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Carello-Collar G, Bellaver B, Ferreira PCL, Ferrari-Souza JP, Ramos VG, Therriault J, Tissot C, De Bastiani MA, Soares C, Pascoal TA, Rosa-Neto P, Souza DO, Zimmer ER. The GABAergic system in Alzheimer's disease: a systematic review with meta-analysis. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:5025-5036. [PMID: 37419974 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02140-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
The γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic system is the primary inhibitory neurotransmission system in the mammalian brain. Its dysregulation has been shown in multiple brain conditions, but in Alzheimer's disease (AD) studies have provided contradictory results. Here, we conducted a systematic review with meta-analysis to investigate whether the GABAergic system is altered in AD patients compared to healthy controls (HC), following the PRISMA 2020 Statement. We searched PubMed and Web of Science from database inception to March 18th, 2023 for studies reporting GABA, glutamate decarboxylase (GAD) 65/67, GABAA, GABAB, and GABAC receptors, GABA transporters (GAT) 1-3 and vesicular GAT in the brain, and GABA levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood. Heterogeneity was estimated using the I2 index, and the risk of bias was assessed with an adapted questionnaire from the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tools. The search identified 3631 articles, and 48 met the final inclusion criteria (518 HC, mean age 72.2, and 603 AD patients, mean age 75.6). Random-effects meta-analysis [standardized mean difference (SMD)] revealed that AD patients presented lower GABA levels in the brain (SMD = -0.48 [95% CI = -0.7, -0.27], adjusted p value (adj. p) < 0.001) and in the CSF (-0.41 [-0.72, -0.09], adj. p = 0.042), but not in the blood (-0.63 [-1.35, 0.1], adj. p = 0.176). In addition, GAD65/67 (-0.67 [-1.15, -0.2], adj. p = 0.006), GABAA receptor (-0.51 [-0.7, -0.33], adj. p < 0.001), and GABA transporters (-0.51 [-0.92, -0.09], adj. p = 0.016) were lower in the AD brain. Here, we showed a global reduction of GABAergic system components in the brain and lower GABA levels in the CSF of AD patients. Our findings suggest the GABAergic system is vulnerable to AD pathology and should be considered a potential target for developing pharmacological strategies and novel AD biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Carello-Collar
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Health Basic Sciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil
| | - Bruna Bellaver
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Health Basic Sciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Pamela C L Ferreira
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - João Pedro Ferrari-Souza
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Health Basic Sciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Vanessa G Ramos
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Health Basic Sciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil
| | - Joseph Therriault
- McGill Centre for Studies in Aging, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada
- Translational Neuroimaging Laboratory, McGill University Research Centre for Studies in Aging, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada
- Departments of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3A 1A1, Canada
| | - Cécile Tissot
- McGill Centre for Studies in Aging, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada
- Translational Neuroimaging Laboratory, McGill University Research Centre for Studies in Aging, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada
- Departments of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3A 1A1, Canada
| | - Marco A De Bastiani
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Health Basic Sciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil
| | - Carolina Soares
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Health Basic Sciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Tharick A Pascoal
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Pedro Rosa-Neto
- McGill Centre for Studies in Aging, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada
- Translational Neuroimaging Laboratory, McGill University Research Centre for Studies in Aging, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada
- Departments of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3A 1A1, Canada
- Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Diogo O Souza
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Health Basic Sciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Health Basic Sciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil
| | - Eduardo R Zimmer
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Health Basic Sciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil.
- McGill Centre for Studies in Aging, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada.
- Translational Neuroimaging Laboratory, McGill University Research Centre for Studies in Aging, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada.
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Health Basic Sciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil.
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Health Basic Sciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil.
- Brain Institute of Rio Grande Do Sul, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, 90610-000, Brazil.
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Rochín-Hernández LJ, Jiménez-Acosta MA, Ramírez-Reyes L, Figueroa-Corona MDP, Sánchez-González VJ, Orozco-Barajas M, Meraz-Ríos MA. The Proteome Profile of Olfactory Ecto-Mesenchymal Stem Cells-Derived from Patients with Familial Alzheimer's Disease Reveals New Insights for AD Study. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12606. [PMID: 37628788 PMCID: PMC10454072 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common neurodegenerative disease and the first cause of dementia worldwide, has no effective treatment, and its pathological mechanisms are not yet fully understood. We conducted this study to explore the proteomic differences associated with Familial Alzheimer's Disease (FAD) in olfactory ecto-mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from PSEN1 (A431E) mutation carriers compared with healthy donors paired by age and gender through two label-free liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry approaches. The first analysis compared carrier 1 (patient with symptoms, P1) and its control (healthy donor, C1), and the second compared carrier 2 (patient with pre-symptoms, P2) with its respective control cells (C2) to evaluate whether the protein alterations presented in the symptomatic carrier were also present in the pre-symptom stages. Finally, we analyzed the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) for biological and functional enrichment. These proteins showed impaired expression in a stage-dependent manner and are involved in energy metabolism, vesicle transport, actin cytoskeleton, cell proliferation, and proteostasis pathways, in line with previous AD reports. Our study is the first to conduct a proteomic analysis of MSCs from the Jalisco FAD patients in two stages of the disease (symptomatic and presymptomatic), showing these cells as a new and excellent in vitro model for future AD studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lory J. Rochín-Hernández
- Departamento de Biomedicina Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico; (L.J.R.-H.); (M.A.J.-A.); (M.d.P.F.-C.)
| | - Miguel A. Jiménez-Acosta
- Departamento de Biomedicina Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico; (L.J.R.-H.); (M.A.J.-A.); (M.d.P.F.-C.)
