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Yu SP, Choi E, Jiang MQ, Wei L. Acute and chronic excitotoxicity in ischemic stroke and late-onset Alzheimer's disease. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1981-1988. [PMID: 39101641 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Stroke and Alzheimer's disease are common neurological disorders and often occur in the same individuals. The comorbidity of the two neurological disorders represents a grave health threat to older populations. This review presents a brief background of the development of novel concepts and their clinical potentials. The activity of glutamatergic N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-mediated Ca 2+ influx is critical for neuronal function. An ischemic insult induces prompt and excessive glutamate release and drastic increases of intracellular Ca 2+ mainly via N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors, particularly of those at the extrasynaptic site. This Ca 2+ -evoked neuronal cell death in the ischemic core is dominated by necrosis within a few hours and days known as acute excitotoxicity. Furthermore, mild but sustained Ca 2+ increases under neurodegenerative conditions such as in the distant penumbra of the ischemic brain and early stages of Alzheimer's disease are not immediately toxic, but gradually set off deteriorating Ca 2+ -dependent signals and neuronal cell loss mostly because of activation of programmed cell death pathways. Based on the Ca 2+ hypothesis of Alzheimer's disease and recent advances, this Ca 2+ -activated "silent" degenerative excitotoxicity evolves from years to decades and is recognized as a unique slow and chronic neuropathogenesis. The N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor subunit GluN3A, primarily at the extrasynaptic site, serves as a gatekeeper for the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor activity and is neuroprotective against both acute and chronic excitotoxicity. Ischemic stroke and Alzheimer's disease, therefore, share an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor- and Ca 2+ -mediated mechanism, although with much different time courses. It is thus proposed that early interventions to control Ca 2+ homeostasis at the preclinical stage are pivotal for individuals who are susceptible to sporadic late-onset Alzheimer's disease and Alzheimer's disease-related dementia. This early treatment simultaneously serves as a preconditioning therapy against ischemic stroke that often attacks the same individuals during abnormal aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Ping Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Emily Choi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Michael Q Jiang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Ling Wei
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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2
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Gu L, Cai H, Chen L, Gu M, Tchieu J, Guo F. Functional Neural Networks in Human Brain Organoids. BME FRONTIERS 2024; 5:0065. [PMID: 39314749 PMCID: PMC11418062 DOI: 10.34133/bmef.0065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2024] [Revised: 08/12/2024] [Accepted: 09/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Human brain organoids are 3-dimensional brain-like tissues derived from human pluripotent stem cells and hold promising potential for modeling neurological, psychiatric, and developmental disorders. While the molecular and cellular aspects of human brain organoids have been intensively studied, their functional properties such as organoid neural networks (ONNs) are largely understudied. Here, we summarize recent research advances in understanding, characterization, and application of functional ONNs in human brain organoids. We first discuss the formation of ONNs and follow up with characterization strategies including microelectrode array (MEA) technology and calcium imaging. Moreover, we highlight recent studies utilizing ONNs to investigate neurological diseases such as Rett syndrome and Alzheimer's disease. Finally, we provide our perspectives on the future challenges and opportunities for using ONNs in basic research and translational applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longjun Gu
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering,
Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Hongwei Cai
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering,
Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Lei Chen
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering,
Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Mingxia Gu
- Center for Stem Cell and Organoid Medicine (CuSTOM), Division of Pulmonary Biology, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- University of Cincinnati School of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Jason Tchieu
- Center for Stem Cell and Organoid Medicine (CuSTOM), Division of Pulmonary Biology, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- University of Cincinnati School of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Feng Guo
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering,
Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
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3
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Vargas-Barona A, Bernáldez-Sarabia J, Castro-Ceseña AB. Lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles loaded with N-acetylcysteine for the modulation of neuroinflammatory biomarkers in human iPSC-derived PSEN2 (N141I) astrocytes as a model of Alzheimer's disease. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:5085-5097. [PMID: 38713059 DOI: 10.1039/d4tb00521j] [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: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by cognitive impairment associated with the accumulation of beta-amyloid protein (Aβ). Aβ activates glial cells in the brain, increasing the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines, which leads to neuroinflammation and neuronal death. Currently, there are no effective treatments that cure or stop its progression; therefore, AD is considered a global health priority. The main limitations are the low drug bioavailability and impermeability of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Fortunately, nanomedicine has emerged as a promising field for the development of new nanosystems for the controlled and targeted delivery of drugs to the brain. Therefore, in this work, lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles (LPHNPs) conjugated with transferrin (Tf) to facilitate crossing the BBB and loaded with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) for its anti-inflammatory effect were synthesized, and their physicochemical characterization was carried out. Subsequently, an in vitro model involving human astrocytes derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) from an AD-diagnosed patient was developed, which was brought to a reactive state by stimulation with lipopolysaccharides (LPSs). The cell culture was treated with either Tf-conjugated LPHNPs loaded with NAC (NAC-Tf-LPHNPs) at 0.25 mg mL-1, or free NAC at 5 mM. The results showed that NAC-Tf-LPHNPs favorably modulated the expression of proinflammatory genes such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β), amyloid precursor protein (APP) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). In addition, they reduced the secretion of the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin 6 (IL-6), IL-1β and interferon-gamma (INF-γ). Results for both cases were compared to the group of cells that did not receive any treatment. In contrast, free NAC only had this effect on the expression of IL-1β and the secretion of the cytokines IL-6 and INF-γ. These results indicate the potential of NAC-Tf-LPHNPs for AD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alondra Vargas-Barona
- Departamento de Innovación Biomédica, Centro de Investigación Científica y de Educación Superior de Ensenada, Baja California (CICESE), Carretera Ensenada- Tijuana No. 3918, Zona Playitas, C.P. 22860, Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico.
| | - Johanna Bernáldez-Sarabia
- Departamento de Innovación Biomédica, Centro de Investigación Científica y de Educación Superior de Ensenada, Baja California (CICESE), Carretera Ensenada- Tijuana No. 3918, Zona Playitas, C.P. 22860, Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico.
| | - Ana B Castro-Ceseña
- Departamento de Innovación Biomédica, Centro de Investigación Científica y de Educación Superior de Ensenada, Baja California (CICESE), Carretera Ensenada- Tijuana No. 3918, Zona Playitas, C.P. 22860, Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico.
