal synaptic protein and cognitive behaviors. Our results showed that participants with obesity had gut microbiota dysbiosis characterized by an increase in phylum Proteobacteria and a decrease in Clostridium butyricum, which were closely associated with cognitive decline. In diet-induced obese mice, oral Clostridium butyricum supplementation significantly alleviated cognitive impairment, attenuated the deficit of hippocampal neurite outgrowth and synaptic ultrastructure, improved hippocampal transcriptome related to synapses and dendrites; a comparison of the effects of Clostridium butyricum in mice against human AD datasets revealed that many of the genes changes in AD were reversed by Clostridium butyricum; concurrently, Clostridium butyricum also prevented gut microbiota dysbiosis, colonic barrier impairment and inflammation, and attenuated endotoxemia. Importantly, fecal microbiota transplantation from donor-obese mice with Clostridium butyricum supplementation facilitated cognitive variables and colonic integrity compared with from donor obese mice, highlighting that Clostridium butyricum's impact on cognitive function is largely due to its ability to remodel gut microbiota. Our findings provide the first insights into the neuroprotective effects of Clostridium butyricum on obesity-associated cognitive impairments and neurodegeneration via the gut microbiota-gut-brain axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingxuan Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Huaiyu Ye
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Xiaoying Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Lijun Shen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Xuemei Dang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Xiaoli Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Yuying Gong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Qingyuan Wu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Li Wang
- Affiliated Hospital of Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang 110033, China
| | - Xing Ge
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Xiaoli Fang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Benchi Hou
- Affiliated Hospital of Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang 110033, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Renxian Tang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Kuiyang Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China; National Experimental Demonstration Center for Basic Medicine Education, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Xu-Feng Huang
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI) and School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Yinghua Yu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China.
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5
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Guo Y, Liang R, Ren J, Cheng L, Wang M, Chai H, Cheng X, Yang Y, Sun Y, Li J, Zhao S, Hou W, Zhang J, Liu F, Wang R, Niu Q, Yu H, Yang S, Bai J, Zhang H, Qin X, Xia N. Cognitive status and its risk factors in patients with hypertension and diabetes in a low-income rural area of China: A cross-sectional study. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2023; 38:e6010. [PMID: 37794769 DOI: 10.1002/gps.6010] [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: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The proportion of older people with dementia in China is gradually increasing with the increase in the aging population over recent years. Hypertension and diabetes are common non-communicable diseases among rural populations in China. However, it remains unclear whether these conditions affect the occurrence and development of cognitive impairment as there is limited research on cognitive status and its risk factors among residents of rural areas. METHODS A multi-stage stratified cluster random sampling method was used to select 5400 participants from rural permanent residents. A self-designed structured questionnaire was used to investigate demographic data of the participants. Cognitive function was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Function Assessment Scale (MoCA). The results were analyzed using chi-square test, ANOVA and multiple linear regression analysis. RESULTS A total of 5028 participants returned the survey, giving a response rate of 93.1%. Higher education (odds ratio (OR) = 3.2, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.87-3.54, p < 0.001), higher income (OR = 1.61, 95% CI 1.16-2.07, p < 0.001), and dietary control (OR = 0.66, 95%CI 0.34-0.98, p < 0.001) were protective factors. A visual representation of the relationship between annual income and MoCA score showed an inverted U-curve, the group with an annual income of 6000-7999 RMB had a maximum OR of 1.93 (95%CI 0.12-2.74, p < 0.001). While difficulty in maintaining sleep were risk factors for cognitive impairment (OR = -2.28, 95% CI-4.18-0.39, p = 0.018). CONCLUSIONS Participants with middle incomes had better cognitive status than those with the highest incomes. Higher education, proper diet control and good sleep are beneficial to the cognitive status of residents in rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyan Guo
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Ruifeng Liang
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jingjuan Ren
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Liting Cheng
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
- Jinzhong Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Health Commission of Shanxi Province, Jinzhong, China
| | - Mengqin Wang
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Huilin Chai
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xiaoyu Cheng
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yaowen Yang
- Health Commission Supervision & Inspection Center, Health Commission of Shanxi Province, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yajuan Sun
- Evaluation Center for Medical Service and Administration, Health Commission of Shanxi Province, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jiantao Li
