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Shen Y, Zhao M, Zhao P, Meng L, Zhang Y, Zhang G, Taishi Y, Sun L. Molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential of lithium in Alzheimer's disease: repurposing an old class of drugs. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1408462. [PMID: 39055498 PMCID: PMC11269163 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1408462] [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: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline and memory loss. Despite advances in understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms of AD, effective treatments remain scarce. Lithium salts, recognized as mood stabilizers in bipolar disorder, have been extensively studied for their neuroprotective effects. Several studies indicate that lithium may be a disease-modifying agent in the treatment of AD. Lithium's neuroprotective properties in AD by acting on multiple neuropathological targets, such as reducing amyloid deposition and tau phosphorylation, enhancing autophagy, neurogenesis, and synaptic plasticity, regulating cholinergic and glucose metabolism, inhibiting neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis, while preserving mitochondrial function. Clinical trials have demonstrated that lithium therapy can improve cognitive function in patients with AD. In particular, meta-analyses have shown that lithium may be a more effective and safer treatment than the recently FDA-approved aducanumab for improving cognitive function in patients with AD. The affordability and therapeutic efficacy of lithium have prompted a reassessment of its use. However, the use of lithium may lead to potential side effects and safety issues, which may limit its clinical application. Currently, several new lithium formulations are undergoing clinical trials to improve safety and efficacy. This review focuses on lithium's mechanism of action in treating AD, highlighting the latest advances in preclinical studies and clinical trials. It also explores the side effects of lithium therapy and coping strategies, offering a potential therapeutic strategy for patients with AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanxin Shen
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
- Cognitive Center, Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Meng Zhao
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
- Cognitive Center, Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Panpan Zhao
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
- Cognitive Center, Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Lingjie Meng
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
- Cognitive Center, Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
- Cognitive Center, Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Guimei Zhang
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
- Cognitive Center, Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yezi Taishi
- Department of Cadre Ward, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
| | - Li Sun
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
- Cognitive Center, Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, China
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Venkatesan D, Muthukumar S, Iyer M, Babu HWS, Gopalakrishnan AV, Yadav MK, Vellingiri B. Heavy metals toxicity on epigenetic modifications in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2024; 38:e23741. [PMID: 38816991 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive decline in cognitive ability and behavior which eventually disrupts daily activities. AD has no cure and the progression rate varies unlikely. Among various causative factors, heavy metals are reported to be a significant hazard in AD pathogenesis. Metal-induced neurodegeneration has been focused globally with thorough research to unravel the mechanistic insights in AD. Recently, heavy metals suggested to play an important role in epigenetic alterations which might provide evidential results on AD pathology. Epigenetic modifications are known to play towards novel therapeutic approaches in treating AD. Though many studies focus on epigenetics and heavy metal implications in AD, there is a lack of research on heavy metal influence on epigenetic toxicity in neurological disorders. The current review aims to elucidate the plausible role of cadmium (Cd), iron (Fe), arsenic (As), copper (Cu), and lithium (Li) metals on epigenetic factors and the increase in amyloid beta and tau phosphorylation in AD. Also, the review discusses the common methods of heavy metal detection to implicate in AD pathogenesis. Hence, from this review, we can extend the need for future research on identifying the mechanistic behavior of heavy metals on epigenetic toxicity and to develop diagnostic and therapeutic markers in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhivya Venkatesan
- Centre for Neuroscience, Department of Biotechnology, Karpagam Academy of Higher Education (Deemed to be University), Coimbatore, India
| | - Sindduja Muthukumar
- Human Cytogenetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Mahalaxmi Iyer
- Centre for Neuroscience, Department of Biotechnology, Karpagam Academy of Higher Education (Deemed to be University), Coimbatore, India
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Harysh Winster Suresh Babu
- Human Cytogenetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Abilash Valsala Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, India
| | - Mukesh Kumar Yadav
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Balachandar Vellingiri
- Human Cytogenetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
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Zakharova IO, Bayunova LV, Derkach KV, Ilyasov IO, Morina IY, Shpakov AO, Avrova NF. Effects of Intranasally Administered Insulin and Gangliosides on Hypothalamic Signaling and Expression of Hepatic Gluconeogenesis Genes in Rats with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. J EVOL BIOCHEM PHYS+ 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s0022093022060072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Hu W, Zhao M, Lian J, Li D, Wen J, Tan J. Lithium Cholesterol Sulfate: A Novel and Potential Drug for Treating Alzheimer's Disease and Autism Spectrum Disorder. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS DRUG TARGETS 2022; 22:CNSNDDT-EPUB-125841. [PMID: 36028968 DOI: 10.2174/1871527321666220825114236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Recent studies have shown that lithium treatment can reduce symptoms of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). However, the present lithium salts clinically available have serious short-term and long-term side effects which requires frequent monitoring of blood chemistry and plasma lithium levels so as to avoid toxicity. Consequently, there is a demand for a safer and more effective lithium formulation to treat these diseases. METHODS Hence, we firstly synthesized lithium cholesterol sulfate (LiCS) and compared its pharmacological effects with that of lithium chloride (LiCl) and sodium cholesterol sulfate (NaCS) on markers of neurodegenerative disease in cell cultures. RESULTS LiCS was more potent than LiCl in increasing inhibitory GSK3β (Ser9) phosphorylation (pGSK3β) in both CHO and SH-SY5Y cells. These agents dose-dependently increased pGSK3β, starting at 10 µM for LiCS and 60µM for LiCl and maximally by approximately 100% at 60 µM for LiCS and 1.25 mM for LiCl, without altering total GSK3β levels. In HEK293/tau cells, LiCS reduced tau (Thr231) phosphorylation (ptau) starting at 10 µM and maximally by 63% at 40 µM without altering total tau levels, but ptau levels were not altered by LiCl at any dose between 60 µM and 1.25 mM. In BV2 cells, LiCS and LiCl decreased LPS-induced TNFα levels, starting at 20 µM for LiCS and 5 mM for LiCl, and maximally by approximately 30% at 80 µM for LiCS and 20 mM for LiCl. NaCS at any dose between 5 and 90 µM did not alter pGSK3β, ptau or LPS-induced TNFα. CONCLUSION LiCS may become a new drug with good pharmacological potential for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders such as AD and ASD by allowing lithium to more readily access intracellular pathological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiqiang Hu
- Department of GCP/Psychosomatic Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
- College of Pharmacy, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Menghua Zhao
- Department of GCP/Psychosomatic Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | | | - Dandan Li
- Huankui College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Jinhua Wen
- Department of GCP/Psychosomatic Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Jun Tan
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, the Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang,550004, China
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Limorenko G, Lashuel HA. Revisiting the grammar of Tau aggregation and pathology formation: how new insights from brain pathology are shaping how we study and target Tauopathies. Chem Soc Rev 2021; 51:513-565. [PMID: 34889934 DOI: 10.1039/d1cs00127b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Converging evidence continues to point towards Tau aggregation and pathology formation as central events in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease and other Tauopathies. Despite significant advances in understanding the morphological and structural properties of Tau fibrils, many fundamental questions remain about what causes Tau to aggregate in the first place. The exact roles of cofactors, Tau post-translational modifications, and Tau interactome in regulating Tau aggregation, pathology formation, and toxicity remain unknown. Recent studies have put the spotlight on the wide gap between the complexity of Tau structures, aggregation, and pathology formation in the brain and the simplicity of experimental approaches used for modeling these processes in research laboratories. Embracing and deconstructing this complexity is an essential first step to understanding the role of Tau in health and disease. To help deconstruct this complexity and understand its implication for the development of effective Tau targeting diagnostics and therapies, we firstly review how our understanding of Tau aggregation and pathology formation has evolved over the past few decades. Secondly, we present an analysis of new findings and insights from recent studies illustrating the biochemical, structural, and functional heterogeneity of Tau aggregates. Thirdly, we discuss the importance of adopting new experimental approaches that embrace the complexity of Tau aggregation and pathology as an important first step towards developing mechanism- and structure-based therapies that account for the pathological and clinical heterogeneity of Alzheimer's disease and Tauopathies. We believe that this is essential to develop effective diagnostics and therapies to treat these devastating diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galina Limorenko
- Laboratory of Molecular and Chemical Biology of Neurodegeneration, Brain Mind Institute, École Polytechnique Federal de Lausanne (EPFL), CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Hilal A Lashuel
- Laboratory of Molecular and Chemical Biology of Neurodegeneration, Brain Mind Institute, École Polytechnique Federal de Lausanne (EPFL), CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.
