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Santana-Coelho D, Pranske ZJ, Nolan SO, Hodges SL, Binder MS, Womble PD, Narvaiz DA, Muhammad I, Lugo JN. Neonatal immune stimulation results in sex-specific changes in ultrasonic vocalizations but does not affect seizure susceptibility in neonatal mice. Int J Dev Neurosci 2024; 84:381-391. [PMID: 38712612 DOI: 10.1002/jdn.10333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation during the neonatal period has been linked to disorders such as autism and epilepsy. In this study, we investigated the early life behavioral consequences of a single injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) at postnatal day 10 (PD10) in mice. To assess deficits in communication, we performed the isolation-induced ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) test at PD12. To determine if early life immune stimulus could alter seizure susceptibility, latency to flurothyl-induced generalized seizures was measured at 4 hours (hrs), 2 days, or 5 days after LPS injections. LPS had a sex-dependent effect on USV number. LPS-treated male mice presented significantly fewer USVs than LPS-treated female mice. However, the number of calls did not significantly differ between control and LPS for either sex. In male mice, we found that downward, short, and composite calls were significantly more prevalent in the LPS treatment group, while upward, chevron, and complex calls were less prevalent than in controls (p < 0.05). Female mice that received LPS presented a significantly higher proportion of short, frequency steps, two-syllable, and composite calls in their repertoire when compared with female control mice (p < 0.05). Seizure latency was not altered by early-life inflammation at any of the time points measured. Our findings suggest that early-life immune stimulation at PD10 disrupts vocal development but does not alter the susceptibility to flurothyl-induced seizures during the neonatal period. Additionally, the effect of inflammation in the disruption of vocalization is sex-dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zachary J Pranske
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
| | - Suzanne O Nolan
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
| | | | - Matthew S Binder
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
| | - Paige D Womble
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
| | - David A Narvaiz
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
| | - Ilyasah Muhammad
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
| | - Joaquin N Lugo
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
- Institute of Biomedical Studets, Waco, Texas, USA
- Department of Biology, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, USA
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2
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Camacho-Morales A, Cárdenas-Tueme M. Prenatal Programming of Monocyte Chemotactic Protein-1 Signaling in Autism Susceptibility. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:6119-6134. [PMID: 38277116 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-03940-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that involves functional and structural defects in selective central nervous system (CNS) regions, harming the individual capability to process and respond to external stimuli, including impaired verbal and non-verbal communications. Etiological causes of ASD have not been fully clarified; however, prenatal activation of the innate immune system by external stimuli might infiltrate peripheral immune cells into the fetal CNS and activate cytokine secretion by microglia and astrocytes. For instance, genomic and postmortem histological analysis has identified proinflammatory gene signatures, microglia-related expressed genes, and neuroinflammatory markers in the brain during ASD diagnosis. Active neuroinflammation might also occur during the developmental stage, promoting the establishment of a defective brain connectome and increasing susceptibility to ASD after birth. While still under investigation, we tested the hypothesis whether the monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) signaling is prenatally programmed to favor peripheral immune cell infiltration and activate microglia into the fetal CNS, setting susceptibility to autism-like behavior. In this review, we will comprehensively provide the current understanding of the prenatal activation of MCP-1 signaling by external stimuli during the developmental stage as a new selective node to promote neuroinflammation, brain structural alterations, and behavioral defects associated to ASD diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Camacho-Morales
- College of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, NL, Mexico.
- Center for Research and Development in Health Sciences, Neurometabolism Unit, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo Leon, San Nicolás de los Garza, Monterrey, NL, Mexico.
| | - Marcela Cárdenas-Tueme
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de La Salud and The Institute for Obesity Research, 64710, Monterrey, Mexico
- Nutrition Unit, Center for Research and Development in Health Sciences, Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, 64460, Monterrey, Mexico
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3
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Shen Q, Dong S, Shah NK, Liang Y, Wang J, Shan YH, He J. Peripartum outcomes and immune responses after SARS-CoV-2 infection in the third trimester of pregnancy. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2024; 24:498. [PMID: 39048938 PMCID: PMC11267945 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-024-06707-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnant women during the third trimester resulted in overall adverse pregnancy outcomes compared to non-infected controls and a unique humoral and cellular response at delivery. In this study we aimed to assess the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on maternal/neonatal peripartum outcomes andimmunological profiles. METHOD In this study, we recruited 304 SARS-CoV-2 infected pregnant women and 910 SARS-CoV-2 non-infected pregnant women who were admitted for delivery. Peripartum and neonates' outcomes response to SARS-CoV-2 infection were analyzed. Furthermore, we characterized the antibody and cytokines profile in SARS-CoV-2 infected maternal blood (MB) and cord blood (CB). We also assessed routine laboratory tests and liver function tests in MB before labor. Unpaired T test, Mann-Whitney test and Spearman test were used to analyze the data. RESULTS SARS-CoV-2 infected pregnant women were significantly associated with increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm labor (13.8% vs. 9.5%, p = 0.033) and meconium-stained amniotic fluid (8.9% vs. 5.5%, p = 0.039). The risk of low birth weight (< 2500 g) (10.5% vs. 6.5%, p = 0.021) and Apgar score < 8 at 1-minute (9.2% vs. 5.8%, p = 0.049) significantly increased in newborns from COVID-19 positive mothers than their counterparts. Our results showed that antibodies were increased in adverse-outcome SARS-CoV-2 infected mothers and their neonates, and abnormal proportion of immune cells were detected in SARS-CoV-2 infected mothers. While the immune response showed no difference between adverse-outcome infected pregnant women and normal-outcome infected pregnant women. Thus, SARS-CoV-2 infection during the third trimester of pregnancy induced a unique humoral and cellular response at delivery. CONCLUSION SARS-CoV-2 infection closer to delivery could incline to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Therefore, the utmost care is required for SARS-CoV-2 infected pregnant women and their newborns. TRIAL REGISTRATION The study protocol was approved by the Institutional Review Board of the First Hospital of Jilin University with the approval code number 23K170-001, and informed consent was obtained from all enrolled patients prior to sample collection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Shen
- Department of obstetrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130061, China
| | - Shuai Dong
- Department of obstetrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130061, China
| | - Neelam Kumari Shah
- Department of obstetrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130061, China
| | - Yuan Liang
- Department of obstetrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130061, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of obstetrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130061, China
| | - Yan-Hong Shan
- Department of obstetrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130061, China.
| | - Jin He
- Department of obstetrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130061, China.
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Yates EF, Mulkey SB. Viral infections in pregnancy and impact on offspring neurodevelopment: mechanisms and lessons learned. Pediatr Res 2024; 96:64-72. [PMID: 38509227 PMCID: PMC11257821 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-024-03145-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Pregnant individuals with viral illness may experience significant morbidity and have higher rates of pregnancy and neonatal complications. With the growing number of viral infections and new viral pandemics, it is important to examine the effects of infection during pregnancy on both the gestational parent and the offspring. Febrile illness and inflammation during pregnancy are correlated with risk for autism, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and developmental delay in the offspring in human and animal models. Historical viral epidemics had limited follow-up of the offspring of affected pregnancies. Infants exposed to seasonal influenza and the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus experienced increased risks of congenital malformations and neuropsychiatric conditions. Zika virus exposure in utero can lead to a spectrum of abnormalities, ranging from severe microcephaly to neurodevelopmental delays which may appear later in childhood and in the absence of Zika-related birth defects. Vertical infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 has occurred rarely, but there appears to be a risk for developmental delays in the infants with antenatal exposure. Determining how illness from infection during pregnancy and specific viral pathogens can affect pregnancy and neurodevelopmental outcomes of offspring can better prepare the community to care for these children as they grow. IMPACT: Viral infections have impacted pregnant people and their offspring throughout history. Antenatal exposure to maternal fever and inflammation may increase risk of developmental and neurobehavioral disorders in infants and children. The recent SARS-CoV-2 pandemic stresses the importance of longitudinal studies to follow pregnancies and offspring neurodevelopment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma F Yates
- Frank H. Netter School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University, North Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sarah B Mulkey
- Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA.
- Department of Neurology, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA.
