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Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is well known for its angiogenic activity, but recent evidence has revealed a neuroprotective action of this factor on injured or diseased neurons. In the present review, we summarize the most relevant findings that have contributed to establish a link between VEGF deficiency and neuronal degeneration. At issue, 1) mutant mice with reduced levels of VEGF show adult-onset muscle weakness and motoneuron degeneration resembling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), 2) administration of VEGF to different animal models of motoneuron degeneration improves motor performance and ameliorates motoneuronal degeneration, and 3) there is an association between low plasmatic levels of VEGF and human ALS. Altogether, the results presented in this review highlight VEGF as an essential motoneuron neurotrophic factor endowed with promising therapeutic potential for the treatment of motoneuron disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula M Calvo
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Rosendo G Hernández
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Angel M Pastor
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Rosa R de la Cruz
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
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2
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Lutfi Ismaeel G, Makki AlHassani OJ, S Alazragi R, Hussein Ahmed A, H Mohamed A, Yasir Jasim N, Hassan Shari F, Almashhadani HA. Genetically engineered neural stem cells (NSCs) therapy for neurological diseases; state-of-the-art. Biotechnol Prog 2023; 39:e3363. [PMID: 37221947 DOI: 10.1002/btpr.3363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Neural stem cells (NSCs) are multipotent stem cells with remarkable self-renewal potential and also unique competencies to differentiate into neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes (ODCs) and improve the cellular microenvironment. In addition, NSCs secret diversity of mediators, including neurotrophic factors (e.g., BDNF, NGF, GDNF, CNTF, and NT-3), pro-angiogenic mediators (e.g., FGF-2 and VEGF), and anti-inflammatory biomolecules. Thereby, NSCs transplantation has become a reasonable and effective treatment for various neurodegenerative disorders by their capacity to induce neurogenesis and vasculogenesis and dampen neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. Nonetheless, various drawbacks such as lower migration and survival and less differential capacity to a particular cell lineage concerning the disease pathogenesis hinder their application. Thus, genetic engineering of NSCs before transplantation is recently regarded as an innovative strategy to bypass these hurdles. Indeed, genetically modified NSCs could bring about more favored therapeutic influences post-transplantation in vivo, making them an excellent option for neurological disease therapy. This review for the first time offers a comprehensive review of the therapeutic capability of genetically modified NSCs rather than naïve NSCs in neurological disease beyond brain tumors and sheds light on the recent progress and prospect in this context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghufran Lutfi Ismaeel
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, University of Al-Ameed, Karbala, Iraq
| | | | - Reem S Alazragi
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ammar Hussein Ahmed
- Department of Radiology and Sonar, College of Medical Techniques, Al-Farahidi University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Asma'a H Mohamed
- Intelligent Medical Systems Department, Al-Mustaqbal University College, Babylon, Iraq
| | - Nisreen Yasir Jasim
- Collage of Pharmacy, National University of Science and Technology, Dhi Qar, Iraq
| | - Falah Hassan Shari
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Basrah, Basrah, Iraq
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3
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Ashraf SS, Hosseinpour Sarmadi V, Larijani G, Naderi Garahgheshlagh S, Ramezani S, Moghadamifar S, Mohebi SL, Brouki Milan P, Haramshahi SMA, Ahmadirad N, Amini N. Regenerative medicine improve neurodegenerative diseases. Cell Tissue Bank 2023; 24:639-650. [PMID: 36527565 DOI: 10.1007/s10561-022-10062-0] [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: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Regenerative medicine is a subdivision of medicine that improves methods to regrow, repair or replace unhealthy cells and tissues to return to normal function. Cell therapy, gene therapy, nanomedicine as choices used to cure neurodegenerative disease. Recently, studies related to the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders have been focused on stem cell therapy and Nano-drugs beyond other than regenerative medicine. Hence, by data from experimental models and clinical trials, we review the impact of stem cell therapy, gene therapy, and nanomedicine on the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Indeed, improved knowledge and continued research on gene therapy and nanomedicine in treating Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis lead to advancements in effective and practical treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyedeh Sara Ashraf
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Institutes of Regenerative Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Hosseinpour Sarmadi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Institutes of Regenerative Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ghazaleh Larijani
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Soheila Naderi Garahgheshlagh
- Burn Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive surgery, Hazrat Fatemeh Hospital, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Ramezani
- Neuroscience Research Center, Guilan Road Trauma Research Center, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Guilan, Iran
- Guilan Road Trauma Research Center, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Soraya Moghadamifar
- Department of Textile Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyedeh Lena Mohebi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Institutes of Regenerative Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Peiman Brouki Milan
- Institutes of Regenerative Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Amin Haramshahi
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive surgery, Hazrat Fatemeh Hospital, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nooshin Ahmadirad
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Naser Amini
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Institutes of Regenerative Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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4
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Sironi F, De Marchi F, Mazzini L, Bendotti C. Cell therapy in ALS: An update on preclinical and clinical studies. Brain Res Bull 2023; 194:64-81. [PMID: 36690163 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2023.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by the loss of motor neurons and neuromuscular impairment leading to complete paralysis, respiratory failure and premature death. The pathogenesis of the disease is multifactorial and noncell-autonomous involving the central and peripheral compartments of the neuromuscular axis and the skeletal muscle. Advanced clinical trials on specific ALS-related pathways have failed to significantly slow the disease. Therapy with stem cells from different sources has provided a promising strategy to protect the motor units exerting their effect through multiple mechanisms including neurotrophic support and excitotoxicity and neuroinflammation modulation, as evidenced from preclinical studies. Several phase I and II clinical trial of ALS patients have been developed showing positive effects in terms of safety and tolerability. However, the modest results on functional improvement in ALS patients suggest that only a coordinated effort between basic and clinical researchers could solve many problems, such as selecting the ideal stem cell source, identifying their mechanism of action and expected clinical outcomes. A promising approach may be stem cells selected or engineered to deliver optimal growth factor support at multiple sites along the neuromuscular pathway. This review covers recent advances in stem cell therapies in animal models of ALS, as well as detailing the human clinical trials that have been done and are currently undergoing development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Sironi
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri 2, Milan 20156, Italy
| | - Fabiola De Marchi
- Department of Neurology and ALS Centre, University of Piemonte Orientale, Maggiore Della Carità Hospital, Corso Mazzini 18, Novara 28100, Italy
| | - Letizia Mazzini
- Department of Neurology and ALS Centre, University of Piemonte Orientale, Maggiore Della Carità Hospital, Corso Mazzini 18, Novara 28100, Italy.
| | - Caterina Bendotti
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri 2, Milan 20156, Italy.
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Yazdani N, Willits RK. Mimicking the neural stem cell niche: An engineer’s view of cell: material interactions. FRONTIERS IN CHEMICAL ENGINEERING 2023. [DOI: 10.3389/fceng.2022.1086099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Neural stem cells have attracted attention in recent years to treat neurodegeneration. There are two neurogenic regions in the brain where neural stem cells reside, one of which is called the subventricular zone (SVZ). The SVZ niche is a complicated microenvironment providing cues to regulate self-renewal and differentiation while maintaining the neural stem cell’s pool. Many scientists have spent years understanding the cellular and structural characteristics of the SVZ niche, both in homeostasis and pathological conditions. On the other hand, engineers focus primarily on designing platforms using the knowledge they acquire to understand the effect of individual factors on neural stem cell fate decisions. This review provides a general overview of what we know about the components of the SVZ niche, including the residing cells, extracellular matrix (ECM), growth factors, their interactions, and SVZ niche changes during aging and neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, an overview will be given on the biomaterials used to mimic neurogenic niche microenvironments and the design considerations applied to add bioactivity while meeting the structural requirements. Finally, it will discuss the potential gaps in mimicking the microenvironment.
