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Chen W, Jiang S, Li S, Li C, Xu R. OSMR is a potential driver of inflammation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:2513-2521. [PMID: 38526287 PMCID: PMC11090450 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.391309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202419110-00031/figure1/v/2024-03-08T184507Z/r/image-tiff Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a neurodegenerative disease, and the molecular mechanism underlying its pathology remains poorly understood. However, inflammation is known to play an important role in the development of this condition. To identify driver genes that affect the inflammatory response in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, as well as potential treatment targets, it is crucial to analyze brain tissue samples from patients with both sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and C9orf72-related amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Therefore, in this study we used a network-driven gene analysis tool, NetBID2.0, which is based on SJARACNe, a scalable algorithm for the reconstruction of accurate cellular networks, to experimentally analyze sequencing data from patients with sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The results showed that the OSMR gene is pathogenic in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and participates in the progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis by mediating the neuroinflammatory response. Furthermore, there were differences in OSMR activity and expression between patients with sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and those with C9orf72-related amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. These findings suggest that OSMR may be a diagnostic and prognostic marker for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenzhi Chen
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xiangya Hospital Jiangxi Hospital of Central South University, The Clinical College of Nanchang Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Shishi Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xiangya Hospital Jiangxi Hospital of Central South University, The Clinical College of Nanchang Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Shu Li
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xiangya Hospital Jiangxi Hospital of Central South University, The Clinical College of Nanchang Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Cheng Li
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xiangya Hospital Jiangxi Hospital of Central South University, The Clinical College of Nanchang Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Renshi Xu
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xiangya Hospital Jiangxi Hospital of Central South University, The Clinical College of Nanchang Medical College, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
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Vaage AM, Meyer HE, Landgraff IK, Myrstad M, Holmøy T, Nakken O. Physical Activity, Fitness, and Long-Term Risk of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Prospective Cohort Study. Neurology 2024; 103:e209575. [PMID: 38924713 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000209575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Observational studies have demonstrated an increased amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) risk among professional athletes in various sports. For moderately increased levels of physical activity and fitness, the results are diverging. Through a cohort study, we aimed to assess the relationship between indicators of physical activity and fitness (self-reported physical activity and resting heart rate) and long-term ALS risk. METHODS From a large Norwegian cardiovascular health survey (1985-1999), we collected information on self-reported physical activity in leisure time, resting heart rate, and other cardiovascular risk factors. Patients with ALS were identified through health registries covering the whole population. We fitted Cox proportional hazard models to assess the risk of ALS according to levels of self-reported physical activity in 3 categories (1: sedentary; 2: minimum 4 hours per week of walking or cycling; 3: minimum 4 hours per week of recreational sports or hard training), and resting heart rate modeled both on the continuous scale and as quartiles of distribution. RESULTS Out of 373,696 study participants (mean 40.9 [SD 1.1] years at inclusion), 504 (41.2% women) developed ALS during a mean follow-up time of 27.2 (SD 5.0) years. Compared with participants with the lowest level of physical activity, the hazard ratio was 0.71 (95% CI 0.53-0.95) for those with the highest level. There were no clear associations between resting heart rate and ALS in the total sample. In men, the hazard ratio of ALS was 0.71 (95% CI 0.53-0.95) for those reporting moderate levels of physical activity and 0.59 (95% CI 0.42-0.84) for those reporting high levels, compared with those reporting low levels. Men with resting heart rate in the lowest quartile had 32% reduced risk of ALS (hazard ratio 0.68, 95% CI 0.49-0.94) compared with those in the second highest quartile. In women, no association was detected between neither self-reported levels of physical activity nor resting heart rate and ALS risk. DISCUSSION Indicators of high levels of physical activity and fitness are associated with a reduced risk of ALS more than 30 years later in men, but not in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders M Vaage
- From the Department of Neurology (A.M.V., T.H., O.N.), Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog; Institute of Clinical Medicine (A.M.V., T.H.), University of Oslo; Department of Physical Health and Ageing (H.E.M.), Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo; Department of Community Medicine and Global Health (H.E.M.), University of Oslo; and Department of Internal Medicine (I.K.L., M.M.), and Department of Medical Research (M.M.), Bærum Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Gjettum, Norway
| | - Haakon E Meyer
- From the Department of Neurology (A.M.V., T.H., O.N.), Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog; Institute of Clinical Medicine (A.M.V., T.H.), University of Oslo; Department of Physical Health and Ageing (H.E.M.), Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo; Department of Community Medicine and Global Health (H.E.M.), University of Oslo; and Department of Internal Medicine (I.K.L., M.M.), and Department of Medical Research (M.M.), Bærum Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Gjettum, Norway
| | - Ida K Landgraff
- From the Department of Neurology (A.M.V., T.H., O.N.), Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog; Institute of Clinical Medicine (A.M.V., T.H.), University of Oslo; Department of Physical Health and Ageing (H.E.M.), Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo; Department of Community Medicine and Global Health (H.E.M.), University of Oslo; and Department of Internal Medicine (I.K.L., M.M.), and Department of Medical Research (M.M.), Bærum Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Gjettum, Norway
| | - Marius Myrstad
- From the Department of Neurology (A.M.V., T.H., O.N.), Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog; Institute of Clinical Medicine (A.M.V., T.H.), University of Oslo; Department of Physical Health and Ageing (H.E.M.), Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo; Department of Community Medicine and Global Health (H.E.M.), University of Oslo; and Department of Internal Medicine (I.K.L., M.M.), and Department of Medical Research (M.M.), Bærum Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Gjettum, Norway
| | - Trygve Holmøy
- From the Department of Neurology (A.M.V., T.H., O.N.), Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog; Institute of Clinical Medicine (A.M.V., T.H.), University of Oslo; Department of Physical Health and Ageing (H.E.M.), Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo; Department of Community Medicine and Global Health (H.E.M.), University of Oslo; and Department of Internal Medicine (I.K.L., M.M.), and Department of Medical Research (M.M.), Bærum Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Gjettum, Norway
| | - Ola Nakken
- From the Department of Neurology (A.M.V., T.H., O.N.), Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog; Institute of Clinical Medicine (A.M.V., T.H.), University of Oslo; Department of Physical Health and Ageing (H.E.M.), Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo; Department of Community Medicine and Global Health (H.E.M.), University of Oslo; and Department of Internal Medicine (I.K.L., M.M.), and Department of Medical Research (M.M.), Bærum Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Gjettum, Norway
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Liang W, Liu Y, Zhao Y, Chen Y, Yin Y, Zhai L, Li Z, Gong Z, Zhang J, Zhang M. Quantitative MRI Analysis of Brachial Plexus and Limb-Girdle Muscles in Upper Extremity Onset Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. J Magn Reson Imaging 2024; 60:291-301. [PMID: 37767949 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.29027] [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: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent evidence highlights the potential of axonal degeneration as a biomarker for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) detection. However, the diagnostic potential of peripheral nerve axon changes in ALS remains unclear. PURPOSE To evaluate the diagnostic performance of quantitative MRI of the brachial plexus and limb-girdle muscles (LGMs) in patients with upper extremity onset of ALS. STUDY TYPE Retrospective. POPULATION 47 patients with upper extremity onset of ALS and 20 healthy volunteers. FIELD STRENGTH/SEQUENCE 3-T, three-dimensional sampling perfection with application-optimized contrasts using different flip angle evolutions with short-tau inversion recovery sequences, T2-weighted turbo spin-echo Dixon sequence. ASSESSMENT The cross-sectional area (CSA) and nerve-muscle T2 signal intensity ratio (nT2) of the bilateral brachial plexus as well as the CSA and fat fraction (FF) of the bilateral LGMs were assessed by two radiologists. Disease severity and clinical stage of ALS patients were assessed by two neurologists. STATISTICAL TESTS Student's t-test, Wilcoxon rank-sum test, binary logistic regression, interclass correlation coefficient, receiver operating characteristic analysis, and correlation analysis were performed for MRI quantitative metrics and clinical variables. Significance level: P < 0.05. RESULTS In the affected limbs of patients with ALS, the CSA of the brachial plexus roots, trunks, and cords and the nT2 values of the brachial plexus trunks were significantly smaller than in the healthy controls. In the LGMs, the affected limbs of ALS showed significantly smaller CSA and higher FF than controls. The model containing parameters such as brachial plexus trunk CSA, subscapularis CSA, infraspinatus CSA, and subscapularis FF had excellent diagnostic efficacy for ALS. Additionally, increased subscapularis FF and supraspinatus FF were correlated with disease severity, and subscapularis CSA was negatively correlated with the clinical stage. DATA CONCLUSION Brachial plexus thinning, LGM atrophy, and fatty infiltration might serve as MRI-derived biomarkers for ALS with upper extremity onset. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 4 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiqiang Liang
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yali Zhao
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yangyang Yin
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Linhan Zhai
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zehui Li
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhenxiang Gong
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Xu Z, Zhang J, Tang J, Gong Y, Zou Y, Zhang Q. Dissecting the effect of ALS mutation S375G on the conformational properties and aggregation dynamics of TDP-43 370-375 fragment. Biophys Chem 2024; 310:107230. [PMID: 38615537 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpc.2024.107230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
The aggregation of transactive response deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) binding protein of 43 kDa (TDP-43) into ubiquitin-positive inclusions is closely associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), frontotemporal lobar degeneration, and chronic traumatic encephalopathy. The 370-375 fragment of TDP-43 (370GNNSYS375, TDP-43370-375), the amyloidogenic hexapeptides, can be prone to forming pathogenic amyloid fibrils with the characteristic of steric zippers. Previous experiments reported the ALS-associated mutation, serine 375 substituted by glycine (S375G) is linked to early onset disease and protein aggregation of TDP-43. Based on this, it is necessary to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. By utilizing all-atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of 102 μs in total, we investigated the impact of S375G mutation on the conformational ensembles and oligomerization dynamics of TDP-43370-375 peptides. Our replica exchange MD simulations show that S375G mutation could promote the unstructured conformation formation and induce peptides to form a loose packed oligomer, thus inhibiting the aggregation of TDP-43370-375. Further analyses suggest that S375G mutation displays a reduction effect on the number of total hydrogen bonds and contacts among TDP-43370-375 peptides. Hydrogen bonding and polar interactions among TDP-43370-375 peptides, as well as Y374-Y374 π-π stacking interaction, are attenuated by S375G mutation. Additional microsecond MD simulations demonstrate that S375G mutation could prohibit the conformational conversion to β-structure-rich aggregates and possess an inhibitory effect on the oligomerization dynamics of TDP-43370-375. This study offers for the first time of molecular insights into the S375G mutation affecting the aggregation of TDP-43370-375 at the atomic level, and may open new avenues in the development of future site-specific mutation therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengdong Xu
- Department of Physical Education, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, 333 Long Teng Road, Shanghai 201620, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianxin Zhang
- Department of Physical Education, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, 333 Long Teng Road, Shanghai 201620, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaxing Tang
- College of Physical Education, Shanghai University of Sport, 399 Chang Hai Road, Shanghai 200438, People's Republic of China
| | - Yehong Gong
- General Education Center, Westlake University, 600 Dunyu Road, Hangzhou 310030, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Zou
- Department Sport and Exercise Science, College of Education, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou 310007, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qingwen Zhang
- College of Physical Education, Shanghai University of Sport, 399 Chang Hai Road, Shanghai 200438, People's Republic of China.
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Li Z, Zhang Y, Ji M, Wu C, Zhang Y, Ji S. Targeting ferroptosis in neuroimmune and neurodegenerative disorders for the development of novel therapeutics. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 176:116777. [PMID: 38795640 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuroimmune and neurodegenerative ailments impose a substantial societal burden. Neuroimmune disorders involve the intricate regulatory interactions between the immune system and the central nervous system. Prominent examples of neuroimmune disorders encompass multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica. Neurodegenerative diseases result from neuronal degeneration or demyelination in the brain or spinal cord, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The precise underlying pathogenesis of these conditions remains incompletely understood. Ferroptosis, a programmed form of cell death characterised by lipid peroxidation and iron overload, plays a pivotal role in neuroimmune and neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we provide a detailed overview of ferroptosis, its mechanisms, pathways, and regulation during the progression of neuroimmune and neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, we summarise the impact of ferroptosis on neuroimmune-related cells (T cells, B cells, neutrophils, and macrophages) and neural cells (glial cells and neurons). Finally, we explore the potential therapeutic implications of ferroptosis inhibitors in diverse neuroimmune and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihao Li
- Department of Neurology, Shaoxing People's Hospital, Shaoxing, Zhejiang 312000, China
| | - Ye Zhang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Shantou University Medical College (SUMC), Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Meiling Ji
- Department of Emergency, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210002, China
| | - Chenglong Wu
- Department of Neurology, Shaoxing People's Hospital, Shaoxing, Zhejiang 312000, China
| | - Yanxing Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Shaoxing People's Hospital, Shaoxing, Zhejiang 312000, China.
| | - Senlin Ji
- Department of Neurology of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School and the State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Translational Medicine Institute of Brain Disorders, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China.