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Almanaa TN, Alwetaid MY, Bakheet SA, Attia SM, Ansari MA, Nadeem A, Ahmad SF. Aflatoxin B 1 exposure deteriorates immune abnormalities in a BTBR T + Itpr3 tf/J mouse model of autism by increasing inflammatory mediators' production in CD19-expressing cells. J Neuroimmunol 2024; 391:578365. [PMID: 38723577 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2024.578365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficiencies in communication, repetitive and stereotyped behavioral patterns, and difficulties in reciprocal social engagement. The presence of immunological dysfunction in ASD has been well established. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a prevalent mycotoxin found in food and feed, causing immune toxicity and hepatotoxicity. AFB1 is significantly elevated in several regions around the globe. Existing research indicates that prolonged exposure to AFB1 results in neurological problems. The BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) mice, which were used as an autism model, exhibit the primary behavioral traits that define ASD, such as repeated, stereotyped behaviors and impaired social interactions. The main objective of this work was to assess the toxic impact of AFB1 in BTBR mice. This work aimed to examine the effects of AFB1 on the expression of Notch-1, IL-6, MCP-1, iNOS, GM-CSF, and NF-κB p65 by CD19+ B cells in the spleen of the BTBR using flow cytometry. We also verified the impact of AFB1 exposure on the mRNA expression levels of Notch-1, IL-6, MCP-1, iNOS, GM-CSF, and NF-κB p65 in the brain of BTBR mice using real-time PCR. The findings of our study showed that the mice treated with AFB1 in the BTBR group exhibited a substantial increase in the presence of CD19+Notch-1+, CD19+IL-6+, CD19+MCP-1+, CD19+iNOS+, CD19+GM-CSF+, and CD19+NF-κB p65+ compared to the mice in the BTBR group that were treated with saline. Our findings also confirmed that administering AFB1 to BTBR mice leads to elevated mRNA expression levels of Notch-1, IL-6, MCP-1, iNOS, GM-CSF, and NF-κB p65 in the brain, in comparison to BTBR mice treated with saline. The data highlight that exposure to AFB1 worsens immunological abnormalities by increasing the expression of inflammatory mediators in BTBR mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taghreed N Almanaa
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Y Alwetaid
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh A Bakheet
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sabry M Attia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mushtaq A Ansari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Nadeem
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sheikh F Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia.
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6
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Hope H, Pierce M, Gabr H, Radojčić MR, Swift E, Taxiarchi VP, Abel KM. The causal association between maternal depression, anxiety, and infection in pregnancy and neurodevelopmental disorders among 410 461 children: a population study using quasi-negative control cohorts and sibling analysis. Psychol Med 2024; 54:1693-1701. [PMID: 38205522 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291723003604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To address if the long-standing association between maternal infection, depression/anxiety in pregnancy, and offspring neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) is causal, we conducted two negative-control studies. METHODS Four primary care cohorts of UK children (pregnancy, 1 and 2 years prior to pregnancy, and siblings) born between 1 January 1990 and 31 December 2017 were constructed. NDD included autism/autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, and epilepsy. Maternal exposures included depression/anxiety and/or infection. Maternal (age, smoking status, comorbidities, body mass index, NDD); child (gender, ethnicity, birth year); and area-level (region and level of deprivation) confounders were captured. The NDD incidence rate among (1) children exposed during or outside of pregnancy and (2) siblings discordant for exposure in pregnancy was compared using Cox-regression models, unadjusted and adjusted for confounders. RESULTS The analysis included 410 461 children of 297 426 mothers and 2 793 018 person-years of follow-up with 8900 NDD cases (incidence rate = 3.2/1000 person years). After adjustments, depression and anxiety consistently associated with NDD (pregnancy-adjusted HR = 1.58, 95% CI 1.46-1.72; 1-year adj. HR = 1.49, 95% CI 1.39-1.60; 2-year adj. HR = 1.62, 95% CI 1.50-1.74); and to a lesser extent, of infection (pregnancy adj. HR = 1.16, 95% CI 1.10-1.22; 1-year adj. HR = 1.20, 95% CI 1.14-1.27; 2-year adj. HR = 1.19, 95% CI 1.12-1.25). NDD risk did not differ among siblings discordant for pregnancy exposure to mental illness HR = 0.97, 95% CI 0.77-1.21 or infection HR = 0.99, 95% CI 0.90-1.08. CONCLUSIONS Maternal risk appears to be unspecific to pregnancy: our study provided no evidence of a specific, and therefore causal, link between in-utero exposure to infection, common mental illness, and later development of NDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly Hope
- Centre for Women's Mental Health, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Matthias Pierce
- Centre for Women's Mental Health, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Hend Gabr
- Centre for Women's Mental Health, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Department of Mathematics, Insurance, and Statistics, Faculty of Commerce, Menoufia University, Shebeen El-Kom, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Maja R Radojčić
- Centre for Women's Mental Health, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Eleanor Swift
- Centre for Women's Mental Health, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Vicky P Taxiarchi
- Centre for Women's Mental Health, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Kathryn M Abel
- Centre for Women's Mental Health, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
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7
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Buonfiglioli A, Kübler R, Missall R, De Jong R, Chan S, Haage V, Wendt S, Lin AJ, Mattei D, Graziani M, Latour B, Gigase F, Nygaard HB, De Jager PL, De Witte LD. A microglia-containing cerebral organoid model to study early life immune challenges. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.24.595814. [PMID: 38826204 PMCID: PMC11142229 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.24.595814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Prenatal infections and activation of the maternal immune system have been proposed to contribute to causing neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), chronic conditions often linked to brain abnormalities. Microglia are the resident immune cells of the brain and play a key role in neurodevelopment. Disruption of microglial functions can lead to brain abnormalities and increase the risk of developing NDDs. How the maternal as well as the fetal immune system affect human neurodevelopment and contribute to NDDs remains unclear. An important reason for this knowledge gap is the fact that the impact of exposure to prenatal risk factors has been challenging to study in the human context. Here, we characterized a model of cerebral organoids (CO) with integrated microglia (COiMg). These organoids express typical microglial markers and respond to inflammatory stimuli. The presence of microglia influences cerebral organoid development, including cell density and neural differentiation, and regulates the expression of several ciliated mesenchymal cell markers. Moreover, COiMg and organoids without microglia show similar but also distinct responses to inflammatory stimuli. Additionally, IFN-γ induced significant transcriptional and structural changes in the cerebral organoids, that appear to be regulated by the presence of microglia. Specifically, interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) was found to alter the expression of genes linked to autism. This model provides a valuable tool to study how inflammatory perturbations and microglial presence affect neurodevelopmental processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Buonfiglioli
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Raphael Kübler
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience & Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud UMC, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Roy Missall
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Renske De Jong
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Stephanie Chan
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Verena Haage
- Center for Translational & Computational Neuroimmunology, Department of Neurology and the Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Stefan Wendt
- Department of Psychiatry, Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Ada J. Lin
- Division of Neurology, Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Daniele Mattei
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience & Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mara Graziani
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud UMC, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Brooke Latour
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud UMC, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Frederieke Gigase
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Haakon B. Nygaard
- Division of Neurology, Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Philip L. De Jager
- Center for Translational & Computational Neuroimmunology, Department of Neurology and the Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lot D. De Witte
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud UMC, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboud UMC, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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8
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McLellan J, Croen L, Iosif AM, Yoshida C, Ashwood P, Yolken RH, Van de Water J. Altered cytokine and chemokine profile linked to autoantibody and pathogen reactivity in mothers of autistic children. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1348092. [PMID: 38840945 PMCID: PMC11150845 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1348092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Maternal autoimmunity, and more specifically, the production of specific maternal autoantibodies, has been associated with altered offspring neurodevelopment. Maternal autoantibody-related (MAR) autism is a subtype of autism that is linked to gestational exposure to certain combinations of autoantibodies to proteins known to be important for fetal neurodevelopment. We wanted to address whether mothers with autism-specific patterns of autoantibodies have a skewed cytokine and chemokine profile during an immune response to infection. To do so, we examined a subset of mothers from the Early Markers for Autism (EMA) study who either produced known patterns of MAR autoantibodies (MAR+) or did not (MAR-). We compared the cytokine/chemokine profiles of MAR+ and MAR- mothers in the context of positive immunoglobulin G (IgG) reactivity to several viral and parasitic agents. We observed that MAR+ mothers have a higher level of proinflammatory cytokine interferon-gamma regardless of IgG status. Additionally, when comparing MAR+ and MAR- mothers in the context of the different pathogens, MAR+ mothers consistently had increases in multiple proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janna McLellan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Lisa Croen
- Kaiser Permanente Research Division, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Ana-Maria Iosif
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, United States
| | | | - Paul Ashwood
- MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, CA, United States
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Robert H. Yolken
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MS, United States
| | - Judy Van de Water
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA, United States
- MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, CA, United States
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9
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Lingampelly SS, Naviaux JC, Heuer LS, Monk JM, Li K, Wang L, Haapanen L, Kelland CA, Van de Water J, Naviaux RK. Metabolic network analysis of pre-ASD newborns and 5-year-old children with autism spectrum disorder. Commun Biol 2024; 7:536. [PMID: 38729981 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06102-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Classical metabolomic and new metabolic network methods were used to study the developmental features of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in newborns (n = 205) and 5-year-old children (n = 53). Eighty percent of the metabolic impact in ASD was caused by 14 shared biochemical pathways that led to decreased anti-inflammatory and antioxidant defenses, and to increased physiologic stress molecules like lactate, glycerol, cholesterol, and ceramides. CIRCOS plots and a new metabolic network parameter,V ° net, revealed differences in both the kind and degree of network connectivity. Of 50 biochemical pathways and 450 polar and lipid metabolites examined, the developmental regulation of the purine network was most changed. Purine network hub analysis revealed a 17-fold reversal in typically developing children. This purine network reversal did not occur in ASD. These results revealed previously unknown metabolic phenotypes, identified new developmental states of the metabolic correlation network, and underscored the role of mitochondrial functional changes, purine metabolism, and purinergic signaling in autism spectrum disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai Sachin Lingampelly
- The Mitochondrial and Metabolic Disease Center, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, 92103-8467, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, 92103-8467, USA
| | - Jane C Naviaux
- The Mitochondrial and Metabolic Disease Center, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, 92103-8467, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, 92103-8467, USA
| | - Luke S Heuer
- The UC Davis MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Jonathan M Monk
- The Mitochondrial and Metabolic Disease Center, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, 92103-8467, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, 92103-8467, USA
| | - Kefeng Li
- The Mitochondrial and Metabolic Disease Center, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, 92103-8467, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, 92103-8467, USA
- Macao Polytechnic University, Macau, China
| | - Lin Wang
- The Mitochondrial and Metabolic Disease Center, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, 92103-8467, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, 92103-8467, USA
| | - Lori Haapanen
- The UC Davis MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Chelsea A Kelland
- The UC Davis MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Judy Van de Water
- The UC Davis MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
- Department of Rheumatology and Allergy, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Robert K Naviaux
- The Mitochondrial and Metabolic Disease Center, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, 92103-8467, USA.