- CONAHCYT-Departamento de Innovación Biomédica, Centro de Investigación Científica y de Educación Superior de Ensenada, Baja California (CICESE), Carretera Ensenada-Tijuana No. 3918, Zona Playitas, C.P. 22860, Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico
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Kuhn MK, Kang RY, Kim C, Tagay Y, Morris N, Tabdanov ED, Elcheva IA, Proctor EA. Dynamic neuroinflammatory profiles predict Alzheimer's disease pathology in microglia-containing cerebral organoids. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.11.16.567220. [PMID: 38014053 PMCID: PMC10680718 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.16.567220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation and the underlying dysregulated immune responses of microglia actively contribute to the progression and, likely, the initiation of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Fine-tuned therapeutic modulation of immune dysfunction to ameliorate disease cannot be achieved without the characterization of diverse microglial states that initiate unique, and sometimes contradictory, immune responses that evolve over time in chronic inflammatory environments. Because of the functional differences between human and murine microglia, untangling distinct, disease-relevant reactive states and their corresponding effects on pathology or neuronal health may not be possible without the use of human cells. In order to profile shifting microglial states in early AD and identify microglia-specific drivers of disease, we differentiated human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) carrying a familial AD PSEN2 mutation or its isogenic control into cerebral organoids and quantified the changes in cytokine concentrations over time with Luminex XMAP technology. We used partial least squares (PLS) modeling to build cytokine signatures predictive of disease and age to identify key differential patterns of cytokine expression that inform the overall organoid immune milieu and quantified the corresponding changes in protein pathology. AD organoids exhibited an overall reduction in cytokine secretion after an initial amplified immune response. We demonstrate that reduced synapse density observed in the AD organoids is prevented with microglial depletion. Crucially, these differential effects of dysregulated immune signaling occurred without the accumulation of pathological proteins. In this study, we used microglia-containing AD organoids to quantitatively characterize an evolving immune milieu, made up of a diverse of collection of activation patterns and immune responses, to identify how a dynamic, overall neuroinflammatory state negatively impacts neuronal health and the cell-specific contribution of microglia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madison K Kuhn
- Department of Neurosurgery, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
- Center for Neural Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Rachel Y Kang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - ChaeMin Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Yerbol Tagay
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Nathan Morris
- Department of Neurosurgery, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Erdem D Tabdanov
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
- Penn State Cancer Institute, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Irina A Elcheva
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Proctor
- Department of Neurosurgery, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
- Center for Neural Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
- Department of Engineering Science & Mechanics, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
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Chen B, Du C, Wang M, Guo J, Liu X. Organoids as preclinical models of human disease: progress and applications. MEDICAL REVIEW (2021) 2024; 4:129-153. [PMID: 38680680 PMCID: PMC11046574 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2023-0047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
In the field of biomedical research, organoids represent a remarkable advancement that has the potential to revolutionize our approach to studying human diseases even before clinical trials. Organoids are essentially miniature 3D models of specific organs or tissues, enabling scientists to investigate the causes of diseases, test new drugs, and explore personalized medicine within a controlled laboratory setting. Over the past decade, organoid technology has made substantial progress, allowing researchers to create highly detailed environments that closely mimic the human body. These organoids can be generated from various sources, including pluripotent stem cells, specialized tissue cells, and tumor tissue cells. This versatility enables scientists to replicate a wide range of diseases affecting different organ systems, effectively creating disease replicas in a laboratory dish. This exciting capability has provided us with unprecedented insights into the progression of diseases and how we can develop improved treatments. In this paper, we will provide an overview of the progress made in utilizing organoids as preclinical models, aiding our understanding and providing a more effective approach to addressing various human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baodan Chen
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, CUHK-GIBH Joint Research Laboratory on Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, GIBH-HKU Guangdong-Hong Kong Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Centre, Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Cijie Du
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, CUHK-GIBH Joint Research Laboratory on Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, GIBH-HKU Guangdong-Hong Kong Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Centre, Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Mengfei Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, CUHK-GIBH Joint Research Laboratory on Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, GIBH-HKU Guangdong-Hong Kong Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Centre, Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jingyi Guo
- Innovation Centre for Advanced Interdisciplinary Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xingguo Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, China-New Zealand Joint Laboratory on Biomedicine and Health, CUHK-GIBH Joint Research Laboratory on Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, GIBH-HKU Guangdong-Hong Kong Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Centre, Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health, Hong Kong Institute of Science & Innovation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hong Kong SAR, China
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6
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Amartumur S, Nguyen H, Huynh T, Kim TS, Woo RS, Oh E, Kim KK, Lee LP, Heo C. Neuropathogenesis-on-chips for neurodegenerative diseases. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2219. [PMID: 38472255 PMCID: PMC10933492 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46554-8] [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: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Developing diagnostics and treatments for neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) is challenging due to multifactorial pathogenesis that progresses gradually. Advanced in vitro systems that recapitulate patient-like pathophysiology are emerging as alternatives to conventional animal-based models. In this review, we explore the interconnected pathogenic features of different types of ND, discuss the general strategy to modelling NDs using a microfluidic chip, and introduce the organoid-on-a-chip as the next advanced relevant model. Lastly, we overview how these models are being applied in academic and industrial drug development. The integration of microfluidic chips, stem cells, and biotechnological devices promises to provide valuable insights for biomedical research and developing diagnostic and therapeutic solutions for NDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarnai Amartumur
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Huong Nguyen
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Thuy Huynh
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Testaverde S Kim
- Center for Integrated Nanostructure Physics (CINAP), Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Ran-Sook Woo
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Eulji University, Daejeon, 34824, Korea
| | - Eungseok Oh
- Department of Neurology, Chungnam National University Hospital, Daejeon, 35015, Korea
| | - Kyeong Kyu Kim
- Department of Precision Medicine, Graduate School of Basic Medical Science (GSBMS), Institute for Anti-microbial Resistance Research and Therapeutics, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Luke P Lee
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea.
- Harvard Medical School, Division of Engineering in Medicine and Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Department of Bioengineering, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA.
| | - Chaejeong Heo
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea.
- Center for Integrated Nanostructure Physics (CINAP), Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Suwon, 16419, Korea.
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Rodriguez-Jimenez FJ, Ureña-Peralta J, Jendelova P, Erceg S. Alzheimer's disease and synapse Loss: What can we learn from induced pluripotent stem Cells? J Adv Res 2023; 54:105-118. [PMID: 36646419 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2023.01.006] [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: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Synaptic dysfunction is a major contributor to Alzheimeŕs disease (AD) pathogenesis in addition to the formation of neuritic β-amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles of hyperphosphorylated Tau protein. However, how these features contribute to synaptic dysfunction and axonal loss remains unclear. While years of considerable effort have been devoted to gaining an improved understanding of this devastating disease, the unavailability of patient-derived tissues, considerable genetic heterogeneity, and lack of animal models that faithfully recapitulate human AD have hampered the development of effective treatment options. Ongoing progress in human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) technology has permitted the derivation of patient- and disease-specific stem cells with unlimited self-renewal capacity. These cells can differentiate into AD-affected cell types, which support studies of disease mechanisms, drug discovery, and the development of cell replacement therapies in traditional and advanced cell culture models. AIM OF REVIEW To summarize current hiPSC-based AD models, highlighting the associated achievements and challenges with a primary focus on neuron and synapse loss. KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW We aim to identify how hiPSC models can contribute to understanding AD-associated synaptic dysfunction and axonal loss. hiPSC-derived neural cells, astrocytes, and microglia, as well as more sophisticated cellular organoids, may represent reliable models to investigate AD and identify early markers of AD-associated neural degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Javier Rodriguez-Jimenez
- Stem Cell Therapies in Neurodegenerative Diseases Lab., Centro de Investigación Principe Felipe (CIPF), c/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012 Valencia, Spain.
| | - Juan Ureña-Peralta
- Stem Cell Therapies in Neurodegenerative Diseases Lab., Centro de Investigación Principe Felipe (CIPF), c/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012 Valencia, Spain.
| | - Pavla Jendelova
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Department of Neuroregeneration, Czech Academy of Science, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Slaven Erceg
- Stem Cell Therapies in Neurodegenerative Diseases Lab., Centro de Investigación Principe Felipe (CIPF), c/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012 Valencia, Spain; Institute of Experimental Medicine, Department of Neuroregeneration, Czech Academy of Science, Prague, Czech Republic; National Stem Cell Bank-Valencia Node, Centro de Investigacion Principe Felipe, c/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012 Valencia, Spain.