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Zochodne DW. Growth factors and molecular-driven plasticity in neurological systems. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2023; 196:569-598. [PMID: 37620091 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-98817-9.00017-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
It has been almost 70 years since the discovery of nerve growth factor (NGF), a period of a dramatic evolution in our understanding of dynamic growth, regeneration, and rewiring of the nervous system. In 1953, the extraordinary finding that a protein found in mouse submandibular glands generated a halo of outgrowing axons has now redefined our concept of the nervous system connectome. Central and peripheral neurons and their axons or dendrites are no longer considered fixed or static "wiring." Exploiting this molecular-driven plasticity as a therapeutic approach has arrived in the clinic with a slate of new trials and ideas. Neural growth factors (GFs), soluble proteins that alter the behavior of neurons, have expanded in numbers and our understanding of the complexity of their signaling and interactions with other proteins has intensified. However, beyond these "extrinsic" determinants of neuron growth and function are the downstream pathways that impact neurons, ripe for translational development and potentially more important than individual growth factors that may trigger them. Persistent and ongoing nuances in clinical trial design in some of the most intractable and irreversible neurological conditions give hope for connecting new biological ideas with clinical benefits. This review is a targeted update on neural GFs, their signals, and new therapeutic ideas, selected from an expansive literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas W Zochodne
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine and Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
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7
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Zayed MA, Sultan S, Alsaab HO, Yousof SM, Alrefaei GI, Alsubhi NH, Alkarim S, Al Ghamdi KS, Bagabir SA, Jana A, Alghamdi BS, Atta HM, Ashraf GM. Stem-Cell-Based Therapy: The Celestial Weapon against Neurological Disorders. Cells 2022; 11:3476. [PMID: 36359871 PMCID: PMC9655836 DOI: 10.3390/cells11213476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cells are a versatile source for cell therapy. Their use is particularly significant for the treatment of neurological disorders for which no definitive conventional medical treatment is available. Neurological disorders are of diverse etiology and pathogenesis. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is caused by abnormal protein deposits, leading to progressive dementia. Parkinson's disease (PD) is due to the specific degeneration of the dopaminergic neurons causing motor and sensory impairment. Huntington's disease (HD) includes a transmittable gene mutation, and any treatment should involve gene modulation of the transplanted cells. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder affecting multiple neurons sporadically but induces progressive neuronal dysfunction. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) impacts upper and lower motor neurons, leading to progressive muscle degeneration. This shows the need to try to tailor different types of cells to repair the specific defect characteristic of each disease. In recent years, several types of stem cells were used in different animal models, including transgenic animals of various neurologic disorders. Based on some of the successful animal studies, some clinical trials were designed and approved. Some studies were successful, others were terminated and, still, a few are ongoing. In this manuscript, we aim to review the current information on both the experimental and clinical trials of stem cell therapy in neurological disorders of various disease mechanisms. The different types of cells used, their mode of transplantation and the molecular and physiologic effects are discussed. Recommendations for future use and hopes are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed A. Zayed
- Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Menoufia 32511, Egypt
| | - Samar Sultan
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Regenerative Medicine Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hashem O. Alsaab
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shimaa Mohammad Yousof
- Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Medical Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
| | - Ghadeer I. Alrefaei
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nouf H. Alsubhi
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science & Arts, King Abdulaziz University, Rabigh 21911, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh Alkarim
- Embryonic and Cancer Stem Cell Research Group, King Fahad Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Embryonic Stem Cells Research Unit, Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kholoud S. Al Ghamdi
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sali Abubaker Bagabir
- Genetic Unit, Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ankit Jana
- School of Biotechnology, Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) Deemed to be University, Campus-11, Patia, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Badrah S. Alghamdi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Pre-Clinical Research Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hazem M. Atta
- Clinical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo 11562, Egypt
| | - Ghulam Md Ashraf
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
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Lin TJ, Cheng KC, Wu LY, Lai WY, Ling TY, Kuo YC, Huang YH. Potential of Cellular Therapy for ALS: Current Strategies and Future Prospects. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:851613. [PMID: 35372346 PMCID: PMC8966507 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.851613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive upper and lower motor neuron (MN) degeneration with unclear pathology. The worldwide prevalence of ALS is approximately 4.42 per 100,000 populations, and death occurs within 3-5 years after diagnosis. However, no effective therapeutic modality for ALS is currently available. In recent years, cellular therapy has shown considerable therapeutic potential because it exerts immunomodulatory effects and protects the MN circuit. However, the safety and efficacy of cellular therapy in ALS are still under debate. In this review, we summarize the current progress in cellular therapy for ALS. The underlying mechanism, current clinical trials, and the pros and cons of cellular therapy using different types of cell are discussed. In addition, clinical studies of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in ALS are highlighted. The summarized findings of this review can facilitate the future clinical application of precision medicine using cellular therapy in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Jung Lin
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kuang-Chao Cheng
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Luo-Yun Wu
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Yu Lai
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- TMU Research Center for Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Thai-Yen Ling
- Department and Graduate Institute of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Research Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Che Kuo
- TMU Research Center for Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Hua Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- TMU Research Center for Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- International Ph.D. Program for Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- TMU Research Center of Cancer Translational Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Comprehensive Cancer Center of Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- PhD Program for Translational Medicine, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
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Therapeutic strategies for C9orf72 amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia. Curr Opin Neurol 2021; 34:748-755. [PMID: 34392299 PMCID: PMC8678157 DOI: 10.1097/wco.0000000000000984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW An intronic G4C2 expansion mutation in C9orf72 is the most common genetic cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia (C9-ALS/FTD). Although there are currently no treatments for this insidious, fatal disease, intense research has led to promising therapeutic strategies, which will be discussed here. RECENT FINDINGS Therapeutic strategies for C9-ALS/FTD have primarily focused on reducing the toxic effects of mutant expansion RNAs or the dipeptide repeat proteins (DPRs). The pathogenic effects of G4C2 expansion transcripts have been targeted using approaches aimed at promoting their degradation, inhibiting nuclear export or silencing transcription. Other promising strategies include immunotherapy to reduce the DPRs themselves, reducing RAN translation, removing the repeats using DNA or RNA editing and manipulation of downstream disease-altered stress granule pathways. Finally, understanding the molecular triggers that lead to pheno-conversion may lead to opportunities that can delay symptomatic disease onset. SUMMARY A large body of evidence implicates RAN-translated DPRs as a main driver of C9-ALS/FTD. Promising therapeutic strategies for these devastating diseases are being rapidly developed with several approaches already in or approaching clinical trials.
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Aishwarya L, Arun D, Kannan S. Stem cells as a potential therapeutic option for treating neurodegenerative diseases. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 17:590-605. [PMID: 35135464 DOI: 10.2174/1574888x16666210810105136] [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: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In future, neurodegenerative diseases will take over cancer's place and become the major cause of death in the world, especially in developed countries. Advancements in the medical field and its facilities have led to an increase in the old age population, and thus contributing to the increase in number of people suffering from neurodegenerative diseases. Economically it is of a great burden to society and the affected family. No current treatment aims to replace, protect, and regenerate lost neurons; instead, it alleviates the symptoms, extends the life span by a few months and creates severe side effects. Moreover, people who are affected are physically dependent for performing their basic activities, which makes their life miserable. There is an urgent need for therapy that could be able to overcome the deficits of conventional therapy for neurodegenerative diseases. Stem cells, the unspecialized cells with the properties of self-renewing and potency to differentiate into various cells types can become a potent therapeutic option for neurodegenerative diseases. Stem cells have been widely used in clinical trials to evaluate their potential in curing different types of ailments. In this review, we discuss the various types of stem cells and their potential use in the treatment of neurodegenerative disease based on published preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya L
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai-600 116. India
| | - Dharmarajan Arun
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai-600 116. India
| | - Suresh Kannan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai-600 116. India
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11
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Ahani-Nahayati M, Shariati A, Mahmoodi M, Olegovna Zekiy A, Javidi K, Shamlou S, Mousakhani A, Zamani M, Hassanzadeh A. Stem cell in neurodegenerative disorders; an emerging strategy. Int J Dev Neurosci 2021; 81:291-311. [PMID: 33650716 DOI: 10.1002/jdn.10101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders are a diversity of disorders, surrounding Alzheimer's (AD), Parkinson's (PD), Huntington's diseases (HD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) accompanied by some other less common diseases generally characterized by either developed deterioration of central or peripheral nervous system structurally or functionally. Today, with the viewpoint of an increasingly aging society, the number of patients with neurodegenerative diseases and sociomedical burdens will spread intensely. During the last decade, stem cell technology has attracted great attention for treating neurodegenerative diseases worldwide because of its unique attributes. As acknowledged, there are several categories of stem cells being able to proliferate and differentiate into various cellular lineages, highlighting their significance in the context of regenerative medicine. In preclinical models, stem cell therapy using mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs), hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), and neural progenitor or stem cells (NPCs or NSCs) along with pluripotent stem cells (PSCs)-derived neuronal cells could elicit desired therapeutic effects, enabling functional deficit rescue partially. Regardless of the noteworthy progress in our scientific awareness and understanding of stem cell biology, there still exist various challenges to defeat. In the present review, we provide a summary of the therapeutic potential of stem cells and discuss the current status and prospect of stem cell strategy in neurodegenerative diseases, in particular, AD, PD, ALS, and HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milad Ahani-Nahayati
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Science, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Shariati
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahnaz Mahmoodi
- Department of Biology, School of Basic Science, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Angelina Olegovna Zekiy
- Department of Prosthetic Dentistry, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Kamran Javidi
- School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran.,Immunology Research Center (IRC), Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Somayeh Shamlou
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Akbar Mousakhani
- Department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Majid Zamani
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Ali Hassanzadeh
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Neurosciences Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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12
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Neuroprotective Effect of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor on Motoneurons of the Oculomotor System. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22020814. [PMID: 33467517 PMCID: PMC7830098 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was initially characterized as a potent angiogenic factor based on its activity on the vascular system. However, it is now well established that VEGF also plays a crucial role as a neuroprotective factor in the nervous system. A deficit of VEGF has been related to motoneuronal degeneration, such as that occurring in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Strikingly, motoneurons of the oculomotor system show lesser vulnerability to neurodegeneration in ALS compared to other motoneurons. These motoneurons presented higher amounts of VEGF and its receptor Flk-1 than other brainstem pools. That higher VEGF level could be due to an enhanced retrograde input from their target muscles, but it can also be produced by the motoneurons themselves and act in an autocrine way. By contrast, VEGF’s paracrine supply from the vicinity cells, such as glial cells, seems to represent a minor source of VEGF for brainstem motoneurons. In addition, ocular motoneurons experiment an increase in VEGF and Flk-1 level in response to axotomy, not observed in facial or hypoglossal motoneurons. Therefore, in this review, we summarize the differences in VEGF availability that could contribute to the higher resistance of extraocular motoneurons to injury and neurodegenerative diseases.