| | - Lorena Ramírez-Reyes
- Unidad de Genómica, Proteómica y Metabolómica, Laboratorio Nacional de Servicios Experimentales (LaNSE), Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico;
| | - María del Pilar Figueroa-Corona
- Departamento de Biomedicina Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico; (L.J.R.-H.); (M.A.J.-A.); (M.d.P.F.-C.)
| | - Víctor J. Sánchez-González
- Centro Universitario de Los Altos, Universidad de Guadalajara, Tepatitlán de Morelos 47620, Mexico; (V.J.S.-G.); (M.O.-B.)
| | - Maribel Orozco-Barajas
- Centro Universitario de Los Altos, Universidad de Guadalajara, Tepatitlán de Morelos 47620, Mexico; (V.J.S.-G.); (M.O.-B.)
| | - Marco A. Meraz-Ríos
- Departamento de Biomedicina Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico; (L.J.R.-H.); (M.A.J.-A.); (M.d.P.F.-C.)
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Feature Fusion and Detection in Alzheimer’s Disease Using a Novel Genetic Multi-Kernel SVM Based on MRI Imaging and Gene Data. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13050837. [PMID: 35627222 PMCID: PMC9140721 DOI: 10.3390/genes13050837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Voxel-based morphometry provides an opportunity to study Alzheimer’s disease (AD) at a subtle level. Therefore, identifying the important brain voxels that can classify AD, early mild cognitive impairment (EMCI) and healthy control (HC) and studying the role of these voxels in AD will be crucial to improve our understanding of the neurobiological mechanism of AD. Combining magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) imaging and gene information, we proposed a novel feature construction method and a novel genetic multi-kernel support vector machine (SVM) method to mine important features for AD detection. Specifically, to amplify the differences among AD, EMCI and HC groups, we used the eigenvalues of the top 24 Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) in a p-value matrix of 24 genes associated with AD for feature construction. Furthermore, a genetic multi-kernel SVM was established with the resulting features. The genetic algorithm was used to detect the optimal weights of 3 kernels and the multi-kernel SVM was used after training to explore the significant features. By analyzing the significance of the features, we identified some brain regions affected by AD, such as the right superior frontal gyrus, right inferior temporal gyrus and right superior temporal gyrus. The findings proved the good performance and generalization of the proposed model. Particularly, significant susceptibility genes associated with AD were identified, such as CSMD1, RBFOX1, PTPRD, CDH13 and WWOX. Some significant pathways were further explored, such as the calcium signaling pathway (corrected p-value = 1.35 × 10−6) and cell adhesion molecules (corrected p-value = 5.44 × 10−4). The findings offer new candidate abnormal brain features and demonstrate the contribution of these features to AD.
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Novel Balance Mechanism Participates in Stem Cell Therapy to Alleviate Neuropathology and Cognitive Impairment in Animal Models with Alzheimer's Disease. Cells 2021; 10:cells10102757. [PMID: 34685737 PMCID: PMC8534506 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell therapy improves memory loss and cognitive deficits in animal models with Alzheimer's disease. The underlying mechanism remains to be determined, but it may involve the interaction of stem cells with hippocampal cells. The transplantation of stem cells alters the pathological state and establishes a novel balance based on multiple signaling pathways. The new balance mechanism is regulated by various autocrine and paracrine cytokines, including signal molecules that target (a) cell growth and death. Stem cell treatment stimulates neurogenesis and inhibits apoptosis, which is regulated by the crosstalk between apoptosis and autophagy-(b) Aβ and tau pathology. Aberrant Aβ plaques and neurofibrillary tau tangles are mitigated subsequent to stem cell intervention-(c) inflammation. Neuroinflammation in the lesion is relieved, which may be related to the microglial M1/M2 polarization-(d) immunoregulation. The transplanted stem cells modulate immune cells and shape the pathophysiological roles of immune-related genes such as TREM2, CR1, and CD33-(e) synaptogenesis. The functional reconstruction of synaptic connections can be promoted by stem cell therapy through multi-level signaling, such as autophagy, microglial activity, and remyelination. The regulation of new balance mechanism provides perspective and challenge for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
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Unsupervised excitation: GABAergic dysfunctions in Alzheimer’s disease. Brain Res 2019; 1707:216-226. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2018.11.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2018] [Revised: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Zhang L, Dong H, Si Y, Wu N, Cao H, Mei B, Meng B. miR-125b promotes tau phosphorylation by targeting the neural cell adhesion molecule in neuropathological progression. Neurobiol Aging 2019; 73:41-49. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2018.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Revised: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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7
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Ferrero H, Larrayoz IM, Martisova E, Solas M, Howlett DR, Francis PT, Gil-Bea FJ, Martínez A, Ramírez MJ. Increased Levels of Brain Adrenomedullin in the Neuropathology of Alzheimer’s Disease. Mol Neurobiol 2017; 55:5177-5183. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-017-0700-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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8
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Towards a Better Understanding of GABAergic Remodeling in Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18081813. [PMID: 28825683 PMCID: PMC5578199 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18081813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Revised: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the vertebrate brain. In the past, there has been a major research drive focused on the dysfunction of the glutamatergic and cholinergic neurotransmitter systems in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, there is now growing evidence in support of a GABAergic contribution to the pathogenesis of this neurodegenerative disease. Previous studies paint a complex, convoluted and often inconsistent picture of AD-associated GABAergic remodeling. Given the importance of the GABAergic system in neuronal function and homeostasis, in the maintenance of the excitatory/inhibitory balance, and in the processes of learning and memory, such changes in GABAergic function could be an important factor in both early and later stages of AD pathogenesis. Given the limited scope of currently available therapies in modifying the course of the disease, a better understanding of GABAergic remodeling in AD could open up innovative and novel therapeutic opportunities.