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, 92103-8467, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, 92103-8467, USA.
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, 92103-8467, USA.
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10
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Osman HC, Moreno R, Rose D, Rowland ME, Ciernia AV, Ashwood P. Impact of maternal immune activation and sex on placental and fetal brain cytokine and gene expression profiles in a preclinical model of neurodevelopmental disorders. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:118. [PMID: 38715090 PMCID: PMC11077729 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-024-03106-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Maternal inflammation during gestation is associated with a later diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, the specific impact of maternal immune activation (MIA) on placental and fetal brain development remains insufficiently understood. This study aimed to investigate the effects of MIA by analyzing placental and brain tissues obtained from the offspring of pregnant C57BL/6 dams exposed to polyinosinic: polycytidylic acid (poly I: C) on embryonic day 12.5. Cytokine and mRNA content in the placenta and brain tissues were assessed using multiplex cytokine assays and bulk-RNA sequencing on embryonic day 17.5. In the placenta, male MIA offspring exhibited higher levels of GM-CSF, IL-6, TNFα, and LT-α, but there were no differences in female MIA offspring. Furthermore, differentially expressed genes (DEG) in the placental tissues of MIA offspring were found to be enriched in processes related to synaptic vesicles and neuronal development. Placental mRNA from male and female MIA offspring were both enriched in synaptic and neuronal development terms, whereas females were also enriched for terms related to excitatory and inhibitory signaling. In the fetal brain of MIA offspring, increased levels of IL-28B and IL-25 were observed with male MIA offspring and increased levels of LT-α were observed in the female offspring. Notably, we identified few stable MIA fetal brain DEG, with no male specific difference whereas females had DEG related to immune cytokine signaling. Overall, these findings support the hypothesis that MIA contributes to the sex- specific abnormalities observed in ASD, possibly through altered neuron developed from exposure to inflammatory cytokines. Future research should aim to investigate how interactions between the placenta and fetal brain contribute to altered neuronal development in the context of MIA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadley C Osman
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
- The M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California at Sacramento, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Rachel Moreno
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
- The M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California at Sacramento, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Destanie Rose
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
- The M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California at Sacramento, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Megan E Rowland
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Annie Vogel Ciernia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Paul Ashwood
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA.
- The M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California at Sacramento, Sacramento, CA, USA.
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11
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Shkundin A, Halaris A. IL-8 (CXCL8) Correlations with Psychoneuroimmunological Processes and Neuropsychiatric Conditions. J Pers Med 2024; 14:488. [PMID: 38793070 PMCID: PMC11122344 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14050488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-8 (IL-8/CXCL8), an essential CXC chemokine, significantly influences psychoneuroimmunological processes and affects neurological and psychiatric health. It exerts a profound effect on immune cell activation and brain function, suggesting potential roles in both neuroprotection and neuroinflammation. IL-8 production is stimulated by several factors, including reactive oxygen species (ROS) known to promote inflammation and disease progression. Additionally, CXCL8 gene polymorphisms can alter IL-8 production, leading to potential differences in disease susceptibility, progression, and severity across populations. IL-8 levels vary among neuropsychiatric conditions, demonstrating sensitivity to psychosocial stressors and disease severity. IL-8 can be detected in blood circulation, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and urine, making it a promising candidate for a broad-spectrum biomarker. This review highlights the need for further research on the diverse effects of IL-8 and the associated implications for personalized medicine. A thorough understanding of its complex role could lead to the development of more effective and personalized treatment strategies for neuropsychiatric conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angelos Halaris
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL 60153, USA;
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12
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McLellan J, Croen LA, Iosif AM, Ashwood P, Yoshida C, Berger K, Van de Water J. Differences in mid-gestational and early postnatal neonatal cytokines and chemokines are associated with patterns of maternal autoantibodies in the context of autism. Cereb Cortex 2024; 34:50-62. [PMID: 38696596 PMCID: PMC11065110 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhae082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Associations between maternal immune dysregulation (including autoimmunity and skewed cytokine/chemokine profiles) and offspring neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism have been reported. In maternal autoantibody-related autism, specific maternally derived autoantibodies can access the fetal compartment to target eight proteins critical for neurodevelopment. We examined the relationship between maternal autoantibodies to the eight maternal autoantibody-related autism proteins and cytokine/chemokine profiles in the second trimester of pregnancy in mothers of children later diagnosed with autism and their neonates' cytokine/chemokine profiles. Using banked maternal serum samples from 15 to 19 weeks of gestation from the Early Markers for Autism Study and corresponding banked newborn bloodspots, we identified three maternal/offspring groups based on maternal autoantibody status: (1) mothers with autoantibodies to one or more of the eight maternal autoantibody-related autismassociated proteins but not a maternal autoantibody-related autism-specific pattern, (2) mothers with a known maternal autoantibody-related autism pattern, and (3) mothers without autoantibodies to any of the eight maternal autoantibody-related autism proteins. Using a multiplex platform, we measured maternal second trimester and neonatal cytokine/chemokine levels. This combined analysis aimed to determine potential associations between maternal autoantibodies and the maternal and neonatal cytokine/chemokine profiles, each of which has been shown to have implications on offspring neurodevelopment independently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janna McLellan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California Davis, 451 Health Sciences Drive, Suite 6505C, Davis, CA 95616, United States
| | - Lisa A Croen
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, 2000 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94612, United States
| | - Ana-Maria Iosif
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Division of Biostatistics, University of California Davis, Medical Sciences 1C, Davis, CA, 95616, United States
| | - Paul Ashwood
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis, 2805 Wet Lab Building, Sacramento, CA 95817, United States
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California Davis, 3146 One Shields Avenue, Tupper Hall, Davis, CA 95616, United States
| | - Cathleen Yoshida
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, 2000 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94612, United States
| | - Kimberly Berger
- Sequoia Foundation, 741 Addison Suite B, Berkeley, CA 94710, United States
| | - Judy Van de Water
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California Davis, 451 Health Sciences Drive, Suite 6505C, Davis, CA 95616, United States
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis, 2805 Wet Lab Building, Sacramento, CA 95817, United States
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13
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Li H, Wang X, Hu C, Cui J, Li H, Luo X, Hao Y. IL-6 Enhances the Activation of PI3K-AKT/mTOR-GSK-3β by Upregulating GRPR in Hippocampal Neurons of Autistic Mice. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2024; 19:12. [PMID: 38536552 PMCID: PMC10972920 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-024-10111-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological disorder associated with brain inflammation. The underlying mechanisms could be attributed to the activation of PI3K signaling in the inflamed brain of ASD. Multiple studies highlight the role of GRPR in regulating ASD like abnormal behavior and enhancing the PI3K signaling. However, the molecular mechanism by which GRPR regulates PI3K signaling in neurons of individuals with ASD is still unclear. In this study, we utilized a maternal immune activation model to investigate the effects of GRPR on PI3K signaling in the inflamed brain of ASD mice. We used HT22 cells with and without GRPR to examine the impact of GRP-GRPR on the PI3K-AKT pathway with IL-6 treatment. We analyzed a dataset of hippocampus samples from ASD mice to identify hub genes. Our results demonstrated increased expression of IL-6, GRPR, and PI3K-AKT signaling in the hippocampus of ASD mice. Additionally, we observed increased GRPR expression and PI3K-AKT/mTOR activation in HT22 cells after IL-6 treatment, but decreased expression in HT22 cells with GRPR knockdown. NetworkAnalyst identified GSK-3β as the most crucial gene in the PI3K-AKT/mTOR pathway in the hippocampus of ASD. Furthermore, we found that IL-6 upregulated the expression of GSK-3β in HT22 cells by upregulating GRP-GRPR. Our findings suggest that IL-6 can enhance the activation of PI3K-AKT/mTOR-GSK-3β in hippocampal neurons of ASD mice by upregulating GRPR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heli Li
- Division of Child Healthcare, Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Xinyuan Wang
- Division of Child Healthcare, Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Cong Hu
- Division of Child Healthcare, Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jinru Cui
- Division of Child Healthcare, Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Hao Li
- Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Xiaoping Luo
- Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yan Hao
- Division of Child Healthcare, Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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14