- Department of Health Economics, School of Management, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Shuhong Zhao
- Evaluation Center for Medical Service and Administration, Health Commission of Shanxi Province, Taiyuan, China
| | - Wenjing Hou
- Evaluation Center for Medical Service and Administration, Health Commission of Shanxi Province, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jianhua Zhang
- Health Commission and Sports Bureau of Yangqu County, Taiyuan, China
| | - Feng Liu
- Yangqu People's Hospital, Taiyuan, China
| | - Rong Wang
- Yangqu People's Hospital, Taiyuan, China
| | - Qiao Niu
- Department of Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology (Shanxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Taiyuan, China
| | - Hongmei Yu
- Department of Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Shoulin Yang
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jianying Bai
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Hongmei Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xiaojiang Qin
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Na Xia
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
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6
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Sochocka M, Karska J, Pszczołowska M, Ochnik M, Fułek M, Fułek K, Kurpas D, Chojdak-Łukasiewicz J, Rosner-Tenerowicz A, Leszek J. Cognitive Decline in Early and Premature Menopause. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:6566. [PMID: 37047549 PMCID: PMC10095144 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Early and premature menopause, or premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), affects 1% of women under the age of 40 years. This paper reviews the main aspects of early and premature menopause and their impact on cognitive decline. Based on the literature, cognitive complaints are more common near menopause: a phase marked by a decrease in hormone levels, especially estrogen. A premature reduction in estrogen puts women at a higher risk for cardiovascular disease, parkinsonism, depression, osteoporosis, hypertension, weight gain, midlife diabetes, as well as cognitive disorders and dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Experimental and epidemiological studies suggest that female sex hormones have long-lasting neuroprotective and anti-aging properties. Estrogens seem to prevent cognitive disorders arising from a cholinergic deficit in women and female animals in middle age premature menopause that affects the central nervous system (CNS) directly and indirectly, both transiently and in the long term, leads to cognitive impairment or even dementia, mainly due to the decrease in estrogen levels and comorbidity with cardiovascular risk factors, autoimmune diseases, and aging. Menopausal hormone therapy from menopause to the age of 60 years may provide a "window of opportunity" to reduce the risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and AD in later life. Women with earlier menopause should be taken care of by various specialists such as gynecologists, endocrinologists, neurologists, and psychiatrists in order to maintain their mental health at the highest possible level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Sochocka
- Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 53-114 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Julia Karska
- Department of Psychiatry, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-367 Wroclaw, Poland
| | | | - Michał Ochnik
- Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 53-114 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Michał Fułek
- Department of Internal Medicine, Occupational Diseases, Hypertension and Clinical Oncology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Fułek
- Department and Clinic of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Donata Kurpas
- Department of Family Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, 51-141 Wroclaw, Poland
| | | | - Anna Rosner-Tenerowicz
- 2nd Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Jerzy Leszek
- Department of Psychiatry, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-367 Wroclaw, Poland
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7
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Castro-Aldrete L, Moser MV, Putignano G, Ferretti MT, Schumacher Dimech A, Santuccione Chadha A. Sex and gender considerations in Alzheimer’s disease: The Women’s Brain Project contribution. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1105620. [PMID: 37065460 PMCID: PMC10097993 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1105620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The global population is expected to have about 131.5 million people living with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other dementias by 2050, posing a severe health crisis. Dementia is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that gradually impairs physical and cognitive functions. Dementia has a variety of causes, symptoms, and heterogeneity concerning the influence of sex on prevalence, risk factors, and outcomes. The proportion of male-to-female prevalence varies based on the type of dementia. Despite some types of dementia being more common in men, women have a greater lifetime risk of developing dementia. AD is the most common form of dementia in which approximately two-thirds of the affected persons are women. Profound sex and gender differences in physiology and pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions have increasingly been identified. As a result, new approaches to dementia diagnosis, care, and patient journeys should be considered. In the heart of a rapidly aging worldwide population, the Women’s Brain Project (WBP) was born from the necessity to address the sex and gender gap in AD. WBP is now a well-established international non-profit organization with a global multidisciplinary team of experts studying sex and gender determinants in the brain and mental health. WBP works with different stakeholders worldwide to help change perceptions and reduce sex biases in clinical and preclinical research and policy frameworks. With