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The next step of neurogenesis in the context of Alzheimer's disease. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 48:5647-5660. [PMID: 34232464 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06520-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Among different pathological mechanisms, neuronal loss and neurogenesis impairment in the hippocampus play important roles in cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease (AD). AD is a progressive and complex neurodegenerative diseases, which is very debilitating. The purpose of this paper is to review recent research into neurogenesis and AD and discuss how pharmacological drugs and herbal active components have impacts on neurogenesis and consequently improve cognitive functions. To date, despite huge research, no effective treatment has been approved for AD. Therefore, an avenue for future research and drug discovery is stimulating adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN). Evidence suggests that neurogenesis is regulated by the pharmacological treatment that may be recommended as a part of prophylaxis and therapeutic options for AD. However, the underlying mechanisms of regulating neurogenesis in AD are not well understood. To this point, we highlight to achieve an efficient treatment in AD by manipulating neurogenesis, it's necessary to target all steps of neurogenesis.
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Haussmann R, Noppes F, Brandt MD, Bauer M, Donix M. Lithium: A therapeutic option in Alzheimer's disease and its prodromal stages? Neurosci Lett 2021; 760:136044. [PMID: 34119602 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.136044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Experimental data reveal that lithium is capable of attenuating Alzheimer's disease pathology and stimulating adult hippocampal neurogenesis. Clinical studies show procognitive effects in lithium-treated patients with amnestic MCI and Alzheimer's disease. These procognitive effects are associated with changes of CSF biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease. After 3 months of lithium treatment with low lithium levels, a slowing of cognitive decline is observed in patients with Alzheimer's disease. In patients with amnestic MCI with low-dose lithium treatment a trend of a reduced Alzheimer's disease conversion rate and longer cognitive stability was reported. Thus, lithium might be a therapeutic option in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and its prodromal stages. But its therapeutic efficacy needs further evaluation. Further studies should include head-to-head comparisons with approved dementia treatment options. Due to lithium's therapeutic toxicity a thorough preselection of patients and a closely therapeutic monitoring is necessary. This manuscript is based on a literature review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Haussmann
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
| | - Felix Noppes
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Moritz D Brandt
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Dresden, Germany
| | - Michael Bauer
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Markus Donix
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Dresden, Germany
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8
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Clinical Trials in Myositis: Where Do We Stand? CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN RHEUMATOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40674-021-00180-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Khayachi A, Schorova L, Alda M, Rouleau GA, Milnerwood AJ. Posttranslational modifications & lithium's therapeutic effect-Potential biomarkers for clinical responses in psychiatric & neurodegenerative disorders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 127:424-445. [PMID: 33971223 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Several neurodegenerative diseases and neuropsychiatric disorders display aberrant posttranslational modifications (PTMs) of one, or many, proteins. Lithium treatment has been used for mood stabilization for many decades, and is highly effective for large subsets of patients with diverse neurological conditions. However, the differential effectiveness and mode of action are not fully understood. In recent years, studies have shown that lithium alters several protein PTMs, altering their function, and consequently neuronal physiology. The impetus for this review is to outline the links between lithium's therapeutic mode of action and PTM homeostasis. We first provide an overview of the principal PTMs affected by lithium. We then describe several neuropsychiatric disorders in which PTMs have been implicated as pathogenic. For each of these conditions, we discuss lithium's clinical use and explore the putative mechanism of how it restores PTM homeostasis, and thereby cellular physiology. Evidence suggests that determining specific PTM patterns could be a promising strategy to develop biomarkers for disease and lithium responsiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Khayachi
- Montreal Neurological Institute, Department of Neurology & Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - L Schorova
- McGill University Health Center Research Institute, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - M Alda
- Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - G A Rouleau
- Montreal Neurological Institute, Department of Neurology & Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montréal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - A J Milnerwood
- Montreal Neurological Institute, Department of Neurology & Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, Quebec, Canada.
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Suresh J, Khor IW, Kaur P, Heng HL, Torta F, Dawe GS, Tai ES, Tolwinski NS. Shared signaling pathways in Alzheimer’s and metabolic disease may point to new treatment approaches. FEBS J 2020; 288:3855-3873. [DOI: 10.1111/febs.15540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ing Wei Khor
- Department of Medicine Yong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of Singapore
| | - Prameet Kaur
- Science Division Yale‐ NUS College Singapore Singapore
| | - Hui Li Heng
- Department of Pharmacology Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine National University of Singapore, and Neurobiology Programme
- Life Sciences Institute National University of Singapore Singapore
| | - Federico Torta
- Singapore Lipidomics Incubator Department of Biochemistry Yong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of Singapore Singapore
| | - Gavin S. Dawe
- Department of Pharmacology Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine National University of Singapore, and Neurobiology Programme
- Life Sciences Institute National University of Singapore Singapore
| | - E Shyong Tai
- Department of Medicine Yong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of Singapore
- Division of Endocrinology National University HospitalNational University Health System
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Velosa J, Delgado A, Finger E, Berk M, Kapczinski F, de Azevedo Cardoso T. Risk of dementia in bipolar disorder and the interplay of lithium: a systematic review and meta-analyses. Acta Psychiatr Scand 2020; 141:510-521. [PMID: 31954065 DOI: 10.1111/acps.13153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess whether bipolar disorder (BD) increases the rate of dementia and whether lithium is related to a lower risk of dementia in BD. METHODS A total of 10 studies (6859 BD; 487 966 controls) were included in the meta-analysis to test whether BD is a risk factor for dementia. In addition, five studies (6483 lithium; 43 496 non-lithium) were included in the meta-analysis about the potential protective effect of lithium in BD. RESULTS BD increases the risk of dementia (odds ratio (OR): 2.96 [95% CI: 2.09-4.18], P < 0.001), and treatment with lithium decreases the risk of dementia in BD (OR: 0.51 [95% CI: 0.36-0.72], P < 0.0001). In addition, secondary findings from our systematic review showed that the risk of progression to dementia is higher in BD than in major depressive disorder (MDD). Moreover, the number of mood episodes predicted the development of dementia in BD. CONCLUSION Individuals with BD are at higher risk of dementia than both the general population or those with MDD. Lithium appears to reduce the risk of developing dementia in BD.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Velosa
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hospital Beatriz Angelo, Loures, Portugal
| | - A Delgado
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hospital Beatriz Angelo, Loures, Portugal
| | - E Finger
- Clinical Neurological Sciences, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - M Berk
- Barwon Health, School of Medicine, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.,Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Centre for Youth Mental Health, Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health and the Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - F Kapczinski
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - T de Azevedo Cardoso
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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Case KC, Salsaa M, Yu W, Greenberg ML. Regulation of Inositol Biosynthesis: Balancing Health and Pathophysiology. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2020; 259:221-260. [PMID: 30591968 DOI: 10.1007/164_2018_181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Inositol is the precursor for all inositol compounds and is essential for viability of eukaryotic cells. Numerous cellular processes and signaling functions are dependent on inositol compounds, and perturbation of their synthesis leads to a wide range of human diseases. Although considerable research has been directed at understanding the function of inositol compounds, especially phosphoinositides and inositol phosphates, a focus on regulatory and homeostatic mechanisms controlling inositol biosynthesis has been largely neglected. Consequently, little is known about how synthesis of inositol is regulated in human cells. Identifying physiological regulators of inositol synthesis and elucidating the molecular mechanisms that regulate inositol synthesis will contribute fundamental insight into cellular processes that are mediated by inositol compounds and will provide a foundation to understand numerous disease processes that result from perturbation of inositol homeostasis. In addition, elucidating the mechanisms of action of inositol-depleting drugs may suggest new strategies for the design of second-generation pharmaceuticals to treat psychiatric disorders and other illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendall C Case
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Michael Salsaa
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Wenxi Yu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Miriam L Greenberg
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA.