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13
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Wang J, Hu W, Feng Z, Feng M. BDNF-overexpressing human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell-derived motor neurons improve motor function and prolong survival in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis mice. Neurol Res 2020; 43:199-209. [PMID: 33076784 DOI: 10.1080/01616412.2020.1834775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the beneficial effect of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) -overexpressing human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell (hUC-MSC)-derived motor neurons in the human Cu, Zn-superoxide dismutase1 (hSOD1)G93A amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) mice. METHODS The BDNF gene was transfected into hUC-MSC-derived motor neurons by the lentivirus-mediated method. hSOD1G93A mice were assigned to the ALS, ALS/MN, and ALS/MN-BDNF groups, and intrathecally administrated phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), motor neurons, or motor neurons overexpressing BDNF, respectively. The control group included non-transgenic wild-type littermates administrated PBS. One month after transplantation, the motor function of the mice was assessed by the rotarod test, and the lumbar enlargements were then isolated to detect the expression of hSOD1 and BDNF by western blotting, and the expression of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), homeobox protein 9 (HB9), major histocompatibility complex I (MHCI) and microtubule-associated protein-2 (MAP-2) by immunofluorescence assay. RESULTS After transplantation, mice in the ALS/MN-BDNF and ALS/MN groups both exhibited longer latency to fall and longer survival than those in the ALS group (P < 0.01 vs. P < 0.05), and the improvement was more significant in the former than in the latter. However, cell transplantation did not delay disease onset. In the lumbar enlargements of the ALS/MN-BDNF and ALS/MN groups, the expression of hSOD1 was slightly reduced without statistical significance (P > 0.05), but the expression of BDNF, ChAT and HB9, and the co-expression of MHCI and MAP-2 were significantly greater than in the ALS group (P < 0.01), with the differences also being more prominent in the former group than in the latter. CONCLUSIONS Transplantation of BDNF-overexpressing hUC-MSC-derived motor neurons can improve motor performance and prolong the survival of hSOD1G93A mice. Combining stem cell-derived motor neurons with BDNF might provide a new therapeutic strategy for ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wang
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University , Nanjing, China.,Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University , Nanjing, China
| | - Weiwei Hu
- Department of Geriatrics, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University , Nanjing, China
| | - Zehua Feng
- School of Stomatology, Nanjing Medical University , Nanjing, China
| | - Meijiang Feng
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University , Nanjing, China.,Key Laboratory for Aging & Disease, Nanjing Medical University , Nanjing, China
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14
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Van Damme P, Tilkin P, Mercer KJ, Terryn J, D'Hondt A, Herne N, Tousseyn T, Claeys KG, Thal DR, Zachrisson O, Almqvist P, Nuttin B, Jerling M, Bernadotte F, Haegerstrand A, Robberecht W. Intracerebroventricular delivery of vascular endothelial growth factor in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a phase I study. Brain Commun 2020; 2:fcaa160. [PMID: 33977260 PMCID: PMC8099230 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcaa160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
We studied the feasibility, safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of intracerebroventricular delivery of recombinant human vascular endothelial growth factor in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. In this phase I study in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, the study drug was delivered using an implantable programmable pump connected to a catheter inserted in the frontal horn of the lateral cerebral ventricle. A first cohort received open label vascular endothelial growth factor (0.2, 0.8 and 2 µg/day), a second cohort received placebo, 0.8 or 2 µg/day of study dug. After the 3-month study period, all patients could participate in an open label extension study. In total, 18 patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, seen at the University Hospitals in Leuven were included. The surgical procedure was well tolerated in most patients. One patient had transient postoperative seizures, due to an ischemic lesion along the catheter tract. The first 3-month study period was completed by 15/18 patients. Administration of 2 µg/day vascular endothelial growth factor resulted in sustained detectable levels in cerebrospinal fluid. A pulmonary embolus occurred in 3 patients, in 1 patient in the first 3-month study, and in 2 patients during the open label extension study. The study drug was well tolerated in the other patients, for up to 6 years in the open label extension study. Our study shows that intracerebroventricular administration of 2 µg/day of vascular endothelial growth factor to patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is feasible, results in detectable cerebrospinal fluid levels and is well tolerated in most patients. The most common serious adverse event was a pulmonary embolus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Van Damme
- Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Petra Tilkin
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Joke Terryn
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ann D'Hondt
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Thomas Tousseyn
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kristl G Claeys
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dietmar R Thal
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Leuven, Belgium
| | | | | | - Bart Nuttin
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | | | | | - Wim Robberecht
- Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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15
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Wang J, Hu WW, Jiang Z, Feng MJ. Advances in treatment of neurodegenerative diseases: Perspectives for combination of stem cells with neurotrophic factors. World J Stem Cells 2020; 12:323-338. [PMID: 32547681 PMCID: PMC7280867 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v12.i5.323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, are a group of incurable neurological disorders, characterized by the chronic progressive loss of different neuronal subtypes. However, despite its increasing prevalence among the ever-increasing aging population, little progress has been made in the coincident immense efforts towards development of therapeutic agents. Research interest has recently turned towards stem cells including stem cells-derived exosomes, neurotrophic factors, and their combination as potential therapeutic agents in neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we summarize the progress in therapeutic strategies based on stem cells combined with neurotrophic factors and mesenchymal stem cells-derived exosomes for neurodegenerative diseases, with an emphasis on the combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wang
- Department of Geriatrics, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210011, Jiangsu Province, China
- Department of Neurology, the Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211100, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Wei-Wei Hu
- Department of Geriatrics, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210002, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhi Jiang
- Department of Geriatrics, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210011, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Mei-Jiang Feng
- Department of Geriatrics, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210011, Jiangsu Province, China
- Key Laboratory for Aging & Disease, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210011, Jiangsu Province, China
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16
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Sass LR, Khani M, Romm J, Schmid Daners M, McCain K, Freeman T, Carter GT, Weeks DL, Petersen B, Aldred J, Wingett D, Martin BA. Non-invasive MRI quantification of cerebrospinal fluid dynamics in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients. Fluids Barriers CNS 2020; 17:4. [PMID: 31959193 PMCID: PMC6971921 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-019-0164-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Developing novel therapeutic agents to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) has been difficult due to multifactorial pathophysiologic processes at work. Intrathecal drug administration shows promise due to close proximity of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to affected tissues. Development of effective intrathecal pharmaceuticals will rely on accurate models of how drugs are dispersed in the CSF. Therefore, a method to quantify these dynamics and a characterization of differences across disease states is needed. Methods Complete intrathecal 3D CSF geometry and CSF flow velocities at six axial locations in the spinal canal were collected by T2-weighted and phase-contrast MRI, respectively. Scans were completed for eight people with ALS and ten healthy controls. Manual segmentation of the spinal subarachnoid space was performed and coupled with an interpolated model of CSF flow within the spinal canal. Geometric and hydrodynamic parameters were then generated at 1 mm slice intervals along the entire spine. Temporal analysis of the waveform spectral content and feature points was also completed. Results Comparison of ALS and control groups revealed a reduction in CSF flow magnitude and increased flow propagation velocities in the ALS cohort. Other differences in spectral harmonic content and geometric comparisons may support an overall decrease in intrathecal compliance in the ALS group. Notably, there was a high degree of variability between cases, with one ALS patient displaying nearly zero CSF flow along the entire spinal canal. Conclusion While our sample size limits statistical confidence about the differences observed in this study, it was possible to measure and quantify inter-individual and cohort variability in a non-invasive manner. Our study also shows the potential for MRI based measurements of CSF geometry and flow to provide information about the hydrodynamic environment of the spinal subarachnoid space. These dynamics may be studied further to understand the behavior of CSF solute transport in healthy and diseased states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas R Sass
- Neurophysiological Imaging and Modeling Laboratory, University of Idaho, 875 Perimeter Dr. MS1122, Moscow, ID, 83844, USA
| | - Mohammadreza Khani
- Neurophysiological Imaging and Modeling Laboratory, University of Idaho, 875 Perimeter Dr. MS1122, Moscow, ID, 83844, USA
| | - Jacob Romm
- Neurophysiological Imaging and Modeling Laboratory, University of Idaho, 875 Perimeter Dr. MS1122, Moscow, ID, 83844, USA.,University of Washington School of Medicine, 1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Marianne Schmid Daners
- Product Development Group Zurich, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Kyle McCain
- Neurophysiological Imaging and Modeling Laboratory, University of Idaho, 875 Perimeter Dr. MS1122, Moscow, ID, 83844, USA
| | - Tavara Freeman
- Neurophysiological Imaging and Modeling Laboratory, University of Idaho, 875 Perimeter Dr. MS1122, Moscow, ID, 83844, USA
| | - Gregory T Carter
- St. Luke's Rehabilitation Institute, 711 South Cowley St., Spokane, WA, 99202, USA
| | - Douglas L Weeks
- St. Luke's Rehabilitation Institute, 711 South Cowley St., Spokane, WA, 99202, USA
| | - Brian Petersen
- Inland Imaging PS and LLC, 801 South Stevens St., Spokane, WA, 99204, USA
| | - Jason Aldred
- Selkirk Neurology, 610 South Sherman St. #201, Spokane, WA, 99202, USA
| | - Dena Wingett
- Inland Imaging LLC, 801 South Stevens St., Spokane, WA, 99204, USA
| | - Bryn A Martin
- Neurophysiological Imaging and Modeling Laboratory, University of Idaho, 875 Perimeter Dr. MS1122, Moscow, ID, 83844, USA. .,Biological Engineering, University of Idaho, 875 Perimeter Dr. MS0904, Moscow, ID, 83844-0904, USA.