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Shim SS, Berglund K, Yu SP. Lithium: An Old Drug for New Therapeutic Strategy for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementia. NEURODEGENER DIS 2023; 23:1-12. [PMID: 37666228 DOI: 10.1159/000533797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, the effective treatment of AD is not available currently. Multiple trials of drugs, which were developed based on the amyloid hypothesis of AD, have not been highly successful to improve cognitive and other symptoms in AD patients, suggesting that it is necessary to explore additional and alternative approaches for the disease-modifying treatment of AD. The diverse lines of evidence have revealed that lithium reduces amyloid and tau pathology, attenuates neuronal loss, enhances synaptic plasticity, and improves cognitive function. Clinical studies have shown that lithium reduces the risk of AD and deters the progress of mild cognitive impairment and early AD. SUMMARY Our recent study has revealed that lithium stabilizes disruptive calcium homeostasis, and subsequently, attenuates the downstream neuropathogenic processes of AD. Through these therapeutic actions, lithium produces therapeutic effects on AD with potential to modify the disease process. This review critically analyzed the preclinical and clinical studies for the therapeutic effects of lithium on AD. We suggest that disruptive calcium homeostasis is likely to be the early neuropathological mechanism of AD, and the stabilization of disruptive calcium homeostasis by lithium would be associated with its therapeutic effects on neuropathology and cognitive deficits in AD. KEY MESSAGES Lithium is likely to be efficacious for AD as a disease-modifying drug by acting on multiple neuropathological targets including disruptive calcium homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong Sool Shim
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Mental Health Service Line, Department of Veteran's Affair, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, Georgia, USA
- Department of Veteran's Affair, Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, Georgia, USA
| | - Ken Berglund
- Department of Veteran's Affair, Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, Georgia, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Shan Ping Yu
- Department of Veteran's Affair, Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, Georgia, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Webber EK, Fivaz M, Stutzmann GE, Griffioen G. Cytosolic calcium: Judge, jury and executioner of neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease and beyond. Alzheimers Dement 2023; 19:3701-3717. [PMID: 37132525 PMCID: PMC10490830 DOI: 10.1002/alz.13065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
This review discusses the driving principles that may underlie neurodegeneration in dementia, represented most dominantly by Alzheimer's disease (AD). While a myriad of different disease risk factors contribute to AD, these ultimately converge to a common disease outcome. Based on decades of research, a picture emerges where upstream risk factors combine in a feedforward pathophysiological cycle, culminating in a rise of cytosolic calcium concentration ([Ca2+ ]c ) that triggers neurodegeneration. In this framework, positive AD risk factors entail conditions, characteristics, or lifestyles that initiate or accelerate self-reinforcing cycles of pathophysiology, whereas negative risk factors or therapeutic interventions, particularly those mitigating elevated [Ca2+ ]c , oppose these effects and therefore have neuroprotective potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise K. Webber
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Therapeutics, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, 60064, USA
- School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, 60064, USA
| | - Marc Fivaz
- reMYND, Gaston Geenslaan 1, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Grace E. Stutzmann
- Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Therapeutics, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, 60064, USA
- School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, 60064, USA
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10
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Cerneckis J, Bu G, Shi Y. Pushing the boundaries of brain organoids to study Alzheimer's disease. Trends Mol Med 2023; 29:659-672. [PMID: 37353408 PMCID: PMC10374393 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2023.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
Progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) entails deterioration or aberrant function of multiple brain cell types, eventually leading to neurodegeneration and cognitive decline. Defining how complex cell-cell interactions become dysregulated in AD requires novel human cell-based in vitro platforms that could recapitulate the intricate cytoarchitecture and cell diversity of the human brain. Brain organoids (BOs) are 3D self-organizing tissues that partially resemble the human brain architecture and can recapitulate AD-relevant pathology. In this review, we highlight the versatile applications of different types of BOs to model AD pathogenesis, including amyloid-β and tau aggregation, neuroinflammation, myelin breakdown, vascular dysfunction, and other phenotypes, as well as to accelerate therapeutic development for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Cerneckis
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Guojun Bu
- SciNeuro Pharmaceuticals, Rockville, MD 20850, USA
| | - Yanhong Shi
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA.
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11
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Adlakha YK. Human 3D brain organoids: steering the demolecularization of brain and neurological diseases. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:221. [PMID: 37400464 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01523-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding of human brain development, dysfunction and neurological diseases has remained limited and challenging due to inability to recapitulate human brain-specific features in animal models. Though the anatomy and physiology of the human brain has been understood in a remarkable way using post-mortem, pathological samples of human and animal models, however, modeling of human brain development and neurological diseases remains a challenge owing to distinct complexity of human brain. In this perspective, three-dimensional (3D) brain organoids have shown a beam of light. Tremendous growth in stem cell technologies has permitted the differentiation of pluripotent stem cells under 3D culture conditions into brain organoids, which recapitulate the unique features of human brain in many ways and also offer the detailed investigation of brain development, dysfunction and neurological diseases. Their translational value has also emerged and will benefit the society once the protocols for the upscaling of brain organoids are in place. Here, we summarize new advancements in methods for generation of more complex brain organoids including vascularized and mixed lineage tissue from PSCs. How synthetic biomaterials and microfluidic technology is boosting brain organoid development, has also been highlighted. We discuss the applications of brain organoids in studying preterm birth associated brain dysfunction; viral infections mediated neuroinflammation, neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases. We also highlight the translational value of brain organoids and current challenges that the field is experiencing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yogita K Adlakha
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Research, Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India.
- Maternal and Child Health Domain, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI), Faridabad, Haryana, India.