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Guo X, Zhang Z, Gu J, Ke P, Liu J, Meng Y, Zheng W, Que W, Fan R, Luo J, Xiao F. FUDNC1-dependent mitophagy ameliorate motor neuron death in an amyotrophic lateral sclerosis mouse model. Neurobiol Dis 2024; 197:106534. [PMID: 38759931 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2024.106534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases, yet effective treatment is lacking. Moreover, the underlying pathomechanisms of ALS remain unclear, with impaired mitophagy function being increasingly recognized as a contributing factor. FUN14 domain-containing protein 1 (FUNDC1) is an autophagy receptor localized to the outer mitochondrial membrane and a mitochondrial membrane protein that mediates mitophagy and therefore considered as important factor in neurodegenerative diseases. However, its specific role in ALS is not yet clear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the regulatory role of FUNDC1 in ALS and determine its regulatory mechanisms. ALS transgenic mice were obtained and maintained under standard conditions. Cell lines were generated by stable transfection with hSOD1G93A or control vectors. Mice received intrathecal injections of AAV9 vectors expressing FUNDC1 or EGFP. Motor function was assessed through behavioral tests, and histological and immunostaining analyses were performed. Colocalization analysis was conducted in transfected cells, and protein expression was evaluated via western blotting. We first observed that FUNDC1 was significantly downregulated in the spinal cord tissues of SOD1G93A mice. FUNDC1 overexpression considerably improved locomotor activity and prolonged survival time in SOD1G93A mice. Mechanistically, reduced expression of FUNDC1 resulted in decreased mitophagy, as indicated by decreased recruitment through LC3 in SOD1G93A mice and cellular models. Consequently, this led to increased mitochondrial accumulation and cell apoptosis, exacerbating the ALS phenotype. Furthermore, we identified transcription factor FOXD3 as an essential upstream factor of FUNDC1, resulting in reduced transcription of FUNDC1 in ALS lesions. This study suggests a novel strategy of targeting FUNDC1-mediated mitophagy for developing therapeutic interventions to mitigate disease progression and improve outcomes for ALS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Guo
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, Chongqing 400016, China; Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou 563000, China
| | - Zhuo Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Juan Gu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, Chongqing 400016, China; Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education and Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - PingYang Ke
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yuan Meng
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Wei Zheng
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - WenJun Que
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Rui Fan
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Jing Luo
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, Chongqing 400016, China.
| | - Fei Xiao
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, Chongqing 400016, China.
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Helgudóttir SS, Mørkholt AS, Lichota J, Bruun-Nyzell P, Andersen MC, Kristensen NMJ, Johansen AK, Zinn MR, Jensdóttir HM, Nieland JDV. Rethinking neurodegenerative diseases: neurometabolic concept linking lipid oxidation to diseases in the central nervous system. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1437-1445. [PMID: 38051885 PMCID: PMC10883494 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.387965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Currently, there is a lack of effective medicines capable of halting or reversing the progression of neurodegenerative disorders, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, or Alzheimer's disease. Given the unmet medical need, it is necessary to reevaluate the existing paradigms of how to target these diseases. When considering neurodegenerative diseases from a systemic neurometabolic perspective, it becomes possible to explain the shared pathological features. This innovative approach presented in this paper draws upon extensive research conducted by the authors and researchers worldwide. In this review, we highlight the importance of metabolic mitochondrial dysfunction in the context of neurodegenerative diseases. We provide an overview of the risk factors associated with developing neurodegenerative disorders, including genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. Additionally, we examine pathological mechanisms implicated in these diseases such as oxidative stress, accumulation of misfolded proteins, inflammation, demyelination, death of neurons, insulin resistance, dysbiosis, and neurotransmitter disturbances. Finally, we outline a proposal for the restoration of mitochondrial metabolism, a crucial aspect that may hold the key to facilitating curative therapeutic interventions for neurodegenerative disorders in forthcoming advancements.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jacek Lichota
- Molecular Pharmacology Group, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | | | - Mads Christian Andersen
- Molecular Pharmacology Group, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Nanna Marie Juhl Kristensen
- Molecular Pharmacology Group, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Amanda Krøger Johansen
- Molecular Pharmacology Group, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Mikela Reinholdt Zinn
- Molecular Pharmacology Group, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Hulda Maria Jensdóttir
- Molecular Pharmacology Group, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - John Dirk Vestergaard Nieland
- 2N Pharma ApS, NOVI Science Park, Aalborg, Denmark
- Molecular Pharmacology Group, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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Rehmann R. Editorial for: "Quantitative MRI Analysis of Brachial Plexus and Limb-Girdle Muscles in Upper Extremity Onset Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis". J Magn Reson Imaging 2024; 60:302-303. [PMID: 37818935 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.29051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Rehmann
- Department of Neurology, BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil gGmbH, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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Dharmadasa T, Pavey N, Tu S, Menon P, Huynh W, Mahoney CJ, Timmins HC, Higashihara M, van den Bos M, Shibuya K, Kuwabara S, Grosskreutz J, Kiernan MC, Vucic S. Novel approaches to assessing upper motor neuron dysfunction in motor neuron disease/amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: IFCN handbook chapter. Clin Neurophysiol 2024; 163:68-89. [PMID: 38705104 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2024.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Identifying upper motor neuron (UMN) dysfunction is fundamental to the diagnosis and understanding of disease pathogenesis in motor neuron disease (MND). The clinical assessment of UMN dysfunction may be difficult, particularly in the setting of severe muscle weakness. From a physiological perspective, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) techniques provide objective biomarkers of UMN dysfunction in MND and may also be useful to interrogate cortical and network function. Single, paired- and triple pulse TMS techniques have yielded novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in MND, and have provided important pathogenic insights, particularly pertaining to site of disease onset. Cortical hyperexcitability, as heralded by reduced short interval intracortical inhibition (SICI) and increased short interval intracortical facilitation, has been associated with the onset of lower motor neuron degeneration, along with patterns of disease spread, development of specific clinical features such as the split hand phenomenon, and may provide an indication about the rate of disease progression. Additionally, reduction of SICI has emerged as a potential diagnostic aid in MND. The triple stimulation technique (TST) was shown to enhance the diagnostic utility of conventional TMS measures in detecting UMN dysfunction in MND. Separately, sophisticated brain imaging techniques have uncovered novel biomarkers of neurodegeneration that have bene associated with progression. The present review will discuss the utility of TMS and brain neuroimaging derived biomarkers of UMN dysfunction in MND, focusing on recently developed TMS techniques and advanced neuroimaging modalities that interrogate structural and functional integrity of the corticomotoneuronal system, with an emphasis on pathogenic, diagnostic, and prognostic utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanuja Dharmadasa
- Department of Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital City Campus, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nathan Pavey
- Brain and Nerve Research Center, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sicong Tu
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, and Department of Neurology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Australia
| | - Parvathi Menon
- Brain and Nerve Research Center, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - William Huynh
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, and Department of Neurology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Australia
| | - Colin J Mahoney
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, and Department of Neurology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Australia
| | - Hannah C Timmins
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, and Department of Neurology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Australia
| | - Mana Higashihara
- Department of Neurology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mehdi van den Bos
- Brain and Nerve Research Center, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kazumoto Shibuya
- Neurology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kuwabara
- Neurology, Chiba University, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Julian Grosskreutz
- Precision Neurology, Excellence Cluster Precision Medicine in Inflammation, University of Lübeck, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Matthew C Kiernan
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, and Department of Neurology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Australia
| | - Steve Vucic
- Brain and Nerve Research Center, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
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10
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Jiang T, Ruan N, Luo P, Wang Q, Wei X, Li Y, Dai Y, Lin L, Lv J, Liu Y, Zhang C. Modulation of ER-mitochondria tethering complex VAPB-PTPIP51: Novel therapeutic targets for aging-associated diseases. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 98:102320. [PMID: 38719161 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Aging is a gradual and irreversible natural process. With aging, the body experiences a functional decline, and the effects amplify the vulnerability to a range of age-related diseases, including neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, and metabolic diseases. Within the aging process, the morphology and function of mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) undergo alterations, particularly in the structure connecting these organelles known as mitochondria-associated membranes (MAMs). MAMs serve as vital intracellular signaling hubs, facilitating communication between the ER and mitochondria when regulating various cellular events, including calcium homeostasis, lipid metabolism, mitochondrial function, and apoptosis. The formation of MAMs is partly dependent on the interaction between the vesicle-associated membrane protein-associated protein-B (VAPB) and protein tyrosine phosphatase-interacting protein-51 (PTPIP51). Accumulating evidence has begun to elucidate the pivotal role of the VAPB-PTPIP51 tether in the initiation and progression of age-related diseases. In this study, we delineate the intricate structure and multifunctional role of the VAPB-PTPIP51 tether and discuss its profound implications in aging-associated diseases. Moreover, we provide a comprehensive overview of potential therapeutic interventions and pharmacological agents targeting the VAPB-PTPIP51-mediated MAMs, thereby offering a glimmer of hope in mitigating aging processes and treating age-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Jiang
- Department of Geriatrics, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Vascular Aging, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Nan Ruan
- Department of Geriatrics, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Vascular Aging, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Pengcheng Luo
- Department of Geriatrics, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Vascular Aging, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Geriatrics, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Vascular Aging, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Xiuxian Wei
- Department of Geriatrics, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Vascular Aging, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Geriatrics, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Vascular Aging, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Yue Dai
- Department of Geriatrics, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Vascular Aging, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Li Lin
- Key Laboratory of Vascular Aging, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Jiagao Lv
- Key Laboratory of Vascular Aging, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Department of Geriatrics, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Vascular Aging, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
| | - Cuntai Zhang
- Department of Geriatrics, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Vascular Aging, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
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11
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Tondo G, Mazzini L, Caminiti SP, Gallo C, Matheoud R, Comi C, Sacchetti GM, Perani D, De Marchi F. Coupling motor evoked potentials and BRAIN [ 18F]FDG-pet in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: Preliminary findings on disease severity. Neurobiol Dis 2024:106579. [PMID: 38936435 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2024.106579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is primarily clinical, supported by the electromyographic examination to reveal signs of lower motor neuron damage. Identifying reliable markers of upper motor neuron (UMN) involvement is challenging. On this regard, the role of transcranial magnetic stimulation-induced motor-evoked potentials (TMS-MEPs), and its relationship with UMN burden, is still under investigation. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the ability of TMS-MEPs in delineating the neurophysiological UMN damage, and to determine the relationship between TMS-MEPs and [18F]FDG-PET measures of neural dysfunction. METHODS We retrospectively selected 13 ALS patients who underwent, during the diagnostic process, the TMS-MEPs and [18F]FDG-PET scans. Demographic and clinical data were collected. For the MEP evaluation, we considered normal MEP, absent MEP, or significantly increased central-motor-conduction-time. For [18F]FDG-PET, we conducted voxel-wise analyses, both at single-subject and group levels, exploring hypometabolism and hypermetabolism patterns in comparison with a large dataset of healthy controls (HC). RESULTS Based on TMS-MEPs, we identified 4/13 patients with normal MEP in all limbs (GROUP-NO), while 9/13 had an abnormal MEP in at least one limb (GROUP-AB). Despite the [18F]FDG-PET single-subject analysis revealed heterogenous expression of regional hypo- and hyper-metabolism patterns in the patients, the group-level analysis revealed a common hypometabolism, involving the precentral gyrus and the supplementary motor area, the paracentral lobule and the anterior cingulate cortex in the GROUP-AB. Moreover, exclusively for the GROUP-AB compared with HC, a relative hypermetabolism was observed in the right cerebellum, right inferior and middle temporal gyrus. The GROUP-NO showed no specific cluster of hypo- and hyper-metabolism compared to HC. CONCLUSION This study showed altered brain metabolism only in the ALS group with abnormal MEPs, suggesting an association between the two biomarkers in defining the UMN damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Tondo
- Department of Neurology, S. Andrea Hospital, University of Piemonte Orientale, Vercelli, Italy
| | - Letizia Mazzini
- ALS Centre, Department of Neurology, Maggiore della Carità Hospital, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | | | - Chiara Gallo
- Department of Neurology, Maggiore della Carità Hospital, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Roberta Matheoud
- Department of Medical Physics, Maggiore della Carità Hospital, Novara, Italy
| | - Cristoforo Comi
- Department of Neurology, S. Andrea Hospital, University of Piemonte Orientale, Vercelli, Italy
| | | | - Daniela Perani
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy; Nuclear Medicine Unit, San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabiola De Marchi
- ALS Centre, Department of Neurology, Maggiore della Carità Hospital, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy.