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17
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Pawlukowska W, Baumert B, Gołąb-Janowska M, Pius-Sadowska E, Litwińska Z, Kotowski M, Meller A, Rotter I, Peregud-Pogorzelski J, Nowacki P. Articulation recovery in ALS patients after lineage-negative adjuvant cell therapy - preliminary report. Int J Med Sci 2020; 17:1927-1935. [PMID: 32788871 PMCID: PMC7415387 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.47002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is one of the most frequently occurring neurodegenerative diseases affecting speech and swallowing. This preliminary study aimed to investigate whether an autologous lineage-negative stem/progenitor cell therapy applied to ALS patients affects the level of selected trophic and proinflammatory factors, and subsequently improves the articulation. Methods: We enrolled 12 patients with sporadic ALS, who underwent autologous bone marrow-derived lineage negative (LIN-) cells administration into cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). We evaluated patients' articulation using the Frenchay Dysarthria Assessment on days 0 and 28 following the LIN- cells administration. Concentrations of various factors (BDNF, NGF, ANGP-2, VEGF, PDGF-AA, PEDF, COMP-FH, CRP, C3, C4) in CSF were quantified by multiplex fluorescent bead-based immunoassays in the samples collected on the day of LIN- cells administration and 28 days later. On top of this, we assessed levels of BDNF and NGF in the patients' plasma on the day of the injection, three, seven days and three months after the treatment. Results: Of the 12 patients who received the LIN- cell therapy 8 showed short-termed improvement in articulatory functions (group I), which was particularly noticeable in better phonation time, lips and soft palate performance, swallowing reflex and voice loudness. Four patients (group II) did not show substantial improvement. CSF concentrations of BDNF, ANGP-2 and PDGF-AA in group I decreased significantly 28 days after LIN- cells administration. The highest concentration levels of BDNF in group II and NGF in both groups in blood plasma were observed on day 3 following the injection. Conclusions: The outcomes of the LIN- cell application in ALS treatment of articulatory organs are promising. The procedure proved to be safe and feasible. A short-lasting trophic effect of autologous LIN- administration could encourage repeated cell's application in order to sustain their beneficial effects, however this approach needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wioletta Pawlukowska
- Department of Medical Rehabilitation and Clinical Physiotherapy, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Bartłomiej Baumert
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | | | - Ewa Pius-Sadowska
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Zofia Litwińska
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Maciej Kotowski
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Meller
- Department of Neurology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Iwona Rotter
- Department of Medical Rehabilitation and Clinical Physiotherapy, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | | | - Przemysław Nowacki
- Department of Neurology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
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18
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Zhu Q, Lu P. Stem Cell Transplantation for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1266:71-97. [PMID: 33105496 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-15-4370-8_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a motor neuronal degeneration disease, in which the death of motor neurons causes lost control of voluntary muscles. The consequence is weakness of muscles with a wide range of disabilities and eventually death. Most patients died within 5 years after diagnosis, and there is no cure for this devastating neurodegenerative disease up to date. Stem cells, including non-neural stem cells and neural stem cells (NSCs) or neural progenitor cells (NPCs), are very attractive cell sources for potential neuroprotection and motor neuron replacement therapy which bases on the idea that transplant-derived and newly differentiated motor neurons can replace lost motor neurons to re-establish voluntary motor control of muscles in ALS. Our recent studies show that transplanted NSCs or NPCs not only survive well in injured spinal cord, but also function as neuronal relays to receive regenerated host axonal connection and extend their own axons to host for connectivity, including motor axons in ventral root. This reciprocal connection between host neurons and transplanted neurons provides a strong rationale for neuronal replacement therapy for ALS to re-establish voluntary motor control of muscles. In addition, a variety of new stem cell resources and the new methodologies to generate NSCs or motor neuron-specific progenitor cells have been discovered and developed. Together, it provides the basis for motor neuron replacement therapy with NSCs or NPCs in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Zhu
- Ludwig Institute, University of California - San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Paul Lu
- Veterans Administration San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA. .,Department of Neurosciences, University of California - San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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19
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Gouel F, Rolland AS, Devedjian JC, Burnouf T, Devos D. Past and Future of Neurotrophic Growth Factors Therapies in ALS: From Single Neurotrophic Growth Factor to Stem Cells and Human Platelet Lysates. Front Neurol 2019; 10:835. [PMID: 31428042 PMCID: PMC6688198 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease that typically results in death within 3–5 years after diagnosis. To date, there is no curative treatment and therefore an urgent unmet need of neuroprotective and/or neurorestorative treatments. Due to their spectrum of capacities in the central nervous system—e.g., development, plasticity, maintenance, neurogenesis—neurotrophic growth factors (NTF) have been exploited for therapeutic strategies in ALS for decades. In this review we present the initial strategy of using single NTF by different routes of administration to the use of stem cells transplantation to express a multiple NTFs-rich secretome to finally focus on a new biotherapy based on the human platelet lysates, the natural healing system containing a mix of pleitropic NTF and having immunomodulatory function. This review highlights that this latter treatment may be crucial to power the neuroprotection and/or neurorestoration therapy requested in this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flore Gouel
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Lille University, INSERM UMRS_1171, University Hospital Center, LICEND COEN Center, Lille, France
| | - Anne-Sophie Rolland
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Lille University, INSERM UMRS_1171, University Hospital Center, LICEND COEN Center, Lille, France
| | - Jean-Christophe Devedjian
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Lille University, INSERM UMRS_1171, University Hospital Center, LICEND COEN Center, Lille, France
| | - Thierry Burnouf
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Materials and Tissue Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,International PhD Program in Biomedical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,International PhD Program in Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - David Devos
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Lille University, INSERM UMRS_1171, University Hospital Center, LICEND COEN Center, Lille, France.,Department of Neurology, Lille University, INSERM UMRS_1171, University Hospital Center, LICEND COEN Center, Lille, France
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20
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Goutman SA, Savelieff MG, Sakowski SA, Feldman EL. Stem cell treatments for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a critical overview of early phase trials. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2019; 28:525-543. [PMID: 31189354 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2019.1627324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease of cortical, brainstem, and spinal motor neurons; it causes progressive muscle weakness and atrophy, respiratory failure, and death. No currently available treatment either stops or reverses this disease. Therapeutics to slow, stop, and reverse ALS are needed. Stem cells may be a viable solution to sustain and nurture diseased motor neurons. Several early-stage clinical trials have been launched to assess the potential of stem cells for ALS treatment. Areas covered: Expert opinion: AREAS COVERED This review covers the key advances from early phase clinical trials of stem cell therapy for ALS and identifies promising avenues and key challenges. EXPERT OPINION Clinical trials in humans are still in the nascent stages of development. It will be critical to ensure that powered, well-controlled trials are conducted, that optimal treatment windows are identified, and that the ideal cell type, cell dose, and delivery site and method are determined. Several trials have used more invasive procedures, and ethical concerns of sham procedures on patients in the control arm and on their safety should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen A Goutman
- a Department of Neurology , University of Michigan , Ann Arbor , MI , USA.,b Program for Neurology Research & Discovery , University of Michigan , Ann Arbor , MI , USA
| | - Masha G Savelieff
- a Department of Neurology , University of Michigan , Ann Arbor , MI , USA.,b Program for Neurology Research & Discovery , University of Michigan , Ann Arbor , MI , USA
| | - Stacey A Sakowski
- a Department of Neurology , University of Michigan , Ann Arbor , MI , USA.,b Program for Neurology Research & Discovery , University of Michigan , Ann Arbor , MI , USA
| | - Eva L Feldman
- a Department of Neurology , University of Michigan , Ann Arbor , MI , USA.,b Program for Neurology Research & Discovery , University of Michigan , Ann Arbor , MI , USA
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21
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Influence of Lineage-Negative Stem Cell Therapy on Articulatory Functions in ALS Patients. Stem Cells Int 2019; 2019:7213854. [PMID: 31281384 PMCID: PMC6589318 DOI: 10.1155/2019/7213854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal, neurodegenerative disease, leading to loss of muscle strength and motor control. Impaired speech and swallowing lower the quality of life and consequently may induce acute respiratory failure. Bone marrow-derived stem and progenitor cells (SPCs) may be a valuable source of trophic factors. In this study, we assessed whether adjuvant cellular therapy could affect the levels of selected neurotrophins and proinflammatory factors in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and subsequently prevent the deterioration of articulation. Materials and Methods The study group consisted of 32 patients with sporadic ALS who underwent autologous lineage-negative (Lin−) stem cell intrathecal administration to the spinal canal. Lin− cells were aspirated from the bone marrow and isolated using immunomagnetic beads and a lineage cell depletion kit. Patients were examined for articulatory functions by means of the Voice Handicap Index (VHI) questionnaire and Frenchay Dysarthria Assessment (FDA). In parallel, we carried out the analysis of selected trophic and proinflammatory factors in CSF utilizing multiplex fluorescent bead-based immunoassays. Results Of the 32 patients who received the Lin− progenitor cell therapy, 6 (group I) showed improvement in articulatory functions, 23 remained stable (group II), and 3 deteriorated (group III) on the 28th day. The improvement was particularly noticeable in a better cough reflex, laryngeal time, and dribble reflex. A statistically significant lower level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was observed on day 0 in group I compared to group II. The CSF concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP) in group I significantly decreased 7 days after Lin− SPC transplantation. On the contrary, a significant increase in the tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNF-R) level was confirmed among patients from group I with improvement of dribble and coughing reflex, tongue movements, and respiration on the 7th day, as well as on day 28 including dribble reflex solely. Conclusions An application of Lin− stem cells could potentate the beneficial humoral effect. The prevention of deterioration of articulatory functions in ALS patients after applying adjuvant Lin− stem cell therapy seems to be promising. Although the procedure is safe and feasible, it requires further in-depth studies.
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22
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Wang Y, Liu Y, Zhai J, Duan W, Sun S, Cui H, Chen X, Ji J, Liu Y. scAAV9-VEGF-165 inhibits neuroinflammatory responses and invasion of macrophages into the peripheral nervous system of ALS transgenic mice. Brain Res Bull 2018; 140:233-242. [PMID: 29751031 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2018.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Revised: 05/05/2018] [Accepted: 05/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that leads to paralysis and death within 3-5 years. Although the vast majority of studies have focused on vulnerable neurons, growing evidence has shown that non-neuronal cells contribute to the pathogenesis and disease progression. Here, we showed that intrathecal injection of scAAV9-VEGF at 60 days of age significantly reduced the number of microglia and inhibited the neuroinflammatory response in the CNS. Meanwhile, we found that administration of VEGF inhibited the invasion of macrophages into the PNS, including ventral nerve roots, sciatic nerves and muscles. Overall, our study indicated the anti-inflammation effect of VEGF in the CNS and PNS of ALS mice when delivered by intrathecal injection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050000, People's Republic of China; Department of Neurology, The Central Hospital of Zibo, Zibo, Shandong, 255000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanyuan Liu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050000, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingxu Zhai
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050000, People's Republic of China
| | - Weisong Duan
- Neurological Laboratory of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050000, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuo Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Central Hospital of Zibo, Zibo, Shandong, 255000, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongying Cui
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050000, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuexiao Chen
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050000, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianwen Ji
- Center of Neurology Disease, The Third Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 404000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaling Liu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050000, People's Republic of China; Institute of Cardiocerebrovascular Disease, West Heping Road 215, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050000, People's Republic of China; Neurological Laboratory of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050000, People's Republic of China.