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9
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Gulisano W, Bizzoca A, Gennarini G, Palmeri A, Puzzo D. Role of the adhesion molecule F3/Contactin in synaptic plasticity and memory. Mol Cell Neurosci 2016; 81:64-71. [PMID: 28038945 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2016.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2016] [Revised: 12/07/2016] [Accepted: 12/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) have a pivotal role in building and maintaining synaptic structures during brain development participating in axonal elongation and pathfinding, glial guidance of neuronal migration, as well as myelination. CAMs expression persists in the adult brain particularly in structures undergoing postnatal neurogenesis and involved in synaptic plasticity and memory as the hippocampus. Among the neural CAMs, we have recently focused on F3/Contactin, a glycosylphosphatidyl inositol-anchored glycoprotein belonging to the immunoglobulin superfamily, involved in neuronal development, synaptic maintenance and organization of neuronal networks. Here, we discuss our recent data suggesting that F3/Contactin exerts a role in hippocampal synaptic plasticity and memory in adult and aged mice. In particular, we have studied long-term potentiation (LTP), spatial and object recognition memory, and phosphorylation of the transcription factor cAMP-Responsive-Element Binding protein (CREB) in a transgenic mouse model of F3/Contactin overexpression. We also investigated whether F3/Contactin might influence neuronal apoptosis and the production of amyloid-beta peptide (Aβ), known to be one of the main pathogenetic hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In conclusion, a further understanding of F3/Contactin role in synaptic plasticity and memory might have interesting clinical outcomes in cognitive disorders, such as aging and AD, offering innovative therapeutic opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter Gulisano
- Section of Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonella Bizzoca
- Section of Physiology, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Gennarini
- Section of Physiology, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sensory Organs, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Agostino Palmeri
- Section of Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
| | - Daniela Puzzo
- Section of Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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10
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Serum Markers of Neurodegeneration in Maple Syrup Urine Disease. Mol Neurobiol 2016; 54:5709-5719. [PMID: 27660262 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-016-0116-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2016] [Accepted: 09/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) is an inherited disorder caused by deficient activity of the branched-chain α-keto acid dehydrogenase complex involved in the degradation pathway of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and their respective α-keto-acids. Patients affected by MSUD present severe neurological symptoms and brain abnormalities, whose pathophysiology is poorly known. However, preclinical studies have suggested alterations in markers involved with neurodegeneration. Because there are no studies in the literature that report the neurodegenerative markers in MSUD patients, the present study evaluated neurodegenerative markers (brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), cathepsin D, neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 total (PAI-1 (total)), platelet-derived growth factor AA (PDGF-AA), PDGF-AB/BB) in plasma from 10 MSUD patients during dietary treatment. Our results showed a significant decrease in BDNF and PDGF-AA levels in MSUD patients. On the other hand, NCAM and cathepsin D levels were significantly greater in MSUD patients compared to the control group, while no significant changes were observed in the levels of PAI-1 (total) and PDGF-AB/BB between the control and MSUD groups. Our data show that MSUD patients present alterations in proteins involved in the neurodegenerative process. Thus, the present findings corroborate previous studies that demonstrated that neurotrophic factors and lysosomal proteases may contribute, along with other mechanisms, to the intellectual deficit and neurodegeneration observed in MSUD.
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11
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Synaptic Cell Adhesion Molecules in Alzheimer's Disease. Neural Plast 2016; 2016:6427537. [PMID: 27242933 PMCID: PMC4868906 DOI: 10.1155/2016/6427537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2016] [Accepted: 04/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative brain disorder associated with the loss of synapses between neurons in the brain. Synaptic cell adhesion molecules are cell surface glycoproteins which are expressed at the synaptic plasma membranes of neurons. These proteins play key roles in formation and maintenance of synapses and regulation of synaptic plasticity. Genetic studies and biochemical analysis of the human brain tissue, cerebrospinal fluid, and sera from AD patients indicate that levels and function of synaptic cell adhesion molecules are affected in AD. Synaptic cell adhesion molecules interact with Aβ, a peptide accumulating in AD brains, which affects their expression and synaptic localization. Synaptic cell adhesion molecules also regulate the production of Aβ via interaction with the key enzymes involved in Aβ formation. Aβ-dependent changes in synaptic adhesion affect the function and integrity of synapses suggesting that alterations in synaptic adhesion play key roles in the disruption of neuronal networks in AD.