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Nielsen TC, Nassar N, Shand AW, Jones HF, Han VX, Patel S, Guastella AJ, Dale RC, Lain SJ. Association between cumulative maternal exposures related to inflammation and child attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: A cohort study. Paediatr Perinat Epidemiol 2024; 38:241-250. [PMID: 38009577 DOI: 10.1111/ppe.13022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preclinical studies suggest synergistic effects of maternal inflammatory exposures on offspring neurodevelopment, but human studies have been limited. OBJECTIVES To examine the cumulative association and potential interactions between seven maternal exposures related to inflammation and child attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). METHODS We conducted a population-based cohort study of children born from July 2001 to December 2011 in New South Wales, Australia, and followed up until December 2014. Seven maternal exposures were identified from birth data and hospital admissions during pregnancy: autoimmune disease, asthma, hospitalization for infection, mood or anxiety disorder, smoking, hypertension, and diabetes. Child ADHD was identified from stimulant prescription records. Multivariable Cox regression assessed the association between individual and cumulative exposures and ADHD and potential interaction between exposures, controlling for potential confounders. RESULTS The cohort included 908,770 children, one-third (281,724) with one or more maternal exposures. ADHD was identified in 16,297 children (incidence 3.5 per 1000 person-years) with median age of 7 (interquartile range 2) years at first treatment. Each exposure was independently associated with ADHD, and risk increased with additional exposures: one exposure (hazard ratio (HR) 1.59, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.54, 1.65), two exposures (HR 2.25, 95% CI 2.13, 2.37), and three or more exposures (HR 3.28, 95% CI 2.95, 3.64). Positive interaction was found between smoking and infection. The largest effect size was found for cumulative exposure of asthma, infection, mood or anxiety disorder, and smoking (HR 6.12, 95% CI 3.47, 10.70). CONCLUSIONS This study identifies cumulative effects of multiple maternal exposures related to inflammation on ADHD, most potentially preventable or modifiable. Future studies should incorporate biomarkers of maternal inflammation and consider gene-environment interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy C Nielsen
- Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Natasha Nassar
- Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Antonia W Shand
- Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Royal Hospital for Women, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hannah F Jones
- Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Starship Children's Hospital, Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Velda X Han
- Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Khoo Teck Puat-National University Children's Medical Institute, National University Health System, Singapore City, Singapore
| | - Shrujna Patel
- Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Adam J Guastella
- Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Brain and Mind Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Russell C Dale
- Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Samantha J Lain
- Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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15
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Campbell N, Deer E, Solise D, Cornelius DC, Turner T, Amaral LM, Herrock O, Jordan A, Shukla S, Ibrahim T, LaMarca B. AT1-AA Is Produced in Offspring in Response to Placental Ischemia and Is Lowered by B-Cell Depletion Without Compromising Overall Offspring Health. J Am Heart Assoc 2024; 13:e031417. [PMID: 38353227 PMCID: PMC11010106 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.123.031417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preeclampsia, new-onset hypertension during pregnancy alongside other organ dysfunction, is the leading cause of mortality for the mother and low birth weight for the baby. Low birth weight contributes to high risk of cardiovascular disorders later in life. Women with preeclampsia have activated B cells producing agonistic autoantibodies to AT1-AA (angiotensin II type I receptor). We hypothesize that rituximab, a B cell-depleting chemotherapeutic, will deplete maternal B cells in reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP) rats without worsening the effect of placental ischemia on pup growth and survival. METHODS AND RESULTS To test this hypothesis, the RUPP procedure was performed, and rituximab was continuously infused via miniosmotic pump. Maternal blood and tissues were collected. A separate group of dams were allowed to deliver, pup weights were recorded, and at 4 months of age, tissues were collected from offspring. Immune cells were measured via flow cytometry, and AT1-AA was quantified using a contraction bioassay. Blood pressure increased in RUPP rats and was normalized with rituximab treatment. RUPP offspring also had increased circulating B cells, cytolytic natural killer cells, and increased circulating AT1-AA, which were normalized with maternal rituximab treatment. This is the first study to analyze the AT1-AA in RUPP offspring, which was normalized with rituximab. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that perinatal rituximab lowers maternal mean arterial pressure in RUPP rats and improves birth weight, circulating AT1-AA, and circulating natural killer cells, indicating that rituximab improves adverse fetal outcomes in response to placental ischemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Campbell
- Department of Pharmacology & ToxicologyUniversity of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMS
| | - Evangeline Deer
- Department of Pharmacology & ToxicologyUniversity of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMS
| | - Dylan Solise
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMS
| | - Denise C. Cornelius
- Department of Pharmacology & ToxicologyUniversity of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMS
- Department of Emergency MedicineUniversity of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMS
| | - Ty Turner
- Department of Pharmacology & ToxicologyUniversity of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMS
| | - Lorena M. Amaral
- Department of Pharmacology & ToxicologyUniversity of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMS
| | - Owen Herrock
- Department of Pharmacology & ToxicologyUniversity of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMS
| | - Ariel Jordan
- Department of Pharmacology & ToxicologyUniversity of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMS
| | - Shivani Shukla
- Department of Pharmacology & ToxicologyUniversity of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMS
| | - Tarek Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmacology & ToxicologyUniversity of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMS
| | - Babbette LaMarca
- Department of Pharmacology & ToxicologyUniversity of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMS
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMS
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16
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Tamayo JM, Osman HC, Schwartzer JJ, Ashwood P. The influence of asthma on neuroinflammation and neurodevelopment: From epidemiology to basic models. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 116:218-228. [PMID: 38070621 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2023.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Asthma is a highly heterogeneous inflammatory disease that can have a significant effect on both the respiratory system and central nervous system. Population based studies and animal models have found asthma to be comorbid with a number of neurological conditions, including depression, anxiety, and neurodevelopmental disorders. In addition, maternal asthma during pregnancy has been associated with neurodevelopmental disorders in the offspring, such as autism spectrum disorders and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. In this article, we review the most current epidemiological studies of asthma that identify links to neurological conditions, both as it relates to individuals that suffer from asthma and the impacts asthma during pregnancy may have on offspring neurodevelopment. We also discuss the relevant animal models investigating these links, address the gaps in knowledge, and explore the potential future directions in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan M Tamayo
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, and the M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California at Davis, CA 95817, USA
| | - Hadley C Osman
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, and the M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California at Davis, CA 95817, USA
| | - Jared J Schwartzer
- Program in Neuroscience and Behavior, Department of Psychology and Education, Mount Holyoke College, 50 College Street, South Hadley, MA 01075, USA
| | - Paul Ashwood
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, and the M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California at Davis, CA 95817, USA.
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17
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Albekairi TH, Alanazi MM, Ansari MA, Nadeem A, Attia SM, Bakheet SA, Al-Mazroua HA, Aldossari AA, Almanaa TN, Alwetaid MY, Alqinyah M, Alnefaie HO, Ahmad SF. Cadmium exposure exacerbates immunological abnormalities in a BTBR T + Itpr3 tf/J autistic mouse model by upregulating inflammatory mediators in CD45R-expressing cells. J Neuroimmunol 2024; 386:578253. [PMID: 38064869 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2023.578253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental illness characterized by behavior, learning, communication, and social interaction abnormalities in various situations. Individuals with impairments usually exhibit restricted and repetitive actions. The actual cause of ASD is yet unknown. It is believed, however, that a mix of genetic and environmental factors may play a role in its development. Certain metals have been linked to the development of neurological diseases, and the prevalence of ASD has shown a positive association with industrialization. Cadmium chloride (Cd) is a neurotoxic chemical linked to cognitive impairment, tremors, and neurodegenerative diseases. The BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) inbred mice are generally used as a model for ASD and display a range of autistic phenotypes. We looked at how Cd exposure affected the signaling of inflammatory mediators in CD45R-expressing cells in the BTBR mouse model of ASD. In this study, we looked at how Cd affected the expression of numerous markers in the spleen, including IFN-γ, IL-6, NF-κB p65, GM-CSF, iNOS, MCP-1, and Notch1. Furthermore, we investigated the effect of Cd exposure on the expression levels of numerous mRNA molecules in brain tissue, including IFN-γ, IL-6, NF-κB p65, GM-CSF, iNOS, MCP-1, and Notch1. The RT-PCR technique was used for this analysis. Cd exposure increased the number of CD45R+IFN-γ+, CD45R+IL-6+, CD45R+NF-κB p65+, CD45R+GM-CSF+, CD45R+GM-CSF+, CD45R+iNOS+, and CD45R+Notch1+ cells in the spleen of BTBR mice. Cd treatment also enhanced mRNA expression in brain tissue for IFN-γ, IL-6, NF-κB, GM-CSF, iNOS, MCP-1, and Notch1. In general, Cd increases the signaling of inflammatory mediators in BTBR mice. This study is the first to show that Cd exposure causes immune function dysregulation in the BTBR ASD mouse model. As a result, our study supports the role of Cd exposure in the development of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thamer H Albekairi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed M Alanazi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mushtaq A Ansari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Nadeem
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sabry M Attia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh A Bakheet
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Haneen A Al-Mazroua
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah A Aldossari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Taghreed N Almanaa
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Y Alwetaid
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Alqinyah
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hajar O Alnefaie
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sheikh F Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia.