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23
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Zhu SZ, Szeto V, Bao MH, Sun HS, Feng ZP. Pharmacological approaches promoting stem cell-based therapy following ischemic stroke insults. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2018; 39:695-712. [PMID: 29671416 DOI: 10.1038/aps.2018.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Stroke can lead to long-term neurological deficits. Adult neurogenesis, the continuous generation of newborn neurons in distinct regions of the brain throughout life, has been considered as one of the appoaches to restore the neurological function following ischemic stroke. However, ischemia-induced spontaneous neurogenesis is not suffcient, thus cell-based therapy, including infusing exogenous stem cells or stimulating endogenous stem cells to help repair of injured brain, has been studied in numerous animal experiments and some pilot clinical trials. While the effects of cell-based therapy on neurological function during recovery remains unproven in randomized controlled trials, pharmacological agents have been administrated to assist the cell-based therapy. In this review, we summarized the limitations of ischemia-induced neurogenesis and stem-cell transplantation, as well as the potential proneuroregenerative effects of drugs that may enhance efficacy of cell-based therapies. Specifically, we discussed drugs that enhance proliferation, migration, differentiation, survival and function connectivity of newborn neurons, which may restore neurobehavioral function and improve outcomes in stroke patients.
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Safety and Feasibility of Lin- Cells Administration to ALS Patients: A Novel View on Humoral Factors and miRNA Profiles. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19051312. [PMID: 29702606 PMCID: PMC5983708 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Revised: 04/20/2018] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic options for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are still limited. Great hopes, however, are placed in growth factors that show neuroprotective abilities (e.g., nerve growth factor (NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)) and in the immune modulating features, in particular, the anti-inflammatory effects. In our study we aimed to investigate whether a bone marrow-derived lineage-negative (Lin-) cells population, after autologous application into cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), is able to produce noticeable concentrations of trophic factors and inflammatory-related proteins and thus influence the clinical course of ALS. To our knowledge, the evaluation of Lin- cells transplantation for ALS treatment has not been previously reported. Early hematopoietic Lin- cells were isolated from twelve ALS patients’ bone marrow, and later, the suspension of cells was administered into the subarachnoid space by lumbar puncture. Concentrations of selected proteins in the CSF and plasma were quantified by multiplex fluorescent bead-based immunoassays at different timepoints post-transplantation. We also chose microRNAs (miRNAs) related to muscle biology (miRNA-1, miRNA-133a, and miRNA-206) and angiogenesis and inflammation (miRNA-155 and miRNA-378) and tested, for the first time, their expression profiles in the CSF and plasma of ALS patients after Lin- cells transplantation. The injection of bone marrow cells resulted in decreased concentration of selected inflammatory proteins (C3) after Lin- cells injection, particularly in patients who had a better clinical outcome. Moreover, several analyzed miRNAs have changed expression levels in the CSF and plasma of ALS patients subsequent to Lin- cells administration. Interestingly, the expression of miR-206 increased in ALS patients, while miR-378 decreased both in the CSF and plasma one month after the cells’ injection. We propose that autologous lineage-negative early hematopoietic cells injected intrathecally may be a safe and feasible source of material for transplantations to the central nervous system (CNS) environment aimed at anti-inflammatory support provision for ALS adjuvant treatment strategies. Further research is needed to evaluate whether the observed effects could significantly influence the ALS progression.
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Zeng Y, Han H, Tang B, Chen J, Mao D, Xiong M. Transplantation of Recombinant Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF)189-Neural Stem Cells Downregulates Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) and Improves Motor Outcome in Spinal Cord Injury. Med Sci Monit 2018; 24:1089-1096. [PMID: 29466323 PMCID: PMC5829538 DOI: 10.12659/msm.905264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Spinal cord injury (SCI) causes a rapid loss of motor neurons, leading to weakness and paralysis. Transplantation of neural stem cells is known to restore the neuronal activity but is inefficient due to limited regenerative capability and low rate of survival. There has been an emphasis on the use of growth factors along with neural stem cells (NSCs) to enhance the neuronal recovery. Transplantation of recombinant NSCs with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) might promote neuronal repair. This effect might be attributed to the reduced transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) expression following transplantation. Material/Methods NSCs were cultured from the embryos of Sprague-Dawley rats (E12.5). Four group of rats (n=10, each) were subjected to SCI and allowed to recover for 1 week. Recombinant VEGF-NSCs, normal NSCs and PBS were intrathecally administered to the rats. VEGF and TRPV-1 expression at mRNA and protein level was evaluated. ELISA was performed to determine the release of neurotrophic factors after the transplantation. Motor neurons and axons were counted and the motor behavioral outcome was assessed using the rota-rod test. Results VEGF-NSC transgene transplantation resulted in an enhanced neuronal repair and motor behavioral outcome compared to the normal NSCs transplanted group. VEGF-NSCs increased the release of neurotrophic factors and reduced the expression of TRPV1. Conclusions Recombinant VEGF-NSCs transplantation following SCI is more efficacious compared to normal NSC transplantation. This might also be related to a reduced pain in the process of recovery due to reduced TRPV1 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Zeng
- Department of Orthopedics, Dongfeng Hospital Affiliated to Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, China (mainland)
| | - Heng Han
- Department of Orthopedics, Dongfeng Hospital Affiliated to Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, China (mainland)
| | - Bing Tang
- Department of Orthopedics, Dongfeng Hospital Affiliated to Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, China (mainland)
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Dongfeng Hospital Affiliated to Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, China (mainland)
| | - Dan Mao
- Department of Orthopedics, Dongfeng Hospital Affiliated to Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, China (mainland)
| | - Min Xiong
- Department of Orthopedics, Dongfeng Hospital Affiliated to Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, China (mainland)
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Gowing G, Svendsen S, Svendsen CN. Ex vivo gene therapy for the treatment of neurological disorders. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2017; 230:99-132. [PMID: 28552237 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2016.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Ex vivo gene therapy involves the genetic modification of cells outside of the body to produce therapeutic factors and their subsequent transplantation back into patients. Various cell types can be genetically engineered. However, with the explosion in stem cell technologies, neural stem/progenitor cells and mesenchymal stem cells are most often used. The synergy between the effect of the new cell and the additional engineered properties can often provide significant benefits to neurodegenerative changes in the brain. In this review, we cover both preclinical animal studies and clinical human trials that have used ex vivo gene therapy to treat neurological disorders with a focus on Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, Alzheimer's disease, ALS, and stroke. We highlight some of the major advances in this field including new autologous sources of pluripotent stem cells, safer ways to introduce therapeutic transgenes, and various methods of gene regulation. We also address some of the remaining hurdles including tunable gene regulation, in vivo cell tracking, and rigorous experimental design. Overall, given the current outcomes from researchers and clinical trials, along with exciting new developments in ex vivo gene and cell therapy, we anticipate that successful treatments for neurological diseases will arise in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genevieve Gowing
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States; Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Soshana Svendsen
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States; Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Clive N Svendsen
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States; Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States.
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Czarzasta J, Habich A, Siwek T, Czapliński A, Maksymowicz W, Wojtkiewicz J. Stem cells for ALS: An overview of possible therapeutic approaches. Int J Dev Neurosci 2017; 57:46-55. [PMID: 28088365 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2017.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2016] [Revised: 01/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an unusual, fatal, neurodegenerative disorder leading to the loss of motor neurons. After diagnosis, the average lifespan ranges from 3 to 5 years, and death usually results from respiratory failure. Although the pathogenesis of ALS remains unclear, multiple factors are thought to contribute to the progression of ALS, such as network interactions between genes, environmental exposure, impaired molecular pathways and many others. The neuroprotective properties of neural stem cells (NSCs) and the paracrine signaling of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been examined in multiple pre-clinical trials of ALS with promising results. The data from these initial trials indicate a reduction in the rate of disease progression. The mechanism through which stem cells achieve this reduction is of major interest. Here, we review the to-date pre-clinical and clinical therapeutic approaches employing stem cells, and discuss the most promising ones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Czarzasta
- Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland.
| | - Aleksandra Habich
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Tomasz Siwek
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Adam Czapliński
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland; Neurocentrum Bellevue, Neurology, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Wojciech Maksymowicz
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Joanna Wojtkiewicz
- Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland; Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland; Foundation for nerve cells regeneration, Olsztyn, Poland
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Therapeutic progress in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-beginning to learning. Eur J Med Chem 2016; 121:903-917. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2016.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2015] [Revised: 04/29/2016] [Accepted: 06/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Wang Y, Duan W, Wang W, Di Wen, Liu Y, Liu Y, Li Z, Hu H, Lin H, Cui C, Li D, Dong H, Li C. scAAV9-VEGF prolongs the survival of transgenic ALS mice by promoting activation of M2 microglia and the PI3K/Akt pathway. Brain Res 2016; 1648:1-10. [PMID: 27392886 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2016.06.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Revised: 06/27/2016] [Accepted: 06/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an adult-onset neurodegenerative disease that leads to paralysis and death three to five years after diagnosis in most patients. The disease is incurable, and the mechanism of motoneuron degeneration remains unknown, although research has demonstrated that activated microglia are involved in motor neuron death. Here, we used a simple method to deliver AAV9 virus by direct intrathecal injection and found that scAAV9-VEGF-165 improved the motor performance and prolonged the life span of SOD1-G93A mice. Furthermore, scAAV9-VEGF-165 activated the PI3K/Akt survival pathway and increased the level of Bcl-2, which contributed to the protection of motor neurons. Additionally, scAAV9-VEGF-165 attenuated the expression of classically activated (M1) microglial markers and enhanced the expression of alternatively activated (M2) microglial markers. Taken together, the results of our study suggest that simple, direct intrathecal injection of scAAV9-VEGF-165 may have a curative effect for ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Weisong Duan
- Neurological Laboratory of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Wan Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Di Wen
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaling Liu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, People's Republic of China; Institute of Cardiocerebrovascular Disease, West Heping Road 215, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, People's Republic of China; Neurological Laboratory of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Yakun Liu
- Neurological Laboratory of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhongyao Li
- Neurological Laboratory of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Haojie Hu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Huiqian Lin
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Can Cui
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongxiao Li
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Dong
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, People's Republic of China; Institute of Cardiocerebrovascular Disease, West Heping Road 215, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, People's Republic of China; Neurological Laboratory of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunyan Li
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, People's Republic of China; Institute of Cardiocerebrovascular Disease, West Heping Road 215, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, People's Republic of China; Neurological Laboratory of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, People's Republic of China.