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Sales TA, Prandi IG, Castro AAD, Leal DHS, Cunha EFFD, Kuca K, Ramalho TC. Recent Developments in Metal-Based Drugs and Chelating Agents for Neurodegenerative Diseases Treatments. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E1829. [PMID: 31013856 PMCID: PMC6514778 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20081829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2019] [Revised: 04/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The brain has a unique biological complexity and is responsible for important functions in the human body, such as the command of cognitive and motor functions. Disruptive disorders that affect this organ, e.g. neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs), can lead to permanent damage, impairing the patients' quality of life and even causing death. In spite of their clinical diversity, these NDDs share common characteristics, such as the accumulation of specific proteins in the cells, the compromise of the metal ion homeostasis in the brain, among others. Despite considerable advances in understanding the mechanisms of these diseases and advances in the development of treatments, these disorders remain uncured. Considering the diversity of mechanisms that act in NDDs, a wide range of compounds have been developed to act by different means. Thus, promising compounds with contrasting properties, such as chelating agents and metal-based drugs have been proposed to act on different molecular targets as well as to contribute to the same goal, which is the treatment of NDDs. This review seeks to discuss the different roles and recent developments of metal-based drugs, such as metal complexes and metal chelating agents as a proposal for the treatment of NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thais A Sales
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling, Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras/MG, 37200-000, Brazil.
| | - Ingrid G Prandi
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling, Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras/MG, 37200-000, Brazil.
| | - Alexandre A de Castro
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling, Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras/MG, 37200-000, Brazil.
| | - Daniel H S Leal
- Department of Health Sciences, Federal University of Espírito Santo, São Mateus/ES, 29932-540, Brazil.
| | - Elaine F F da Cunha
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling, Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras/MG, 37200-000, Brazil.
| | - Kamil Kuca
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, 500 03, Czech Republic..
- Biomedical Research Center, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, 500 03 Czech Republic.
| | - Teodorico C Ramalho
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling, Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras/MG, 37200-000, Brazil.
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, 500 03, Czech Republic..
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Tau Interacting Proteins: Gaining Insight into the Roles of Tau in Health and Disease. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1184:145-166. [PMID: 32096036 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-32-9358-8_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Tau is most intensely studied in relation to its executive role in Tauopathies, a family of neurodegenerative disorders characterized by the accumulation of Tau aggregates [15, 21, 38, 75, 89, 111, 121, 135, 175, 176, 192]. Tau aggregation in the different Tauopathies differs in the affected cell type, the structure of aggregates and Tau isoform composition. However, in all Tauopathies, accumulation of pathological Tau in well-characterized and well-defined brain regions, correlates strongly with symptoms associated with the dysfunction of this brain region. Hence, symptoms of neurodegenerative Tauopathies can range from motoric to cognitive and behavioral symptoms, even extending to deterioration of vital functions when the disease progresses, or combinations of different symptoms governed by the affected brain regions. The most common Tauopathies are corticobasal degeneration (CBD), Pick's disease, progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and frontotemporal dementias with parkinsonism linked to chromosome 17 (FTDP-17). However a growing number of diseases are characterized by Tau aggregation amounting to a large family of more than 20 disorders [176]. Most Tauopathies are sporadic, and are hence linked to a combination of environmental and genetic risk factors. However, mutations in MAPT have been identified which are autosomal dominantly linked to Tauopathies, including FTDP, PSP and CBD [94, 163, 185] (Alzforum, https://www.alzforum.org/mutations/mapt ). More than 80 mutations have been identified in MAPT, both in intronic and exonic regions of the human MAPT. These mutations can be classified as missense mutations or splicing mutations. Most missense mutations cluster in or near the microtubule binding site of Tau, while most splicing mutations affect the splicing of exon 10 (encoding the R2 domain), and hence affect the 3R/4R ratio. While Alzheimer's disease (AD), is the most prevalent Tauopathy, no mutations in MAPT associated with AD have been identified. Brains of AD patients are pathologically characterized by the combined presence of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles [171]. Familial forms of AD, termed early onset familial AD (EOFAD) with clinical mutations in APP or PS1/2, have an early onset, and are invariably characterized by the combined presence of amyloid and Tau pathology [24, 80, 170]. These EOFAD cases, identify a causal link between APP/PS1 misprocessing and the development of Tau pathology and neurodegeneration [80, 170]. Furthermore, combined genetic, pathological, biomarker and in vivo modelling data, indicate that amyloid pathology precedes Tau pathology, and support a role for Aβ as initiator and Tau as executor in the pathogenetic process of AD [80, 96, 97]. Hence, AD is often considered as a secondary Tauopathy (similar as for Down syndrome patients), in contrast to the primary Tauopathies described above. Tau aggregates in Tauopathies vary with respect to the ratio of different Tau isoforms (3R/4R), to the cell types displaying Tau aggregation and the structure of the aggregates. However, in all Tauopathies a strong correlation between progressive development of pathological Tau accumulation and the loss of the respective brain functions is observed.
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Yuan ZZ, Suo YR, Hao XY, Wang SL, Li G, Wang HL. Triterpenic Acids from Potentilla parvifolia and Their Protective Effects against Okadaic Acid Induced Neurotoxicity in Differentiated SH-SY5Y Cells. Biol Pharm Bull 2018; 41:885-890. [DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b17-01010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-zhen Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University
- Agriculture and Animal Husbandry College, Qinghai University
| | - You-rui Suo
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University
- Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Research, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences
| | - Xue-yan Hao
- Center for Mitochondria and Healthy Aging, College of Life Sciences, Yantai University
| | - Shu-lin Wang
- Agriculture and Animal Husbandry College, Qinghai University
| | - Gang Li
- Center for Mitochondria and Healthy Aging, College of Life Sciences, Yantai University
| | - Hong-lun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University
- Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Research, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences
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16
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Dubey H, Gulati K, Ray A. Recent studies on cellular and molecular mechanisms in Alzheimer’s disease: focus on epigenetic factors and histone deacetylase. Rev Neurosci 2018; 29:241-260. [DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2017-0049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
AbstractAlzheimer’s disease (AD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative disorders mainly affecting elderly people. It is characterized by progressive loss of memory and cognitive function. More than 95% of AD cases are related to sporadic or late-onset AD (LOAD). The etiology of LOAD is still unclear. It has been reported that environmental factors and epigenetic alterations play a significant role in AD pathogenesis. Furthermore, recently, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) identified 10 novel risk genes:ABCA7,APOE,BIN1,CD2AP,CD33,CLU,CR1,MS4A6A,MS4A4E, andPICALM, which play an important role for LOAD. In this review, the therapeutic approaches of AD by epigenetic modifications have been discussed. Nowadays, HDAC inhibitors have clinically proven its activity for epigenetic modifications. Furthermore, we try to establish the relationship between HDAC inhibitors and above mentioned LOAD risk genes. Finally, we are hoping that this review may open new area of research for AD treatment.
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17
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Corrêa-Velloso JC, Gonçalves MC, Naaldijk Y, Oliveira-Giacomelli Á, Pillat MM, Ulrich H. Pathophysiology in the comorbidity of Bipolar Disorder and Alzheimer's Disease: pharmacological and stem cell approaches. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2018; 80:34-53. [PMID: 28476640 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2017.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2017] [Accepted: 04/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Neuropsychiatric disorders involve various pathological mechanisms, resulting in neurodegeneration and brain atrophy. Neurodevelopmental processes have shown to be critical for the progression of those disorders, which are based on genetic and epigenetic mechanisms as well as on extrinsic factors. We review here common mechanisms underlying the comorbidity of Bipolar Disorders and Alzheimer's Disease, such as aberrant neurogenesis and neurotoxicity, reporting current therapeutic approaches. The understanding of these mechanisms precedes stem cell-based strategies as a new therapeutic possibility for treatment and prevention of Bipolar and Alzheimer's Disease progression. Taking into account the difficulty of studying the molecular basis of disease progression directly in patients, we also discuss the importance of stem cells for effective drug screening, modeling and treating psychiatric diseases, once in vitro differentiation of patient-induced pluripotent stem cells provides relevant information about embryonic origins, intracellular pathways and molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana C Corrêa-Velloso
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Maria Cb Gonçalves
- Departamento de Neurologia e Neurociências, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Pedro de Toledo 669, São Paulo, SP 04039-032, Brazil
| | - Yahaira Naaldijk
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Ágatha Oliveira-Giacomelli
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Micheli M Pillat
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Henning Ulrich
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil.