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18
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Croen LA, Ames JL, Qian Y, Alexeeff S, Ashwood P, Gunderson EP, Wu YW, Boghossian AS, Yolken R, Van de Water J, Weiss LA. Inflammatory Conditions During Pregnancy and Risk of Autism and Other Neurodevelopmental Disorders. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY GLOBAL OPEN SCIENCE 2024; 4:39-50. [PMID: 38045769 PMCID: PMC10689278 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsgos.2023.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Maternal inflammation can result from immune dysregulation and metabolic perturbations during pregnancy. Whether conditions associated with inflammation during pregnancy increase the likelihood of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or other neurodevelopmental disorders (DDs) is not well understood. Methods We conducted a case-control study among children born in California from 2011 to 2016 to investigate maternal immune-mediated and cardiometabolic conditions during pregnancy and risk of ASD (n = 311) and DDs (n = 1291) compared with children from the general population (n = 967). Data on maternal conditions and covariates were retrieved from electronic health records. Maternal genetic data were used to assess a causal relationship. Results Using multivariable logistic regression, we found that mothers with asthma were more likely to deliver infants later diagnosed with ASD (odds ratio [OR] = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.15-2.29) or DDs (OR = 1.30, 95% CI: 1.02-1.64). Maternal obesity was also associated with child ASD (OR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.07-2.13). Mothers with both asthma and extreme obesity had the greatest odds of delivering an infant later diagnosed with ASD (OR = 16.9, 95% CI: 5.13-55.71). These increased ASD odds were observed among female children only. Polygenic risk scores for obesity, asthma, and their combination showed no association with ASD risk. Mendelian randomization did not support a causal relationship between maternal conditions and ASD. Conclusions Inflammatory conditions during pregnancy are associated with risk for neurodevelopmental disorders in children. These risks do not seem to be due to shared genetic risk; rather, inflammatory conditions may share nongenetic risk factors with neurodevelopmental disorders. Children whose mothers have both asthma and obesity during pregnancy may benefit from earlier screening and intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa A. Croen
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California
- Department of Health Systems Science, Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine, Pasadena, California
| | - Jennifer L. Ames
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California
| | - Yinge Qian
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California
| | - Stacey Alexeeff
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California
| | - Paul Ashwood
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology and the MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
| | - Erica P. Gunderson
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California
- Department of Health Systems Science, Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine, Pasadena, California
| | - Yvonne W. Wu
- Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Andrew S. Boghossian
- Institute for Human Genetics, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Robert Yolken
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Judy Van de Water
- Division of Rheumatology/Allergy/Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California at Davis, Davis, California
| | - Lauren A. Weiss
- Institute for Human Genetics, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
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Di Gesù CM, Buffington SA. The early life exposome and autism risk: a role for the maternal microbiome? Gut Microbes 2024; 16:2385117. [PMID: 39120056 PMCID: PMC11318715 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2024.2385117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are highly heritable, heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by clinical presentation of atypical social, communicative, and repetitive behaviors. Over the past 25 years, hundreds of ASD risk genes have been identified. Many converge on key molecular pathways, from translational control to those regulating synaptic structure and function. Despite these advances, therapeutic approaches remain elusive. Emerging data unearthing the relationship between genetics, microbes, and immunity in ASD suggest an integrative physiology approach could be paramount to delivering therapeutic breakthroughs. Indeed, the advent of large-scale multi-OMIC data acquisition, analysis, and interpretation is yielding an increasingly mechanistic understanding of ASD and underlying risk factors, revealing how genetic susceptibility interacts with microbial genetics, metabolism, epigenetic (re)programming, and immunity to influence neurodevelopment and behavioral outcomes. It is now possible to foresee exciting advancements in the treatment of some forms of ASD that could markedly improve quality of life and productivity for autistic individuals. Here, we highlight recent work revealing how gene X maternal exposome interactions influence risk for ASD, with emphasis on the intrauterine environment and fetal neurodevelopment, host-microbe interactions, and the evolving therapeutic landscape for ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia M. Di Gesù
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Shelly A. Buffington
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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20
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Sreenivas N, Maes M, Padmanabha H, Dharmendra A, Chakkera P, Paul Choudhury S, Abdul F, Mullapudi T, Gowda VK, Berk M, Vijay Sagar Kommu J, Debnath M. Comprehensive immunoprofiling of neurodevelopmental disorders suggests three distinct classes based on increased neurogenesis, Th-1 polarization or IL-1 signaling. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 115:505-516. [PMID: 37972879 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2023.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are a spectrum of conditions with commonalities as well as differences in terms of phenome, symptomatome, neuropathology, risk factors and underlying mechanisms. Immune dysregulation has surfaced as a major pathway in NDDs. However, it is not known if neurodevelopmental disorders share a common immunopathogenetic mechanism. In this study, we explored the possibility of a shared immune etiology in three early-onset NDDs, namely Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Intellectual Disability Disorder (IDD). A panel of 48 immune pathway-related markers was assayed in 135 children with NDDs, represented by 45 children with ASD, ADHD and IDD in each group, along with 35 typically developing children. The plasma levels of 48 immune markers were analyzed on the Multiplex Suspension Assay platform using Pro Human cytokine 48-plex kits. Based on the cytokine/chemokine/growth factor levels, different immune profiles were computed. The primary characteristics of NDDs are depletion of the compensatory immune-regulatory system (CIRS) (z composite of IL-4, IL-10, sIL-1RA, and sIL-2R), increased interleukin (IL)-1 signaling associated with elevated IL-1α and decreased IL-1-receptor antagonist levels, increased neurogenesis, M1/M2 macrophage polarization and increased IL-4 as well as C-C Motif Chemokine Ligand 2 (CCL2) levels. With a cross-validated sensitivity of 81.8% and specificity of 94.4%, these aberrations seem specific for NDDs. Many immunological abnormalities are shared by ASD, ADHD and IDD, which are distinguished by minor differences in IL-9, IL-17 and CCL12. In contrast, machine learning reveals that NDD group consists of three immunologically distinct clusters, with enhanced neurogenesis, Th-1 polarization, or IL-1 signaling as the defining features. NDD is characterized by immune abnormalities that have functional implications for neurogenesis, neurotoxicity, and neurodevelopment. Using machine learning, NDD patients could be classified into subgroups with qualitatively distinct immune disorders that may serve as novel drug targets for the treatment of NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikhitha Sreenivas
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Michael Maes
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Plovdiv, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; Research Center, Medical University of Plovdiv, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Korea; Sichuan Provincial Center for Mental Health, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China; Key Laboratory of Psychosomatic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, 610072, China
| | - Hansashree Padmanabha
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Apoorva Dharmendra
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Priyanka Chakkera
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Saptamita Paul Choudhury
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Fazal Abdul
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Thrinath Mullapudi
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Vykuntaraju K Gowda
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health, Bangalore, India
| | - Michael Berk
- Deakin University, IMPACT Institute for Innovation in Physical and Mental Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Geelong, Australia; Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, The Department of Psychiatry, and the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - John Vijay Sagar Kommu
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Monojit Debnath
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India.
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21
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Jain S, Oltman S, Rogers E, Ryckman K, Petersen M, Baer RJ, Rand L, Piao X, Jelliffe-Pawlowski L. Assessing for prenatal risk factors associated with infant neurologic morbidity using a multivariate analysis. J Perinatol 2023; 43:1486-1493. [PMID: 37950045 PMCID: PMC10716040 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-023-01820-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize the biochemical and demographic profiles of pregnant people with maternal immune activation (MIA) and identify the prenatal characteristics associated with neurologic morbidity in offspring. STUDY DESIGN This was a retrospective cohort study of 602 mother-infant dyads with births between 2009 and 2010 in California. Multivariable logistic regression was used to build a MIA vulnerability profile including mid-pregnancy biochemical markers and maternal demographic characteristics, and its relationship with infant neurologic morbidity was examined. RESULTS Of the 602 mother-infant dyads, 80 mothers and 61 infants had diagnoses suggestive of MIA and neurologic morbidity, respectively. Our model, including two demographic and seven biochemical characteristics, identified mothers with MIA with good performance (AUC:0.814; 95% CI:0.7-0.8). Three demographic and five inflammatory markers together identified 80% of infants with neurological morbidity (AUC:0.802, 95% CI:0.7-0.8). CONCLUSION Inflammatory environment in mothers with pre-existing risk factors like obesity, poverty, and prematurity renders offspring more susceptible to neurologic morbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samhita Jain
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Scott Oltman
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Rogers
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kelli Ryckman
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Mark Petersen
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Rebecca J Baer
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Larry Rand
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Xianhua Piao
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Newborn Brain Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Weill Institute for Neuroscience, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Laura Jelliffe-Pawlowski
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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22
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Sahu A, Pajai S. The Impact of Obesity on Reproductive Health and Pregnancy Outcomes. Cureus 2023; 15:e48882. [PMID: 38111393 PMCID: PMC10726091 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.48882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Women carry the majority of the burden of our obesogenic surroundings, with a larger prevalence of obesity than males, a greater impact on fertility and treatment success, and increased maternal and perinatal morbidity and death. Obesity and its associated morbidity are now among our most pressing global health concerns. Women are more susceptible to gaining weight, which has reproductive, coronary, and emotional consequences. The current data on the negative consequences of obesity before conception (fertility issues, assisted reproductive treatment, polycystic ovary disease, overweight and obesity preventative measures, and emotional well-being), pregnancy (preventing excess gestational body weight, gestational diabetes, and preeclampsia, as well as labor and newborn health), and following delivery (the lactation process and breastfeeding, postnatal weight retention, and depressive symptoms) health is summarized. in this review. Along with this, underlying factors, consequences, and solutions to the obesity pandemic are investigated, as well as the mechanisms of obesity's effect on women and men, the epigenetic consequences of masculine obesity, its significant effects on reproductive results, and the implications of the loss of weight preceding to pregnancy as well as during pregnancy. This review suggests study methodologies that might assist in guiding attempts to enhance reproductive health and neonatal health in obese or overweight women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshat Sahu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research (Deemed to Be University), Wardha, IND
| | - Sandhya Pajai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research (Deemed to Be University), Wardha, IND
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23
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Matrone C, Ferretti G. Semaphorin 3A influences neuronal processes that are altered in patients with autism spectrum disorder: Potential diagnostic and therapeutic implications. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 153:105338. [PMID: 37524141 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105338] [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: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a pervasive disorder that most frequently manifests in early childhood and lasts for their entire lifespan. Several behavioural traits characterise the phenotype of patients with ASD, including difficulties in reciprocal social communication as well as compulsive/repetitive stereotyped verbal and non-verbal behaviours. Although multiple hypotheses have been proposed to explain the aetiology of ASD and many resources have been used to improve our understanding of ASD, several aspects remain largely unexplored. Class 3 semaphorins (SEMA3) are secreted proteins involved in the organisation of structural and functional connectivity in the brain that regulate synaptic and dendritic development. Alterations in brain connectivity and aberrant neuronal development have been described in some patients with ASD. Mutations and polymorphisms in SEMA3A and alterations in its receptors and signalling have been associated with some neurological disorders such as schizophrenia and epilepsy, which are comorbidities in ASD, but also with ASD itself. In addition, SEMA3A is a key regulator of the immune response and neuroinflammatory processes, which have been found to be dysregulated in mothers of children who develop ASD and in affected patients. In this review, we highlight neurodevelopmental-related processes in which SEMA3A is involved, which are altered in ASD, and provide a viewpoint emphasising the development of strategies targeting changes in the SEMA3A signal to identify patterns of anomalies distinctive of ASD or to predict the prognosis of affected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmela Matrone
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy.