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Lange C, Storkebaum E, de Almodóvar CR, Dewerchin M, Carmeliet P. Vascular endothelial growth factor: a neurovascular target in neurological diseases. Nat Rev Neurol 2016; 12:439-54. [PMID: 27364743 DOI: 10.1038/nrneurol.2016.88] [Citation(s) in RCA: 220] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Brain function critically relies on blood vessels to supply oxygen and nutrients, to establish a barrier for neurotoxic substances, and to clear waste products. The archetypal vascular endothelial growth factor, VEGF, arose in evolution as a signal affecting neural cells, but was later co-opted by blood vessels to regulate vascular function. Consequently, VEGF represents an attractive target to modulate brain function at the neurovascular interface. On the one hand, VEGF is neuroprotective, through direct effects on neural cells and their progenitors and indirect effects on brain perfusion. In accordance, preclinical studies show beneficial effects of VEGF administration in neurodegenerative diseases, peripheral neuropathies and epilepsy. On the other hand, pathologically elevated VEGF levels enhance vessel permeability and leakage, and disrupt blood-brain barrier integrity, as in demyelinating diseases, for which blockade of VEGF may be beneficial. Here, we summarize current knowledge on the role and therapeutic potential of VEGF in neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Lange
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Vesalius Research Center, Department of Oncology (KU Leuven) and Vesalius Research Center (VIB), Campus Gasthuisberg O&N4, Herestraat 49 - 912, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Erik Storkebaum
- Molecular Neurogenetics Laboratory, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Roentgenstrasse 20, D-48149 Muenster, Germany.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Muenster, Roentgenstrasse 20, D-48149 Muenster, Germany
| | | | - Mieke Dewerchin
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Vesalius Research Center, Department of Oncology (KU Leuven) and Vesalius Research Center (VIB), Campus Gasthuisberg O&N4, Herestraat 49 - 912, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Peter Carmeliet
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Vesalius Research Center, Department of Oncology (KU Leuven) and Vesalius Research Center (VIB), Campus Gasthuisberg O&N4, Herestraat 49 - 912, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
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31
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Stem Cells for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Transl Neurosci 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4899-7654-3_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
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Neuroprotective Effect of Human Adipose Stem Cell-Derived Extract in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Neurochem Res 2015; 41:913-23. [DOI: 10.1007/s11064-015-1774-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2015] [Revised: 11/10/2015] [Accepted: 11/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Use of a Human Artificial Chromosome for Delivering Trophic Factors in a Rodent Model of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2015; 4:e253. [PMID: 26440597 PMCID: PMC4881756 DOI: 10.1038/mtna.2015.28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2015] [Accepted: 08/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
A human artificial chromosome (HAC) is maintained as an episome within a cell and avoids random integration into the host genome. It can transfer multiple and/or large transgenes along with their regulatory elements thereby resembling native chromosomes. Using this HAC system, we established mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) that simultaneously expressed hepatocyte growth factor, glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor, and insulin-like growth factor 1, termed HAC-MSCs. This cell line provides an opportunity for stable transplantation and thorough analyses. We then introduced the cells for the treatment of a neurodegenerative disorder, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The HAC-MSCs were transplanted via the fourth cerebral ventricle (CV) or intravenous (i.v.) infusion at various ages of recipient mice. Littermate- and sex-matched mice underwent a sham procedure. Compared to the controls, there was an encouraging trend of increased life span via CV transplantation and delayed onset in i.v. infusion 60 days after transplantation. Further, we confirmed a statistically significant increase in life span via CV transplantation at 100 days. This effect was not seen in mice transplanted with MSCs lacking the HAC. We successfully enhanced the trophic potential of the MSCs using the HAC. This strategy could be a promising direction for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders.
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Haidet-Phillips AM, Maragakis NJ. Neural and glial progenitor transplantation as a neuroprotective strategy for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Brain Res 2015; 1628:343-350. [PMID: 26187754 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2015.06.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2015] [Revised: 06/12/2015] [Accepted: 06/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
ALS is a neurodegenerative disease with a prevalence rate of up to 7.4/100,000 and the overall risk of developing ALS over a lifetime is 1:400. Most patients die from respiratory failure following a course of progressive weakness. To date, only one traditional pharmaceutical agent-riluzole, has been shown to afford a benefit on survival but numerous pharmaceutical interventions have been studied in preclinical models of ALS without subsequent translation to patient efficacy. Despite the relative selectivity of motor neuron cell death, animal and tissue culture models of familial ALS suggest that non-neuronal cells significantly contribute to neuronal dysfunction and death. Early efforts to transplant stem cells had focused on motor neuron replacement. More practically for this aggressive neurodegenerative disease, recent studies, preclinical efforts, and early clinical trials have focused on the transplantation of neural stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells, or glial progenitors. Using transgenic mouse or rat models of ALS, a number of studies have shown neuroprotection through a variety of different mechanisms that have included neurotrophic factor secretion, glutamate transporter regulation, and modulation of neuroinflammation, among others. However, given that cell replacement could involve a number of biologically relevant factors, identifying the key pathway(s) that may contribute to neuroprotection remains a challenge. Nevertheless, given the abundant data supporting the interplay between non-neuronal cell types and motor neuron disease propagation, the replacement of disease-carrying host cells by normal cells may be sufficient to confer neuroprotection. Key preclinical issues that currently are being addressed include the most appropriate methods and routes for delivery of cells to disease-relevant regions of the neuraxis, cell survival and migration, and tracking the cells following transplantation. Central to the initial development of stem cell transplantation into patients with ALS is the demonstration that transplanted cells lack tumorigenicity and have the appropriate biodistribution to ensure the safety of ALS patients receiving these therapies. Here, we review preclinical and clinical studies focusing on the transplantation of neural and glial progenitor cells as a promising neuroprotective therapy for ALS. The rationale for stem cell transplantation for neuroprotection, proof-of-concept animal studies, and current challenges facing translation of these therapies to the clinic is presented. Lastly, we discuss advancements on the horizon including induced pluripotent stem cell technology and developments for cellular tracking and detection post-transplantation. With the safe completion of the first-in-human Phase I clinical trial for intraspinal stem cell transplantation for ALS in the United States, the time is ripe for stem cell therapies to be translated to the clinic and excitingly, evaluated for neuroprotection for ALS. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled SI: Neuroprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda M Haidet-Phillips
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, 250.10 Rangos Building, 855 North Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Nicholas J Maragakis
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, 250.10 Rangos Building, 855 North Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD 21205, United States.
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Chang YJ, Su HL, Hsu LF, Huang PJ, Wang TH, Cheng FC, Hsu LW, Tsai MS, Chen CP, Chang YL, Chao AS, Hwang SM. Isolation of Human Neural Stem Cells from the Amniotic Fluid with Diagnosed Neural Tube Defects. Stem Cells Dev 2015; 24:1740-50. [PMID: 25923707 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2014.0516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Human neural stem cells (NSCs) are particularly valuable for the study of neurogenesis process and have a therapeutic potential in treating neurodegenerative disorders. However, current progress in the use of human NSCs is limited due to the available NSC sources and the complicated isolation and culture techniques. In this study, we describe an efficient method to isolate and propagate human NSCs from the amniotic fluid with diagnosed neural tube defects (NTDs), specifically, anencephaly. These amniotic fluid-derived NSCs (AF-NSCs) formed neurospheres and underwent long-term expansion in vitro. In addition, these cells showed normal karyotypes and telomerase activity and expressed NSC-specific markers, including Nestin, Sox2, Musashi-1, and the ATP-binding cassette G2 (ABCG2). AF-NSCs displayed typical morphological patterns and expressed specific markers that were consistent with neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and dopaminergic neurons after proper induction conditions. Furthermore, grafted AF-NSCs improved the physiological functions in a rat stroke model. The ability to isolate and bank human NSCs from this novel source provides a unique opportunity for translational studies of neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Jen Chang
- 1 Bioresource Collection and Research Center, Food Industry Research and Development Institute , Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Lin Su
- 2 Department of Life Sciences, National Chung-Hsing University , Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Lee-Feng Hsu
- 1 Bioresource Collection and Research Center, Food Industry Research and Development Institute , Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Po-Jui Huang
- 2 Department of Life Sciences, National Chung-Hsing University , Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Hao Wang
- 3 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lin-Kou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University , Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Fu-Chou Cheng
- 4 Stem Cell Center and Department of Education and Medical Research, Taichung Veterans General Hospital , Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Li-Wen Hsu
- 1 Bioresource Collection and Research Center, Food Industry Research and Development Institute , Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Song Tsai
- 5 Prenatal Diagnosis Center, Cathay General Hospital , Taipei, Taiwan .,6 School of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University , New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Ping Chen
- 7 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mackay Memorial Hospital , Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yao-Lung Chang
- 3 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lin-Kou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University , Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - An-Shine Chao
- 3 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lin-Kou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University , Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Shiaw-Min Hwang
- 1 Bioresource Collection and Research Center, Food Industry Research and Development Institute , Hsinchu, Taiwan
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Marei HES, Lashen S, Farag A, Althani A, Afifi N, A AE, Rezk S, Pallini R, Casalbore P, Cenciarelli C. Human olfactory bulb neural stem cells mitigate movement disorders in a rat model of Parkinson's disease. J Cell Physiol 2015; 230:1614-29. [PMID: 25536543 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.24909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2014] [Accepted: 12/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurological disorder characterized by the loss of midbrain dopaminergic (DA) neurons. Neural stem cells (NSCs) are multipotent stem cells that are capable of differentiating into different neuronal and glial elements. The production of DA neurons from NSCs could potentially alleviate behavioral deficits in Parkinsonian patients; timely intervention with NSCs might provide a therapeutic strategy for PD. We have isolated and generated highly enriched cultures of neural stem/progenitor cells from the human olfactory bulb (OB). If NSCs can be obtained from OB, it would alleviate ethical concerns associated with the use of embryonic tissue, and provide an easily accessible cell source that would preclude the need for invasive brain surgery. Following isolation and culture, olfactory bulb neural stem cells (OBNSCs) were genetically engineered to express hNGF and GFP. The hNFG-GFP-OBNSCs were transplanted into the striatum of 6-hydroxydopamin (6-OHDA) Parkinsonian rats. The grafted cells survived in the lesion environment for more than eight weeks after implantation with no tumor formation. The grafted cells differentiated in vivo into oligodendrocyte-like (25 ± 2.88%), neuron-like (52.63 ± 4.16%), and astrocyte -like (22.36 ± 1.56%) lineages, which we differentiated based on morphological and immunohistochemical criteria. Transplanted rats exhibited a significant partial correction in stepping and placing in non-pharmacological behavioral tests, pole and rotarod tests. Taken together, our data encourage further investigations of the possible use of OBNSCs as a promising cell-based therapeutic strategy for Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hany E S Marei