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Newman SA, Pan Y, Short JL, Nicolazzo JA. Assessing the Impact of Lithium Chloride on the Expression of P-Glycoprotein at the Blood-Brain Barrier. J Pharm Sci 2017; 106:2625-2631. [DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2017.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2016] [Revised: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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19
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Yuan Z, Luan G, Wang Z, Hao X, Li J, Suo Y, Li G, Wang H. Flavonoids from Potentilla parvifolia
Fisch
. and Their Neuroprotective Effects in Human Neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y Cells in vitro. Chem Biodivers 2017; 14. [DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.201600487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 03/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenzhen Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Research; Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology; Chinese Academy of Sciences; Xining 810008 P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences; Beijing 100049 P. R. China
| | - Guangxiang Luan
- Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Research; Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology; Chinese Academy of Sciences; Xining 810008 P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences; Beijing 100049 P. R. China
| | - Zhenhua Wang
- Center for Mitochondria and Healthy Aging; College of Life Sciences; Yantai University; Yantai 264005 P. R. China
| | - Xueyan Hao
- Center for Mitochondria and Healthy Aging; College of Life Sciences; Yantai University; Yantai 264005 P. R. China
| | - Ji Li
- Center for Mitochondria and Healthy Aging; College of Life Sciences; Yantai University; Yantai 264005 P. R. China
| | - Yourui Suo
- Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Research; Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology; Chinese Academy of Sciences; Xining 810008 P. R. China
| | - Gang Li
- Center for Mitochondria and Healthy Aging; College of Life Sciences; Yantai University; Yantai 264005 P. R. China
| | - Honglun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Research; Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology; Chinese Academy of Sciences; Xining 810008 P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture; Qinghai University; Xining 810008 P. R. China
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20
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Lei P, Ayton S, Appukuttan AT, Moon S, Duce JA, Volitakis I, Cherny R, Wood SJ, Greenough M, Berger G, Pantelis C, McGorry P, Yung A, Finkelstein DI, Bush AI. Lithium suppression of tau induces brain iron accumulation and neurodegeneration. Mol Psychiatry 2017; 22:396-406. [PMID: 27400857 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2016.96] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2016] [Revised: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Lithium is a first-line therapy for bipolar affective disorder. However, various adverse effects, including a Parkinson-like hand tremor, often limit its use. The understanding of the neurobiological basis of these side effects is still very limited. Nigral iron elevation is also a feature of Parkinsonian degeneration that may be related to soluble tau reduction. We found that magnetic resonance imaging T2 relaxation time changes in subjects commenced on lithium therapy were consistent with iron elevation. In mice, lithium treatment lowers brain tau levels and increases nigral and cortical iron elevation that is closely associated with neurodegeneration, cognitive loss and parkinsonian features. In neuronal cultures lithium attenuates iron efflux by lowering tau protein that traffics amyloid precursor protein to facilitate iron efflux. Thus, tau- and amyloid protein precursor-knockout mice were protected against lithium-induced iron elevation and neurotoxicity. These findings challenge the appropriateness of lithium as a potential treatment for disorders where brain iron is elevated (for example, Alzheimer's disease), and may explain lithium-associated motor symptoms in susceptible patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Lei
- Department of Neurology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan, China.,Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - S Ayton
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - A T Appukuttan
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - S Moon
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - J A Duce
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Faculty of Biological Sciences, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK
| | - I Volitakis
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - R Cherny
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - S J Wood
- Melbourne Neuropsychiatry Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne and Melbourne Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - M Greenough
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - G Berger
- ORYGEN Research Centre, University of Melbourne and Melbourne Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - C Pantelis
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Melbourne Neuropsychiatry Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne and Melbourne Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Centre for Neural Engineering, Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - P McGorry
- ORYGEN Research Centre, University of Melbourne and Melbourne Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - A Yung
- Institute of Brain, Behaviour and Mental Health, University of Manchester and Greater Manchester West NHS Mental Health Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - D I Finkelstein
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - A I Bush
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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Fernandez-Martos CM, Atkinson RAK, Chuah MI, King AE, Vickers JC. Combination treatment with leptin and pioglitazone in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. ALZHEIMERS & DEMENTIA-TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH & CLINICAL INTERVENTIONS 2016; 3:92-106. [PMID: 29067321 PMCID: PMC5651376 DOI: 10.1016/j.trci.2016.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Combination therapy approaches may be necessary to address the many facets of pathologic change in the brain in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The drugs leptin and pioglitazone have previously been shown individually to have neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory actions, respectively, in animal models. METHODS We studied the impact of combined leptin and pioglitazone treatment in 6-month-old APP/PS1 (APPswe/PSEN1dE9) transgenic AD mouse model. RESULTS We report that an acute 2-week treatment with combined leptin and pioglitazone resulted in a reduction of spatial memory deficits (Y maze) and brain β-amyloid levels (soluble β-amyloid and amyloid plaque burden) relative to vehicle-treated animals. Combination treatment was also associated with amelioration in plaque-associated neuritic pathology and synapse loss, and also a significantly reduced neocortical glial response. DISCUSSION Combination therapy with leptin and pioglitazone ameliorates pathologic changes in APP/PS1 mice and may represent a potential treatment approach for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen M Fernandez-Martos
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, Faculty of Health, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Rachel A K Atkinson
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, Faculty of Health, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Meng I Chuah
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, Faculty of Health, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Anna E King
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, Faculty of Health, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - James C Vickers
- Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, Faculty of Health, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
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De-Paula VJ, Gattaz WF, Forlenza OV. Long-term lithium treatment increases intracellular and extracellular brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in cortical and hippocampal neurons at subtherapeutic concentrations. Bipolar Disord 2016; 18:692-695. [PMID: 27882645 DOI: 10.1111/bdi.12449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 10/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The putative neuroprotective effects of lithium treatment rely on the fact that it modulates several homeostatic mechanisms involved in the neurotrophic response, autophagy, oxidative stress, inflammation, and mitochondrial function. Lithium is a well-established therapeutic option for the acute and long-term management of bipolar disorder and major depression. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of subtherapeutic and therapeutic concentrations of chronic lithium treatment on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) synthesis and secretion. METHODS Primary cultures of cortical and hippocampal neurons were treated with different subtherapeutic (0.02 and 0.2 mM) and therapeutic (2 mM) concentrations of chronic lithium treatment in cortical and hippocampal cell culture. RESULTS Lithium treatment increased the intracellular protein expression of cortical neurons (10% at 0.02 mM) and hippocampal neurons (28% and 14% at 0.02 mM and 0.2 mM, respectively). Extracellular BDNF of cortical neurons increased 30% and 428% at 0.02 and 0.2 mM, respectively and in hippocampal neurons increased 44% at 0.02 mM. CONCLUSION The present study indicates that chronic, low-dose lithium treatment up-regulates BDNF production in primary neuronal cell culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa J De-Paula
- Department and Institute of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Wagner F Gattaz
- Department and Institute of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Orestes V Forlenza
- Department and Institute of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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23
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Pachima YI, Zhou LY, Lei P, Gozes I. Microtubule-Tau Interaction as a Therapeutic Target for Alzheimer's Disease. J Mol Neurosci 2016; 58:145-52. [PMID: 26816082 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-016-0715-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yanina Ivashko Pachima
- Lily and Avraham Gildor Chair for the Investigation of Growth Factors, Elton Laboratory for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Adams Super Center for Brain Studies and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 69978, Israel
| | - Liu-yao Zhou
- Department of Neurology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Peng Lei
- Department of Neurology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan, 610041, China. .,Oxidation Biology Unit, Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3052, VIC, Australia.
| | - Illana Gozes
- Lily and Avraham Gildor Chair for the Investigation of Growth Factors, Elton Laboratory for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Adams Super Center for Brain Studies and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 69978, Israel.