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12
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Yu SP, Jiang MQ, Shim SS, Pourkhodadad S, Wei L. Extrasynaptic NMDA receptors in acute and chronic excitotoxicity: implications for preventive treatments of ischemic stroke and late-onset Alzheimer's disease. Mol Neurodegener 2023; 18:43. [PMID: 37400870 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-023-00636-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Stroke and late-onset Alzheimer's disease (AD) are risk factors for each other; the comorbidity of these brain disorders in aging individuals represents a significant challenge in basic research and clinical practice. The similarities and differences between stroke and AD in terms of pathogenesis and pathophysiology, however, have rarely been comparably reviewed. Here, we discuss the research background and recent progresses that are important and informative for the comorbidity of stroke and late-onset AD and related dementia (ADRD). Glutamatergic NMDA receptor (NMDAR) activity and NMDAR-mediated Ca2+ influx are essential for neuronal function and cell survival. An ischemic insult, however, can cause rapid increases in glutamate concentration and excessive activation of NMDARs, leading to swift Ca2+ overload in neuronal cells and acute excitotoxicity within hours and days. On the other hand, mild upregulation of NMDAR activity, commonly seen in AD animal models and patients, is not immediately cytotoxic. Sustained NMDAR hyperactivity and Ca2+ dysregulation lasting from months to years, nevertheless, can be pathogenic for slowly evolving events, i.e. degenerative excitotoxicity, in the development of AD/ADRD. Specifically, Ca2+ influx mediated by extrasynaptic NMDARs (eNMDARs) and a downstream pathway mediated by transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily M member (TRPM) are primarily responsible for excitotoxicity. On the other hand, the NMDAR subunit GluN3A plays a "gatekeeper" role in NMDAR activity and a neuroprotective role against both acute and chronic excitotoxicity. Thus, ischemic stroke and AD share an NMDAR- and Ca2+-mediated pathogenic mechanism that provides a common receptor target for preventive and possibly disease-modifying therapies. Memantine (MEM) preferentially blocks eNMDARs and was approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) for symptomatic treatment of moderate-to-severe AD with variable efficacy. According to the pathogenic role of eNMDARs, it is conceivable that MEM and other eNMDAR antagonists should be administered much earlier, preferably during the presymptomatic phases of AD/ADRD. This anti-AD treatment could simultaneously serve as a preconditioning strategy against stroke that attacks ≥ 50% of AD patients. Future research on the regulation of NMDARs, enduring control of eNMDARs, Ca2+ homeostasis, and downstream events will provide a promising opportunity to understand and treat the comorbidity of AD/ADRD and stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan P Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
- Center for Visual & Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, 30033, USA.
| | - Michael Q Jiang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Center for Visual & Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, 30033, USA
| | - Seong S Shim
- Center for Visual & Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, 30033, USA
| | - Soheila Pourkhodadad
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Center for Visual & Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, 30033, USA
| | - Ling Wei
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
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13
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D'Antoni C, Mautone L, Sanchini C, Tondo L, Grassmann G, Cidonio G, Bezzi P, Cordella F, Di Angelantonio S. Unlocking Neural Function with 3D In Vitro Models: A Technical Review of Self-Assembled, Guided, and Bioprinted Brain Organoids and Their Applications in the Study of Neurodevelopmental and Neurodegenerative Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10762. [PMID: 37445940 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the complexities of the human brain and its associated disorders poses a significant challenge in neuroscience. Traditional research methods have limitations in replicating its intricacies, necessitating the development of in vitro models that can simulate its structure and function. Three-dimensional in vitro models, including organoids, cerebral organoids, bioprinted brain models, and functionalized brain organoids, offer promising platforms for studying human brain development, physiology, and disease. These models accurately replicate key aspects of human brain anatomy, gene expression, and cellular behavior, enabling drug discovery and toxicology studies while providing insights into human-specific phenomena not easily studied in animal models. The use of human-induced pluripotent stem cells has revolutionized the generation of 3D brain structures, with various techniques developed to generate specific brain regions. These advancements facilitate the study of brain structure development and function, overcoming previous limitations due to the scarcity of human brain samples. This technical review provides an overview of current 3D in vitro models of the human cortex, their development, characterization, and limitations, and explores the state of the art and future directions in the field, with a specific focus on their applications in studying neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara D'Antoni
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Center for Life Nano- and Neuro-Science of Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenza Mautone
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Center for Life Nano- and Neuro-Science of Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Caterina Sanchini
- Center for Life Nano- and Neuro-Science of Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Lucrezia Tondo
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Center for Life Nano- and Neuro-Science of Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Greta Grassmann
- Center for Life Nano- and Neuro-Science of Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), 00161 Rome, Italy
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "Alessandro Rossi Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Cidonio
- Center for Life Nano- and Neuro-Science of Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Bezzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Federica Cordella
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Center for Life Nano- and Neuro-Science of Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Di Angelantonio
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Center for Life Nano- and Neuro-Science of Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), 00161 Rome, Italy
- D-Tails s.r.l., 00165 Rome, Italy
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14
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Rybak-Wolf A, Wyler E, Pentimalli TM, Legnini I, Oliveras Martinez A, Glažar P, Loewa A, Kim SJ, Kaufer BB, Woehler A, Landthaler M, Rajewsky N. Modelling viral encephalitis caused by herpes simplex virus 1 infection in cerebral organoids. Nat Microbiol 2023:10.1038/s41564-023-01405-y. [PMID: 37349587 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-023-01405-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
Herpes simplex encephalitis is a life-threatening disease of the central nervous system caused by herpes simplex viruses (HSVs). Following standard of care with antiviral acyclovir treatment, most patients still experience various neurological sequelae. Here we characterize HSV-1 infection of human brain organoids by combining single-cell RNA sequencing, electrophysiology and immunostaining. We observed strong perturbations of tissue integrity, neuronal function and cellular transcriptomes. Under acyclovir treatment viral replication was stopped, but did not prevent HSV-1-driven defects such as damage of neuronal processes and neuroepithelium. Unbiased analysis of pathways deregulated upon infection revealed tumour necrosis factor activation as a potential causal factor. Combination of anti-inflammatory drugs such as necrostatin-1 or bardoxolone methyl with antiviral treatment prevented the damages caused by infection, indicating that tuning the inflammatory response in acute infection may improve current therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Rybak-Wolf
- Organoid Platform, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology (BIMSB), Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany.
| | - Emanuel Wyler
- Laboratory for RNA Biology, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology (BIMSB), Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Tancredi Massimo Pentimalli
- Laboratory for Systems Biology of Gene Regulatory Elements, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology (BIMSB), Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin School of Integrative Oncology (BSIO), Berlin, Germany
| | - Ivano Legnini
- Laboratory for Systems Biology of Gene Regulatory Elements, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology (BIMSB), Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Centre for Genomics, Functional Genomics Programme, Human Technopole, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Oliveras Martinez
- System Biology Imaging Platform, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology (BIMSB), Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Petar Glažar
- Laboratory for Systems Biology of Gene Regulatory Elements, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology (BIMSB), Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
| | - Anna Loewa
- Organoid Platform, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology (BIMSB), Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Respiratory Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Seung Joon Kim
- Laboratory for Systems Biology of Gene Regulatory Elements, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology (BIMSB), Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Andrew Woehler
- System Biology Imaging Platform, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology (BIMSB), Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Markus Landthaler
- Laboratory for RNA Biology, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology (BIMSB), Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany
- Institut für Biologie, Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nikolaus Rajewsky
- Laboratory for Systems Biology of Gene Regulatory Elements, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology (BIMSB), Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin, Germany.