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12
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Yang T, Wei Q, Pang D, Cheng Y, Huang J, Lin J, Xiao Y, Jiang Q, Wang S, Li C, Shang H. Clinical and genetic characteristics of ALS patients with variants in genes regulating DNA methylation. J Neurol 2024:10.1007/s00415-024-12508-9. [PMID: 38907861 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12508-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aberrant DNA methylation alterations are implicated in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Nevertheless, the influence of genetic variants in genes regulating DNA methylation on ALS patients is not well understood. Therefore, we aim to provide a comprehensive variant profile of genes related to DNA methylation (DNMT1, DNMT3A, DNMT3B, DNMT3L) and demethylation (TET1, TET2, TET3, TDG) and to investigate the association of these variants with ALS. METHODS Variants were screened in a cohort of 2240 ALS patients from Southwest China, using controls from the Genome Aggregation Database (n = 9976) and the China Metabolic Analytics Project (n = 10,588). The over-representation of rare variants and their association with ALS risk were evaluated using Fisher's exact test with Bonferroni correction at both allele and gene levels. Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression analysis were employed to explore the relationship between variants and survival. RESULTS A total of 210 variants meeting the criteria were identified. Gene-based burden analysis identified a significant increase in ALS risk associated with rare variants in the TET2 gene (OR = 1.95, 95% CI = 1.29-2.88, P = 0.001). Survival analysis demonstrated that patients carrying variants in demethylation-related genes had a higher risk of death compared to those with methylation-related gene variants (HR = 1.29, 95% CI = 1.03-1.86, P = 0.039). CONCLUSIONS This study provides a genetic variant profile of genes involved in DNA methylation and demethylation regulation, along with the clinical characteristics of ALS patients carrying these variants. The findings offer genetic evidence implicating disrupted DNA methylation dynamics in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianmi Yang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Qianqian Wei
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Dejiang Pang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yangfan Cheng
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jingxuan Huang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Junyu Lin
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yi Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Qirui Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Shichan Wang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Chunyu Li
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Huifang Shang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
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13
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Jing Z, Qi X, Teng J. Dietary factors and risk for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A two sample mendelian randomization study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e38473. [PMID: 38905382 PMCID: PMC11191971 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000038473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Correlations between dietary factors and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) have been found in previous observational studies. However, no further studies have used Mendelian randomization to further explore the causal relationship between dietary factors and ALS. Clarifying these relationships is a crucial part of developing nutritional recommendations for ALS prevention. The exposure and outcome datasets employed in this study were extracted from the IEU Open GWAS project (https://gwas.mrcieu.ac.uk/). The exposure datasets involved in our Mendelian analyses consisted of meat intake (processed meat intake, poultry intake, beef intake, pork intake, non-oily fish intake, and oily fish intake), staple foods intake (bread intake and cereal intake), vegetable intake (cooked vegetable intake, salad/raw vegetable intake), fruit intake (fresh fruit intake and dried fruit intake), and beverage intake (coffee intake and tea intake). The weighted median, MR-Egger, Inverse Variance Weighted, Simple mode and Weighted mode methods were all utilized. And we applied Inverse Variance Weighted method as the main judgement criterion for Mendelian randomization analysis. Heterogeneity and pleiotropy analyses were conducted to confirm the validity of the outcomes. Genetically predicted that oily fish intake (OR: 0.7648; 95% CI: 0.5905-0.9904; P = .0420), coffee intake (OR: 0.7385; 95% CI: 0.5660-0.9637; P = .0256), and fresh fruit intake (OR: 0.6165; 95% CI: 0.4007-0.9487; P = .0278) were causally associated with a decreased risk of ALS. Negative results (P > .05) were received for all other dietary factors. This study found that oily fish intake, coffee intake and fresh fruit intake reduced the risk of developing ALS. Additionally, other factors were not associated with ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoyi Jing
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Xianghua Qi
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Jing Teng
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
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14
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Hu Y, Hruscha A, Pan C, Schifferer M, Schmidt MK, Nuscher B, Giera M, Kostidis S, Burhan Ö, van Bebber F, Edbauer D, Arzberger T, Haass C, Schmid B. Mis-localization of endogenous TDP-43 leads to ALS-like early-stage metabolic dysfunction and progressive motor deficits. Mol Neurodegener 2024; 19:50. [PMID: 38902734 PMCID: PMC11188230 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-024-00735-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The key pathological signature of ALS/ FTLD is the mis-localization of endogenous TDP-43 from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. However, TDP-43 gain of function in the cytoplasm is still poorly understood since TDP-43 animal models recapitulating mis-localization of endogenous TDP-43 from the nucleus to the cytoplasm are missing. METHODS CRISPR/Cas9 technology was used to generate a zebrafish line (called CytoTDP), that mis-locates endogenous TDP-43 from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. Phenotypic characterization of motor neurons and the neuromuscular junction was performed by immunostaining, microglia were immunohistochemically localized by whole-mount tissue clearing and muscle ultrastructure was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. Behavior was investigated by video tracking and quantitative analysis of swimming parameters. RNA sequencing was used to identify mis-regulated pathways with validation by molecular analysis. RESULTS CytoTDP fish have early larval phenotypes resembling clinical features of ALS such as progressive motor defects, neurodegeneration and muscle atrophy. Taking advantage of zebrafish's embryonic development that solely relys on yolk usage until 5 days post fertilization, we demonstrated that microglia proliferation and activation in the hypothalamus is independent from food intake. By comparing CytoTDP to a previously generated TDP-43 knockout line, transcriptomic analyses revealed that mis-localization of endogenous TDP-43, rather than TDP-43 nuclear loss of function, leads to early onset metabolic dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS The new TDP-43 model mimics the ALS/FTLD hallmark of progressive motor dysfunction. Our results suggest that functional deficits of the hypothalamus, the metabolic regulatory center, might be the primary cause of weight loss in ALS patients. Cytoplasmic gain of function of endogenous TDP-43 leads to metabolic dysfunction in vivo that are reminiscent of early ALS clinical non-motor metabolic alterations. Thus, the CytoTDP zebrafish model offers a unique opportunity to identify mis-regulated targets for therapeutic intervention early in disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiying Hu
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Munich, Munich, Germany
- Metabolic Biochemistry, Biomedical Centre (BMC), Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilian University, Munich, Germany
- Munich Medical Research School (MMRS), Munich, Germany
| | - Alexander Hruscha
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Chenchen Pan
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Martina Schifferer
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Munich, Munich, Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
| | - Michael K Schmidt
- Zentrum Für Neuropathologie, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany
| | - Brigitte Nuscher
- Metabolic Biochemistry, Biomedical Centre (BMC), Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilian University, Munich, Germany
| | - Martin Giera
- Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | | | - Özge Burhan
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Frauke van Bebber
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Dieter Edbauer
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Munich, Munich, Germany
- Metabolic Biochemistry, Biomedical Centre (BMC), Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilian University, Munich, Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Arzberger
- Zentrum Für Neuropathologie, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany
| | - Christian Haass
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Munich, Munich, Germany
- Metabolic Biochemistry, Biomedical Centre (BMC), Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilian University, Munich, Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
| | - Bettina Schmid
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Munich, Munich, Germany.
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15
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Jacobsen AB, Bostock H, Howells J, Cengiz B, Samusyte G, Koltzenburg M, Pia H, Fuglsang-Frederiksen A, Blicher J, Obál I, Andersen H, Tankisi H. Threshold tracking transcranial magnetic stimulation and neurofilament light chain as diagnostic aids in ALS. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2024. [PMID: 38894662 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.52095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is a need for sensitive biomarkers in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), to enable earlier diagnosis and to help assess potential treatments. The main objective of this study was to compare two potential biomarkers, threshold-tracking short-interval cortical inhibition (T-SICI), which has shown promise as a diagnostic aid, and neurofilament light chains (NfL). METHODS Ninety-seven patients with ALS (mean age 67.1 ± 11.5 years) and 53 ALS mimics (aged 62.4 ± 12.9) were included. Mean disease duration was 14 months ±14.1. Patients were evaluated with revised ALS functional rating score (ALSFRS-R), Penn upper motor neuron score (UMNS), muscle strength using the Medical Research Council (MRC) score and examined with T-SICI, quantitative electromyography (EMG), and NfL measured in spinal fluid. RESULTS NfL increased with increasing UMNS (rho = 0.45, p = 8.2 × 10-6) whereas T-SICI at 2.5 ms paradoxically increased toward normal values (rho = 0.53, p = 1.9 × 10-7). However, these two measures were uncorrelated. Discrimination between ALS patients and mimics was best for NfL (area under ROC curve 0.842, sensitivity 84.9%, specificity 83.5%), compared with T-SICI (0.675, 39.6%, 91.8%). For the patients with no UMN signs, NfL also discriminated best (0.884, 89.3%, 82.6%), compared with T-SICI (0.811, 71.4%, 82.6%). However, when combining NfL and T-SICI, higher AUCs of 0.854 and 0.922 and specificities of 93.8 and 100 were found when considering all patients and patients with no UMN signs, respectively. INTERPRETATION Both T-SICI and NfL correlated with UMN involvement and combined, they provided a strong discrimination between ALS patients and ALS mimics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna B Jacobsen
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, 8200, Denmark
| | - Hugh Bostock
- UCL Queen Square, Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - James Howells
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Bülent Cengiz
- Department of Neurology, Gazi University Faculty of Medicine, Beşevler, 06570, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Gintaute Samusyte
- Department of Neurology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, 44307, Lithuania
- Department of Neurology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Hospital Kauno Klinikos, Kaunas, 50161, Lithuania
| | - Martin Koltzenburg
- UCL Queen Square, Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, WC1N 3BG, UK
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London, WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Hossein Pia
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, 8200, Denmark
| | | | - Jakob Blicher
- Department of Neurology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, 9000, Denmark
| | - Izabella Obál
- Department of Neurology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, 9000, Denmark
| | - Henning Andersen
- Department of Neurology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, 8200, Denmark
| | - Hatice Tankisi
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, 8200, Denmark
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16
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Vilardo B, De Marchi F, Raineri D, Manfredi M, De Giorgis V, Bebeti A, Scotti L, Kustrimovic N, Cappellano G, Mazzini L, Chiocchetti A. Shotgun Proteomics Links Proteoglycan-4 + Extracellular Vesicles to Cognitive Protection in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Biomolecules 2024; 14:727. [PMID: 38927130 PMCID: PMC11202157 DOI: 10.3390/biom14060727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder lacking reliable biomarkers for early diagnosis and disease progression monitoring. This study aimed to identify the novel biomarkers in plasmatic extracellular vesicles (EVs) isolated from ALS patients and healthy controls (HCs). A total of 61 ALS patients and 30 age-matched HCs were enrolled in the study and the protein content of circulating EVs was analyzed by shotgun proteomics. The study was divided into a discovery phase (involving 12 ALS and 12 HC patients) and a validation one (involving 49 ALS and 20 HC patients). In the discovery phase, more than 300 proteins were identified, with 32 proteins showing differential regulation in ALS patients compared to HCs. In the validation phase, over 400 proteins were identified, with 20 demonstrating differential regulation in ALS patients compared to HCs. Notably, seven proteins were found to be common to both phases, all of which were significantly upregulated in EVs from ALS patients. Most of them have previously been linked to ALS since they have been detected in the serum or cerebrospinal fluid of ALS patients. Among them, proteoglycan (PRG)-4, also known as lubricin, was of particular interest since it was significantly increased in ALS patients with normal cognitive and motor functions. This study highlights the significance of EVs as a promising avenue for biomarker discovery in ALS. Moreover, it sheds light on the unexpected role of PRG-4 in relation to cognitive status in ALS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Vilardo
- Department of Health Sciences, Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases-IRCAD, University of Eastern Piedmont, 28100 Novara, Italy; (B.V.); (D.R.); (N.K.); (G.C.)
- Center for Translational Research on Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, University of Eastern Piedmont, 28100 Novara, Italy; (M.M.); (V.D.G.)
| | - Fabiola De Marchi
- Department of Neurology and ALS Center, University Hospital “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy; (F.D.M.); (A.B.); (L.M.)
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Eastern Piedmont, 28100 Novara, Italy;
| | - Davide Raineri
- Department of Health Sciences, Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases-IRCAD, University of Eastern Piedmont, 28100 Novara, Italy; (B.V.); (D.R.); (N.K.); (G.C.)
- Center for Translational Research on Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, University of Eastern Piedmont, 28100 Novara, Italy; (M.M.); (V.D.G.)
| | - Marcello Manfredi
- Center for Translational Research on Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, University of Eastern Piedmont, 28100 Novara, Italy; (M.M.); (V.D.G.)
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Eastern Piedmont, 28100 Novara, Italy;
| | - Veronica De Giorgis
- Center for Translational Research on Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, University of Eastern Piedmont, 28100 Novara, Italy; (M.M.); (V.D.G.)