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Safavi M, Sabourian R, Abdollahi M. The development of biomarkers to reduce attrition rate in drug discovery focused on oncology and central nervous system. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2016; 11:939-56. [DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2016.1217196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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25
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Matsunaga S, Kishi T, Annas P, Basun H, Hampel H, Iwata N. Lithium as a Treatment for Alzheimer's Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Alzheimers Dis 2016; 48:403-10. [PMID: 26402004 DOI: 10.3233/jad-150437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This is the first meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials testing lithium as a treatment for patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). METHODS The primary outcome measure was efficacy on cognitive performance as measured through the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale cognitive subscale or the Mini-Mental State Examination. Other outcome measures were drug discontinuation rate, individual side effects, and biological markers (phosphorylated tau 181, total tau, and amyloid-β42) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). RESULTS Three clinical trials including 232 participants that met the study's inclusion criteria were identified. Lithium significantly decreased cognitive decline as compared to placebo (standardized mean difference = -0.41, 95% confidence interval = -0.81 to -0.02, p = 0.04, I2 = 47% , 3 studies, n = 199). There were no significant differences in the rate of attrition, discontinuation due to all causes or adverse events, or CSF biomarkers between treatment groups. CONCLUSIONS The results indicate that lithium treatment may have beneficial effects on cognitive performance in subjects with MCI and AD dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinji Matsunaga
- Department of Psychiatry, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan
| | - Taro Kishi
- Department of Psychiatry, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan
| | - Peter Annas
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Hans Basun
- Department of Public Care and Family Medicine, Section of Geriatric Medicine, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,BioArctic Neuroscience AB, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Harald Hampel
- AXA Research Fund and UPMC Chair, Sorbonne Universités,Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Paris 06, Institut de la Mémoire et de la Maladie d'Alzheimer & INSERM U1127, Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière (ICM), Département de Neurologie, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpétrière, Paris, France
| | - Nakao Iwata
- Department of Psychiatry, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan
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Yu W, Greenberg ML. Inositol depletion, GSK3 inhibition and bipolar disorder. FUTURE NEUROLOGY 2016; 11:135-148. [PMID: 29339929 DOI: 10.2217/fnl-2016-0003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2016] [Accepted: 03/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Valproic acid and lithium are widely used to treat bipolar disorder, a severe illness characterized by cycles of mania and depression. However, their efficacy is limited, and treatment is often accompanied by serious side effects. The therapeutic mechanisms of these drugs are not understood, hampering the development of more effective treatments. Among the plethora of biochemical effects of the drugs, those that are common to both may be more related to therapeutic efficacy. Two common outcomes include inositol depletion and GSK3 inhibition, which have been proposed to explain the efficacy of both valproic acid and lithium. Here, we discuss the inositol depletion and GSK3 inhibition hypotheses, and introduce a unified model suggesting that inositol depletion and GSK3 inhibition are inter-related.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxi Yu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Miriam L Greenberg
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
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Abstract
In this chapter, we review the mechanism of action of lithium salts from a chemical perspective. A description on how lithium salts are used to treat mental illnesses, in particular bipolar disorder, and other disease states is provided. Emphasis is not placed on the genetics and the psychopharmacology of the ailments for which lithium salts have proven to be beneficial. Rather we highlight the application of chemical methodologies for the characterization of the cellular targets of lithium salts and their distribution in tissues.
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Dell'Osso L, Del Grande C, Gesi C, Carmassi C, Musetti L. A new look at an old drug: neuroprotective effects and therapeutic potentials of lithium salts. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2016; 12:1687-703. [PMID: 27468233 PMCID: PMC4946830 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s106479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence highlights bipolar disorder as being associated with impaired neurogenesis, cellular plasticity, and resiliency, as well as with cell atrophy or loss in specific brain regions. This has led most recent research to focus on the possible neuroprotective effects of medications, and particularly interesting findings have emerged for lithium. A growing body of evidence from preclinical in vitro and in vivo studies has in fact documented its neuroprotective effects from different insults acting on cellular signaling pathways, both preventing apoptosis and increasing neurotrophins and cell-survival molecules. Furthermore, positive effects of lithium on neurogenesis, brain remodeling, angiogenesis, mesenchymal stem cells functioning, and inflammation have been revealed, with a key role played through the inhibition of the glycogen synthase kinase-3, a serine/threonine kinase implicated in the pathogenesis of many neuropsychiatric disorders. These recent evidences suggest the potential utility of lithium in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, neurodevelopmental disorders, and hypoxic-ischemic/traumatic brain injury, with positive results at even lower lithium doses than those traditionally considered to be antimanic. The aim of this review is to briefly summarize the potential benefits of lithium salts on neuroprotection and neuroregeneration, emphasizing preclinical and clinical evidence suggesting new therapeutic potentials of this drug beyond its mood stabilizing properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Dell'Osso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Claudia Del Grande
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Camilla Gesi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Claudia Carmassi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Laura Musetti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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Kadri F, Pacifici M, Wilk A, Parker-Struckhoff A, Del Valle L, Hauser KF, Knapp PE, Parsons C, Jeansonne D, Lassak A, Peruzzi F. HIV-1-Tat Protein Inhibits SC35-mediated Tau Exon 10 Inclusion through Up-regulation of DYRK1A Kinase. J Biol Chem 2015; 290:30931-46. [PMID: 26534959 PMCID: PMC4692221 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m115.675751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2015] [Revised: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The HIV-1 transactivator protein Tat is implicated in the neuronal damage that contributes to neurocognitive impairment affecting people living with HIV/AIDS. Aberrant splicing of TAU exon 10 results in tauopathies characterized by alterations in the proportion of TAU isoforms containing three (3R) or four (4R) microtubule-binding repeats. The splicing factor SC35/SRSF2 binds to nuclear RNA and facilitates the incorporation of exon 10 in the TAU molecule. Here, we utilized clinical samples, an animal model, and neuronal cell cultures and found that Tat promotes TAU 3R up-regulation through increased levels of phosphorylated SC35, which is retained in nuclear speckles. This mechanism involved Tat-mediated increased expression of DYRK1A and was prevented by DYRK1A silencing. In addition, we found that Tat associates with TAU RNA, further demonstrating that Tat interferes with host RNA metabolism in the absence of viral infection. Altogether, our data unravel a novel mechanism of Tat-mediated neuronal toxicity through dysregulation of the SC35-dependent alternative splicing of TAU exon 10. Furthermore, the increased immunostaining of DYRK1A in HIV+ brains without pathology points at dysregulation of DYRK1A as an early event in the neuronal complications of HIV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferdous Kadri
- From the Department of Medicine, Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, and Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112 and
| | - Marco Pacifici
- From the Department of Medicine, Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, and
| | - Anna Wilk
- From the Department of Medicine, Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, and
| | | | - Luis Del Valle
- From the Department of Medicine, Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, and
| | | | - Pamela E Knapp
- Anatomy and Neurobiology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23284
| | | | - Duane Jeansonne
- From the Department of Medicine, Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, and
| | - Adam Lassak
- From the Department of Medicine, Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, and
| | - Francesca Peruzzi
- From the Department of Medicine, Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, and
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Long-Term Lithium Treatment Increases cPLA₂ and iPLA₂ Activity in Cultured Cortical and Hippocampal Neurons. Molecules 2015; 20:19878-85. [PMID: 26556322 PMCID: PMC6332452 DOI: 10.3390/molecules201119663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2015] [Revised: 10/12/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Experimental evidence supports the neuroprotective properties of lithium, with implications for the treatment and prevention of dementia and other neurodegenerative disorders. Lithium modulates critical intracellular pathways related to neurotrophic support, inflammatory response, autophagy and apoptosis. There is additional evidence indicating that lithium may also affect membrane homeostasis. Objective: To investigate the effect of lithium on cytosolic phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activity, a key player on membrane phospholipid turnover which has been found to be reduced in blood and brain tissue of patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Methods: Primary cultures of cortical and hippocampal neurons were treated for 7 days with different concentrations of lithium chloride (0.02 mM, 0.2 mM and 2 mM). A radio-enzymatic assay was used to determine the total activity of PLA2 and two PLA2 subtypes: cytosolic calcium-dependent (cPLA2); and calcium-independent (iPLA2). Results: cPLA2 activity increased by 82% (0.02 mM; p = 0.05) and 26% (0.2 mM; p = 0.04) in cortical neurons and by 61% (0.2 mM; p = 0.03) and 57% (2 mM; p = 0.04) in hippocampal neurons. iPLA2 activity was increased by 7% (0.2 mM; p = 0.04) and 13% (2 mM; p = 0.05) in cortical neurons and by 141% (0.02 mM; p = 0.0198) in hippocampal neurons. Conclusion: long-term lithium treatment increases membrane phospholipid metabolism in neurons through the activation of total, c- and iPLA2. This effect is more prominent at sub-therapeutic concentrations of lithium, and the activation of distinct cytosolic PLA2 subtypes is tissue specific, i.e., iPLA2 in hippocampal neurons, and cPLA2 in cortical neurons. Because PLA2 activities are reported to be reduced in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and bipolar disorder (BD), the present findings provide a possible mechanism by which long-term lithium treatment may be useful in the prevention of the disease.