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany.
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
- NeuroCure Cluster of Excellence, Berlin, Germany.
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Berlin, Germany.
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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15
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Sreenivasamurthy S, Laul M, Zhao N, Kim T, Zhu D. Current progress of cerebral organoids for modeling Alzheimer's disease origins and mechanisms. Bioeng Transl Med 2023; 8:e10378. [PMID: 36925717 PMCID: PMC10013781 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10378] [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: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive, neurodegenerative disease that has emerged as a leading risk factor for dementia associated with increasing age. Two-dimensional (2D) cell culture and animal models, which have been used to analyze AD pathology and search for effective treatments for decades, have significantly contributed to our understanding of the mechanism of AD. Despite their successes, 2D and animal models can only capture a fraction of AD mechanisms due to their inability to recapitulate human brain-specific tissue structure, function, and cellular diversity. Recently, the emergence of three-dimensional (3D) cerebral organoids using tissue engineering and induced pluripotent stem cell technology has paved the way to develop models that resemble features of human brain tissue more accurately in comparison to prior models. In this review, we focus on summarizing key research strategies for engineering in vitro 3D human brain-specific models, major discoveries from using AD cerebral organoids, and its future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai Sreenivasamurthy
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringStony Brook UniversityStony BrookNew YorkUSA
| | - Mahek Laul
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringStony Brook UniversityStony BrookNew YorkUSA
| | - Nan Zhao
- Institute for NanobiotechnologyJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Tiffany Kim
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringStony Brook UniversityStony BrookNew YorkUSA
| | - Donghui Zhu
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringStony Brook UniversityStony BrookNew YorkUSA
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16
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Kim H, Jang EJ, Sankpal NV, Patel M, Patel R. Recent Development of Brain Organoids for Biomedical Application. Macromol Biosci 2023; 23:e2200346. [PMID: 36469016 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202200346] [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: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Over the years, scientists have studied the behavior and anatomy of many animals to understand the own species. However, despite the continuous efforts, it is often difficult to know for certain how the brain works due to the differences between the brains of animals and the human brain. While the use of animal models for research continues, the origin of human cognition and neurological disorders needs further elucidation. To that end, in vitro organoids that exhibit in vivo characteristics of the human brain have been recently developed. These brain-like organoids enable researchers to dive deeper into understanding the human brain, its neurological structures, and the causes of neurological pathologies. This paper reviews the recent developments in the regeneration of brain-like organoids using Matrigel and other alternatives. Further, gel-free methods that may enhance the regeneration process of organoids are discussed. Finally, the vascularized brain organoid growth and development in both in vitro and in vivo conditions are detailed.
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Affiliation(s)
- HanSol Kim
- Bio-Convergence (BC), Integrated Science and Engineering Division (ISED), Underwood International College, Yonsei University, 85 Songdogwahak-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, 21983, South Korea
| | - Eun Jo Jang
- Nano Science and Engineering, Integrated Science and Engineering Division (ISED), Underwood International College, Yonsei University, Songdogwahak-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, 21983, South Korea
| | - Narendra V Sankpal
- Norton Thoracic Institute St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
| | - Madhumita Patel
- Department of Chemistry and Nanoscience, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03760, South Korea
| | - Rajkumar Patel
- Energy & Environmental Science and Engineering (EESE), Integrated Science and Engineering Division (ISED), Underwood International College, Yonsei University, 85 Songdogwahak-ro, Yeonsugu, Incheon, 21938, South Korea
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17
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Yang Z, Gong M, Yang C, Chen C, Zhang K. Applications of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Glia in Brain Disease Research and Treatment. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2023; 281:103-140. [PMID: 37735301 DOI: 10.1007/164_2023_697] [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] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Glia are integral components of neural networks and are crucial in both physiological functions and pathological processes of the brain. Many brain diseases involve glial abnormalities, including inflammatory changes, mitochondrial damage, calcium signaling disturbance, hemichannel opening, and loss of glutamate transporters. Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived glia provide opportunities to study the contributions of glia in human brain diseases. These cells have been used for human disease modeling as well as generating new therapies. This chapter introduces glial involvement in brain diseases, then summarizes different methods of generating iPSC-derived glia disease models of these cells. Finally, strategies for treating disease using iPSC-derived glia are discussed. The goal of this chapter is to provide an overview and shed light on the applications of iPSC-derived glia in brain disease research and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqi Yang
- Brain Research Center and State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Mingyue Gong
- Brain Research Center and State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chuanyan Yang
- Brain Research Center and State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chunhai Chen
- Department of Occupational Health, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Kuan Zhang
- Brain Research Center and State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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18
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Karmirian K, Holubiec M, Goto-Silva L, Fernandez Bessone I, Vitória G, Mello B, Alloatti M, Vanderborght B, Falzone TL, Rehen S. Modeling Alzheimer's Disease Using Human Brain Organoids. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2561:135-158. [PMID: 36399268 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2655-9_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the primary cause of dementia, to date. The urgent need to understand the biological and biochemical processes related to this condition, as well as the demand for reliable in vitro models for drug screening, has led to the development of novel techniques, among which stem cell methods are of utmost relevance for AD research, particularly the development of human brain organoids. Brain organoids are three-dimensional cellular aggregates derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) that recreate different neural cell interactions and tissue characteristics in culture. Here, we describe the protocol for the generation of brain organoids derived from AD patients and for the analysis of AD-derived pathology. AD organoids can recapitulate beta-amyloid and tau pathological features, making them a promising model for studying the molecular mechanisms underlying disease and for in vitro drug testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina Karmirian
- D'Or Institute for Research and Education (IDOR), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Mariana Holubiec
- Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia IBCN (UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Livia Goto-Silva
- D'Or Institute for Research and Education (IDOR), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ivan Fernandez Bessone
- Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia IBCN (UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gabriela Vitória
- D'Or Institute for Research and Education (IDOR), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Beatriz Mello
- D'Or Institute for Research and Education (IDOR), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Matias Alloatti
- Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia IBCN (UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Bart Vanderborght
- D'Or Institute for Research and Education (IDOR), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Tomás L Falzone
- Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia IBCN (UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomedicina de Buenos Aires IBioBA (CONICET), Partner Institute of the Max Planck Society, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Stevens Rehen
- D'Or Institute for Research and Education (IDOR), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
- Department of Genetics, Institute of Biology, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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19
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Modelling Alzheimer's disease using human brain organoids: current progress and challenges. Expert Rev Mol Med 2022; 25:e3. [PMID: 36517884 DOI: 10.1017/erm.2022.40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterised by gradual memory loss and declining cognitive and executive functions. AD is the most common cause of dementia, affecting more than 50 million people worldwide, and is a major health concern in society. Despite decades of research, the cause of AD is not well understood and there is no effective curative treatment so far. Therefore, there is an urgent need to increase understanding of AD pathophysiology in the hope of developing a much-needed cure. Dissecting the cellular and molecular mechanisms of AD pathogenesis has been challenging as the most commonly used model systems such as transgenic animals and two-dimensional neuronal culture do not fully recapitulate the pathological hallmarks of AD. The recent advent of three-dimensional human brain organoids confers unique opportunities to study AD in a humanised model system by encapsulating many aspects of AD pathology. In the present review, we summarise the studies of AD using human brain organoids that recapitulate the major pathological components of AD including amyloid-β and tau aggregation, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress and synaptic and circuitry dysregulation. Additionally, the current challenges and future directions of the brain organoids modelling system are discussed.