| | - Gabriella Ferretti
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
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24
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Chen R, Routh BN, Gaudet AD, Fonken LK. Circadian Regulation of the Neuroimmune Environment Across the Lifespan: From Brain Development to Aging. J Biol Rhythms 2023; 38:419-446. [PMID: 37357738 PMCID: PMC10475217 DOI: 10.1177/07487304231178950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Circadian clocks confer 24-h periodicity to biological systems, to ultimately maximize energy efficiency and promote survival in a world with regular environmental light cycles. In mammals, circadian rhythms regulate myriad physiological functions, including the immune, endocrine, and central nervous systems. Within the central nervous system, specialized glial cells such as astrocytes and microglia survey and maintain the neuroimmune environment. The contributions of these neuroimmune cells to both homeostatic and pathogenic demands vary greatly across the day. Moreover, the function of these cells changes across the lifespan. In this review, we discuss circadian regulation of the neuroimmune environment across the lifespan, with a focus on microglia and astrocytes. Circadian rhythms emerge in early life concurrent with neuroimmune sculpting of brain circuits and wane late in life alongside increasing immunosenescence and neurodegeneration. Importantly, circadian dysregulation can alter immune function, which may contribute to susceptibility to neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we highlight circadian neuroimmune interactions across the lifespan and share evidence that circadian dysregulation within the neuroimmune system may be a critical component in human neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruizhuo Chen
- Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
| | - Brandy N. Routh
- Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
- Institute for Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
| | - Andrew D. Gaudet
- Institute for Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
- Department of Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
- Department of Neurology, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
| | - Laura K. Fonken
- Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
- Institute for Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
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25
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Carpita B, Massoni L, Battaglini S, Palego L, Cremone IM, Massimetti G, Betti L, Giannaccini G, Dell'Osso L. IL-6, homocysteine, and autism spectrum phenotypes: an investigation among adults with autism spectrum disorder and their first-degree relatives. CNS Spectr 2023; 28:620-628. [PMID: 36690583 DOI: 10.1017/s1092852923000019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The importance of recognizing different kinds of autism spectrum presentations among adults, including subthreshold forms and the broad autism phenotype (BAP), has been increasingly highlighted in recent studies. Meanwhile, the possible involvement of immune system deregulation and altered methylation/trans-sulfuration processes in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is gaining growing attention, but studies in this field are mainly focused on children. In this framework, the aim of this study was to compare plasmatic concentrations of IL-6 and homocysteine (HCY) among adults with ASD, their first-degree relatives, and healthy controls (CTLs), investigating also possible correlations with specific autism symptoms. METHODS Plasma concentrations of IL-6 and HCY were measured in a group of adult subjects with ASD, their first-degree relatives (BAP group), and healthy controls (CTL). All participants were also evaluated with psychometric instruments. RESULTS IL-6 and HCY concentrations were significantly higher in the ASD group than in CTLs, while BAP subjects reported intermediate results. Significant correlations were reported between biochemical parameters and psychometric scales, particularly for the dimension of ruminative thinking. CONCLUSIONS These findings support the hypothesis of a key involvement of HCY-related metabolism and immune system alteration in autism spectrum pathophysiology. HCY and IL-6 seem to show different associations with specific autism dimensions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Carpita
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Leonardo Massoni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Simone Battaglini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Ivan M Cremone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Gabriele Massimetti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Laura Betti
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Liliana Dell'Osso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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26
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Clark DN, O'Neil SM, Xu L, Steppe JT, Savage JT, Raghunathan K, Filiano AJ. Prolonged STAT1 activation in neurons drives a pathological transcriptional response. J Neuroimmunol 2023; 382:578168. [PMID: 37556887 PMCID: PMC10527980 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2023.578168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Neurons require physiological IFN-γ signaling to maintain central nervous system (CNS) homeostasis, however, pathological IFN-γ signaling can cause CNS pathologies. The downstream signaling mechanisms that cause these drastically different outcomes in neurons has not been well studied. We hypothesized that different levels of IFN-γ signaling in neurons results in differential activation of its downstream transcription factor, signal transducer and activator of transduction 1 (STAT1), causing varying outcomes. Using primary cortical neurons, we showed that physiological IFN-γ elicited brief and transient STAT1 activation, whereas pathological IFN-γ induced prolonged STAT1 activation, which primed the pathway to be more responsive to a subsequent IFN-γ challenge. This is an IFN-γ specific response, as other IFNs and cytokines did not elicit such STAT1 activation nor priming in neurons. Additionally, we did not see the same effect in microglia or astrocytes, suggesting this non-canonical IFN-γ/STAT1 signaling is unique to neurons. Prolonged STAT1 activation was facilitated by continuous janus kinase (JAK) activity, even in the absence of IFN-γ. Finally, although IFN-γ initially induced a canonical IFN-γ transcriptional response in neurons, pathological levels of IFN-γ caused long-term changes in synaptic pathway transcripts. Overall, these findings suggest that IFN-γ signaling occurs via non-canonical mechanisms in neurons, and differential STAT1 activation may explain how neurons have both homeostatic and pathological responses to IFN-γ signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle N Clark
- Department of Integrative Immunobiology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Marcus Center for Cellular Cures, Duke University, Durham, NC 27705, USA
| | - Shane M O'Neil
- Marcus Center for Cellular Cures, Duke University, Durham, NC 27705, USA
| | - Li Xu
- Marcus Center for Cellular Cures, Duke University, Durham, NC 27705, USA
| | - Justin T Steppe
- Department of Pathology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27705, USA
| | - Justin T Savage
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27705, USA
| | | | - Anthony J Filiano
- Department of Integrative Immunobiology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Department of Pathology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University, Durham, NC 27705, USA; Marcus Center for Cellular Cures, Duke University, Durham, NC 27705, USA.