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Forlenza OV, De-Paula VJR, Diniz BSO. Neuroprotective effects of lithium: implications for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and related neurodegenerative disorders. ACS Chem Neurosci 2014; 5:443-50. [PMID: 24766396 DOI: 10.1021/cn5000309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 200] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Lithium is a well-established therapeutic option for the acute and long-term management of bipolar disorder and major depression. More recently, based on findings from translational research, lithium has also been regarded as a neuroprotective agent and a candidate drug for disease-modification in certain neurodegenerative disorders, namely, Alzheimer's disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and, more recently, Parkinson's disease (PD). The putative neuroprotective effects of lithium rely on the fact that it modulates several homeostatic mechanisms involved in neurotrophic response, autophagy, oxidative stress, inflammation, and mitochondrial function. Such a wide range of intracellular responses may be secondary to two key effects, that is, the inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK-3β) and inositol monophosphatase (IMP) by lithium. In the present review, we revisit the neurobiological properties of lithium in light of the available evidence of its neurotrophic and neuroprotective properties, and discuss the rationale for its use in the treatment and prevention of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- O. V. Forlenza
- Laboratory
of Neuroscience (LIM-27), Department and Institute of Psychiatry,
Faculty of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - V. J. R. De-Paula
- Laboratory
of Neuroscience (LIM-27), Department and Institute of Psychiatry,
Faculty of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - B. S. O. Diniz
- Department
of Mental Health and National Institute of Science and Technology,
Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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King MK, Pardo M, Cheng Y, Downey K, Jope RS, Beurel E. Glycogen synthase kinase-3 inhibitors: Rescuers of cognitive impairments. Pharmacol Ther 2014; 141:1-12. [PMID: 23916593 PMCID: PMC3867580 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2013.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2013] [Accepted: 07/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Impairment of cognitive processes is a devastating outcome of many diseases, injuries, and drugs affecting the central nervous system (CNS). Most often, very little can be done by available therapeutic interventions to improve cognitive functions. Here we review evidence that inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3) ameliorates cognitive deficits in a wide variety of animal models of CNS diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Fragile X syndrome, Down syndrome, Parkinson's disease, spinocerebellar ataxia type 1, traumatic brain injury, and others. GSK3 inhibitors also improve cognition following impairments caused by therapeutic interventions, such as cranial irradiation for brain tumors. These findings demonstrate that GSK3 inhibitors are able to ameliorate cognitive impairments caused by a diverse array of diseases, injury, and treatments. The improvements in impaired cognition instilled by administration of GSK3 inhibitors appear to involve a variety of different mechanisms, such as supporting long-term potentiation and diminishing long-term depression, promotion of neurogenesis, reduction of inflammation, and increasing a number of neuroprotective mechanisms. The potential for GSK3 inhibitors to repair cognitive deficits associated with many conditions warrants further investigation of their potential for therapeutic interventions, particularly considering the current dearth of treatments available to reduce loss of cognitive functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret K King
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Marta Pardo
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Yuyan Cheng
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Kimberlee Downey
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Richard S Jope
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Eléonore Beurel
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
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Abstract
Lithium has been used for the treatment of mood disorders for over 60 years, yet the exact mechanisms by which it exerts its therapeutic effects remain unclear. Two enzymatic chains or pathways emerge as targets for lithium: inositol monophosphatase within the phosphatidylinositol signalling pathway and the protein kinase glycogen synthase kinase 3. Lithium inhibits these enzymes through displacing the normal cofactor magnesium, a vital regulator of numerous signalling pathways. Here we provide an overview of evidence, supporting a role for the inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase 3 and inositol monophosphatase in the pharmacodynamic actions of lithium. We also explore how inhibition of these enzymes by lithium can lead to downstream effects of clinical relevance, both for mood disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. Establishing a better understanding of lithium's mechanisms of action may allow the development of more effective and more tolerable pharmacological agents for the treatment of a range of mental illnesses, and provide clearer insight into the pathophysiology of such disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayleigh M Brown
- Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, PO Box 63, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London SE5 8AF, UK
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Gandy JC, Melendez-Ferro M, Bijur GN, Van Leuven F, Roche JK, Lechat B, Devijver H, Demedts D, Perez-Costas E, Roberts RC. Glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK3β) expression in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease: A light and electron microscopy study. Synapse 2013; 67:313-27. [DOI: 10.1002/syn.21642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2012] [Accepted: 01/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Johanna C. Gandy
- Department of Neurobiology; University of Alabama at Birmingham; Birmingham; Alabama
| | - Miguel Melendez-Ferro
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology; University of Alabama at Birmingham; Birmingham; Alabama
| | - Gautam N. Bijur
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology; University of Alabama at Birmingham; Birmingham; Alabama
| | - Fred Van Leuven
- Department of Human Genetics; Laboratory of Experimental Genetics and Transgenesis/Experimental Genetics Group (LEGTEGG); Katholieke Universiteit Leuven; Leuven; Belgium
| | - Joy K. Roche
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology; University of Alabama at Birmingham; Birmingham; Alabama
| | - Benoit Lechat
- Department of Human Genetics; Laboratory of Experimental Genetics and Transgenesis/Experimental Genetics Group (LEGTEGG); Katholieke Universiteit Leuven; Leuven; Belgium
| | - Herman Devijver
- Department of Human Genetics; Laboratory of Experimental Genetics and Transgenesis/Experimental Genetics Group (LEGTEGG); Katholieke Universiteit Leuven; Leuven; Belgium
| | - David Demedts
- Department of Human Genetics; Laboratory of Experimental Genetics and Transgenesis/Experimental Genetics Group (LEGTEGG); Katholieke Universiteit Leuven; Leuven; Belgium
| | - Emma Perez-Costas
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology; University of Alabama at Birmingham; Birmingham; Alabama
| | - Rosalinda C. Roberts
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology; University of Alabama at Birmingham; Birmingham; Alabama
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Diniz BS, Machado-Vieira R, Forlenza OV. Lithium and neuroprotection: translational evidence and implications for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2013; 9:493-500. [PMID: 23596350 PMCID: PMC3627470 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s33086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last two decades, a growing body of evidence has shown that lithium has several neuroprotective effects. Several neurobiological mechanisms have been proposed to underlie these clinical effects. Evidence from preclinical studies suggests that neuroprotection induced by lithium is mainly related to its potent inhibition of the enzyme glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) and its downstream effects, ie, reduction of both tau protein phosphorylation and amyloid-β42 production. Additional neuroprotective effects include increased neurotrophic support, reduced proinflammatory status, and decreased oxidative stress. More recently, neuroimaging studies in humans have demonstrated that chronic use is associated with cortical thickening, higher volume of the hippocampus and amygdala, and neuronal viability in bipolar patients on lithium treatment. In line with this evidence, observational and case registry studies have shown that chronic lithium intake is associated with a reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease in subjects with bipolar disorder. Evidence from recent clinical trials in patients with mild cognitive impairment suggests that chronic lithium treatment at subtherapeutic doses can reduce cerebral spinal fluid phosphorylated tau protein. Overall, convergent lines of evidence point to the potential of lithium as an agent with disease modifying properties in Alzheimer's disease. However, additional long-term studies are necessary to confirm its efficacy and safety for these patients, particularly as chronic intake is necessary to achieve the best therapeutic results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Breno Satler Diniz
- Department of Mental Health, National Institute of Science and Technology - Molecular Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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Maeshima H, Baba H, Nakano Y, Satomura E, Namekawa Y, Takebayashi N, Suzuki T, Mimura M, Arai H. Residual memory dysfunction in recurrent major depressive disorder--a longitudinal study from Juntendo University Mood Disorder Project. J Affect Disord 2012; 143:84-8. [PMID: 22832170 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2012.05.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2012] [Revised: 05/04/2012] [Accepted: 05/05/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression may increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Large cohort studies have shown that recurrent depression is associated with a risk of developing dementia. Other studies have documented smaller hippocampal volume in patients with recurrent depression. It is speculative that a greater risk of developing dementia may result from a higher number of previous depressive episodes. This study compared patients with recurrent and single-episode depression in the remitted stage, and healthy controls to elucidate the impact of the number of depressive episodes on memory. METHODS Logical memory and visual reproduction subtests of the Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised were given to 68 patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) (30 patients with a single episode and residual 38 patients with recurrent multiple episodes) and 57 healthy controls. The patients with MDD received memory assessment at the time of initial remission and at the follow-up period 3 years after remission. RESULTS At the time of initial remission, scores of both logical memory and visual reproduction subtests were significantly lower in both patient groups compared with healthy controls. At follow-up, memory dysfunction of the single-episode group disappeared, whereas scores in the recurrent group remained significantly lower than those of the single-episode group and controls. LIMITATIONS All patients in the present study were on antidepressant medications. CONCLUSIONS Patients with recurrent MDD with multiple depressive episodes showed residual memory dysfunction even after 3 years of remission. Persistence of memory deficits in the recurrent depression may be a risk factor for developing dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hitoshi Maeshima
- Juntendo University Mood Disorder Project, Department of Psychiatry, Juntendo Koshigaya Hospital, Saitama, Japan