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20
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Chung WG, Kim E, Song H, Lee J, Lee S, Lim K, Jeong I, Park JU. Recent Advances in Electrophysiological Recording Platforms for Brain and Heart Organoids. ADVANCED NANOBIOMED RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/anbr.202200081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Won Gi Chung
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
- Center for Nanomedicine Institute for Basic Science (IBS) Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
| | - Enji Kim
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
- Center for Nanomedicine Institute for Basic Science (IBS) Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
| | - Hayoung Song
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
- Center for Nanomedicine Institute for Basic Science (IBS) Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
| | - Jakyoung Lee
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
- Center for Nanomedicine Institute for Basic Science (IBS) Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
| | - Sanghoon Lee
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
- Center for Nanomedicine Institute for Basic Science (IBS) Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
| | - Kyeonghee Lim
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
- Center for Nanomedicine Institute for Basic Science (IBS) Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
| | - Inhea Jeong
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
- Center for Nanomedicine Institute for Basic Science (IBS) Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
| | - Jang-Ung Park
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
- Center for Nanomedicine Institute for Basic Science (IBS) Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
- KIURI Institute Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
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21
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Human Brain Organoid: A Versatile Tool for Modeling Neurodegeneration Diseases and for Drug Screening. Stem Cells Int 2022; 2022:2150680. [PMID: 36061149 PMCID: PMC9436613 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2150680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical trials serve as the fundamental prerequisite for clinical therapy of human disease, which is primarily based on biomedical studies in animal models. Undoubtedly, animal models have made a significant contribution to gaining insight into the developmental and pathophysiological understanding of human diseases. However, none of the existing animal models could efficiently simulate the development of human organs and systems due to a lack of spatial information; the discrepancy in genetic, anatomic, and physiological basis between animals and humans limits detailed investigation. Therefore, the translational efficiency of the research outcomes in clinical applications was significantly weakened, especially for some complex, chronic, and intractable diseases. For example, the clinical trials for human fragile X syndrome (FXS) solely based on animal models have failed such as mGluR5 antagonists. To mimic the development of human organs more faithfully and efficiently translate in vitro biomedical studies to clinical trials, extensive attention to organoids derived from stem cells contributes to a deeper understanding of this research. The organoids are a miniaturized version of an organ generated in vitro, partially recapitulating key features of human organ development. As such, the organoids open a novel avenue for in vitro models of human disease, advantageous over the existing animal models. The invention of organoids has brought an innovative breakthrough in regeneration medicine. The organoid-derived human tissues or organs could potentially function as invaluable platforms for biomedical studies, pathological investigation of human diseases, and drug screening. Importantly, the study of regeneration medicine and the development of therapeutic strategies for human diseases could be conducted in a dish, facilitating in vitro analysis and experimentation. Thus far, the pilot breakthrough has been made in the generation of numerous types of organoids representing different human organs. Most of these human organoids have been employed for in vitro biomedical study and drug screening. However, the efficiency and quality of the organoids in recapitulating the development of human organs have been hindered by engineering and conceptual challenges. The efficiency and quality of the organoids are essential for downstream applications. In this article, we highlight the application in the modeling of human neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) such as FXS, Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and autistic spectrum disorders (ASD), and organoid-based drug screening. Additionally, challenges and weaknesses especially for limits of the brain organoid models in modeling late onset NDDs such as AD and PD., and future perspectives regarding human brain organoids are addressed.
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22
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Parmentier T, James FMK, Hewitson E, Bailey C, Werry N, Sheridan SD, Perlis RH, Perreault ML, Gaitero L, Lalonde J, LaMarre J. Human cerebral spheroids undergo 4-aminopyridine-induced, activity associated changes in cellular composition and microrna expression. Sci Rep 2022; 12:9143. [PMID: 35650420 PMCID: PMC9160269 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-13071-x] [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: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Activity-induced neurogenesis has been extensively studied in rodents but the lack of ante mortem accessibility to human brain at the cellular and molecular levels limits studies of the process in humans. Using cerebral spheroids derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), we investigated the effects of 4-aminopyridine (4AP) on neuronal activity and associated neurogenesis. Our studies demonstrate that 4AP increases neuronal activity in 3-month-old cerebral spheroids while increasing numbers of new neurons and decreasing the population of new glial cells. We also observed a significant decrease in the expression of miR-135a, which has previously been shown to be decreased in exercise-induced neurogenesis. Predicted targets of miR-135a include key participants in the SMAD2/3 and BDNF pathways. Together, our results suggest that iPSC-derived cerebral spheroids are an attractive model to study several aspects of activity-induced neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Parmentier
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada.,Département de Sciences Cliniques, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Fiona M K James
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Hewitson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Craig Bailey
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Nicholas Werry
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Steven D Sheridan
- Center for Quantitative Health, Center for Genomic Medicine and Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Roy H Perlis
- Center for Quantitative Health, Center for Genomic Medicine and Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Melissa L Perreault
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Luis Gaitero
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Jasmin Lalonde
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, College of Biological Science, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Jonathan LaMarre
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada.