- Department of Cytology and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
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Goutman SA, Chen KS, Feldman EL. Recent Advances and the Future of Stem Cell Therapies in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Neurotherapeutics 2015; 12:428-48. [PMID: 25776222 PMCID: PMC4404436 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-015-0339-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a progressive neurodegenerative disease of the motor neurons without a known cure. Based on the possibility of cellular neuroprotection and early preclinical results, stem cells have gained widespread enthusiasm as a potential treatment strategy. Preclinical models demonstrate a protective role of engrafted stem cells and provided the basis for human trials carried out using various types of stem cells, as well as a range of cell delivery methods. To date, no trial has demonstrated a clear therapeutic benefit; however, results remain encouraging and are the basis for ongoing studies. In addition, stem cell technology continues to improve, and induced pluripotent stem cells may offer additional therapeutic options in the future. Improved disease models and clinical trials will be essential in order to validate stem cells as a beneficial therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen A Goutman
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, F2647 UH South, SPC 5223, 1500 East Medical Center Drive, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5036, USA,
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Nicaise C, Mitrecic D, Falnikar A, Lepore AC. Transplantation of stem cell-derived astrocytes for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and spinal cord injury. World J Stem Cells 2015; 7:380-398. [PMID: 25815122 PMCID: PMC4369494 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v7.i2.380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2014] [Revised: 10/07/2014] [Accepted: 11/19/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neglected for years, astrocytes are now recognized to fulfill and support many, if not all, homeostatic functions of the healthy central nervous system (CNS). During neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and spinal cord injury (SCI), astrocytes in the vicinity of degenerating areas undergo both morphological and functional changes that might compromise their intrinsic properties. Evidence from human and animal studies show that deficient astrocyte functions or loss-of-astrocytes largely contribute to increased susceptibility to cell death for neurons, oligodendrocytes and axons during ALS and SCI disease progression. Despite exciting advances in experimental CNS repair, most of current approaches that are translated into clinical trials focus on the replacement or support of spinal neurons through stem cell transplantation, while none focus on the specific replacement of astroglial populations. Knowing the important functions carried out by astrocytes in the CNS, astrocyte replacement-based therapies might be a promising approach to alleviate overall astrocyte dysfunction, deliver neurotrophic support to degenerating spinal tissue and stimulate endogenous CNS repair abilities. Enclosed in this review, we gathered experimental evidence that argue in favor of astrocyte transplantation during ALS and SCI. Based on their intrinsic properties and according to the cell type transplanted, astrocyte precursors or stem cell-derived astrocytes promote axonal growth, support mechanisms and cells involved in myelination, are able to modulate the host immune response, deliver neurotrophic factors and provide protective molecules against oxidative or excitotoxic insults, amongst many possible benefits. Embryonic or adult stem cells can even be genetically engineered in order to deliver missing gene products and therefore maximize the chance of neuroprotection and functional recovery. However, before broad clinical translation, further preclinical data on safety, reliability and therapeutic efficiency should be collected. Although several technical challenges need to be overcome, we discuss the major hurdles that have already been met or solved by targeting the astrocyte population in experimental ALS and SCI models and we discuss avenues for future directions based on latest molecular findings regarding astrocyte biology.
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Gershoni-Emek N, Chein M, Gluska S, Perlson E. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis as a spatiotemporal mislocalization disease: location, location, location. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2015; 315:23-71. [PMID: 25708461 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2014.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Spatiotemporal localization of signals is a fundamental feature impacting cell survival and proper function. The cell needs to respond in an accurate manner in both space and time to both intra- and intercellular environment cues. The regulation of this comprehensive process involves the cytoskeleton and the trafficking machinery, as well as local protein synthesis and ligand-receptor mechanisms. Alterations in such mechanisms can lead to cell dysfunction and disease. Motor neurons that can extend over tens of centimeters are a classic example for the importance of such events. Changes in spatiotemporal localization mechanisms are thought to play a role in motor neuron degeneration that occurs in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In this review we will discuss these mechanisms and argue that possible misregulated factors can lead to motor neuron degeneration in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noga Gershoni-Emek
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; The Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Michael Chein
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; The Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Shani Gluska
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; The Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Eran Perlson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; The Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Aronica E, Baas F, Iyer A, ten Asbroek AL, Morello G, Cavallaro S. Molecular classification of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis by unsupervised clustering of gene expression in motor cortex. Neurobiol Dis 2015; 74:359-76. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2014.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2014] [Revised: 11/12/2014] [Accepted: 12/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
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Marei HES, Farag A, Althani A, Afifi N, Abd-Elmaksoud A, Lashen S, Rezk S, Pallini R, Casalbore P, Cenciarelli C. Human olfactory bulb neural stem cells expressing hNGF restore cognitive deficit in Alzheimer's disease rat model. J Cell Physiol 2015; 230:116-30. [PMID: 24911171 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.24688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2014] [Accepted: 05/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we aim to demonstrate the fate of allogenic adult human olfactory bulb neural stem/progenitor cells (OBNSC/NPCs) transplanted into the rat hippocampus treated with ibotenic acid (IBO), a neurotoxicant specific to hippocampal cholinergic neurons that are lost in Alzheimer's disease. We assessed their possible ability to survive, integrate, proliferate, and differentiate into different neuronal and glial elements: we also evaluate their possible therapeutic potential, and the mechanism(s) relevant to neuroprotection following their engraftment into the CNS milieu. OBNSC/NPCs were isolated from adult human olfactory bulb patients, genetically engineered to express GFP and human nerve growth factor (hNGF) by lentivirus-mediated infection, and stereotaxically transplanted into the hippocampus of IBO-treated animals and controls. Stereological analysis of engrafted OBNSCs eight weeks post transplantation revealed a 1.89 fold increase with respect to the initial cell population, indicating a marked ability for survival and proliferation. In addition, 54.71 ± 11.38%, 30.18 ± 6.00%, and 15.09 ± 5.38% of engrafted OBNSCs were identified by morphological criteria suggestive of mature neurons, oligodendrocytes and astrocytes respectively. Taken together, this work demonstrated that human OBNSCs expressing NGF ameliorate the cognitive deficiencies associated with IBO-induced lesions in AD model rats, and the improvement can probably be attributed primarily to neuronal and glial cell replacement as well as the trophic influence exerted by the secreted NGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hany E S Marei
- Department of Cytology and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
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Lunn JS, Sakowski SA, Feldman EL. Concise review: Stem cell therapies for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: recent advances and prospects for the future. Stem Cells 2014; 32:1099-109. [PMID: 24448926 DOI: 10.1002/stem.1628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2013] [Revised: 12/12/2013] [Accepted: 12/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a lethal disease involving the loss of motor neurons. Although the mechanisms responsible for motor neuron degeneration in ALS remain elusive, the development of stem cell-based therapies for the treatment of ALS has gained widespread support. Here, we review the types of stem cells being considered for therapeutic applications in ALS, and emphasize recent preclinical advances that provide supportive rationale for clinical translation. We also discuss early trials from around the world translating cellular therapies to ALS patients, and offer important considerations for future clinical trial design. Although clinical translation is still in its infancy, and additional insight into the mechanisms underlying therapeutic efficacy and the establishment of long-term safety are required, these studies represent an important first step toward the development of effective cellular therapies for the treatment of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Simon Lunn
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Poppe L, Rué L, Robberecht W, Van Den Bosch L. Translating biological findings into new treatment strategies for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Exp Neurol 2014; 262 Pt B:138-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2014.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2014] [Revised: 06/26/2014] [Accepted: 07/02/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Localization and Differentiation Pattern of Transplanted Human Multipotent Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in the Brain of Bulbectomized Mice. Bull Exp Biol Med 2014; 158:118-22. [DOI: 10.1007/s10517-014-2706-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Liu Y, Zhou Y, Zhang C, Zhang F, Hou S, Zhong H, Huang H. Optimal time for subarachnoid transplantation of neural progenitor cells in the treatment of contusive spinal cord injury. Neural Regen Res 2014; 8:389-96. [PMID: 25206679 PMCID: PMC4146137 DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-5374.2013.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2012] [Accepted: 11/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to identify the optimal neural progenitor cell transplantation time for spinal cord injury in rats via the subarachnoid space. Cultured neural progenitor cells from 14-day embryonic rats, constitutively expressing enhanced green fluorescence protein, or media alone, were injected into the subarachnoid space of adult rats at 1 hour (acute stage), 7 days (subacute stage) and 28 days (chronic stage) after contusive spinal cord injury. Results showed that grafted neural progenitor cells migrated and aggregated around the blood vessels of the injured region, and infiltrated the spinal cord parenchyma along the tissue spaces in the acute stage transplantation group. However, this was not observed in subacute and chronic stage transplantation groups. O4- and glial fibrillary acidic protein-positive cells, representing oligodendrocytes and astrocytes respectively, were detected in the core of the grafted cluster attached to the cauda equina pia surface in the chronic stage transplantation group 8 weeks after transplantation. Both acute and subacute stage transplantation groups were negative for O4 and glial fibrillary acidic protein cells. Basso, Beattie and Bresnahan scale score comparisons indicated that rat hind limb locomotor activity showed better recovery after acute stage transplantation than after subacute and chronic transplantation. Our experimental findings suggest that the subarachnoid route could be useful for transplantation of neural progenitor cells at the acute stage of spinal cord injury. Although grafted cells survived only for a short time and did not differentiate into astrocytes or neurons, they were able to reach the parenchyma of the injured spinal cord and improve neurological function in rats. Transplantation efficacy was enhanced at the acute stage in comparison with subacute and chronic stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Liu