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Eastern Piedmont, 28100 Novara, Italy;
| | - Alen Bebeti
- Department of Neurology and ALS Center, University Hospital “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy; (F.D.M.); (A.B.); (L.M.)
| | - Lorenza Scotti
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Eastern Piedmont, 28100 Novara, Italy;
| | - Natasa Kustrimovic
- Department of Health Sciences, Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases-IRCAD, University of Eastern Piedmont, 28100 Novara, Italy; (B.V.); (D.R.); (N.K.); (G.C.)
- Center for Translational Research on Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, University of Eastern Piedmont, 28100 Novara, Italy; (M.M.); (V.D.G.)
| | - Giuseppe Cappellano
- Department of Health Sciences, Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases-IRCAD, University of Eastern Piedmont, 28100 Novara, Italy; (B.V.); (D.R.); (N.K.); (G.C.)
- Center for Translational Research on Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, University of Eastern Piedmont, 28100 Novara, Italy; (M.M.); (V.D.G.)
| | - Letizia Mazzini
- Department of Neurology and ALS Center, University Hospital “Maggiore della Carità”, 28100 Novara, Italy; (F.D.M.); (A.B.); (L.M.)
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Eastern Piedmont, 28100 Novara, Italy;
| | - Annalisa Chiocchetti
- Department of Health Sciences, Interdisciplinary Research Center of Autoimmune Diseases-IRCAD, University of Eastern Piedmont, 28100 Novara, Italy; (B.V.); (D.R.); (N.K.); (G.C.)
- Center for Translational Research on Autoimmune and Allergic Diseases, University of Eastern Piedmont, 28100 Novara, Italy; (M.M.); (V.D.G.)
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Jiang Q, Lin J, Wei Q, Yang T, Hou Y, Zhang L, Ou R, Xiao Y, Wang S, Zheng X, Li C, Shang H. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients with various gene mutations show diverse motor phenotypes and survival in China. J Med Genet 2024:jmg-2024-109909. [PMID: 38886047 DOI: 10.1136/jmg-2024-109909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder characterised by progressive degeneration of motor neurons. Genetic factors have a substantial impact on ALS. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the correlation between genotype (SOD1, TARDBP, FUS, C9orf72) and phenotype in ALS. METHODS Genetic analysis was performed on 2038 patients with ALS, among which 1696 patients with sporadic ALS (SALS) as controls for genotype-phenotype analysis, and 1602 SALS as controls for survival analysis. Logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS A total of 172 patients with ALS with the gene mutations were included in the statistical analysis (SOD1, n=65; FUS, n=43; TARDBP, n=27; C9orf72, n=37). SOD1 mutations were more frequent in flail leg phenotype (OR 7.317, p=0.001) and less in bulbar phenotype (OR 0.222, p=0.038). C9orf72 expansions exhibited higher frequency in bulbar phenotype (OR 2.770, p=0.008). SOD1 and FUS mutations were significantly associated with earlier age of onset (HR 2.039, p<0.001; HR 1.762, p=0.001). The patients with SOD1 mutations, C9orf72 expansions and those carrying pathogenic FUS mutations had significantly increased death risk (HR 2.217, p<0.001; HR 1.694, p=0.008; HR 1.652, p=0.036). The increased risk of death in ALS with C9orf72 expansions was significant in females (HR 2.419, p=0.014) but not in males (HR 1.442, p=0.128). CONCLUSION Our study revealed distinct motor phenotypic tendencies in patients with ALS with different genotypes, indicating variations in the vulnerability of motor neurons during the disease's progression. Furthermore, we made novel discoveries regarding survival of different gene mutations, warranting further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qirui Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Junyu Lin
- Department of Neurology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Qianqian Wei
- Department of Neurology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Tianmi Yang
- Department of Neurology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yanbing Hou
- Department of Neurology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Lingyu Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ruwei Ou
- Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yi Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Shichan Wang
- Department of Neurology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaoting Zheng
- Department of Neurology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Chunyu Li
- Department of Neurology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Huifang Shang
- Department of Neurology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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18
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van Neerven GJL, Schelling WJ, van den Borne K, Bijleveld K, Baars A, Flink H, Gilissen LPL. The periprocedural respiratory safety of propofol sedation in patients with a motor neuron disease undergoing percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy insertion. J Neurol Sci 2024; 461:123049. [PMID: 38788288 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2024.123049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Motor neuron diseases (MND), such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Primary Lateral Sclerosis (PLS), may cause swallowing and respiratory problems, due to muscle weakness. Chronic enteral feeding via percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is often indicated in these patients. PEG insertion is normally performed with sedation. Some guidelines withhold sedation in MND patients, due to the risk of respiratory complications. These guidelines seem to be defensive however and evidence is lacking. Our aim was to examine periprocedural respiratory complications occurring in MND patients undergoing PEG insertion with propofol sedation. A retrospective monocentre study was conducted in a referral hospital with an experienced PEG team. Patients with MND who underwent PEG insertion with propofol sedation between January 1. 2016 to January 1. 2023 were analysed to identify periprocedural respiratory complications. 46 patients were included. In five patients (10.9%) respiratory adverse events (AE) occurred, of which two serious (4.3%) and four AE (8.7%). Serious AE (SAE) were fatal in both cases: aspiration pneumonia (2.2%) and hypercapnia (2.2%) a few days after insertion. Sedation may have influenced the first case. Respiratory AE consisted of desaturation in two (4.3%), mild aspiration pneumonia in one (2.2%), and apnea in one patient (2.2%). Compared to previous studies respiratory complications and mortality had comparable prevalences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giel J L van Neerven
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Catharina Hospital Eindhoven, Michelangelolaan 2, 5623 EJ Eindhoven, the Netherlands.
| | - Willem-Jan Schelling
- Department of Anaesthesiology Catharina Hospital Eindhoven, Michelangelolaan 2, 5623 EJ Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | - Katrien van den Borne
- Libra Centre for Rehabilitation Medicine, Location Blixembosch, Toledolaan 2, 5629 CC Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | - Kim Bijleveld
- Department of Anaesthesiology Catharina Hospital Eindhoven, Michelangelolaan 2, 5623 EJ Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | - Arlinda Baars
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Catharina Hospital Eindhoven, Michelangelolaan 2, 5623 EJ Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | - Hajo Flink
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Catharina Hospital Eindhoven, Michelangelolaan 2, 5623 EJ Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | - Lennard P L Gilissen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Catharina Hospital Eindhoven, Michelangelolaan 2, 5623 EJ Eindhoven, the Netherlands
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Irastorza-Valera L, Soria-Gómez E, Benitez JM, Montáns FJ, Saucedo-Mora L. Review of the Brain's Behaviour after Injury and Disease for Its Application in an Agent-Based Model (ABM). Biomimetics (Basel) 2024; 9:362. [PMID: 38921242 PMCID: PMC11202129 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics9060362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The brain is the most complex organ in the human body and, as such, its study entails great challenges (methodological, theoretical, etc.). Nonetheless, there is a remarkable amount of studies about the consequences of pathological conditions on its development and functioning. This bibliographic review aims to cover mostly findings related to changes in the physical distribution of neurons and their connections-the connectome-both structural and functional, as well as their modelling approaches. It does not intend to offer an extensive description of all conditions affecting the brain; rather, it presents the most common ones. Thus, here, we highlight the need for accurate brain modelling that can subsequently be used to understand brain function and be applied to diagnose, track, and simulate treatments for the most prevalent pathologies affecting the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Irastorza-Valera
- E.T.S. de Ingeniería Aeronáutica y del Espacio, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Pza. Cardenal Cisneros 3, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (L.I.-V.); (J.M.B.); (F.J.M.)
- PIMM Laboratory, ENSAM–Arts et Métiers ParisTech, 151 Bd de l’Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Edgar Soria-Gómez
- Achúcarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Barrio Sarriena, s/n, 48940 Leioa, Spain;
- Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, Plaza Euskadi, 5, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
- Department of Neurosciences, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Barrio Sarriena, s/n, 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - José María Benitez
- E.T.S. de Ingeniería Aeronáutica y del Espacio, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Pza. Cardenal Cisneros 3, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (L.I.-V.); (J.M.B.); (F.J.M.)
| | - Francisco J. Montáns
- E.T.S. de Ingeniería Aeronáutica y del Espacio, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Pza. Cardenal Cisneros 3, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (L.I.-V.); (J.M.B.); (F.J.M.)
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Luis Saucedo-Mora
- E.T.S. de Ingeniería Aeronáutica y del Espacio, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Pza. Cardenal Cisneros 3, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (L.I.-V.); (J.M.B.); (F.J.M.)
- Department of Materials, University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PJ, UK
- Department of Nuclear Science and Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), 77 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
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20
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Wang LY, Zhang L, Bai XY, Qiang RR, Zhang N, Hu QQ, Cheng JZ, Yang YL, Xiang Y. The Role of Ferroptosis in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Treatment. Neurochem Res 2024:10.1007/s11064-024-04194-w. [PMID: 38864944 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-024-04194-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rare neurodegenerative disease with a challenging treatment landscape, due to its complex pathogenesis and limited availability of clinical drugs. Ferroptosis, an iron-dependent form of programmed cell death (PCD), stands distinct from apoptosis, necrosis, autophagy, and other cell death mechanisms. Recent studies have increasingly highlighted the role of iron deposition, reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, oxidative stress, as well as systemic Xc- and glutamate accumulation in the antioxidant system in the pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Therefore, targeting ferroptosis emerges as a promising strategy for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis treatment. This review introduces the regulatory mechanism of ferroptosis, the relationship between amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and ferroptosis, and the drugs used in the clinic, then discusses the current status of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis treatment, hoping to provide new directions and targets for its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Yi Wang
- Yan 'an Small Molecule Innovative Drug R&D Engineering Research Center, School of Medicine, Yan'an University, Yan'an, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Yan 'an Small Molecule Innovative Drug R&D Engineering Research Center, School of Medicine, Yan'an University, Yan'an, China
| | - Xin Yue Bai
- Yan 'an Small Molecule Innovative Drug R&D Engineering Research Center, School of Medicine, Yan'an University, Yan'an, China
| | - Rong Rong Qiang
- Yan 'an Small Molecule Innovative Drug R&D Engineering Research Center, School of Medicine, Yan'an University, Yan'an, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- Yan 'an Small Molecule Innovative Drug R&D Engineering Research Center, School of Medicine, Yan'an University, Yan'an, China
| | - Qian Qian Hu
- Yan 'an Small Molecule Innovative Drug R&D Engineering Research Center, School of Medicine, Yan'an University, Yan'an, China
| | - Jun Zhi Cheng
- Yan 'an Small Molecule Innovative Drug R&D Engineering Research Center, School of Medicine, Yan'an University, Yan'an, China
| | - Yan Ling Yang
- Yan 'an Small Molecule Innovative Drug R&D Engineering Research Center, School of Medicine, Yan'an University, Yan'an, China
| | - Yang Xiang
- College of Physical Education, Yan'an University, Shaanxi, 716000, China.
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21
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Jia Q, Song Y, Zhang C, Li M, Feng L, Sugimoto K, Zhang X, Liu J, Gao Y. Reasons and experience for patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis using traditional Chinese medicine: a CARE-TCM based mixed method study. BMC Complement Med Ther 2024; 24:231. [PMID: 38867220 PMCID: PMC11167840 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-024-04513-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is widely used by patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, their reasons and experience in using TCM have received insufficient attention. Therefore, we conducted a mixed method study to gain insights into this issue. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study was conducted on the basis of the China Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Registry of Patients with Traditional Chinese Medicine (CARE-TCM). Data were collected from Dongzhimen Hospital through a mixed method approach, including a questionnaire and a semi-structured interview. Patients with ALS who were using TCM when they were initially registered with CARE-TCM and who had been followed-up for over six months were recruited. The questionnaires' outcomes were statistically outlined, and the interview transcripts were thematically analysed to identify themes and sub-themes. RESULTS Fifty-two and sixteen patients were included in the questionnaire and semi-structured interview groups, respectively. Patients used TCM with the hope of regulating their body holistically to improve nonmotor symptoms and quality of life (QOL). Those who recognised TCM as ineffective tended to discontinue it after a three-month trial period. Although quality was a major concern, herbal medicine (HM) was the most frequently used modality among all participants (n = 52), with the majority (n = 44, 84.6%) continuing to use it. Patients emphasised in-person consultations as a crucial part of TCM treatment. However, the disability caused by disease often made this interaction unattainable. CONCLUSION Nonmotor symptoms and QOL hold substantial importance for patients with ALS using TCM. HM is a more suitable modality than other TCM treatment modalities, but patients are facing challenges in seeking HM treatment. It is necessary to promote the implementation of hierarchical diagnosis and treatment, thus making TCM more accessible. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04885374 (registered on May 13, 2021).