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23
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Translational organoid technology – the convergence of chemical, mechanical, and computational biology. Trends Biotechnol 2022; 40:1121-1135. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2022.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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24
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Zhong W, Wu A, Berglund K, Gu X, Jiang M, Talati J, Zhao J, Wei L, Yu SP. Pathogenesis of sporadic Alzheimer's disease by deficiency of NMDA receptor subunit GluN3A. Alzheimers Dement 2022; 18:222-239. [PMID: 34151525 PMCID: PMC8685302 DOI: 10.1002/alz.12398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The Ca2+ hypothesis for Alzheimer's disease (AD) conceives Ca2+ dyshomeostasis as a common mechanism of AD; the cause of Ca2+ dysregulation, however, is obscure. Meanwhile, hyperactivities of N-Methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs), the primary mediator of Ca2+ influx, are reported in AD. GluN3A (NR3A) is an NMDAR inhibitory subunit. We hypothesize that GluN3A is critical for sustained Ca2+ homeostasis and its deficiency is pathogenic for AD. Cellular, molecular, and functional changes were examined in adult/aging GluN3A knockout (KO) mice. The GluN3A KO mouse brain displayed age-dependent moderate but persistent neuronal hyperactivity, elevated intracellular Ca2+ , neuroinflammation, impaired synaptic integrity/plasticity, and neuronal loss. GluN3A KO mice developed olfactory dysfunction followed by psychological/cognitive deficits prior to amyloid-β/tau pathology. Memantine at preclinical stage prevented/attenuated AD syndromes. AD patients' brains show reduced GluN3A expression. We propose that chronic "degenerative excitotoxicity" leads to sporadic AD, while GluN3A represents a primary pathogenic factor, an early biomarker, and an amyloid-independent therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Zhong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Department of Veteran’s Affair, Decatur, GA 30033, USA
| | - Anika Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Ken Berglund
- Department of Neurosurgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Department of Veteran’s Affair, Decatur, GA 30033, USA
| | - Xiaohuan Gu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Department of Veteran’s Affair, Decatur, GA 30033, USA
| | - Michael Jiang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Department of Veteran’s Affair, Decatur, GA 30033, USA
| | - Jay Talati
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Jingjie Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Ling Wei
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Shan Ping Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Department of Veteran’s Affair, Decatur, GA 30033, USA
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25
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Ozgun A, Lomboni D, Arnott H, Staines WA, Woulfe J, Variola F. Biomaterial-based strategies for in vitro neural models. Biomater Sci 2022; 10:1134-1165. [PMID: 35023513 DOI: 10.1039/d1bm01361k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In vitro models have been used as a complementary tool to animal studies in understanding the nervous system's physiological mechanisms and pathological disorders, while also serving as platforms to evaluate the safety and efficiency of therapeutic candidates. Following recent advances in materials science, micro- and nanofabrication techniques and cell culture systems, in vitro technologies have been rapidly gaining the potential to bridge the gap between animal and clinical studies by providing more sophisticated models that recapitulate key aspects of the structure, biochemistry, biomechanics, and functions of human tissues. This was made possible, in large part, by the development of biomaterials that provide cells with physicochemical features that closely mimic the cellular microenvironment of native tissues. Due to the well-known material-driven cellular response and the importance of mimicking the environment of the target tissue, the selection of optimal biomaterials represents an important early step in the design of biomimetic systems to investigate brain structures and functions. This review provides a comprehensive compendium of commonly used biomaterials as well as the different fabrication techniques employed for the design of neural tissue models. Furthermore, the authors discuss the main parameters that need to be considered to develop functional platforms not only for the study of brain physiological functions and pathological processes but also for drug discovery/development and the optimization of biomaterials for neural tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alp Ozgun
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada. .,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - David Lomboni
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada. .,Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Biomedical Engineering (OCIBME), Ottawa, Canada
| | - Hallie Arnott
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada. .,Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Biomedical Engineering (OCIBME), Ottawa, Canada
| | - William A Staines
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - John Woulfe
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Fabio Variola
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada. .,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Biomedical Engineering (OCIBME), Ottawa, Canada.,The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Canada.,Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), Ottawa, Canada
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26
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Patient-Specific iPSCs-Based Models of Neurodegenerative Diseases: Focus on Aberrant Calcium Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23020624. [PMID: 35054808 PMCID: PMC8776084 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of cell reprogramming technologies became a breakthrough in the creation of new models of human diseases, including neurodegenerative pathologies. The iPSCs-based models allow for the studying of both hereditary and sporadic cases of pathologies and produce deep insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration. The use of the cells most vulnerable to a particular pathology makes it possible to identify specific pathological mechanisms and greatly facilitates the task of selecting the most effective drugs. To date, a large number of studies on patient-specific models of neurodegenerative diseases has been accumulated. In this review, we focused on the alterations of such a ubiquitous and important intracellular regulatory pathway as calcium signaling. Here, we reviewed and analyzed the data obtained from iPSCs-based models of different neurodegenerative disorders that demonstrated aberrant calcium signaling.
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Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Based Models for Studying Sex-Specific Differences in Neurodegenerative Diseases. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1387:57-88. [PMID: 34921676 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2021_683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases is steadily increasing worldwide, and epidemiological studies strongly suggest that many of the diseases are sex-biased. It has long been suggested that biological sex differences are crucial for neurodegenerative diseases; however, how biological sex affects disease initiation, progression, and severity is not well-understood. Sex is a critical biological variable that should be taken into account in basic research, and this review aims to highlight the utility of human-induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC)-derived models for studying sex-specific differences in neurodegenerative diseases, with advantages and limitations. In vitro systems utilizing species-specific, renewable, and physiologically relevant cell sources can provide powerful platforms for mechanistic studies, toxicity testings, and drug discovery. Matched healthy, patient-derived, and gene-corrected human iPSCs, from both sexes, can be utilized to generate neuronal and glial cell types affected by specific neurodegenerative diseases to study sex-specific differences in two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) human culture systems. Such relatively simple and well-controlled systems can significantly contribute to the elucidation of molecular mechanisms underlying sex-specific differences, which can yield effective, and potentially sex-based strategies, against neurodegenerative diseases.
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28
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Josephine Boder E, Banerjee IA. Alzheimer's Disease: Current Perspectives and Advances in Physiological Modeling. Bioengineering (Basel) 2021; 8:211. [PMID: 34940364 PMCID: PMC8698996 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering8120211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Though Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia, complete disease-modifying treatments are yet to be fully attained. Until recently, transgenic mice constituted most in vitro model systems of AD used for preclinical drug screening; however, these models have so far failed to adequately replicate the disease's pathophysiology. However, the generation of humanized APOE4 mouse models has led to key discoveries. Recent advances in stem cell differentiation techniques and the development of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have facilitated the development of novel in vitro devices. These "microphysiological" systems-in vitro human cell culture systems designed to replicate in vivo physiology-employ varying levels of biomimicry and engineering control. Spheroid-based organoids, 3D cell culture systems, and microfluidic devices or a combination of these have the potential to replicate AD pathophysiology and pathogenesis in vitro and thus serve as both tools for testing therapeutics and models for experimental manipulation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ipsita A. Banerjee
- Department of Chemistry, Fordham University, 441 E. Fordham Road, Bronx, NY 10458, USA;
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29
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Bubnys A, Tsai LH. Harnessing cerebral organoids for Alzheimer's disease research. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2021; 72:120-130. [PMID: 34818608 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2021.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder affecting the aging population. Despite many studies, there remains an urgent need to identify the root causes of AD, together with potential treatments. Cerebral organoid technology has made it possible to model human neurophysiology and disease with increasing accuracy in patient-derived tissue cultures. Here, we review the most recent advances in modeling AD in organoids and other engineered three-dimensional cell culture systems. Early studies demonstrated that familial AD patient-derived organoids robustly develop disease pathology. Ongoing work has expanded this focus to investigate the genetic and environmental causes of late-onset sporadic AD and harness organoids for high-throughput drug screens. Future organoid models will need to incorporate additional cell types and tissues implicated in disease pathogenesis, including microglia and vasculature. We anticipate the continuation of this rapid progress in developing cerebral organoid technology toward facilitating our understanding of and informing treatment strategies for AD.