its strong female leadership, WBP is an example of the importance of female professionals’ work in the field of dementia research. WBP-led peer-reviewed papers, articles, books, lectures, and various initiatives in the policy and advocacy space have profoundly impacted the community and driven global discussion. WBP is now in the initial phases of establishing the world’s first Sex and Gender Precision Medicine Institute. This review highlights the contributions of the WBP team to the field of AD. This review aims to increase awareness of potentially important aspects of basic science, clinical outcomes, digital health, policy framework and provide the research community with potential challenges and research suggestions to leverage sex and gender differences. Finally, at the end of the review, we briefly touch upon our progress and contribution toward sex and gender inclusion beyond Alzheimer’s disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Castro-Aldrete
- Women’s Brain Project, Guntershausen bei Aadorf, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Laura Castro-Aldrete,
| | | | - Guido Putignano
- Women’s Brain Project, Guntershausen bei Aadorf, Switzerland
| | | | - Annemarie Schumacher Dimech
- Women’s Brain Project, Guntershausen bei Aadorf, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
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Use of Brain-Derived Stem/Progenitor Cells and Derived Extracellular Vesicles to Repair Damaged Neural Tissues: Lessons Learned from Connective Tissue Repair Regarding Variables Limiting Progress and Approaches to Overcome Limitations. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043370. [PMID: 36834779 PMCID: PMC9958575 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Pluripotent neural stem or progenitor cells (NSC/NPC) have been reported in the brains of adult preclinical models for decades, as have mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSC) been reported in a variety of tissues from adults. Based on their in vitro capabilities, these cell types have been used extensively in attempts to repair/regenerate brain and connective tissues, respectively. In addition, MSC have also been used in attempts to repair compromised brain centres. However, success in treating chronic neural degenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and others with NSC/NPC has been limited, as have the use of MSC in the treatment of chronic osteoarthritis, a condition affecting millions of individuals. However, connective tissues are likely less complex than neural tissues regarding cell organization and regulatory integration, but some insights have been gleaned from the studies regarding connective tissue healing with MSC that may inform studies attempting to initiate repair and regeneration of neural tissues compromised acutely or chronically by trauma or disease. This review will discuss the similarities and differences in the applications of NSC/NPC and MSC, where some lessons have been learned, and potential approaches that could be used going forward to enhance progress in the application of cellular therapy to facilitate repair and regeneration of complex structures in the brain. In particular, variables that may need to be controlled to enhance success are discussed, as are different approaches such as the use of extracellular vesicles from stem/progenitor cells that could be used to stimulate endogenous cells to repair the tissues rather than consider cell replacement as the primary option. Caveats to all these efforts relate to whether cellular repair initiatives will have long-term success if the initiators for neural diseases are not controlled, and whether such cellular initiatives will have long-term success in a subset of patients if the neural diseases are heterogeneous and have multiple etiologies.
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Gu H, Yao X, Diao C, Liu M, Kong W, Liu H, Zhao Y, Meng Z. Global cognitive function is associated with sex, educational level, occupation type, and speech recognition rate in older Chinese adults: a single-center, prospective, cross-sectional study. BMC Geriatr 2022; 22:947. [PMID: 36482356 PMCID: PMC9733133 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-022-03603-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The development of cognitive impairment may be delayed if its risk factors are identified and detected, if its developmental trend can be predicted, and if early intervention can be performed. This study primarily aimed to investigate the association between global cognitive function and hearing loss, educational level, and occupation type and to determine any differences in such associations according to sex among older Chinese adults. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, we prospectively recruited 219 individuals above 55 years old in an otolaryngology outpatient clinic who could write independently and had no severe vision impairment. Audiometric examinations included otoscopy, acoustic immittance, pure-tone audiometry, and speech audiometry for each ear. Cognitive function was evaluated by using the Chinese version of the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Multivariable linear regression analyses were performed to evaluate the relationship between variables and MMSE scores after adjusting for independent variables that were statistically significant in the univariable analyses. RESULTS We enrolled 219 individuals: 98 men (mean ± standard deviation age, 63.08 ± 6.64 years) and 121 women (62.64 ± 7.17 years). The overall MMSE scores of the normal hearing group and the mild, moderate, and severe-to-profound hearing loss groups were 24.00 (5.00), 24.00 (5.00), 23.00 (5.00), and 23.00 (13.00), respectively. MMSE scores were higher among participants with higher educational levels (p < 0.001) and were significantly correlated with occupation type (p < 0.001). MMSE scores were significantly higher in men than in women (p < 0.001). However, after the analysis of the five subdomains, significant differences were only observed for attention and calculation (p < 0.001) and language (p = 0.011). We further compared the distribution of educational levels between men and women by using the chi-square test; there was no significant difference in educational level between the sexes (p = 0.070). CONCLUSIONS We reported statistically significant relationships between global cognitive function and sex, educational level, and occupation type. Sex-specific strategies may be required to improve healthcare policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailing Gu