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Lovestone S. Fleshing out the amyloid cascade hypothesis: the molecular biology of Alzheimer's disease. DIALOGUES IN CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCE 2012. [PMID: 22033981 PMCID: PMC3181594 DOI: 10.31887/dcns.2000.2.2/slovestone] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a disorder of two pathologies- plaques and tangles. The former have as a key constituent amyloid protein and the latter the microtubule-associaied protein tau. Genetics has demonstrated that changes in either protein are sufficient to cause dementia. The amyloid cascade hypothesis proposes that plaque-related changes precede tangle-related changes and positions amyloid as central to the degeneration of AD. All the evidence suggests this is correct, including evidence that presenil ins alter the processing of the amyloid precursor protein and evidence that disrupting the normal properties of tau underlies the related froniotemporal dementias. The amyloid cascade hypothesis has provided the basis for nearly a decade of intensive basic science - the skeleton of that hypothesis can now be fleshed out, and confidence is growing that this will result in useful disease-modifying therapies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Lovestone
- Author affiliations: Institute of Psychiatry, De Crespigny Park, London, UK
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38
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Mood disorders. Transl Neurosci 2012. [DOI: 10.1017/cbo9780511980053.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Cowan CM, Sealey MA, Quraishe S, Targett MT, Marcellus K, Allan D, Mudher A. Modelling tauopathies in Drosophila: insights from the fruit fly. Int J Alzheimers Dis 2011; 2011:598157. [PMID: 22254145 PMCID: PMC3255107 DOI: 10.4061/2011/598157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2011] [Accepted: 11/02/2011] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Drosophila melanogaster is an experimentally tractable model organism that has been used successfully to model aspects of many human neurodegenerative diseases. Drosophila models of tauopathy have provided valuable insights into tau-mediated mechanisms of neuronal dysfunction and death. Here we review the findings from Drosophila models of tauopathy reported over the past ten years and discuss how they have furthered our understanding of the pathogenesis of tauopathies. We also discuss the multitude of technical advantages that Drosophila offers, which make it highly attractive as a model for such studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine M Cowan
- Centre for Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton SO17 3JD, UK
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Ali YO, Ruan K, Zhai RG. NMNAT suppresses tau-induced neurodegeneration by promoting clearance of hyperphosphorylated tau oligomers in a Drosophila model of tauopathy. Hum Mol Genet 2011; 21:237-50. [PMID: 21965302 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddr449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Tauopathies, including Alzheimer's disease, are a group of neurodegenerative diseases characterized by abnormal tau hyperphosphorylation that leads to formation of neurofibrillary tangles. Drosophila models of tauopathy display prominent features of the human disease including compromised lifespan, impairments of learning, memory and locomotor functions and age-dependent neurodegeneration visible as vacuolization. Here, we use a Drosophila model of frontotemporal dementia with parkinsonism linked to chromosome 17 (FTDP-17), in order to study the neuroprotective capacity of a recently identified neuronal maintenance factor, nicotinamide mononucleotide (NAD) adenylyl transferase (NMNAT), a protein that has both NAD synthase and chaperone function. NMNAT is essential for maintaining neuronal integrity under normal conditions and has been shown to protect against several neurodegenerative conditions. However, its protective role in tauopathy has not been examined. Here, we show that overexpression of NMNAT significantly suppresses both behavioral and morphological deficits associated with tauopathy by means of reducing the levels of hyperphosphorylated tau oligomers. Importantly, the protective activity of NMNAT protein is independent of its NAD synthesis activity, indicating a role for direct protein-protein interaction. Next, we show that NMNAT interacts with phosphorylated tau in vivo and promotes the ubiquitination and clearance of toxic tau species. Consequently, apoptosis activation was significantly reduced in brains overexpressing NMNAT, and neurodegeneration was suppressed. Our report on the molecular basis of NMNAT-mediated neuroprotection in tauopathies opens future investigation of this factor in other protein foldopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yousuf O Ali
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
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41
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Lei P, Ayton S, Bush AI, Adlard PA. GSK-3 in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Int J Alzheimers Dis 2011; 2011:189246. [PMID: 21629738 PMCID: PMC3100544 DOI: 10.4061/2011/189246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2011] [Accepted: 03/07/2011] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) regulates multiple cellular processes, and its dysregulation is implicated in the pathogenesis of diverse diseases. In this paper we will focus on the dysfunction of GSK-3 in Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Specifically, GSK-3 is known to interact with tau, β-amyloid (Aβ), and α-synuclein, and as such may be crucially involved in both diseases. Aβ production, for example, is regulated by GSK-3, and its toxicity is mediated by GSK-induced tau phosphorylation and degeneration. α-synuclein is a substrate for GSK-3 and GSK-3 inhibition protects against Parkinsonian toxins. Lithium, a GSK-3 inhibitor, has also been shown to affect tau, Aβ, and α-synuclein in cell culture, and transgenic animal models. Thus, understanding the role of GSK-3 in neurodegenerative diseases will enhance our understanding of the basic mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of these disorders and also facilitate the identification of new therapeutic avenues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Lei
- Mental Health Research Institute, 155 Oak Street, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
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Abstract
Lithium is an established treatment for affective disorders with good evidence of antisuicidal properties. Alzheimer's disease rates are relatively reduced in patients with bipolar disorder on lithium and a recent trial of lithium in amnestic minimal cognitive impairment is indicative of potential benefits. This should stimulate further, larger-scale studies.
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Forlenza OV, Diniz BS, Radanovic M, Santos FS, Talib LL, Gattaz WF. Disease-modifying properties of long-term lithium treatment for amnestic mild cognitive impairment: randomised controlled trial. Br J Psychiatry 2011; 198:351-6. [PMID: 21525519 DOI: 10.1192/bjp.bp.110.080044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 224] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Two recent clinical studies support the feasibility of trials to evaluate the disease-modifying properties of lithium in Alzheimer's disease, although no benefits were obtained from short-term treatment. AIMS To evaluate the effect of long-term lithium treatment on cognitive and biological outcomes in people with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI). METHOD Forty-five participants with aMCI were randomised to receive lithium (0.25-0.5 mmol/l) (n = 24) or placebo (n = 21) in a 12-month, double-blind trial. Primary outcome measures were the modification of cognitive and functional test scores, and concentrations of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers (amyloid-beta peptide (Aβ(42)), total tau (T-tau), phosphorylated-tau) (P-tau). TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT01055392. RESULTS Lithium treatment was associated with a significant decrease in CSF concentrations of P-tau (P = 0.03) and better perform-ance on the cognitive subscale of the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale and in attention tasks. Overall tolerability of lithium was good and the adherence rate was 91%. CONCLUSIONS The present data support the notion that lithium has disease-modifying properties with potential clinical implications in the prevention of Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orestes V Forlenza
- Laboratory of Neuroscience (LIM 27) Department and Institute of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Rua Dr. Ovídio Pires de Campos 785, 05403-010 - São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Liu KJ, Lee YL, Yang YY, Shih NY, Ho CC, Wu YC, Huang TS, Huang MC, Liu HC, Shen WW, Leu SJ. Modulation of the development of human monocyte-derived dendritic cells by lithium chloride. J Cell Physiol 2011; 226:424-33. [PMID: 20672290 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.22348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2023]
Abstract
Lithium has been used or explored to treat psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases that are frequently associated with an abnormal immune status. It is likely that lithium may work through modulation of immune responses in these patients. Because dendritic cells (DC) play a central role in regulating immune responses, this study investigated the influence of lithium chloride (LiCl) on the development and function of DC. Exposure to LiCl during the differentiation of human monocyte-derived immature DCs (iDC) enhances CD86 and CD83 expression and increases the production of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and TNF-α. However, the presence of LiCl during LPS-induced maturation of iDC has the opposite effect. During iDC differentiation, LiCl suppresses the activity of glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β, and activates PI3K and MEK. In addition, LiCl activates peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) during iDC differentiation, a pathway not described before. Each of these signaling pathways appears to have distinct impact on the differentiating iDC. The enhanced CD86 expression by LiCl involves the PI3K/AKT and GSK-3β pathway. LiCl modulates the expression of CD83 in iDC mainly through MEK/ERK, PI3K/AKT, and PPARγ pathways, while the increased production of IL-1β and TNF-α mainly involves the MEK/ERK pathway. The effect of LiCl on IL-6/IL-8/IL-10 secretion in iDC is mediated through inhibition of GSK-3β. We have also demonstrated that PPARγ is downstream of GSK-3β and is responsible for the LiCl-mediated modulation of CD86/83 and CD1 expression, but not IL-6/8/10 secretion. The combined influence of these molecular signaling pathways may account for certain clinical effect of lithium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ko-Jiunn Liu
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan, Taiwan
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Scales TM, Derkinderen P, Leung KY, Byers HL, Ward MA, Price C, Bird IN, Perera T, Kellie S, Williamson R, Anderton BH, Reynolds CH. Tyrosine phosphorylation of tau by the SRC family kinases lck and fyn. Mol Neurodegener 2011; 6:12. [PMID: 21269457 PMCID: PMC3037338 DOI: 10.1186/1750-1326-6-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2010] [Accepted: 01/26/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Tau protein is the principal component of the neurofibrillary tangles found in Alzheimer's disease, where it is hyperphosphorylated on serine and threonine residues, and recently phosphotyrosine has been demonstrated. The Src-family kinase Fyn has been linked circumstantially to the pathology of Alzheimer's disease, and shown to phosphorylate Tyr18. Recently another Src-family kinase, Lck, has been identified as a genetic risk factor for this disease. Results In this study we show that Lck is a tau kinase. In vitro, comparison of Lck and Fyn showed that while both kinases phosphorylated Tyr18 preferentially, Lck phosphorylated other tyrosines somewhat better than Fyn. In co-transfected COS-7 cells, mutating any one of the five tyrosines in tau to phenylalanine reduced the apparent level of tau tyrosine phosphorylation to 25-40% of that given by wild-type tau. Consistent with this, tau mutants with only one remaining tyrosine gave poor phosphorylation; however, Tyr18 was phosphorylated better than the others. Conclusions Fyn and Lck have subtle differences in their properties as tau kinases, and the phosphorylation of tau is one mechanism by which the genetic risk associated with Lck might be expressed pathogenically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Me Scales
- MRC Centre for Neurodegeneration Research, Department of Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, De Crespigny Park, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AF, UK.