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30
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Panattoni G, Amoriello R, Memo C, Thalhammer A, Ballerini C, Ballerini L. Diverse inflammatory threats modulate astrocytes Ca 2+ signaling via connexin43 hemichannels in organotypic spinal slices. Mol Brain 2021; 14:159. [PMID: 34696792 PMCID: PMC8547100 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-021-00868-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is an escalation factor shared by a vast range of central nervous system (CNS) pathologies, from neurodegenerative diseases to neuropsychiatric disorders. CNS immune status emerges by the integration of the responses of resident and not resident cells, leading to alterations in neural circuits functions. To explore spinal cord astrocyte reactivity to inflammatory threats we focused our study on the effects of local inflammation in a controlled micro-environment, the organotypic spinal slices, developed from the spinal cord of mouse embryos. These organ cultures represent a complex in vitro model where sensory-motor cytoarchitecture, synaptic properties and spinal cord resident cells, are retained in a 3D fashion and we recently exploit these cultures to model two diverse immune conditions in the CNS, involving different inflammatory networks and products. Here, we specifically focus on the tuning of calcium signaling in astrocytes by these diverse types of inflammation and we investigate the mechanisms which modulate intracellular calcium release and its spreading among astrocytes in the inflamed environment. Organotypic spinal cord slices are cultured for two or three weeks in vitro (WIV) and exposed for 6 h to a cocktail of cytokines (CKs), composed by tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 β) and granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF), or to lipopolysaccharide (LPS). By live calcium imaging of the ventral horn, we document an increase in active astrocytes and in the occurrence of spontaneous calcium oscillations displayed by these cells when exposed to each inflammatory threat. Through several pharmacological treatments, we demonstrate that intracellular calcium sources and the activation of connexin 43 (Cx43) hemichannels have a pivotal role in increasing calcium intercellular communication in both CKs and LPS conditions, while the Cx43 gap junction communication is apparently reduced by the inflammatory treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Panattoni
- International School for Advanced Studies (SISSA/ISAS), 34136, Trieste, Italy
| | - Roberta Amoriello
- International School for Advanced Studies (SISSA/ISAS), 34136, Trieste, Italy.,Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Clinica, University of Florence, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Christian Memo
- International School for Advanced Studies (SISSA/ISAS), 34136, Trieste, Italy
| | - Agnes Thalhammer
- International School for Advanced Studies (SISSA/ISAS), 34136, Trieste, Italy
| | - Clara Ballerini
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Clinica, University of Florence, 50139, Florence, Italy.
| | - Laura Ballerini
- International School for Advanced Studies (SISSA/ISAS), 34136, Trieste, Italy.
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31
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Porciúncula LO, Goto-Silva L, Ledur PF, Rehen SK. The Age of Brain Organoids: Tailoring Cell Identity and Functionality for Normal Brain Development and Disease Modeling. Front Neurosci 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.674563
expr 918028134 + 817050540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past years, brain development has been investigated in rodent models, which were particularly relevant to establish the role of specific genes in this process. However, the cytoarchitectonic features, which determine neuronal network formation complexity, are unique to humans. This implies that the developmental program of the human brain and neurological disorders can only partly be reproduced in rodents. Advancement in the study of the human brain surged with cultures of human brain tissue in the lab, generated from induced pluripotent cells reprogrammed from human somatic tissue. These cultures, termed brain organoids, offer an invaluable model for the study of the human brain. Brain organoids reproduce the cytoarchitecture of the cortex and can develop multiple brain regions and cell types. Integration of functional activity of neural cells within brain organoids with genetic, cellular, and morphological data in a comprehensive model for human development and disease is key to advance in the field. Because the functional activity of neural cells within brain organoids relies on cell repertoire and time in culture, here, we review data supporting the gradual formation of complex neural networks in light of cell maturity within brain organoids. In this context, we discuss how the technology behind brain organoids brought advances in understanding neurodevelopmental, pathogen-induced, and neurodegenerative diseases.
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32
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Porciúncula LO, Goto-Silva L, Ledur PF, Rehen SK. The Age of Brain Organoids: Tailoring Cell Identity and Functionality for Normal Brain Development and Disease Modeling. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:674563. [PMID: 34483818 PMCID: PMC8414411 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.674563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past years, brain development has been investigated in rodent models, which were particularly relevant to establish the role of specific genes in this process. However, the cytoarchitectonic features, which determine neuronal network formation complexity, are unique to humans. This implies that the developmental program of the human brain and neurological disorders can only partly be reproduced in rodents. Advancement in the study of the human brain surged with cultures of human brain tissue in the lab, generated from induced pluripotent cells reprogrammed from human somatic tissue. These cultures, termed brain organoids, offer an invaluable model for the study of the human brain. Brain organoids reproduce the cytoarchitecture of the cortex and can develop multiple brain regions and cell types. Integration of functional activity of neural cells within brain organoids with genetic, cellular, and morphological data in a comprehensive model for human development and disease is key to advance in the field. Because the functional activity of neural cells within brain organoids relies on cell repertoire and time in culture, here, we review data supporting the gradual formation of complex neural networks in light of cell maturity within brain organoids. In this context, we discuss how the technology behind brain organoids brought advances in understanding neurodevelopmental, pathogen-induced, and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisiane O. Porciúncula
- Department of Biochemistry, Program of Biological Sciences - Biochemistry, Institute of Health and Basic Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Livia Goto-Silva
- D'Or Institute for Research and Education (IDOR), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Pitia F. Ledur
- D'Or Institute for Research and Education (IDOR), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Stevens K. Rehen
- D'Or Institute for Research and Education (IDOR), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Department of Genetics, Institute of Biology, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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33
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Albert K, Niskanen J, Kälvälä S, Lehtonen Š. Utilising Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells in Neurodegenerative Disease Research: Focus on Glia. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094334. [PMID: 33919317 PMCID: PMC8122303 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are a self-renewable pool of cells derived from an organism's somatic cells. These can then be programmed to other cell types, including neurons. Use of iPSCs in research has been two-fold as they have been used for human disease modelling as well as for the possibility to generate new therapies. Particularly in complex human diseases, such as neurodegenerative diseases, iPSCs can give advantages over traditional animal models in that they more accurately represent the human genome. Additionally, patient-derived cells can be modified using gene editing technology and further transplanted to the brain. Glial cells have recently become important avenues of research in the field of neurodegenerative diseases, for example, in Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. This review focuses on using glial cells (astrocytes, microglia, and oligodendrocytes) derived from human iPSCs in order to give a better understanding of how these cells contribute to neurodegenerative disease pathology. Using glia iPSCs in in vitro cell culture, cerebral organoids, and intracranial transplantation may give us future insight into both more accurate models and disease-modifying therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina Albert
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK;
| | - Jonna Niskanen
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland; (J.N.); (S.K.)
| | - Sara Kälvälä
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland; (J.N.); (S.K.)
| | - Šárka Lehtonen
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland; (J.N.); (S.K.)
- Neuroscience Center, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Correspondence:
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