- grid.412901.f0000 0004 1770 1022Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Hearing Center/Hearing and Speech Science Laboratory, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, 37 Guo Xue Lane, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan People’s Republic of China
| | - Xinyi Yao
- grid.412901.f0000 0004 1770 1022Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Hearing Center/Hearing and Speech Science Laboratory, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, 37 Guo Xue Lane, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan People’s Republic of China
| | - Cong Diao
- grid.412901.f0000 0004 1770 1022Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Hearing Center/Hearing and Speech Science Laboratory, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, 37 Guo Xue Lane, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan People’s Republic of China
| | - Min Liu
- grid.412901.f0000 0004 1770 1022Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Hearing Center/Hearing and Speech Science Laboratory, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, 37 Guo Xue Lane, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan People’s Republic of China
| | - Weili Kong
- grid.412901.f0000 0004 1770 1022Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Haotian Liu
- grid.412901.f0000 0004 1770 1022Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Hearing Center/Hearing and Speech Science Laboratory, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, 37 Guo Xue Lane, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan People’s Republic of China
| | - Yu Zhao
- grid.412901.f0000 0004 1770 1022Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhaoli Meng
- grid.412901.f0000 0004 1770 1022Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Hearing Center/Hearing and Speech Science Laboratory, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, 37 Guo Xue Lane, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan People’s Republic of China
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Hart DA. Sex Differences in Biological Systems and the Conundrum of Menopause: Potential Commonalities in Post-Menopausal Disease Mechanisms. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084119. [PMID: 35456937 PMCID: PMC9026302 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex-specific differences in biology and physiology likely start at the time of conception and progress and mature during the pre-puberty time frame and then during the transitions accompanying puberty. These sex differences are impacted by both genetics and epigenetic alterations during the maturation process, likely for the purpose of preparing for successful reproduction. For females, later in life (~45–50) they undergo another transition leading to a loss of ovarian hormone production at menopause. The reasons for menopause are not clear, but for a subset of females, menopause is accompanied by an increased risk of a number of diseases or conditions that impact a variety of tissues. Most research has mainly focused on the target cells in each of the affected tissues rather than pursue the alternative option that there may be commonalities in the development of these post-menopausal conditions in addition to influences on specific target cells. This review will address some of the potential commonalities presented by an integration of the literature regarding tissue-specific aspects of these post-menopausal conditions and data presented by space flight/microgravity (a condition not anticipated by evolution) that could implicate a loss of a regulatory function of the microvasculature in the risk attached to the affected tissues. Thus, the loss of the integration of the paracrine relationships between endothelial cells of the microvasculature of the tissues affected in the post-menopausal environment could contribute to the risk for post-menopausal diseases/conditions. The validation of this concept could lead to new approaches for interventions to treat post-menopausal conditions, as well as provide new understanding regarding sex-specific biological regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A. Hart
- Department of Surgery and Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada; ; Tel.: +1-403-220-4571
- Bone & Joint Health Strategic Clinical Network, Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, AB T5J 3E4, Canada
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Behavioral Effects of Exposure to Phthalates in Female Rodents: Evidence for Endocrine Disruption? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052559. [PMID: 35269705 PMCID: PMC8910129 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Phthalates have been widely studied for their reprotoxic effects in male rodents and in particular on testosterone production, for which reference doses were established. The female rodent brain can also represent a target for exposure to these environmental endocrine disruptors. Indeed, a large range of behaviors including reproductive behaviors, mood-related behaviors, and learning and memory are regulated by sex steroid hormones. Here we review the experimental studies addressing the effects and mechanisms of phthalate exposure on these behaviors in female rodents, paying particular attention to the experimental conditions (period of exposure, doses, estrous stage of analyses etc.). The objective of this review is to provide a clear picture of the consistent effects that can occur in female rodents and the gaps that still need to be filled in terms of effects and mode(s) of action for a better risk assessment for human health.
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