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Cowan CM, Bossing T, Page A, Shepherd D, Mudher A. Soluble hyper-phosphorylated tau causes microtubule breakdown and functionally compromises normal tau in vivo. Acta Neuropathol 2010; 120:593-604. [PMID: 20617325 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-010-0716-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2010] [Revised: 06/23/2010] [Accepted: 06/28/2010] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
It has been hypothesised that tau protein, when hyper-phosphorylated as in Alzheimer's disease (AD), does not bind effectively to microtubules and is no longer able to stabilise them; thus microtubules break down, and axonal transport can no longer proceed efficiently in affected brain regions in AD and related tauopathies (tau-microtubule hypothesis). We have used Drosophila models of tauopathy to test all components of this hypothesis in vivo. We have previously shown that upon expression of human 0N3R tau in Drosophila motor neurons it becomes highly phosphorylated, resulting in disruptions to both axonal transport and synaptic function which culminate in behavioural phenotypes. We now show that the mechanism by which the human tau mediates these effects is twofold: first, as predicted by the tau-microtubule hypothesis, the highly phosphorylated tau exhibits significantly reduced binding to microtubules; and second, it participates in a pathogenic interaction with the endogenous normal Drosophila tau and sequesters it away from microtubules. This causes disruption of the microtubular cytoskeleton as evidenced by a reduction in the numbers of intact correctly-aligned microtubules and the appearance of microtubules that are not correctly oriented within the axon. These deleterious effects of human tau are phosphorylation dependent because treatment with LiCl to suppress tau phosphorylation increases microtubule binding of both human and Drosophila tau and restores cytoskeletal integrity. Notably, all these phospho-tau-mediated phenotypes occur in the absence of tau filament/neurofibrillary tangle formation or neuronal death, and may thus constitute the mechanism by which hyper-phosphorylated tau disrupts neuronal function and contributes to cognitive impairment prior to neuronal death in the early stages of tauopathies.
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Morel M, Authelet M, Dedecker R, Brion J. Glycogen synthase kinase-3β and the p25 activator of cyclin dependent kinase 5 increase pausing of mitochondria in neurons. Neuroscience 2010; 167:1044-56. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2010.02.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2009] [Revised: 02/26/2010] [Accepted: 02/28/2010] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Folwell J, Cowan CM, Ubhi KK, Shiabh H, Newman TA, Shepherd D, Mudher A. Abeta exacerbates the neuronal dysfunction caused by human tau expression in a Drosophila model of Alzheimer's disease. Exp Neurol 2009; 223:401-9. [PMID: 19782075 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2009.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2009] [Revised: 09/11/2009] [Accepted: 09/17/2009] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterised by neurofibrillary tangles composed of hyper-phosphorylated tau, and neuritic plaques composed of misfolded amyloid peptide (Abeta(42)). It is generally believed that the hyper-phosphorylated tau and oligomeric Abeta(42) are responsible for the neuronal dysfunction and cognitive impairments that underlie the early stages of AD, but the mechanism by which they interact in the pathogenic process is not clear. Mounting evidence suggests that Abeta(42) pathology lies upstream of hyper-phosphorylated tau pathology. Similarly much is being learnt about how each protein affects neuronal function. However, the impact that either pathological protein has on neuronal dysfunction caused by the other is not extensively studied. We have investigated this in a Drosophila model of AD in which we express both phosphorylated human tau (tau(wt)) and oligomeric Abeta(42). We find that expression of tau(wt) causes neuronal dysfunction by disrupting axonal transport and synaptic structure, and that this leads to behavioural impairments and reduced lifespan. Co-expression of Abeta(42) with tau(wt) increases tau phosphorylation and exacerbates all these tau-mediated phenotypes. Treatment of tau(wt)/Abeta(42) and flies with LiCl ameliorates the exacerbating effect of Abeta(42), suggesting that GSK-3beta may be involved in the mechanism by which Abeta(42) and tau(wt) interact to cause neuronal dysfunction. Conversely to the effect of Abeta(42), mimicking the wingless signalling pathway by co-expression of dishevelled with tau(wt) reduces tau phosphorylation and suppresses the tau-mediated phenotypes. It is therefore possible to speculate that the mechanism by which Abeta(42) interacts with tau in the pathogenesis of AD is by down-regulating endogenous wnt signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Folwell
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Bassett Crescent East, Southampton SO16 7PX, UK
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Shimshoni JA, Dalton EC, Watson P, Boris Y, Bialer M, Harwood AJ. Evaluation of the effects of propylisopropylacetic acid (PIA) on neuronal growth cone morphology. Neuropharmacology 2009; 56:831-7. [PMID: 19705552 PMCID: PMC3098385 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2009.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Propylisopropylacetic acid (PIA) is a constitutional isomer of valproic acid (VPA). It has previously been found to be a weak antiepileptic, but in common with mood stabilizers, causes inositol depletion and growth cone spreading, suggesting the basis of a new series of mood stabilizers. To assess this possibility, we have compared the effects of racemic (R,S)-PIA and its individual enantiomers to those of the mood stabilizers lithium (Li+), VPA and carbamazepine (CBZ). Unlike Li+ and VPA, but in common with CBZ and (R,S)-PIA, neither (R)-PIA nor (S)-PIA enantiomer induces T-cell factor (TCF)-mediated gene expression. However, as seen for other mood stabilizers, both enantiomers are potent inducers of growth cone spreading. To investigate the mechanism for these effects, we examined changes in the actin cytoskeleton following drug treatment with Li+, VPA, CBZ, (R,S)-PIA or its individual enantiomers. All exhibit a redistribution of F-actin to the growth cone periphery, a feature of spread growth cones. (R,S)-PIA has the strongest effect as it also elevates F-actin polymerization at the cell periphery. This change in the actin cytoskeleton is associated with a substantial increase in F-actin-rich protrusions on the surface of the growth cone and in its close vicinity. These results demonstrate an effect of (R,S)-PIA on the neuronal actin cytoskeleton shared in common with other mood stabilizers, and suggest a potential to induce structural changes within the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakob A Shimshoni
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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