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27
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Bilder DA, Worsham W, Sullivan S, Esplin MS, Burghardt P, Fraser A, Bakian AV. Sex-specific and sex-independent steroid-related biomarkers in early second trimester maternal serum associated with autism. Mol Autism 2023; 14:30. [PMID: 37573326 PMCID: PMC10422808 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-023-00562-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal exposure to maternal metabolic conditions associated with inflammation and steroid dysregulation has previously been linked to increased autism risk. Steroid-related maternal serum biomarkers have also provided insight into the in utero steroid environment for offspring who develop autism. OBJECTIVE This study examines the link between autism among offspring and early second trimester maternal steroid-related serum biomarkers from pregnancies enriched for prenatal metabolic syndrome (PNMS) exposure. STUDY DESIGN Early second trimester maternal steroid-related serum biomarkers (i.e., estradiol, free testosterone, total testosterone, and sex hormone binding globulin) were compared between pregnancies corresponding to offspring with (N = 68) and without (N = 68) autism. Multiple logistic regression analyses were stratified by sex and gestational duration. One-way ANCOVA with post hoc tests was performed for groups defined by autism status and PNMS exposure. RESULTS Increased estradiol was significantly associated with autism only in males (AOR = 1.13 per 100 pg/ml, 95% CI 1.01-1.27, p = 0.036) and only term pregnancies (AOR = 1.17 per 100 pg/ml, 95% CI 1.04-1.32, p = 0.010). Autism status was significantly associated with decreased sex hormone binding globulin (AOR = 0.65 per 50 nmol/L, 95% CI 0.55-0.78, p < 0.001) overall and when stratified by sex and term pregnancy status. The inverse association between sex hormone binding globulin and autism was independent of PNMS exposure. LIMITATIONS The relative racial and ethnic homogeneity of Utah's population limits the generalizability of study results. Although significant differences by autism status were identified in concentrations of sex hormone binding globulin overall and of estradiol in participant subgroups, differences by PNMS exposure failed to reach statistical significance, which may reflect insufficient statistical power. CONCLUSION Both elevated maternal serum estradiol in males only and low maternal serum sex hormone binding globulin in both sexes are associated with increased autism risk. Further investigation is merited to identify how steroid, metabolic, and inflammatory processes can interact to influence neurodevelopment in early second trimester.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah A Bilder
- University of Utah Huntsman Mental Health Institute, 383 Colorow Drive, Room 360, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA.
| | - Whitney Worsham
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - M Sean Esplin
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Alison Fraser
- University of Utah Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Amanda V Bakian
- University of Utah Huntsman Mental Health Institute, 383 Colorow Drive, Room 360, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
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28
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Liu X, Liu H, Gu N, Pei J, Lin X, Zhao W. Preeclampsia promotes autism in offspring via maternal inflammation and fetal NFκB signaling. Life Sci Alliance 2023; 6:e202301957. [PMID: 37290815 PMCID: PMC10250690 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202301957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a risk factor for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in offspring. However, the exact mechanisms underlying the impact of PE on progeny ASD are not fully understood, which hinders the development of effective therapeutic approaches. This study shows the offspring born to a PE mouse model treated by Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) exhibit ASD-like phenotypes, including neurodevelopment deficiency and behavioral abnormalities. Transcriptomic analysis of the embryonic cortex and adult offspring hippocampus suggested the expression of ASD-related genes was dramatically changed. Furthermore, the level of inflammatory cytokines TNFα in maternal serum and nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) signaling in the fetal cortex were elevated. Importantly, TNFα neutralization during pregnancy enabled to ameliorate ASD-like phenotypes and restore the NFκB activation level in the offspring exposed to PE. Furthermore, TNFα/NFκB signaling axis, but not L-NAME, caused deficits in neuroprogenitor cell proliferation and synaptic development. These experiments demonstrate that offspring exposed to PE phenocopies ASD signatures reported in humans and indicate therapeutic targeting of TNFα decreases the likelihood of bearing children with ASD phenotypes from PE mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueyuan Liu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Haiyan Liu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Nihao Gu
- International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine and Shanghai Key Laboratory for Embryo-Feta Original Adult Disease, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiangnan Pei
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianhua Lin
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenlong Zhao
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine and Shanghai Key Laboratory for Embryo-Feta Original Adult Disease, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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29
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Ferencova N, Visnovcova Z, Ondrejka I, Hrtanek I, Bujnakova I, Kovacova V, Macejova A, Tonhajzerova I. Peripheral Inflammatory Markers in Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder at Adolescent Age. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11710. [PMID: 37511467 PMCID: PMC10380731 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are associated with immune dysregulation. We aimed to estimate the pro- and anti-inflammatory activity/balance in ASD and ADHD patients at a little-studied adolescent age with respect to sex. We evaluated 20 ASD patients (5 girls, average age: 12.4 ± 1.9 y), 20 ADHD patients (5 girls, average age: 13.4 ± 1.8 y), and 20 age- and gender-matched controls (average age: 13.2 ± 1.9 y). The evaluated parameters included (1) white blood cells (WBCs), neutrophils, monocytes, lymphocytes, platelets, platelet distribution width (PDW), mean platelet volume, and derived ratios, as well as (2) cytokines-interferon-gamma, interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and derived profiles and ratios. ASD adolescents showed higher levels of WBC, monocytes, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10, macrophages (M)1 profile, and anti-inflammatory profile than the controls, with ASD males showing higher monocytes, IL-6 and IL-10, anti-inflammatory profile, and a lower T-helper (Th)1/Th2+T-regulatory cell ratio than control males. The ADHD adolescents showed higher levels of PDW, IL-1β and IL-6, TNF-α, M1 profile, proinflammatory profile, and pro-/anti-inflammatory ratio than the controls, with ADHD females showing a higher TNF-α and pro-/anti-inflammatory ratio than the control females and ADHD males showing higher levels of IL-1β and IL-6, TNF-α, and M1 profile than the control males. Immune dysregulation appeared to be different for both neurodevelopmental disorders in adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikola Ferencova
- Biomedical Centre Martin, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Zuzana Visnovcova
- Biomedical Centre Martin, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Igor Ondrejka
- Psychiatric Clinic, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, University Hospital Martin, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Igor Hrtanek
- Psychiatric Clinic, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, University Hospital Martin, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Iveta Bujnakova
- Society to Help People with Autism (SPOSA-Turiec), 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Veronika Kovacova
- Psychiatric Clinic, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, University Hospital Martin, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Andrea Macejova
- Psychiatric Clinic, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, University Hospital Martin, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Ingrid Tonhajzerova
- Department of Physiology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia
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Al-Beltagi M, Saeed NK, Elbeltagi R, Bediwy AS, Aftab SAS, Alhawamdeh R. Viruses and autism: A Bi-mutual cause and effect. World J Virol 2023; 12:172-192. [PMID: 37396705 PMCID: PMC10311578 DOI: 10.5501/wjv.v12.i3.172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of heterogeneous, multi-factorial, neurodevelopmental disorders resulting from genetic and environmental factors interplay. Infection is a significant trigger of autism, especially during the critical developmental period. There is a strong interplay between the viral infection as a trigger and a result of ASD. We aim to highlight the mutual relationship between autism and viruses. We performed a thorough literature review and included 158 research in this review. Most of the literature agreed on the possible effects of the viral infection during the critical period of development on the risk of developing autism, especially for specific viral infections such as Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, Herpes Simplex virus, Varicella Zoster Virus, Influenza virus, Zika virus, and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. Viral infection directly infects the brain, triggers immune activation, induces epigenetic changes, and raises the risks of having a child with autism. At the same time, there is some evidence of increased risk of infection, including viral infections in children with autism, due to lots of factors. There is an increased risk of developing autism with a specific viral infection during the early developmental period and an increased risk of viral infections in children with autism. In addition, children with autism are at increased risk of infection, including viruses. Every effort should be made to prevent maternal and early-life infections and reduce the risk of autism. Immune modulation of children with autism should be considered to reduce the risk of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Al-Beltagi
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta 31511, Alghrabia, Egypt
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center, King Abdulla Medical City, Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group, Manama 26671, Bahrain
| | - Nermin Kamal Saeed
- Medical Microbiology Section, Pathology Department, Salmaniya Medical Complex, Ministry of Health, Kingdom of Bahrain, Manama 12, Bahrain
- Microbiology Section, Pathology Department, Irish Royal College of Surgeon, Busaiteen 15503, Muharraq, Bahrain
| | - Reem Elbeltagi
- Department of Medicine, The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland - Bahrain, Busiateen 15503, Muharraq, Bahrain
| | - Adel Salah Bediwy
- Department of Pulmonolgy, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Alghrabia, Egypt
- Department of Chest Disease, University Medical Center, King Abdulla Medical City, Arabian Gulf University, Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group, Manama 26671, Bahrain
| | - Syed A Saboor Aftab
- Endocrinology and DM, William Harvey Hospital (Paula Carr Centre), Ashford TN24 0LZ, Kent, United Kingdom
| | - Rawan Alhawamdeh
- Pediatrics Research and Development, Genomics Creativity and Play Center, Manama 0000, Bahrain
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Song JS, Woo SJ, Park KH, Kim H, Lee KN, Kim YM. Association of inflammatory and angiogenic biomarkers in maternal plasma with retinopathy of prematurity in preterm infants. Eye (Lond) 2023; 37:1802-1809. [PMID: 36109603 PMCID: PMC10275990 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-022-02234-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether various novel inflammatory and angiogenic biomarkers in maternal plasma, alone or in combination with baseline antenatal factors, could predict retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in preterm infants. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 140 premature singleton neonates born to women with preterm birth (≤32 weeks) and screened for ROP. Maternal blood obtained at the time of admission was assayed for CRP, endoglin, endostatin, IGFBP-2, IGFBP-3, IL-6, LBP, MMP-8, PlGF, S100A8/A9, TGFBI, and VEGFR-1. The primary outcome measures included severe ROP (stage 3 or higher) and type 1 ROP requiring treatment. RESULTS ROP was present in 25.7% (36/140) of the study population, including 20 (14.3%) cases of severe ROP and 14 (10%) with type 1 ROP. Multiple logistic regression analyses revealed significant associations between high concentrations of maternal plasma LBP and severe ROP, and between elevated plasma IL-6 and LBP levels and type 1 ROP (all P < 0.05), while adjusting for confounders (i.e., gestational age [GA] at sampling). Prenatal prediction models for severe ROP and type 1 ROP were developed by combining plasma IL-6 or LBP levels with GA at sampling, which showed good discriminatory power (area under the curve = 0.747 and 0.854, respectively). CONCLUSIONS IL-6 and LBP in maternal plasma were found to be independently associated with severe ROP and type 1 ROP. Prediction models based on these biomarkers along with GA at sampling may serve as good prenatal indicators for the neonatal risk of ROP progression in women at risk of preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Shin Song
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Se Joon Woo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Kyo Hoon Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea.