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuyang Jia
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yuebo Song
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Mingxuan Li
- Gansu provincial Hospital of traditional Chinese medicine, Gansu, China
| | - Luda Feng
- Dongfang Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Kazuo Sugimoto
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xuebin Zhang
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Gao
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.
- Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.
- Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China.
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22
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Zhang Z, He X, Cui J, Wang J, Shi B. Translation and reliability and validity of the Chinese version of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis-Specific Quality of Life-Short Form. J Patient Rep Outcomes 2024; 8:57. [PMID: 38856805 PMCID: PMC11164839 DOI: 10.1186/s41687-024-00738-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To translate Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis-Specific Quality of Life-Short Form (ALSSQOL-SF) and test its reliability and validity, so that explore feasibility in Chinese mainland and make up the gap of specific tools for measuring quality of life of patients with ALS. METHODS This was a cross-sectional design. The Brislin translation model was used to translate ALSSQOL-SF, and the Chinese version of ALSSQOL-SF (C-ALSSQOL-SF) was revised through cultural adaptation and pre-test. The convenience sampling method was used to investigate 138 patients with ALS in Tianjin to test the reliability and validity of the C-ALSSQOL-SF. RESULTS The C-ALSSQOL-SF included 20 items, covering 6 dimensions: physical symptoms, bulbar function, negative emotion, interaction with people and the environment, religiosity and intimacy. The scale-level content validity index (S-CVI) of C-ALSSQOL-SF was 0.964, and the item-level content validity index (I-CVI) was between 0.857 to 1.000. The results of Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) showed that CMIN/DF = 1.161, RMSEA = 0.034, GFI = 0.892, IFI = 0.976, TLI = 0.969, CFI = 0.975, and the 6-factor model fitted well. The scores of C-ALSSQOL-SF and WHOQOL-BREF were positively correlated (r = 0.745). The Cronbach's α coefficient of the scale was 0.85, the Cronbach's α coefficient of each dimension was between 0.59 to 0.86, and the split-half reliability was 0.78. CONCLUSION The Chinese version of ALSSQOL-SF has good reliability and validity, and can be used as a tool to evaluate the quality of life of patients with ALS in Chinese mainland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhijie Zhang
- Hospice Care Research Center, Tianjin Medical University, 22 Qi Xiang Tai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Xin He
- Hospice Care Research Center, Tianjin Medical University, 22 Qi Xiang Tai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, China
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, 24 Binshui Road, Hexi District, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Jialu Cui
- Hospice Care Research Center, Tianjin Medical University, 22 Qi Xiang Tai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Hospice Care Research Center, Tianjin Medical University, 22 Qi Xiang Tai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Baoxin Shi
- Hospice Care Research Center, Tianjin Medical University, 22 Qi Xiang Tai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, China.
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Su H, Wang Z, Zhou L, Liu D, Zhang N. Regulation of the Nrf2/HO-1 axis by mesenchymal stem cells-derived extracellular vesicles: implications for disease treatment. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1397954. [PMID: 38915448 PMCID: PMC11194436 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1397954] [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: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
This comprehensive review inspects the therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs) across multiple organ systems. Examining their impact on the integumentary, respiratory, cardiovascular, urinary, and skeletal systems, the study highlights the versatility of MSC-EVs in addressing diverse medical conditions. Key pathways, such as Nrf2/HO-1, consistently emerge as central mediators of their antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. From expediting diabetic wound healing to mitigating oxidative stress-induced skin injuries, alleviating acute lung injuries, and even offering solutions for conditions like myocardial infarction and renal ischemia-reperfusion injury, MSC-EVs demonstrate promising therapeutic efficacy. Their adaptability to different administration routes and identifying specific factors opens avenues for innovative regenerative strategies. This review positions MSC-EVs as promising candidates for future clinical applications, providing a comprehensive overview of their potential impact on regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Su
- Xingyi People’s Hospital, Xingyi, China
| | | | - Lidan Zhou
- The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Dezhi Liu
- Xingyi People’s Hospital, Xingyi, China
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24
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Ambrosini A, Dalla Bella E, Ravasi M, Melazzini M, Lauria G. New clinical insight in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and innovative clinical development from the non-profit repurposing trial of the old drug guanabenz. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1407912. [PMID: 38915767 PMCID: PMC11194437 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1407912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Drug repurposing is considered a valid approach to accelerate therapeutic solutions for rare diseases. However, it is not as widely applied as it could be, due to several barriers that discourage both industry and academic institutions from pursuing this path. Herein we present the case of an academic multicentre study that considered the repurposing of the old drug guanabenz as a therapeutic strategy in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The difficulties encountered are discussed as an example of the barriers that academics involved in this type of study may face. Although further development of the drug for this target population was hampered for several reasons, the study was successful in many ways. Firstly, because the hypothesis tested was confirmed in a sub-population, leading to alternative innovative solutions that are now under clinical investigation. In addition, the study was informative and provided new insights into the disease, which are now giving new impetus to laboratory research. The message from this example is that even a repurposing study with an old product has the potential to generate innovation and interest from industry partners, provided it is based on a sound rationale, the study design is adequate to ensure meaningful results, and the investigators keep the full clinical development picture in mind.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Ambrosini
- Fondazione AriSLA ETS, Milan, Italy
- Fondazione Telethon ETS, Milan, Italy
| | - Eleonora Dalla Bella
- 3rd Neurology Unit and ALS Centre, IRCCS 'Carlo Besta' Neurological Institute, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Giuseppe Lauria
- IRCCS 'Carlo Besta' Neurological Institute, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Yang Y, Qiu L. Research Progress on the Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Drug Therapy of Alzheimer's Disease. Brain Sci 2024; 14:590. [PMID: 38928590 PMCID: PMC11201671 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14060590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
As the population ages worldwide, Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most prevalent kind of neurodegenerative disorder among older people, has become a significant factor affecting quality of life, public health, and economies. However, the exact pathogenesis of Alzheimer's remains elusive, and existing highly recognized pathogenesis includes the amyloid cascade hypothesis, Tau neurofibrillary tangles hypothesis, and neuroinflammation hypothesis. The major diagnoses of Alzheimer's disease include neuroimaging positron emission computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and cerebrospinal fluid molecular diagnosis. The therapy of Alzheimer's disease primarily relies on drugs, and the approved drugs on the market include acetylcholinesterase drugs, glutamate receptor antagonists, and amyloid-β monoclonal antibodies. Still, the existing drugs can only alleviate the symptoms of the disease and cannot completely reverse it. This review aims to summarize existing research results on Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis, diagnosis, and drug therapy, with the objective of facilitating future research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixuan Yang
- College of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China;
| | - Lina Qiu
- College of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China;
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Science and Application of Functional Molecular and Crystalline Materials, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
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Levison LS, Jepsen P, Andersen H. Registration of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Validity in the Danish National Patient Registry. Clin Epidemiol 2024; 16:409-415. [PMID: 38860134 PMCID: PMC11164206 DOI: 10.2147/clep.s458661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Health care databases are a valuable source for epidemiological research on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) if diagnosis codes are valid. We evaluated the validity of the diagnostic codes for ALS in the Danish National Patient Registry (DNPR). Patients and Methods We obtained data from the DNPR for all adult (>17 years) patients registered with ALS in Denmark between 1987 and 2022 (median population of 4.2 million during the study period). We randomly selected adult patients living in the North Denmark Region and Central Denmark Region (median population 1.4 million), with a primary discharge diagnosis code of ALS, diagnosed at three departments of neurology. We retrieved and reviewed medical records and estimated the positive predictive value (PPV) of the ALS diagnosis. Results Over 36 years, we identified 5679 patients. From the validation cohort of 300 patients, we were able to retrieve 240 (80%) medical records, and 215 ALS diagnoses were confirmed. The overall positive predictive value was 89.6% (95% confidence interval (CI): 85.1-92.8). The highest PPV was achieved for diagnoses registered for patients aged ≥70 years (93.8; 95% CI: 86.2-97.3) compared to patients <60 years (83.4; 95% CI: 73.3-90.7). Conclusion We found a high PPV of primary diagnostic codes for ALS from Danish departments of neurology, demonstrating high validity. Thus, the DNPR is a well-suited data source for large-scale epidemiological research on ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter Jepsen
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Henning Andersen
- Department of Neurology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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Scaber J, Thomas-Wright I, Clark AJ, Xu Y, Vahsen BF, Carcolé M, Dafinca R, Farrimond L, Isaacs AM, Bennett DL, Talbot K. Cellular and axonal transport phenotypes due to the C9ORF72 HRE in iPSC motor and sensory neurons. Stem Cell Reports 2024:S2213-6711(24)00150-4. [PMID: 38876108 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2024.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived motor neurons (MNs) from patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and the C9ORF72 hexanucleotide repeat expansion (HRE) have multiple cellular phenotypes, but which of these accurately reflect the biology underlying the cell-specific vulnerability of ALS is uncertain. We therefore compared phenotypes due to the C9ORF72 HRE in MNs with sensory neurons (SNs), which are relatively spared in ALS. The iPSC models were able to partially reproduce the differential gene expression seen between adult SNs and MNs. We demonstrated that the typical hallmarks of C9ORF72-ALS, including RNA foci and dipeptide formation, as well as specific axonal transport defects, occurred equally in MNs and SNs, suggesting that these in vitro phenotypes are not sufficient to explain the cell-type selectivity of ALS in isolation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Scaber
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, OX3 9DU Oxford, UK; Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford, Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building, OX1 3QU Oxford, UK.
| | - Iona Thomas-Wright
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, OX3 9DU Oxford, UK; Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford, Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building, OX1 3QU Oxford, UK
| | - Alex J Clark
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, OX3 9DU Oxford, UK; Centre for Neuroscience, Surgery and Trauma, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University, E1 2AT London, UK
| | - Yinyan Xu
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, OX3 9DU Oxford, UK; Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford, Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building, OX1 3QU Oxford, UK; Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS), CAMS Oxford Institute (COI), Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, OX3 7FZ Oxford, UK
| | - Björn F Vahsen
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, OX3 9DU Oxford, UK; Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford, Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building, OX1 3QU Oxford, UK
| | - Mireia Carcolé
- UK Dementia Research Institute at UCL and Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, WCIN 3BG London, UK
| | - Ruxandra Dafinca
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, OX3 9DU Oxford, UK; Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford, Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building, OX1 3QU Oxford, UK
| | - Lucy Farrimond
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, OX3 9DU Oxford, UK; Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford, Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building, OX1 3QU Oxford, UK
| | - Adrian M Isaacs
- UK Dementia Research Institute at UCL and Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, WCIN 3BG London, UK
| | - David L Bennett
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, OX3 9DU Oxford, UK
| | - Kevin Talbot
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, OX3 9DU Oxford, UK; Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, University of Oxford, Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin Building, OX1 3QU Oxford, UK.
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Al-kuraishy HM, Jabir MS, Sulaiman GM, Mohammed HA, Al-Gareeb AI, Albuhadily AK, Jawad SF, Swelum AA, Abomughaid MM. The role of statins in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: protective or not? Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1422912. [PMID: 38903602 PMCID: PMC11188367 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1422912] [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: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease of motor neurons characterized by muscle weakness, muscle twitching, and muscle wasting. ALS is regarded as the third-most frequent neurodegenerative disease, subsequent to Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). The World Health Organization (WHO) in 2007 declared that prolonged use of statins may induce development of ALS-like syndrome and may increase ALS risk. Subsequently, different studies have implicated statins in the pathogenesis of ALS. In contrast, results from preclinical and clinical studies highlighted the protective role of statins against ALS neuropathology. Recently, meta-analyses and systematic reviews illustrated no association between long-term use of statins and ALS risk. These findings highlighted controversial points regarding the effects of statins on ALS pathogenesis and risk. The neuroprotective effects of statins against the development and progression of ALS may be mediated by regulating dyslipidemia and inflammatory changes. However, the mechanism for induction of ALS neuropathology by statins may be related to the dysregulation of liver X receptor signaling (LXR) signaling in the motor neurons and reduction of cholesterol, which has a neuroprotective effect against ALS neuropathology. Nevertheless, the exact role of statins on the pathogenesis of ALS was not fully elucidated. Therefore, this narrative review aims to discuss the role of statins in ALS neuropathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayder M. Al-kuraishy
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Majid S. Jabir
- Department of Applied Sciences, University of Technology, Baghdad, Iraq
| | | | - Hamdoon A. Mohammed
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Medicinal Plants, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ali I. Al-Gareeb
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, Jabir Ibn Hayyan Medical University, Kufa, Iraq
| | - Ali K. Albuhadily
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Sabrean F. Jawad
- Department of Pharmacy, Al-Mustaqbal University College, Hillah, Iraq
| | - Ayman A. Swelum
- Department of Animal Production, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mosleh M. Abomughaid
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Bisha, Bisha, Saudi Arabia
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López-Carbonero JI, García-Toledo I, Fernández-Hernández L, Bascuñana P, Gil-Moreno MJ, Matías-Guiu JA, Corrochano S. In vivo diagnosis of TDP-43 proteinopathies: in search of biomarkers of clinical use. Transl Neurodegener 2024; 13:29. [PMID: 38831349 PMCID: PMC11149336 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-024-00419-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
TDP-43 proteinopathies are a heterogeneous group of neurodegenerative disorders that share the presence of aberrant, misfolded and mislocalized deposits of the protein TDP-43, as in the case of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and some, but not all, pathological variants of frontotemporal dementia. In recent years, many other diseases have been reported to have primary or secondary TDP-43 proteinopathy, such as Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease or the recently described limbic-predominant age-related TDP-43 encephalopathy, highlighting the need for new and accurate methods for the early detection of TDP-43 proteinopathy to help on the stratification of patients with overlapping clinical diagnosis. Currently, TDP-43 proteinopathy remains a post-mortem pathologic diagnosis. Although the main aim is to determine the pathologic TDP-43 proteinopathy in the central nervous system (CNS), the ubiquitous expression of TDP-43 in biofluids and cells outside the CNS facilitates the use of other accessible target tissues that might reflect the potential TDP-43 alterations in the brain. In this review, we describe the main developments in the early detection of TDP-43 proteinopathies, and their potential implications on diagnosis and future treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan I López-Carbonero
- Neurological Disorders Group, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene García-Toledo
- Neurological Disorders Group, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Fernández-Hernández
- Neurological Disorders Group, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pablo Bascuñana
- Neurological Disorders Group, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - María J Gil-Moreno
- Neurological Disorders Group, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jordi A Matías-Guiu
- Neurological Disorders Group, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Silvia Corrochano
- Neurological Disorders Group, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040, Madrid, Spain.