- Orthopedic Institute, the First Affiliated Hospital of the General Hospital of PLA, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Orthopedic Institute, the First Affiliated Hospital of the General Hospital of PLA, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Chunli Zhang
- Orthopedic Institute, the First Affiliated Hospital of the General Hospital of PLA, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Beijing Hongtianji Neuroscience Academy, Beijing 100144, China
| | - Shuxun Hou
- Orthopedic Institute, the First Affiliated Hospital of the General Hospital of PLA, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Hongbin Zhong
- Orthopedic Institute, the First Affiliated Hospital of the General Hospital of PLA, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Hongyun Huang
- Beijing Hongtianji Neuroscience Academy, Beijing 100144, China
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Angiogenesis in multiple sclerosis and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2014; 2:84. [PMID: 25047180 PMCID: PMC4149233 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-014-0084-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2014] [Accepted: 07/09/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis, the formation of new vessels, is found in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) demyelinating lesions following Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) release and the production of several other angiogenic molecules. The increased energy demand of inflammatory cuffs and damaged neural cells explains the strong angiogenic response in plaques and surrounding white matter. An angiogenic response has also been documented in an experimental model of MS, experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE), where blood–brain barrier disruption and vascular remodelling appeared in a pre-symptomatic disease phase. In both MS and EAE, VEGF acts as a pro-inflammatory factor in the early phase but its reduced responsivity in the late phase can disrupt neuroregenerative attempts, since VEGF naturally enhances neuron resistance to injury and regulates neural progenitor proliferation, migration, differentiation and oligodendrocyte precursor cell (OPC) survival and migration to demyelinated lesions. Angiogenesis, neurogenesis and oligodendroglia maturation are closely intertwined in the neurovascular niches of the subventricular zone, one of the preferential locations of inflammatory lesions in MS, and in all the other temporary vascular niches where the mutual fostering of angiogenesis and OPC maturation occurs. Angiogenesis, induced either by CNS inflammation or by hypoxic stimuli related to neurovascular uncoupling, appears to be ineffective in chronic MS due to a counterbalancing effect of vasoconstrictive mechanisms determined by the reduced axonal activity, astrocyte dysfunction, microglia secretion of free radical species and mitochondrial abnormalities. Thus, angiogenesis, that supplies several trophic factors, should be promoted in therapeutic neuroregeneration efforts to combat the progressive, degenerative phase of MS.
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Kim SU, Lee HJ, Park IH, Chu K, Lee ST, Kim M, Roh JK, Kim SK, Wang KC. Human nerual stem cells for brain repair. Int J Stem Cells 2014; 1:27-35. [PMID: 24855505 DOI: 10.15283/ijsc.2008.1.1.27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/02/2008] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell replacement therapy and gene transfer to the diseased or injured brain have provided the basis for the development of potentially powerful new therapeutic strategies for a broad spectrum of human neurological diseases including Parkinson disease, Huntington disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Alzheimer disease, multiple sclerosis (MS), stroke, spinal cord injury and brain cancer. In recent years, neurons and glial cells have successfully been generated from neural stem cells, and extensive efforts by investigators to develop neural stem cell-based transplantation therapies have been carried out. We review here notable experimental and pre-clinical studies we have previously conducted involving human neural stem cell-based cell- and gene-therapies for Parkinson disease, Huntington disease, ALS, stroke and brain cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung U Kim
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Gachon Medical University Gil Hospital, Incheon, Korea ; Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, UBC Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Hong J Lee
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Gachon Medical University Gil Hospital, Incheon, Korea
| | - In H Park
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Gachon Medical University Gil Hospital, Incheon, Korea
| | - Kon Chu
- Department of Neurology Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Soon T Lee
- Department of Neurology Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Manho Kim
- Department of Neurology Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae K Roh
- Department of Neurology Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seung K Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyu C Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
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Lee HJ, Kim KS, Ahn J, Bae HM, Lim I, Kim SU. Human motor neurons generated from neural stem cells delay clinical onset and prolong life in ALS mouse model. PLoS One 2014; 9:e97518. [PMID: 24844281 PMCID: PMC4028267 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0097518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2014] [Accepted: 04/21/2014] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common adult onset motor neuron disease. The etiology and pathogenic mechanisms of the disease remain unknown, and there is no effective treatment. Here we show that intrathecal transplantation of human motor neurons derived from neural stem cells (NSCs) in spinal cord of the SOD1G93A mouse ALS model delayed disease onset and extended life span of the animals. When HB1.F3.Olig2 (F3.Olig2) cells, stable immortalized human NSCs encoding the human Olig2 gene, were treated with sonic hedgehog (Shh) protein for 5–7 days, the cells expressed motor neuron cell type-specific phenotypes Hb9, Isl-1 and choline acetyltransferase (ChAT). These F3.Olig2-Shh human motor neurons were transplanted intrathecally in L5–L6 spinal cord of SOD1G93A mice, and at 4 weeks post-transplantation, transplanted F3.Olig2-Shh motor neurons expressing the neuronal phenotype markers NF, MAP2, Hb9, and ChAT were found in the ventral horn of the spinal cord. Onset of clinical signs in ALS mice with F3.Olig2-Shh motor neuron implants was delayed for 7 days and life span of animals was significantly extended by 20 days. Our results indicate that this treatment modality of intrathecal transplantation of human motor neurons derived from NSCs might be of value in the treatment of ALS patients without significant adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong J Lee
- Medical Research Institute, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kwang S Kim
- Medical Research Institute, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea; Department of Physiology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Ahn
- Medical Research Institute, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hye M Bae
- Department of Physiology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Inja Lim
- Department of Physiology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seung U Kim
- Medical Research Institute, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea; Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, UBC Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Van Damme P, Robberecht W. Developments in treatments for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis via intracerebroventricular or intrathecal delivery. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2014; 23:955-63. [PMID: 24816247 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2014.912275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amyotrophic lateral scleroses (ALS) are neurodegenerative disorders primarily affecting the motor system. These incurable disorders are relentlessly progressive and typically limit survival to 2 - 5 years after disease onset. An improved knowledge about disease-causing genes, disease proteins and pathways has revealed considerable heterogeneity in ALS. Novel targeted therapies are being developed, but getting these beyond the BBB remains a challenge. AREAS COVERED The authors review the intracerebroventricular and intrathecal delivery of drugs for the treatment of ALS in preclinical and clinical studies. EXPERT OPINION Lack of BBB permeability should not hold back the development of promising treatments for ALS, as the available evidence suggest that direct intrathecal or intracerebroventricular administration of drug is a feasible delivery route in patients with ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Van Damme
- KU Leuven (University of Leuven), Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Research Institute for Neuroscience and Disease (LIND) , Leuven , Belgium
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Boido M, Piras A, Valsecchi V, Spigolon G, Mareschi K, Ferrero I, Vizzini A, Temi S, Mazzini L, Fagioli F, Vercelli A. Human mesenchymal stromal cell transplantation modulates neuroinflammatory milieu in a mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Cytotherapy 2014; 16:1059-72. [PMID: 24794182 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2014.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2013] [Revised: 02/03/2014] [Accepted: 02/09/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AIMS Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), after intraparenchymal, intrathecal and endovenous administration, have been previously tested for cell therapy in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in the SOD1 (superoxide dismutase 1) mouse. However, every administration route has specific pros and cons. METHODS We administrated human MSCs (hMSCs) in the cisterna lumbaris, which is easily accessible and could be used in outpatient surgery, in the SOD1 G93A mouse, at the earliest onset of symptoms. Control animals received saline injections. Motor behavior was checked starting from 2 months of age until the mice were killed. Animals were killed 2 weeks after transplantation; lumbar motoneurons were stereologically counted, astrocytes and microglia were analyzed and quantified after immunohistochemistry and cytokine expression was assayed by means of real-time polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS We provide evidence that this route of administration can exert strongly positive effects. Motoneuron death and motor decay were delayed, astrogliosis was reduced and microglial activation was modulated. In addition, hMSC transplantation prevented the downregulation of the anti-inflammatory interleukin-10, as well as that of vascular endothelial growth factor observed in saline-treated transgenic mice compared with wild type, and resulted in a dramatic increase in the expression of the anti-inflammatory interleukin-13. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that hMSCs, when intracisternally administered, can exert their paracrine potential, influencing the inflammatory response of the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Boido
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, Department of Neuroscience, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.
| | - Antonio Piras
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, Department of Neuroscience, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Valeria Valsecchi
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, Department of Neuroscience, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Giada Spigolon
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, Department of Neuroscience, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Katia Mareschi
- Paediatric Onco-Haematology, Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy Division, City of Science and Health of Turin, Regina Margherita Children's Hospital, Department of Public Health and Paediatrics, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Ivana Ferrero
- Paediatric Onco-Haematology, Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy Division, City of Science and Health of Turin, Regina Margherita Children's Hospital, Department of Public Health and Paediatrics, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Andrea Vizzini
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, Department of Neuroscience, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Santa Temi
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, Department of Neuroscience, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Letizia Mazzini
- ALS Centre Department of Neurology, University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara, Italy
| | - Franca Fagioli
- Paediatric Onco-Haematology, Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy Division, City of Science and Health of Turin, Regina Margherita Children's Hospital, Department of Public Health and Paediatrics, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Alessandro Vercelli
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, Department of Neuroscience, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
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