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Mutated tau, amyloid and neuroinflammation in Alzheimer disease—A brief review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 51:1-8. [PMID: 26851150 DOI: 10.1016/j.proghi.2016.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2015] [Revised: 01/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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13
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Piras F, Schiff M, Chiapponi C, Bossù P, Mühlenhoff M, Caltagirone C, Gerardy-Schahn R, Hildebrandt H, Spalletta G. Brain structure, cognition and negative symptoms in schizophrenia are associated with serum levels of polysialic acid-modified NCAM. Transl Psychiatry 2015; 5:e658. [PMID: 26460482 PMCID: PMC4930132 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2015.156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Revised: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 08/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) is a glycoprotein implicated in cell-cell adhesion, neurite outgrowth and synaptic plasticity. Polysialic acid (polySia) is mainly attached to NCAM (polySia-NCAM) and has an essential role in regulating NCAM-dependent developmental processes that require plasticity, that is, cell migration, axon guidance and synapse formation. Post-mortem and genetic evidence suggests that dysregulation of polySia-NCAM is involved in schizophrenia (SZ). We enrolled 45 patients diagnosed with SZ and 45 healthy individuals who were submitted to polySia-NCAM peripheral quantification, cognitive and psychopathological assessment and structural neuroimaging (brain volumes and diffusion tensor imaging). PolySia-NCAM serum levels were increased in SZ patients, independently of antipsychotic treatment, and were associated with negative symptoms, blunted affect and declarative memory impairment. The increased polySia-NCAM levels were associated with decreased volume in the left prefrontal cortex, namely Brodmann area 46, in patients and increased volume in the same brain area of healthy individuals. As this brain region is involved in the pathophysiology of SZ and its associated phenomenology, the data indicate that polySia-NCAM deserves further scrutiny because of its possible role in early neurodevelopmental mechanisms of the disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Piras
- Department of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, Neuropsychiatry Laboratory, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - M Schiff
- Institute for Cellular Chemistry, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - C Chiapponi
- Department of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, Neuropsychiatry Laboratory, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - P Bossù
- Department of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, Neuropsychiatry Laboratory, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - M Mühlenhoff
- Institute for Cellular Chemistry, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - C Caltagirone
- Department of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, Neuropsychiatry Laboratory, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy,Department of System Medicine, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - R Gerardy-Schahn
- Institute for Cellular Chemistry, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - H Hildebrandt
- Institute for Cellular Chemistry, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - G Spalletta
- Department of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, Neuropsychiatry Laboratory, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy,Division of Neuropsychiatry, Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA,Department of Clinical and Behavioral Neurology, Neuropsychiatry Laboratory, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Via Ardeatina, 306, 00179 Rome, Italy. E-mail:
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Nava-Mesa MO, Jiménez-Díaz L, Yajeya J, Navarro-Lopez JD. GABAergic neurotransmission and new strategies of neuromodulation to compensate synaptic dysfunction in early stages of Alzheimer's disease. Front Cell Neurosci 2014; 8:167. [PMID: 24987334 PMCID: PMC4070063 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2014.00167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2014] [Accepted: 06/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by cognitive decline, brain atrophy due to neuronal and synapse loss, and formation of two pathological lesions: extracellular amyloid plaques, composed largely of amyloid-beta peptide (Aβ), and neurofibrillary tangles formed by intracellular aggregates of hyperphosphorylated tau protein. Lesions mainly accumulate in brain regions that modulate cognitive functions such as the hippocampus, septum or amygdala. These brain structures have dense reciprocal glutamatergic, cholinergic, and GABAergic connections and their relationships directly affect learning and memory processes, so they have been proposed as highly susceptible regions to suffer damage by Aβ during AD course. Last findings support the emerging concept that soluble Aβ peptides, inducing an initial stage of synaptic dysfunction which probably starts 20–30 years before the clinical onset of AD, can perturb the excitatory–inhibitory balance of neural circuitries. In turn, neurotransmission imbalance will result in altered network activity that might be responsible of cognitive deficits in AD. Therefore, Aβ interactions on neurotransmission systems in memory-related brain regions such as amygdaloid complex, medial septum or hippocampus are critical in cognitive functions and appear as a pivotal target for drug design to improve learning and dysfunctions that manifest with age. Since treatments based on glutamatergic and cholinergic pharmacology in AD have shown limited success, therapies combining modulators of different neurotransmission systems including recent findings regarding the GABAergic system, emerge as a more useful tool for the treatment, and overall prevention, of this dementia. In this review, focused on inhibitory systems, we will analyze pharmacological strategies to compensate neurotransmission imbalance that might be considered as potential therapeutic interventions in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lydia Jiménez-Díaz
- Neurophysiology and Behavior Lab, Centro Regional de Investigaciones Biomédicas, School of Medicine of Ciudad Real, University of Castilla-La Mancha Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Javier Yajeya
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Salamanca Salamanca, Spain
| | - Juan D Navarro-Lopez
- Neurophysiology and Behavior Lab, Centro Regional de Investigaciones Biomédicas, School of Medicine of Ciudad Real, University of Castilla-La Mancha Ciudad Real, Spain
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15
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16
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Mozziconacci O, Mirkowski J, Rusconi F, Kciuk G, Wisniowski PB, Bobrowski K, Houée-Levin C. Methionine Residue Acts as a Prooxidant in the •OH-Induced Oxidation of Enkephalins. J Phys Chem B 2012; 116:12460-72. [DOI: 10.1021/jp307043q] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Mozziconacci
- Laboratory of Physical Chemistry and CNRS Bldg 350, Centre Universitaire, F-91405
Orsay, F-91405 Orsay, France
- Institute of Nuclear Chemistry and Technology, Dorodna, 16, 03-195 Warsaw,
Poland
- Department
of Pharmaceutical
Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66047, United States
| | - Jacek Mirkowski
- Institute of Nuclear Chemistry and Technology, Dorodna, 16, 03-195 Warsaw,
Poland
| | - Filippo Rusconi
- Laboratory of Physical Chemistry and CNRS Bldg 350, Centre Universitaire, F-91405
Orsay, F-91405 Orsay, France
- Muséum National d’Histoire
Naturelle, CNRS, UMR7196 - INSERM, U565 - MNHN USM0503, 57 rue Cuvier, F-75231 Paris Cedex-05, France
| | - Gabriel Kciuk
- Institute of Nuclear Chemistry and Technology, Dorodna, 16, 03-195 Warsaw,
Poland
| | - Pawel B. Wisniowski
- Institute of Nuclear Chemistry and Technology, Dorodna, 16, 03-195 Warsaw,
Poland
| | - Krzysztof Bobrowski
- Institute of Nuclear Chemistry and Technology, Dorodna, 16, 03-195 Warsaw,
Poland
| | - Chantal Houée-Levin
- Laboratory of Physical Chemistry and CNRS Bldg 350, Centre Universitaire, F-91405
Orsay, F-91405 Orsay, France
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17
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Wennström M, Nielsen HM. Cell adhesion molecules in Alzheimer's disease. Degener Neurol Neuromuscul Dis 2012; 2:65-77. [PMID: 30890880 DOI: 10.2147/dnnd.s19829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) mediate interactions between cells and their surroundings that are vital to processes controlling for cell survival, activation, migration, and plasticity. However, increasing evidence suggests that CAMs also mediate mechanisms involved in several neurological diseases. This article reviews the current knowledge on the role of CAMs in amyloid-β (Aβ) metabolism, cell plasticity, neuroinflammation, and vascular changes, all of which are considered central to the pathogenesis and progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). This paper also outlines the possible roles of CAMs in current and novel AD treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malin Wennström
- Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden,
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18
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Restoration of synaptic plasticity and learning in young and aged NCAM-deficient mice by enhancing neurotransmission mediated by GluN2A-containing NMDA receptors. J Neurosci 2012; 32:2263-75. [PMID: 22396402 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.5103-11.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) is the predominant carrier of the unusual glycan polysialic acid (PSA). Deficits in PSA and/or NCAM expression cause impairments in hippocampal long-term potentiation and depression (LTP and LTD) and are associated with schizophrenia and aging. In this study, we show that impaired LTP in adult NCAM-deficient (NCAM(-/-)) mice is restored by increasing the activity of the NMDA subtype of glutamate receptor (GluN) through either reducing the extracellular Mg2+ concentration or applying d-cycloserine (DCS), a partial agonist of the GluN glycine binding site. Pharmacological inhibition of the GluN2A subtype reduced LTP to the same level in NCAM(-/-) and wild-type (NCAM(+/+)) littermate mice and abolished the rescue by DCS in NCAM(-/-) mice, suggesting that the effects of DCS are mainly mediated by GluN2A. The insufficient contribution of GluN to LTD in NCAM(-/-) mice was also compensated for by DCS. Furthermore, impaired contextual and cued fear conditioning levels were restored in NCAM(-/-) mice by administration of DCS before conditioning. In 12-month-old NCAM(-/-), but not NCAM(+/+) mice, there was a decline in LTP compared with 3-month-old mice that could be rescued by DCS. In 24-month-old mice of both genotypes, there was a reduction in LTP that could be fully restored by DCS in NCAM(+/+) mice but only partially restored in NCAM(-/-) mice. Thus, several deficiencies of NCAM(-/-) mice can be ameliorated by enhancing GluN2A-mediated neurotransmission with DCS.
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Yeung LY, Kung HF, Yew DT. Localization of 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A positive cells in the brainstems of control age-matched and Alzheimer individuals. AGE (DORDRECHT, NETHERLANDS) 2010; 32:483-95. [PMID: 20508993 PMCID: PMC2980600 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-010-9152-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2009] [Accepted: 05/11/2010] [Indexed: 04/17/2023]
Abstract
Serotonin receptor 1A and 2A positive cells in postmortem brainstems were demonstrated via immunohistochemistry in eight control age-matched elderly individuals and eight Alzheimer patients. The 5-HT1A positive cells were found in substantia nigra, pontile nucleus, and vagal as well as dorsal raphe nucleus, while 5-HT2A receptor positive cells were found in motor, sensory and spinal trigeminal nuclei, pontile nucleus, substantia nigra, and nucleus solitarius. A comparison in density of positive cells per unit area was made between control age-matched and Alzheimer individuals. Statistically significant differences (p ≤ 0.01) in density were observed in 5-HT1A cells in pontile, dorsal raphe, and vagal nuclei between control age-matched and Alzheimer, and in 5-HT2A positive cells in the sensory trigeminal nucleus, between control and Alzheimer. This de novo study indicated the presence of 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptor positive cells in the above nuclei of human brainstem and revealed differences in density between control age-matched and Alzheimer, indicating possible functional derangements in Alzheimer patients in these areas. In addition, colocalization studies indicated that 5-HT1A receptors were in cholinergic cells and gamma-aminobutyric acid positive fibers were linked to 5-HT2A receptor positive cells. It is hoped that understanding these two important 5-HT receptors and their localization might lead to advances in future therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. Y. Yeung
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong S.A.R. China
| | - H. F. Kung
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong S.A.R. Hong Kong
| | - David T. Yew
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong S.A.R. China
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20
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Brennaman LH, Maness PF. NCAM in Neuropsychiatric and Neurodegenerative Disorders. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2010; 663:299-317. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4419-1170-4_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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21
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Yew DT, Yeung LY, Wai MSM, Mak YT. 5-HT 1A and 2A receptor positive cells in the cerebella of mice and human and their decline during aging. Microsc Res Tech 2009; 72:684-9. [PMID: 19353636 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.20717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluated the 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptor positive cells in the cerebella of mice and human by immunocytochemistry. Mice were of ages 1, 3, and 12 months whereas the human subjects were divided into two groups, a younger 57-78 years old group and an older 82-91 years old group. Both 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptor positive cells were observed in the molecular and granular layers of the cerebella of mice and human. Although there was a decline in these positive cells during aging, no regional difference in the positive cells were observed in the anterior, middle, and posterior regions of the cerebella.