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Petri S. Acceptance and commitment therapy in improving quality of life in motor neuron disease. Lancet 2024; 403:2350-2351. [PMID: 38735297 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(24)00753-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Petri
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany.
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Walker FO. Fasciculomics or fasciculometrics? Clin Neurophysiol 2024; 162:1. [PMID: 38547585 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2024.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Francis O Walker
- Emeritus Professor of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, United States.
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Li X, Bedlack R. Evaluating emerging drugs in phase II & III for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2024; 29:93-102. [PMID: 38516735 DOI: 10.1080/14728214.2024.2333420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis is a rapidly progressive motor neuron disorder causing severe disability and premature death. Owing to the advances in uncovering ALS pathophysiology, efficient clinical trial design and research advocacy program, several disease-modifying drugs have been approved for treating ALS. Despite this progress, ALS remains a rapidly disabling and life shortening condition. There is a critical need for more effective therapies. AREAS COVERED Here, we reviewed the emerging ALS therapeutics undergoing phase II & III clinical trials. To identify the investigational drugs, we searched ALS and phase II/III trials that are active and recruiting or not yet recruiting on clinicaltrials.gov and Pharmaprojects database. EXPERT OPINION The current pipeline is larger and more diverse than ever, with drugs targeting potential genetic and retroviral causes of ALS and drugs targeting a wide array of downstream pathways, including RNA metabolism, protein aggregation, integrated stress response and neuroinflammation.We remain most excited about those that target direct causes of ALS, e.g. antisense oligonucleotides targeting causative genes. Drugs that eliminate abnormal protein aggregates are also up-and-coming. Eventually, because of the heterogeneity of ALS pathophysiology, biomarkers that determine which biological events are most important for an individual ALS patient are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Li
- Department of Neurology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
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Dewangan D, Joshi A, Padhi AK. Long-timescale atomistic simulations uncover loss-of-function mechanisms of uncharacterized Angiogenin mutants associated with ALS. Arch Biochem Biophys 2024; 756:110000. [PMID: 38621442 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2024.110000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive degeneration of motor neurons, resulting in respiratory failure and mortality within 3-5 years. Mutations in the Angiogenin (ANG) cause loss of ribonucleolytic and nuclear translocation activities, contributing to ALS pathogenesis. This study focused on investigating two uncharacterized ANG mutations, T11S and R122H, newly identified in the Project Mine consortium. Using extensive computational analysis, including structural modeling and microsecond-timescale molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, we observed conformational changes in the catalytic residue His114 of ANG induced by T11S and R122H mutations. These alterations impaired ribonucleolytic activity, as inferred through molecular docking and binding free energy calculations. Gibbs free energy landscape and residue-residue interaction network analysis further supported our findings, revealing the energetic states and allosteric pathway from the mutated site to His114. Additionally, we assessed the binding of NCI-65828, an inhibitor of ribonucleolytic activity of ANG, and found reduced effectiveness in binding to T11S and R122H mutants when His114 assumed a non-native conformation. This highlights the crucial role of His114 and its association with ALS. Elucidating the relationship between physical structure and functional dynamics of frequently mutated ANG mutants is essential for understanding ALS pathogenesis and developing more effective therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deeksha Dewangan
- Laboratory for Computational Biology & Biomolecular Design, School of Biochemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi, 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Aryaman Joshi
- Department of Chemical Engineering & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi, 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Aditya K Padhi
- Laboratory for Computational Biology & Biomolecular Design, School of Biochemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi, 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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Ropert B, Gallrein C, Schumacher B. DNA repair deficiencies and neurodegeneration. DNA Repair (Amst) 2024; 138:103679. [PMID: 38640601 DOI: 10.1016/j.dnarep.2024.103679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are the second most prevalent cause of death in industrialized countries. Alzheimer's Disease is the most widespread and also most acknowledged form of dementia today. Together with Parkinson's Disease they account for over 90 % cases of neurodegenerative disorders caused by proteopathies. Far less known are the neurodegenerative pathologies in DNA repair deficiency syndromes. Such diseases like Cockayne - or Werner Syndrome are described as progeroid syndromes - diseases that cause the premature ageing of the affected persons, and there are clear implications of such diseases in neurologic dysfunction and degeneration. In this review, we aim to draw the attention on commonalities between proteopathy-associated neurodegeneration and neurodegeneration caused by DNA repair defects and discuss how mitochondria are implicated in the development of both disorder classes. Furthermore, we highlight how nematodes are a valuable and indispensable model organism to study conserved neurodegenerative processes in a fast-forward manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baptiste Ropert
- Institute for Genome Stability in Aging and Disease, Medical Faculty, University and University Hospital of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Str. 26, Cologne 50931, Germany; Cologne Excellence Cluster for Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Str. 26, Cologne 50931, Germany
| | - Christian Gallrein
- Institute for Genome Stability in Aging and Disease, Medical Faculty, University and University Hospital of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Str. 26, Cologne 50931, Germany; Cologne Excellence Cluster for Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Str. 26, Cologne 50931, Germany; Leibniz Institute on Aging - Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Beutenbergstraße 11, Jena 07745, Germany
| | - Björn Schumacher
- Institute for Genome Stability in Aging and Disease, Medical Faculty, University and University Hospital of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Str. 26, Cologne 50931, Germany; Cologne Excellence Cluster for Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Str. 26, Cologne 50931, Germany.
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35
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Pensato U, Cortelli P. Soccer (football) and brain health. J Neurol 2024; 271:3019-3029. [PMID: 38558150 PMCID: PMC11136867 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12320-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Soccer is one of the most popular sports worldwide, played by over 270 million people and followed by many more. Several brain health benefits are promoted by practising soccer and physical exercise at large, which helps contrast the cognitive decline associated with ageing by enhancing neurogenesis processes. However, sport-related concussions have been increasingly recognised as a pressing public health concern, not only due to their acute impact but also, more importantly, due to mounting evidence indicating an elevated risk for the development of neurological sequelae following recurrent head traumas, especially chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). While soccer players experience less frequent concussions compared with other contact or combat sports, such as American football or boxing, it stands alone in its purposeful use of the head to hit the ball (headings), setting its players apart as the only athletes exposed to intentional, sub-concussive head impacts. Additionally, an association between soccer and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis has been consistently observed, suggesting a potential "soccer-specific" risk factor. In this review, we discuss the neurological sequelae related to soccer playing, the emerging evidence of a detrimental effect related to recurrent headings, and the need for implementation of comprehensive strategies aimed at preventing and managing the burden of head impact in soccer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umberto Pensato
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, 20072, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy.
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, via Manzoni 56 Rozzano, 20089, Milan, Italy.
| | - Pietro Cortelli
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and NeuroMotor Sciences (DIBINEM), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Oliveira Santos M, de Carvalho M. Profiling tofersen as a treatment of superoxide dismutase 1 amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Expert Rev Neurother 2024; 24:549-553. [PMID: 38758193 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2024.2355983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rapidly progressive motor neuron disorder with a fatal outcome 3-5 years after disease onset due to respiratory complications. Superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) mutations are found in about 2% of all patients. Tofersen is a novel oligonucleotide antisense drug specifically developed to treat SOD1-ALS patients. AREAS COVERED Our review covers and discusses tofersen pharmacological properties and its phase I/II and III clinical trials results. Other available drugs and their limitations are also addressed. EXPERT OPINION VALOR study failed to meet the primary endpoint (change in the revised Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale score from baseline to week 28, tofersen arm vs. placebo), but a significant reduction in plasma neurofilament light chain (NfL) levels was observed in tofersen arm (60% vs. 20%). PrefALS study has proposed plasma NfL has a potential biomarker for presymptomatic treatment, since it increases 6-12 months before phenoconversion. There is probably a delay between plasma NfL reduction and the clinical benefit. ATLAS study will allow more insights regarding tofersen clinical efficacy in disease progression rate, survival, and even disease onset delay in presymptomatic SOD1 carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Oliveira Santos
- Institute of Physiology, Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Centro de Estudos Egas Moniz, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Mamede de Carvalho
- Institute of Physiology, Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Centro de Estudos Egas Moniz, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
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Wu Y, Zheng W, Xu G, Zhu L, Li Z, Chen J, Wang L, Chen S. C9orf72 controls hepatic lipid metabolism by regulating SREBP1 transport. Cell Death Differ 2024:10.1038/s41418-024-01312-7. [PMID: 38816580 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-024-01312-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Sterol regulatory element binding transcription factors (SREBPs) play a crucial role in lipid homeostasis. They are processed and transported to the nucleus via COPII, where they induce the expression of lipogenic genes. COPII maintains the homeostasis of organelles and plays an essential role in the protein secretion pathways in eukaryotes. The formation of COPII begins at endoplasmic reticulum exit sites (ERES), and is regulated by SEC16A, which provides a platform for the assembly of COPII. However, there have been few studies on the changes in SEC16A protein levels. The repetitive expansion of the hexanucleotide sequence GGGGCC within the chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 (C9orf72) gene is a prevalent factor in the development of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Here, we found that the absence of C9orf72 leads to a decrease in SEC16A protein levels, resulting in reduced localization of the guanine nucleotide exchange factor SEC12 at the ERES. Consequently, the small GTP binding protein SAR1 is unable to bind the endoplasmic reticulum normally, impairing the assembly of COPII. Ultimately, the disruption of SREBPs transport decreases de novo lipogenesis. These results suggest that C9orf72 acts as a novel role in regulating lipid homeostasis and may serve as a potential therapeutic target for obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yachen Wu
- Brain Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Pediatrics, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, 518038, Guangdong, China
| | - Wenzhong Zheng
- Brain Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Guofeng Xu
- Brain Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Lijun Zhu
- Brain Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Zhiqiang Li
- Brain Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Jincao Chen
- Brain Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Lianrong Wang
- Brain Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China.
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Pediatrics, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, 518038, Guangdong, China.
| | - Shi Chen
- Brain Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China.
- Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Microbiology in Genomic Modification & Editing and Application, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Systems Biology and Synthetic Biology for Urogenital Tumors, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518035, China.
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Nowak I, Paździor M, Sarna R, Madej M. Molecular Mechanisms in the Design of Novel Targeted Therapies for Neurodegenerative Diseases. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:5436-5453. [PMID: 38920997 PMCID: PMC11202845 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46060325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are a diverse group of diseases characterized by a progressive loss of neurological function due to damage to nerve cells in the central nervous system. In recent years, there has been a worldwide increase in the expanding associated with increasing human life expectancy. Molecular mechanisms control many of the essential life processes of cells, such as replication, transcription, translation, protein synthesis and gene regulation. These are complex interactions that form the basis for understanding numerous processes in the organism and developing new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. In the context of neurodegenerative diseases, molecular basis refers to changes at the molecular level that cause damage to or degeneration of nerve cells. These may include protein aggregates leading to pathological structures in brain cells, impaired protein transport in nerve cells, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammatory processes or genetic mutations that impair nerve cell function. New medical therapies are based on these mechanisms and include gene therapies, reduction in inflammation and oxidative stress, and the use of miRNAs and regenerative medicine. The aim of this study was to bring together the current state of knowledge regarding selected neurodegenerative diseases, presenting the underlying molecular mechanisms involved, which could be potential targets for new forms of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilona Nowak
- Silesia LabMed, Centre for Research and Implementation, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, 18 Medykow Str., 40-752 Katowice, Poland; (M.P.); (R.S.); (M.M.)
| | - Marlena Paździor
- Silesia LabMed, Centre for Research and Implementation, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, 18 Medykow Str., 40-752 Katowice, Poland; (M.P.); (R.S.); (M.M.)
| | - Robert Sarna
- Silesia LabMed, Centre for Research and Implementation, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, 18 Medykow Str., 40-752 Katowice, Poland; (M.P.); (R.S.); (M.M.)
| | - Marcel Madej
- Silesia LabMed, Centre for Research and Implementation, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, 18 Medykow Str., 40-752 Katowice, Poland; (M.P.); (R.S.); (M.M.)