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Affiliation(s)
- David T Yew
- Department of Anatomy, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong S.A.R., China.
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22
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Willis M, Hutter-Paier B, Wietzorrek G, Windisch M, Humpel C, Knaus HG, Marksteiner J. Localization and expression of substance P in transgenic mice overexpressing human APP751 with the London (V717I) and Swedish (K670M/N671L) mutations. Brain Res 2007; 1143:199-207. [PMID: 17328871 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2007.01.080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2006] [Revised: 01/16/2007] [Accepted: 01/18/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Substance P-like immunoreactivity (-LI) is found in neuritic plaques, and is reduced in patients suffering from Alzheimer disease (AD). In this study, we examined the distribution and expression of substance P in transgenic mice overexpressing human amyloid precursor protein (hAPP) APP751 with the London (V717I) and Swedish (K670M/N671L) mutations. Immunohistochemistry was performed to localize substance P- and glial fibrillary acidic protein-LI by confocal microscopy. In hAPP transgenic mice, the number of beta-amyloid plaques significantly increased from 6 to 12 months. About 5% of beta-amyloid plaques were substance P-immunoreactive. In transgenic mice, the morphology of substance P-immunoreactive structures changed by consisting of swollen and dystrophic neurites mostly associated with beta-amyloid plaques. The overall localization and the relative substance P densities were not different between wild type and transgenic mice at 6 and 12 months. At month 12, a dramatic change in the distribution pattern of substance P-LI was observed as it was now expressed in a high number of reactive astrocytes. This expression of substance P in astrocytes was mainly found in the hippocampal formation and thalamic nuclei with a preferential association with beta-amyloid plaques, whereas in cortical regions only faintly substance P-immunoreactive astrocytes were observed. This study indicates that substance P undergoes complex changes in this animal Alzheimer disease model. Future experiments including substance P antagonists are necessary to further explore the interaction between beta-amyloid deposits and substance P.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Willis
- Department of General Psychiatry, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
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23
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Abstract
As part of the hippocampus, the dentate gyrus is considered to play a crucial role in associative memory. The reviewed data suggest that the dentate gyrus withstands the formation of plaques, tangles and neuronal death until late stages of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, changes related to a disconnecting process, and more subtle intrinsic alterations, may contribute to disturbances in memory and learning observed in early stages of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas G Ohm
- Institute of Integrative Neuroanatomy, Department of Clinical Cell and Neurobiology, Charité CCM, 10098 Berlin, Germany.
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24
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Lorke DE, Lu G, Cho E, Yew DT. Serotonin 5-HT2A and 5-HT6 receptors in the prefrontal cortex of Alzheimer and normal aging patients. BMC Neurosci 2006; 7:36. [PMID: 16640790 PMCID: PMC1523198 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2202-7-36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2005] [Accepted: 04/27/2006] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been hypothesized that alterations of the serotonergic system contribute to neuropsychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer disease (AD). Cellular expressions of the two serotonergic receptors 5-HT2A and 5-HT6 have therefore been determined by immunohistochemistry in the prefrontal cortex of patients with AD (n=6) and normal age-matched controls (n = 7). RESULTS In normal aging patients, 5-HT2A label was mainly observed in large pyramidal cells, but to a lesser extent also in small pyramidal cells and in stellate cells of cortical layers II-VI. In AD, a similar distribution was observed, but density of positive cells was significantly reduced by 33%. In aging control patients, the 5-HT6 receptor was expressed by pyramidal cells and occasional stellate cells, not only of layers II-V, but also of layer I, where a distinct label was observed in neurons and surrounding fibers. 5-HT6 receptor expression in AD patients had the same pattern, but was significantly decreased by 40%. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that a decline in neurons expressing 5-HT2A, but also 5-HT6 receptors may play a role in the etiopathology of neuropsychiatric symptoms in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dietrich E Lorke
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Box 17666, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Anatomy, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong
| | - Gang Lu
- Department of Anatomy, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong
- Kunming Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Eric Cho
- Department of Anatomy, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong
| | - David T Yew
- Department of Anatomy, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong
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25
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Qin S, Zheng F, Chen GH, Fang H, Wang XM, Zhou JN. Variable alternative spliced exon (VASE)-containing and VASE-lacking neural cell adhesion molecule in the dorsal and ventral hippocampus of SAMP8 mice. J Neurosci Res 2005; 80:838-44. [PMID: 15884017 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.20527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) is involved in the development and synaptic plasticity of the brain. Differential splicing of the variable alternative spliced exon (VASE) in the fourth immunoglobulin domain can dramatically change the functional properties of NCAM. This paper discusses our analysis of the levels of different expression of VASE-containing NCAM (NCAM-VASE(+)) and VASE-lacking NCAM (NCAM-VASE(-)) mRNAs in the dorsal and ventral hippocampus of senescence-accelerated mice (SAM). We further investigated the individual level of NCAM-VASE(+) and NCAM-VASE(-) in relation to the capacity for spatial learning and memory as assessed by a Morris water maze task. The results showed that the levels of both NCAM-VASE(+) and NCAM-VASE(-) were increased significantly in dorsal but not ventral hippocampus in aged SAMP8 mice. The mean latencies to find the hidden platform of the learning task on the last day were positively correlated with the levels of NCAM-VASE(+) in the dorsal hippocampus of SAMP8, which reveals that the mice with high levels of NCAM-VASE(+) have poor learning performances. These results suggest that the up-regulation of NCAM-VASE(+) could be involved in the impairments of spatial learning and memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Qin