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
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Dashtmian AR, Darvishi FB, Arnold WD. Chronological and Biological Aging in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and the Potential of Senolytic Therapies. Cells 2024; 13:928. [PMID: 38891059 PMCID: PMC11171952 DOI: 10.3390/cells13110928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a group of sporadic and genetic neurodegenerative disorders that result in losses of upper and lower motor neurons. Treatment of ALS is limited, and survival is 2-5 years after disease onset. While ALS can occur in younger individuals, the risk significantly increases with advancing age. Notably, both sporadic and genetic forms of ALS share pathophysiological features overlapping hallmarks of aging including genome instability/DNA damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, proteostasis, and cellular senescence. This review explores chronological and biological aging in the context of ALS onset and progression. Age-related muscle weakness and motor unit loss mirror aspects of ALS pathology and coincide with peak ALS incidence, suggesting a potential link between aging and disease development. Hallmarks of biological aging, including DNA damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, and cellular senescence, are implicated in both aging and ALS, offering insights into shared mechanisms underlying disease pathogenesis. Furthermore, senescence-associated secretory phenotype and senolytic treatments emerge as promising avenues for ALS intervention, with the potential to mitigate neuroinflammation and modify disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Roshani Dashtmian
- NextGen Precision Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (A.R.D.); (F.B.D.)
- NextGen Precision Health, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Fereshteh B. Darvishi
- NextGen Precision Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (A.R.D.); (F.B.D.)
- NextGen Precision Health, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - William David Arnold
- NextGen Precision Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (A.R.D.); (F.B.D.)
- NextGen Precision Health, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
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Xie C, Chen G, Li M, Huang P, Chen Z, Lei K, Li D, Wang Y, Cleetus A, Mohamed MA, Sonar P, Feng W, Ökten Z, Ou G. Neurons dispose of hyperactive kinesin into glial cells for clearance. EMBO J 2024:10.1038/s44318-024-00118-0. [PMID: 38806659 DOI: 10.1038/s44318-024-00118-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Microtubule-based kinesin motor proteins are crucial for intracellular transport, but their hyperactivation can be detrimental for cellular functions. This study investigated the impact of a constitutively active ciliary kinesin mutant, OSM-3CA, on sensory cilia in C. elegans. Surprisingly, we found that OSM-3CA was absent from cilia but underwent disposal through membrane abscission at the tips of aberrant neurites. Neighboring glial cells engulf and eliminate the released OSM-3CA, a process that depends on the engulfment receptor CED-1. Through genetic suppressor screens, we identified intragenic mutations in the OSM-3CA motor domain and mutations inhibiting the ciliary kinase DYF-5, both of which restored normal cilia in OSM-3CA-expressing animals. We showed that conformational changes in OSM-3CA prevent its entry into cilia, and OSM-3CA disposal requires its hyperactivity. Finally, we provide evidence that neurons also dispose of hyperactive kinesin-1 resulting from a clinic variant associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, suggesting a widespread mechanism for regulating hyperactive kinesins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Xie
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory for Membrane Biology, Beijing, China
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Guanghan Chen
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory for Membrane Biology, Beijing, China
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Li
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory for Membrane Biology, Beijing, China
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Huang
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory for Membrane Biology, Beijing, China
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhe Chen
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory for Membrane Biology, Beijing, China
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Kexin Lei
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory for Membrane Biology, Beijing, China
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Dong Li
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 15 Datun Road, 100101, Beijing, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100049, Beijing, China
| | - Yuhe Wang
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory for Membrane Biology, Beijing, China
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Augustine Cleetus
- Physik Department E22, Technische Universitat Munchen, James-Franck-Strasse, Garching, 85748, Germany
| | - Mohamed Aa Mohamed
- Physik Department E22, Technische Universitat Munchen, James-Franck-Strasse, Garching, 85748, Germany
| | - Punam Sonar
- Physik Department E22, Technische Universitat Munchen, James-Franck-Strasse, Garching, 85748, Germany
| | - Wei Feng
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 15 Datun Road, 100101, Beijing, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100049, Beijing, China
| | - Zeynep Ökten
- Physik Department E22, Technische Universitat Munchen, James-Franck-Strasse, Garching, 85748, Germany
| | - Guangshuo Ou
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
- Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
- State Key Laboratory for Membrane Biology, Beijing, China.
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
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Wang Z, Yang X, Li H, Wang S, Liu Z, Wang Y, Zhang X, Chen Y, Xu Q, Xu J, Wang Z, Wang J. Bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization analyses support causal relationships between structural and diffusion imaging-derived phenotypes and the risk of major neurodegenerative diseases. Transl Psychiatry 2024; 14:215. [PMID: 38806463 PMCID: PMC11133432 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-02939-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Previous observational investigations suggest that structural and diffusion imaging-derived phenotypes (IDPs) are associated with major neurodegenerative diseases; however, whether these associations are causal remains largely uncertain. Herein we conducted bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization analyses to infer the causal relationships between structural and diffusion IDPs and major neurodegenerative diseases using common genetic variants-single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) as instrumental variables. Summary statistics of genome-wide association study (GWAS) for structural and diffusion IDPs were obtained from 33,224 individuals in the UK Biobank cohort. Summary statistics of GWAS for seven major neurodegenerative diseases were obtained from the largest GWAS for each disease to date. The forward MR analyses identified significant or suggestively statistical causal effects of genetically predicted three structural IDPs on Alzheimer's disease (AD), frontotemporal dementia (FTD), and multiple sclerosis. For example, the reduction in the surface area of the left superior temporal gyrus was associated with a higher risk of AD. The reverse MR analyses identified significantly or suggestively statistical causal effects of genetically predicted AD, Lewy body dementia (LBD), and FTD on nine structural and diffusion IDPs. For example, LBD was associated with increased mean diffusivity in the right superior longitudinal fasciculus and AD was associated with decreased gray matter volume in the right ventral striatum. Our findings might contribute to shedding light on the prediction and therapeutic intervention for the major neurodegenerative diseases at the neuroimaging level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zirui Wang
- Department of Radiology, Tianjin Key Lab of Functional Imaging & Tianjin Institute of Radiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Xuan Yang
- Department of Radiology, Tianjin Key Lab of Functional Imaging & Tianjin Institute of Radiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
- Department of Radiology, Jining No.1 People's Hospital, Jining, Shandong, 272000, China
| | - Haonan Li
- Department of Radiology, Tianjin Key Lab of Functional Imaging & Tianjin Institute of Radiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Siqi Wang
- Department of Radiology, Tianjin Key Lab of Functional Imaging & Tianjin Institute of Radiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Zhixuan Liu
- Department of Radiology, Tianjin Key Lab of Functional Imaging & Tianjin Institute of Radiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Yaoyi Wang
- Department of Radiology, Tianjin Key Lab of Functional Imaging & Tianjin Institute of Radiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Xingyu Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Tianjin Key Lab of Functional Imaging & Tianjin Institute of Radiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Yayuan Chen
- Department of Radiology, Tianjin Key Lab of Functional Imaging & Tianjin Institute of Radiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Qiang Xu
- Department of Radiology, Tianjin Key Lab of Functional Imaging & Tianjin Institute of Radiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Jiayuan Xu
- Department of Radiology, Tianjin Key Lab of Functional Imaging & Tianjin Institute of Radiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China.
| | - Zengguang Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China.
| | - Junping Wang
- Department of Radiology, Tianjin Key Lab of Functional Imaging & Tianjin Institute of Radiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China.
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Bjelica B, Bartels MB, Hesebeck-Brinckmann J, Petri S. Non-motor symptoms in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: current state and future directions. J Neurol 2024:10.1007/s00415-024-12455-5. [PMID: 38805053 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12455-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease characterized by the progressive degeneration of both upper and lower motor neurons. A defining histopathological feature in approximately 97% of all ALS cases is the accumulation of phosphorylated trans-activation response (TAR) DNA-binding protein 43 protein (pTDP-43) aggregates in the cytoplasm of neurons and glial cells within the central nervous system. Traditionally, it was believed that the accumulation of TDP-43 aggregates and subsequent neurodegeneration primarily occurs in motor neurons. However, contemporary evidence suggests that as the disease progresses, other systems and brain regions are also affected. Despite this, there has been a limited number of clinical studies assessing the non-motor symptoms in ALS patients. These studies often employ various outcome measures, resulting in a wide range of reported frequencies of non-motor symptoms in ALS patients. The importance of assessing the non-motor symptoms reflects in a fact that they have a significant impact on patients' quality of life, yet they frequently go underdiagnosed and unreported during clinical evaluations. This review aims to provide an up-to-date overview of the current knowledge concerning non-motor symptoms in ALS. Furthermore, we address their diagnosis and treatment in everyday clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bogdan Bjelica
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, 1, Carl-Neuberg-Strasse, 30625, Hannover, Germany.
| | - Maj-Britt Bartels
- Precision Neurology of Neuromuscular and Motoneuron Diseases, University of Luebeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Jasper Hesebeck-Brinckmann
- Neurology Department, Division for Neurodegenerative Diseases, University Medicine Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim Center for Translational Medicine, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Susanne Petri
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, 1, Carl-Neuberg-Strasse, 30625, Hannover, Germany
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Riva N, Domi T, Pozzi L, Lunetta C, Schito P, Spinelli EG, Cabras S, Matteoni E, Consonni M, Bella ED, Agosta F, Filippi M, Calvo A, Quattrini A. Update on recent advances in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Neurol 2024:10.1007/s00415-024-12435-9. [PMID: 38802624 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12435-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
In the last few years, our understanding of disease molecular mechanisms underpinning ALS has advanced greatly, allowing the first steps in translating into clinical practice novel research findings, including gene therapy approaches. Similarly, the recent advent of assistive technologies has greatly improved the possibility of a more personalized approach to supportive and symptomatic care, in the context of an increasingly complex multidisciplinary line of actions, which remains the cornerstone of ALS management. Against this rapidly growing background, here we provide an comprehensive update on the most recent studies that have contributed towards our understanding of ALS pathogenesis, the latest results from clinical trials as well as the future directions for improving the clinical management of ALS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nilo Riva
- 3Rd Neurology Unit and Motor Neuron Disease Centre, Fondazione IRCCS "Carlo Besta" Neurological Insitute, Milan, Italy.