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale and Department of Neurobiology, School of Life Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Anhui
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26
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Schmitt HP. On the paradox of ion channel blockade and its benefits in the treatment of Alzheimer disease. Med Hypotheses 2005; 65:259-65. [PMID: 15922097 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2005.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2005] [Accepted: 03/07/2005] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The surprisingly beneficial effects in Alzheimer disease (AD) of ion channel blockers (ICB) like memantine that act on NMDA- and other aminergic transmitter receptors are yet poorly understood. NMDA receptor levels and binding were shown to be significantly decreased in AD, in which highly NMDA receptor and Ca(2+) dependent synaptic plasticity and re-modelling are severely compromised. Thus, how could one expect to improve AD by further suppressing NMDA channels with antagonists. Nevertheless, clinical trials with NMDA blockers revealed in moderate to advanced AD surprisingly positive effects. The present paper tries to provides a hypothetical explanation of that paradoxical success of ICBs. Based on evidence from current data, emphasis is put on a profound impairment in the AD brain of the inhibition-excitation balance in the neuronal circuitry to the advantage of excitation. This imbalance is conceived to result from a degeneration of four modulatory aminiergic transmitter systems (serotonin, noradrenalin, acetylcholine, histamine) and related peptidergic systems, the decline of which causes a profound loss of inhibitory impact in the forebrain neuronal circuitry leading to disinhibition of principal neurones ("aminergic disinhibition"). Subsequent Ca(2+) excito-toxicity and its sequelae are suggested to be the basic promotors of the neuro-degeneration and the related mental decline in AD. Re-adjustment of the inhibition-excitation imbalance by decreasing excitation is conceived to be the mechanism that renders ion channel blockade therapeutically successful. Putatively, attempts to increase inhibition, e.g., by application of GABA mimetics that stimulate the production GABA from preserved but "lazy" GABA neurones lacking aminergic facilitation, might be an even better way to achieve the re-balance.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Peter Schmitt
- Institute of Pathology, Department for Neuropathology, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 220-221, 69120 Heildelberg, Germany.
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27
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Lanctôt KL, Herrmann N, Mazzotta P, Khan LR, Ingber N. GABAergic function in Alzheimer's disease: evidence for dysfunction and potential as a therapeutic target for the treatment of behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY. REVUE CANADIENNE DE PSYCHIATRIE 2004; 49:439-53. [PMID: 15362248 DOI: 10.1177/070674370404900705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by disruptions in multiple major neurotransmitters. While many studies have attempted to establish whether GABA is disrupted in AD patients, findings have varied. We review evidence for disruptions in GABA among patients with AD and suggest that the variable findings reflect subtypes of the disease that are possibly manifested clinically by differing behavioural symptoms. GABA, the major inhibitory neurotransmitter, has long been a target for anxiolytics, hypnotic sedatives, and anticonvulsants. We review the clinical use of GABAergic agents in treating persons with AD symptoms. While newer generation GABAergic medications are now available, they have yet to be evaluated among patients with AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krista L Lanctôt
- Department of Psychiatry, Sunnybrook and Women's College Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Ontario.
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28
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Todaro L, Puricelli L, Gioseffi H, Guadalupe Pallotta M, Lastiri J, Bal de Kier Joffé E, Varela M, Sacerdote de Lustig E. Neural cell adhesion molecule in human serum. Increased levels in dementia of the Alzheimer type. Neurobiol Dis 2004; 15:387-93. [PMID: 15006709 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2003.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2003] [Revised: 11/07/2003] [Accepted: 11/14/2003] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Memory impairment is a process associated with alterations in neuronal plasticity, synapses formation, and stabilization. As the neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) plays a key role in synaptic bond stabilization, we analyzed the usefulness of soluble NCAM isoforms in the diagnosis of patients with dementia of the Alzheimer type (DAT). NCAM was measured in the sera of 70 control subjects and 43 DAT patients (with different severity of cognitive impairment, GDS), employing Western blot and densitometric quantification. LMW-NCAM bands (100-130 kDa) decreased significantly with age independently of sex. DAT patients presented values of LMW-NCAM and HMW-NCAM significantly higher than healthy controls of similar age (higher than 130 kDa). Only LMW-NCAM was associated with GDS. Our results suggest that NCAM could be involved in the pathogenesis of DAT disorder and that serum NCAM levels could be useful as differential diagnostic markers of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Todaro
- Research Area of the Institute of Oncology Angel H. Roffo, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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29
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Bellemère G, Morain P, Vaudry H, Jégou S. Effect of S 17092, a novel prolyl endopeptidase inhibitor, on substance P and alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone breakdown in the rat brain. J Neurochem 2003; 84:919-29. [PMID: 12603817 DOI: 10.1046/j.1471-4159.2003.01536.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, we have investigated the effects of a novel prolyl endopeptidase (EC 3.4.21.26, PEP) inhibitor, compound S 17092, on substance P (SP) and alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) metabolism in the rat brain. In vitro experiments revealed that S 17092 inhibits in a dose-dependent manner PEP activity in rat cortical extracts (IC50 = 8.3 nm). In addition, S 17092 totally abolished the degradation of SP and alpha-MSH induced by bacterial PEP. In vivo, a significant decrease in PEP activity was observed in the medulla oblongata after a single oral administration of S 17092 at doses of 10 and 30 mg/kg (-78% and -82%, respectively) and after chronic oral treatment with S 17092 at doses of 10 and 30 mg/kg per day (-75% and -88%, respectively). Concurrently, a single administration of S 17092 (30 mg/kg) caused a significant increase in SP- and alpha-MSH-like immunoreactivity (LI) in the frontal cortex (+41% and +122%, respectively) and hypothalamus (+84% and +49%, respectively). In contrast, chronic treatment with S 17092 did not significantly modify SP- and alpha-MSH-LI in the frontal cortex and hypothalamus. Collectively, the present results show that S 17092 elevates SP and alpha-MSH concentrations in the rat brain by inhibiting PEP activity. These data suggest that the effect of S 17092 on memory impairment can be accounted for, at least in part, by inhibition of catabolism of promnesic neuropeptides such as SP and alpha-MSH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaëlle Bellemère
- European Institute for Peptide Research (IFRMP23), Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Neuroendocrinology, INSERM U 413, CNRS, University of Rouen, 76821 Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
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30
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Arendt T. Alzheimer's disease as a disorder of mechanisms underlying structural brain self-organization. Neuroscience 2001; 102:723-65. [PMID: 11182240 DOI: 10.1016/s0306-4522(00)00516-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Mental function has as its cerebral basis a specific dynamic structure. In particular, cortical and limbic areas involved in "higher brain functions" such as learning, memory, perception, self-awareness and consciousness continuously need to be self-adjusted even after development is completed. By this lifelong self-optimization process, the cognitive, behavioural and emotional reactivity of an individual is stepwise remodelled to meet the environmental demands. While the presence of rigid synaptic connections ensures the stability of the principal characteristics of function, the variable configuration of the flexible synaptic connections determines the unique, non-repeatable character of an experienced mental act. With the increasing need during evolution to organize brain structures of increasing complexity, this process of selective dynamic stabilization and destabilization of synaptic connections becomes more and more important. These mechanisms of structural stabilization and labilization underlying a lifelong synaptic remodelling according to experience, are accompanied, however, by increasing inherent possibilities of failure and may, thus, not only allow for the evolutionary acquisition of "higher brain function" but at the same time provide the basis for a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders. It is the objective of the present paper to outline the hypothesis that it might be the disturbance of structural brain self-organization which, based on both genetic and epigenetic information, constantly "creates" and "re-creates" the brain throughout life, that is the defect that underlies Alzheimer's disease (AD). This hypothesis is, in particular, based on the following lines of evidence. (1) AD is a synaptic disorder. (2) AD is associated with aberrant sprouting at both the presynaptic (axonal) and postsynaptic (dendritic) site. (3) The spatial and temporal distribution of AD pathology follows the pattern of structural neuroplasticity in adulthood, which is a developmental pattern. (4) AD pathology preferentially involves molecules critical for the regulation of modifications of synaptic connections, i.e. "morphoregulatory" molecules that are developmentally controlled, such as growth-inducing and growth-associated molecules, synaptic molecules, adhesion molecules, molecules involved in membrane turnover, cytoskeletal proteins, etc. (5) Life events that place an additional burden on the plastic capacity of the brain or that require a particularly high plastic capacity of the brain might trigger the onset of the disease or might stimulate a more rapid progression of the disease. In other words, they might increase the risk for AD in the sense that they determine when, not whether, one gets AD. (6) AD is associated with a reactivation of developmental programmes that are incompatible with a differentiated cellular background and, therefore, lead to neuronal death. From this hypothesis, it can be predicted that a therapeutic intervention into these pathogenetic mechanisms is a particular challenge as it potentially interferes with those mechanisms that at the same time provide the basis for "higher brain function".
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Affiliation(s)
- T Arendt
- Paul Flechsig Institute of Brain Research, Department of Neuroanatomy, University of Leipzig, Jahnallee 59, D-04109, Leipzig, Germany.
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31
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Mathieu-Kia AM, Fan LQ, Kreek MJ, Simon EJ, Hiller JM. Mu-, delta- and kappa-opioid receptor populations are differentially altered in distinct areas of postmortem brains of Alzheimer's disease patients. Brain Res 2001; 893:121-34. [PMID: 11223000 DOI: 10.1016/s0006-8993(00)03302-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The putative role of the opioid system in cognitive and memory functions prompted us to search for possible changes in the cohort of the major opioid receptors, mu, delta and kappa, in Alzheimer's disease. The present study examines alterations in opioid receptor levels by quantitative autoradiography. These experiments were carried out on coronal sections of postmortem brains from Alzheimer's disease patients and from aged-matched, dementia-free individuals. Brain sections were labeled with the tritiated forms of mu-, delta- and kappa-opioid ligands; DAMGO ([D-Ala(2),N-Me-Phe(4),Gly-ol(5)]-enkephalin), DPDPE ([D-Pen2,5]-enkephalin) and bremazocine (in the presence of mu- and delta-ligands), respectively. Nonspecific binding was determined in the presence of naloxone (10 microM). Brain areas analyzed were caudate, putamen, amygdaloid complex, hippocampal formation and various cerebral and cerebellar cortices. Image analyses of autoradiographs show, that in comparison to the same areas in control brain, statistically significant reductions in mu-opioid receptor binding occur in the subiculum and hippocampus of Alzheimer's disease brains. Binding of delta-opioid receptors is also decreased in the amygdaloid complex and ventral putamen of Alzheimer's disease brains. In contrast, large increases of kappa-opioid receptor binding are found in the dorsal and ventral putamen as well as in the cerebellar cortex of Alzheimer's disease brains. Levels of mu- delta- and kappa-opioid receptor binding are unaltered in the caudate, parahippocampal gyrus and occipito-temporal gyrus. These results may suggest an involvement of the endogenous opioid system in some of the multitude of effects that accompany this dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Mathieu-Kia
- The Rockefeller University, Laboratory of the Biology of Addictive Diseases, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10021, USA
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