| | - Teuta Domi
- Experimental Neuropathology Unit, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Pozzi
- Experimental Neuropathology Unit, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Christian Lunetta
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Neurorehabilitation Unit of Milan Institute, 20138, Milan, Italy
| | - Paride Schito
- Experimental Neuropathology Unit, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Department of Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Edoardo Gioele Spinelli
- Department of Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Department of Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Cabras
- ALS Centre, 'Rita Levi Montalcini' Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin; SC Neurologia 1U, AOU città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Enrico Matteoni
- ALS Centre, 'Rita Levi Montalcini' Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin; SC Neurologia 1U, AOU città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Monica Consonni
- 3Rd Neurology Unit and Motor Neuron Disease Centre, Fondazione IRCCS "Carlo Besta" Neurological Insitute, Milan, Italy
| | - Eleonora Dalla Bella
- 3Rd Neurology Unit and Motor Neuron Disease Centre, Fondazione IRCCS "Carlo Besta" Neurological Insitute, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Agosta
- Department of Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Department of Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute Huniversity, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Filippi
- Department of Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Department of Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute Huniversity, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Calvo
- ALS Centre, 'Rita Levi Montalcini' Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin; SC Neurologia 1U, AOU città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Angelo Quattrini
- Experimental Neuropathology Unit, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
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Van Es MA. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis; clinical features, differential diagnosis and pathology. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 176:1-47. [PMID: 38802173 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2024.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a late-onset syndrome characterized by the progressive degeneration of both upper motor neurons (UMN) and lower motor neurons (LMN). ALS forms a clinical continuum with frontotemporal dementia (FTD), in which there are progressive language deficits or behavioral changes. The genetics and pathology underlying both ALS and FTD overlap as well, with cytoplasmatic misvocalization of TDP-43 as the hallmark. ALS is diagnosed by exclusion. Over the years several diagnostic criteria have been proposed, which in essence all require a history of slowly progressive motor symptoms, with UMN and LMN signs on neurological examination, clear spread of symptoms through the body, the exclusion of other disorder that cause similar symptoms and an EMG that it is compatible with LMN loss. ALS is heterogeneous disorder that may present in multitude ways, which makes the diagnosis challenging. Therefore, a systematic approach in the diagnostic process is required in line with the most common presentations. Subsequently, assessing whether there are cognitive and/or behavioral changes within the spectrum of FTD and lastly determining the cause is genetic. This chapter, an outline on how to navigate this 3 step process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A Van Es
- Department of Neurology, Brain Center UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Evans LJ, O'Brien D, Shaw PJ. Current neuroprotective therapies and future prospects for motor neuron disease. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 176:327-384. [PMID: 38802178 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2024.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Four medications with neuroprotective disease-modifying effects are now in use for motor neuron disease (MND). With FDA approvals for tofersen, relyvrio and edaravone in just the past year, 2022 ended a quarter of a century when riluzole was the sole such drug to offer to patients. The acceleration of approvals may mean we are witnessing the beginning of a step-change in how MND can be treated. Improvements in understanding underlying disease biology has led to more therapies being developed to target specific and multiple disease mechanisms. Consideration for how the pipeline of new therapeutic agents coming through in clinical and preclinical development can be more effectively evaluated with biomarkers, advances in patient stratification and clinical trial design pave the way for more successful translation for this archetypal complex neurodegenerative disease. While it must be cautioned that only slowed rates of progression have so far been demonstrated, pre-empting rapid neurodegeneration by using neurofilament biomarkers to signal when to treat, as is currently being trialled with tofersen, may be more effective for patients with known genetic predisposition to MND. Early intervention with personalized medicines could mean that for some patients at least, in future we may be able to substantially treat what is considered by many to be one of the most distressing diseases in medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura J Evans
- The Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, and the NIHR Sheffield Biomedical Research Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - David O'Brien
- The Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, and the NIHR Sheffield Biomedical Research Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Pamela J Shaw
- The Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, and the NIHR Sheffield Biomedical Research Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom.
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Du R, Zhu Y, Chen P, Li M, Zhang Y, Huang X. Causal association between obstructive sleep apnea and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a Mendelian randomization study. Front Aging Neurosci 2024; 16:1357070. [PMID: 38817347 PMCID: PMC11138490 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2024.1357070] [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: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) had a high prevalence in the population. Whether OSA increases the risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is unknown. Our aim was to clarify this issue using two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis in a large cohort. Methods Two-sample MR was used to evaluate the potential causality between OSA and ALS by selecting single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) as instrumental variables (IVs) from genome-wide association studies (GWAS). The inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method was chosen as the primary method to estimate causal association. Weighted median, weighted mode and simple mode methods were used as sensitivity analyses to ensure the robustness of the results. Results In MR analysis, IVW mode showed genetic liability to OSA was found to be significantly associated with a higher ALS risk (OR, 1.220; 95% confidence interval, 1.031-1.443; p = 0.021). No evidence of heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy were suggested. Conclusion We found potential evidence for a causal effect of OSA on an increased risk of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongrong Du
- Department of Neurology, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yahui Zhu
- Department of Neurology, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Chen
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
- Department of General Surgery and Institute of General Surgery, The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Mao Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
- The Fourth of the Health Department, The Second Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xusheng Huang
- Department of Neurology, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
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Alkhazaali-Ali Z, Sahab-Negah S, Boroumand AR, Farkhad NK, Khodadoust MA, Tavakol-Afshari J. Evaluation of the Safety and Efficacy of Repeated Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantations in ALS Patients by Investigating Patients' Specific Immunological and Biochemical Biomarkers. Diseases 2024; 12:99. [PMID: 38785754 PMCID: PMC11120501 DOI: 10.3390/diseases12050099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an incurable disease. There are vigorous attempts to develop treatments to reduce the effects of this disease, and among these treatments is the transplantation of stem cells. This study aimed to retrospectively evaluate a mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy cohort as a promising novel treatment modality by estimating some additional new parameters, such as immunological and biochemical factors. METHODS This study was designed as an open-label, one-arm cohort retrospective study to evaluate potential diagnostic biomarkers of repeated infusions of autologous-bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) in 15 confirmed patients with ALS, administered at a dose of 1 × 106 cells/kg BW with a one-month interval, in equal amounts in both an intravenous (IV) and intrathecal (IT) capacity simultaneously, via various biochemical (iron (Fe), ferritin, total-iron-binding capacity (TIBC), transferrin, and creatine kinase (CK)) and immunological parameters (tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), neurofilament light chain (NFL), and glial-cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) levels, evaluated during the three-month follow-up period in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). RESULTS Our study indicated that, in the case of immunological biomarkers, TNF-α levels in the CSF showed a significant decrease at month three after transplantation compared with levels at month zero, and the p-value was p < 0.01. No statistically significant changes were observed for other immunological as well as biochemical parameters and a p-value of p > 0.05. CONCLUSIONS These results can indicate the potential benefit of stem cell transfusion in patients with ALS and suggest some diagnostic biomarkers. Several studies are required to approve these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahraa Alkhazaali-Ali
- Department of Immunology, Immunology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948959, Iran; (Z.A.-A.); (N.K.F.); (M.A.K.)
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948959, Iran
| | - Sajad Sahab-Negah
- Neuroscience Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948959, Iran; (S.S.-N.); (A.R.B.)
- Shefa Neuroscience Research Center, Khatam Alanbia Hospital, Tehran 1708310, Iran
| | - Amir Reza Boroumand
- Neuroscience Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948959, Iran; (S.S.-N.); (A.R.B.)
| | - Najmeh Kaffash Farkhad
- Department of Immunology, Immunology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948959, Iran; (Z.A.-A.); (N.K.F.); (M.A.K.)
| | - Mohammad Ali Khodadoust
- Department of Immunology, Immunology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948959, Iran; (Z.A.-A.); (N.K.F.); (M.A.K.)
| | - Jalil Tavakol-Afshari
- Department of Immunology, Immunology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad 9177948959, Iran; (Z.A.-A.); (N.K.F.); (M.A.K.)
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48
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Xin J, Huang S, Wen J, Li Y, Li A, Satyanarayanan SK, Yao X, Su H. Drug Screening and Validation Targeting TDP-43 Proteinopathy for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Aging Dis 2024:AD.2024.0440. [PMID: 38739934 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2024.0440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) stands as a rare, yet severely debilitating disorder marked by the deterioration of motor neurons (MNs) within the brain and spinal cord, which is accompanied by degenerated corticobulbar/corticospinal tracts and denervation in skeletal muscles. Despite ongoing research efforts, ALS remains incurable, attributed to its intricate pathogenic mechanisms. A notable feature in the pathology of ALS is the prevalence of TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) proteinopathy, detected in approximately 97% of ALS cases, underscoring its significance in the disease's progression. As a result, strategies targeting the aberrant TDP-43 protein have garnered attention as a potential avenue for ALS therapy. This review delves into the existing drug screening systems aimed at TDP-43 proteinopathy and the models employed for drug efficacy validation. It also explores the hurdles encountered in the quest to develop potent medications against TDP-43 proteinopathy, offering insights into the intricacies of drug discovery and development for ALS. Through this comprehensive analysis, the review sheds light on the critical aspects of identifying and advancing therapeutic solutions for ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Xin
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Sen Huang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases; National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Yunhao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Ang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Senthil Kumaran Satyanarayanan
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health, Hong Kong Institute of Science & Innovation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiaoli Yao
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Major Neurological Diseases; National Key Clinical Department and Key Discipline of Neurology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huanxing Su
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
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Moțățăianu A, Mănescu IB, Șerban G, Bărcuțean L, Ion V, Bălașa R, Andone S. Exploring the Role of Metabolic Hormones in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5059. [PMID: 38791099 PMCID: PMC11121721 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105059] [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: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive loss of motor neurons. Emerging evidence suggests a potential link between metabolic dysregulation and ALS pathogenesis. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between metabolic hormones and disease progression in ALS patients. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 44 ALS patients recruited from a tertiary care center. Serum levels of insulin, total amylin, C-peptide, active ghrelin, GIP (gastric inhibitory peptide), GLP-1 active (glucagon-like peptide-1), glucagon, PYY (peptide YY), PP (pancreatic polypeptide), leptin, interleukin-6, MCP-1 (monocyte chemoattractant protein-1), and TNFα (tumor necrosis factor alpha) were measured, and correlations with ALSFRS-R, evolution scores, and biomarkers were analyzed using Spearman correlation coefficients. Subgroup analyses based on ALS subtypes, progression pattern of disease, and disease progression rate patterns were performed. Significant correlations were observed between metabolic hormones and ALS evolution scores. Insulin and amylin exhibited strong correlations with disease progression and clinical functional outcomes, with insulin showing particularly robust associations. Other hormones such as C-peptide, leptin, and GLP-1 also showed correlations with ALS progression and functional status. Subgroup analyses revealed differences in hormone levels based on sex and disease evolution patterns, with male patients showing higher amylin and glucagon levels. ALS patients with slower disease progression exhibited elevated levels of amylin and insulin. Our findings suggest a potential role for metabolic hormones in modulating ALS progression and functional outcomes. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and explore the therapeutic implications of targeting metabolic pathways in ALS management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anca Moțățăianu
- Department of Neurology, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Târgu Mureș ‘George Emil Palade’, 540142 Târgu Mureș, Romania
- 1st Neurology Clinic, Mures County Clinical Emergency Hospital, 540136 Târgu Mureș, Romania
| | - Ion Bogdan Mănescu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Târgu Mureș ‘George Emil Palade’, 540142 Târgu Mureș, Romania
| | - Georgiana Șerban
- Doctoral School, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Târgu Mureș ‘George Emil Palade’, 540142 Târgu Mureș, Romania
| | - Laura Bărcuțean
- Department of Neurology, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Târgu Mureș ‘George Emil Palade’, 540142 Târgu Mureș, Romania
- 1st Neurology Clinic, Mures County Clinical Emergency Hospital, 540136 Târgu Mureș, Romania
| | - Valentin Ion
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Analytical Chemistry and Drug Analysis, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Târgu Mureș ‘George Emil Palade’, 540142 Târgu Mureș, Romania
- Drug Testing Laboratory, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Târgu Mureș ‘George Emil Palade’, 540142 Târgu Mureș, Romania
| | - Rodica Bălașa
- Department of Neurology, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Târgu Mureș ‘George Emil Palade’, 540142 Târgu Mureș, Romania
- 1st Neurology Clinic, Mures County Clinical Emergency Hospital, 540136 Târgu Mureș, Romania
| | - Sebastian Andone
- Department of Neurology, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Târgu Mureș ‘George Emil Palade’, 540142 Târgu Mureș, Romania
- 1st Neurology Clinic, Mures County Clinical Emergency Hospital, 540136 Târgu Mureș, Romania
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Eisen A, Pioro EP, Goutman SA, Kiernan MC. Nanoplastics and Neurodegeneration in ALS. Brain Sci 2024; 14:471. [PMID: 38790450 PMCID: PMC11119293 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14050471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastic production, which exceeds one million tons per year, is of global concern. The constituent low-density polymers enable spread over large distances and micro/nano particles (MNPLs) induce organ toxicity via digestion, inhalation, and skin contact. Particles have been documented in all human tissues including breast milk. MNPLs, especially weathered particles, can breach the blood-brain barrier, inducing neurotoxicity. This has been documented in non-human species, and in human-induced pluripotent stem cell lines. Within the brain, MNPLs initiate an inflammatory response with pro-inflammatory cytokine production, oxidative stress with generation of reactive oxygen species, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Glutamate and GABA neurotransmitter dysfunction also ensues with alteration of excitatory/inhibitory balance in favor of reduced inhibition and resultant neuro-excitation. Inflammation and cortical hyperexcitability are key abnormalities involved in the pathogenic cascade of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and are intricately related to the mislocalization and aggregation of TDP-43, a hallmark of ALS. Water and many foods contain MNPLs and in humans, ingestion is the main form of exposure. Digestion of plastics within the gut can alter their properties, rendering them more toxic, and they cause gut microbiome dysbiosis and a dysfunctional gut-brain axis. This is recognized as a trigger and/or aggravating factor for ALS. ALS is associated with a long (years or decades) preclinical period and neonates and infants are exposed to MNPLs through breast milk, milk substitutes, and toys. This endangers a time of intense neurogenesis and establishment of neuronal circuitry, setting the stage for development of neurodegeneration in later life. MNPL neurotoxicity should be considered as a yet unrecognized risk factor for ALS and related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Eisen
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6S 1Z3, Canada;
| | - Erik P. Pioro
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6S 1Z3, Canada;
| | - Stephen A. Goutman
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA;
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