| | - Hunmin Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Kyong-No Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Yu Mi Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
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Costa AN, Ferguson BJ, Hawkins E, Coman A, Schauer J, Ramirez-Celis A, Hecht PM, Bruce D, Tilley M, Talebizadeh Z, Van de Water J, Beversdorf DQ. The Relationship between Maternal Antibodies to Fetal Brain and Prenatal Stress Exposure in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Metabolites 2023; 13:663. [PMID: 37233704 PMCID: PMC10224143 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13050663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Environmental and genetic factors contribute to the etiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but their interaction is less well understood. Mothers that are genetically more stress-susceptible have been found to be at increased risk of having a child with ASD after exposure to stress during pregnancy. Additionally, the presence of maternal antibodies for the fetal brain is associated with a diagnosis of ASD in children. However, the relationship between prenatal stress exposure and maternal antibodies in the mothers of children diagnosed with ASD has not yet been addressed. This exploratory study examined the association of maternal antibody response with prenatal stress and a diagnosis of ASD in children. Blood samples from 53 mothers with at least one child diagnosed with ASD were examined by ELISA. Maternal antibody presence, perceived stress levels during pregnancy (high or low), and maternal 5-HTTLPR polymorphisms were examined for their interrelationship in ASD. While high incidences of prenatal stress and maternal antibodies were found in the sample, they were not associated with each other (p = 0.709, Cramér's V = 0.051). Furthermore, the results revealed no significant association between maternal antibody presence and the interaction between 5-HTTLPR genotype and stress (p = 0.729, Cramér's V = 0.157). Prenatal stress was not found to be associated with the presence of maternal antibodies in the context of ASD, at least in this initial exploratory sample. Despite the known relationship between stress and changes in immune function, these results suggest that prenatal stress and immune dysregulation are independently associated with a diagnosis of ASD in this study population, rather than acting through a convergent mechanism. However, this would need to be confirmed in a larger sample.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy N Costa
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Bradley J Ferguson
- Department of Health Psychology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Interdiscipinary Neuroscience Program, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Emily Hawkins
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Adriana Coman
- Department of Biochemistry, Grinnell College, Grinnell, IA 50112, USA
| | - Joseph Schauer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA 95161, USA
| | - Alex Ramirez-Celis
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA 95161, USA
| | - Patrick M Hecht
- Interdiscipinary Neuroscience Program, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Danielle Bruce
- Department of Biology, Central Methodist University, Fayette, MO 65248, USA
| | - Michael Tilley
- Department of Biology, Central Methodist University, Fayette, MO 65248, USA
| | - Zohreh Talebizadeh
- The American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Judy Van de Water
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA 95161, USA
| | - David Q Beversdorf
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Interdiscipinary Neuroscience Program, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Departments of Radiology and Neurology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
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Gong T, Lundholm C, Lundström S, Kuja-Halkola R, Taylor MJ, Almqvist C. Understanding the relationship between asthma and autism spectrum disorder: a population-based family and twin study. Psychol Med 2023; 53:3096-3104. [PMID: 35388771 PMCID: PMC10235668 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291721005158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is some evidence that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) frequently co-occurs with immune-mediated conditions including asthma. We aimed to explore the familial co-aggregation of ASD and asthma using different genetically informed designs. METHODS We first examined familial co-aggregation of asthma and ASD in individuals born in Sweden from 1992 to 2007 (n = 1 569 944), including their full- and half-siblings (n = 1 704 388 and 356 544 pairs) and full cousins (n = 3 921 890 pairs), identified using Swedish register data. We then applied quantitative genetic modeling to siblings (n = 620 994 pairs) and twins who participated in the Child and Adolescent Twin Study in Sweden (n = 15 963 pairs) to estimate the contribution of genetic and environmental factors to the co-aggregation. Finally, we estimated genetic correlations between traits using linkage disequilibrium score regression (LDSC). RESULTS We observed a within-individual association [adjusted odds ratio (OR) 1.33, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.28-1.37] and familial co-aggregation between asthma and ASD, and the magnitude of the associations decreased as the degree of relatedness decreased (full-siblings: OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.38-1.50, maternal half-siblings: OR 1.28, 95% CI 1.18-1.39, paternal half-siblings: OR 1.05, 95% CI 0.96-1.15, full cousins: OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.03-1.09), suggesting shared familial liability. Quantitative genetic models estimated statistically significant genetic correlations between ASD traits and asthma. Using the LDSC approach, we did not find statistically significant genetic correlations between asthma and ASD (coefficients between -0.09 and 0.12). CONCLUSIONS Using different genetically informed designs, we found some evidence of familial co-aggregation between asthma and ASD, suggesting the weak association between these disorders was influenced by shared genetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Gong
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Lundholm
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sebastian Lundström
- Centre for Ethics, Lawand Mental Health (CELAM), University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Gillberg Neuropsychiatry Centre, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ralf Kuja-Halkola
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mark J. Taylor
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Catarina Almqvist
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit at Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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Bruce MR, Couch ACM, Grant S, McLellan J, Ku K, Chang C, Bachman A, Matson M, Berman RF, Maddock RJ, Rowland D, Kim E, Ponzini MD, Harvey D, Taylor SL, Vernon AC, Bauman MD, Van de Water J. Altered behavior, brain structure, and neurometabolites in a rat model of autism-specific maternal autoantibody exposure. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:2136-2147. [PMID: 36973347 PMCID: PMC10575787 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02020-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Maternal immune dysregulation is a prenatal risk factor for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Importantly, a clinically relevant connection exists between inflammation and metabolic stress that can result in aberrant cytokine signaling and autoimmunity. In this study we examined the potential for maternal autoantibodies (aAbs) to disrupt metabolic signaling and induce neuroanatomical changes in the brains of exposed offspring. To accomplish this, we developed a model of maternal aAb exposure in rats based on the clinical phenomenon of maternal autoantibody-related ASD (MAR-ASD). Following confirmation of aAb production in rat dams and antigen-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) transfer to offspring, we assessed offspring behavior and brain structure longitudinally. MAR-ASD rat offspring displayed a reduction in pup ultrasonic vocalizations and a pronounced deficit in social play behavior when allowed to freely interact with a novel partner. Additionally, longitudinal in vivo structural magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI) at postnatal day 30 (PND30) and PND70, conducted in a separate cohort of animals, revealed sex-specific differences in total and regional brain volume. Treatment-specific effects by region appeared to converge on midbrain and cerebellar structures in MAR-ASD offspring. Simultaneously, in vivo 1H magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) data were collected to examine brain metabolite levels in the medial prefrontal cortex. Results showed that MAR-ASD offspring displayed decreased levels of choline-containing compounds and glutathione, accompanied by increased taurine compared to control animals. Overall, we found that rats exposed to MAR-ASD aAbs present with alterations in behavior, brain structure, and neurometabolites; reminiscent of findings observed in clinical ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew R Bruce
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Amalie C M Couch
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Simone Grant
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Janna McLellan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Katherine Ku
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Christina Chang
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Angelica Bachman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Matthew Matson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Robert F Berman
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
- MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Richard J Maddock
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Douglas Rowland
- Center for Molecular and Genomic Imaging, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Eugene Kim
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Matthew D Ponzini
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Danielle Harvey
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Sandra L Taylor
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Anthony C Vernon
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Melissa D Bauman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
- MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Judy Van de Water
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA.
- MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, CA, USA.
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Kaminski VDL, Michita RT, Ellwanger JH, Veit TD, Schuch JB, Riesgo RDS, Roman T, Chies JAB. Exploring potential impacts of pregnancy-related maternal immune activation and extracellular vesicles on immune alterations observed in autism spectrum disorder. Heliyon 2023; 9:e15593. [PMID: 37305482 PMCID: PMC10256833 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e15593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a set of neurodevelopmental disorders usually observed in early life, with impacts on behavioral and social skills. Incidence of ASD has been dramatically increasing worldwide, possibly due to increase in awareness/diagnosis as well as to genetic and environmental triggers. Currently, it is estimated that ∼1% of the world population presents ASD symptoms. In addition to its genetic background, environmental and immune-related factors also influence the ASD etiology. In this context, maternal immune activation (MIA) has recently been suggested as a component potentially involved in ASD development. In addition, extracellular vesicles (EVs) are abundant at the maternal-fetal interface and are actively involved in the immunoregulation required for a healthy pregnancy. Considering that alterations in concentration and content of EVs have also been associated with ASD, this article raises a debate about the potential roles of EVs in the processes surrounding MIA. This represents the major differential of the present review compared to other ASD studies. To support the suggested correlations and hypotheses, findings regarding the roles of EVs during pregnancy and potential influences on ASD are discussed, along with a review and update concerning the participation of infections, cytokine unbalances, overweight and obesity, maternal anti-fetal brain antibodies, maternal fever, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, labor type and microbiota unbalances in MIA and ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valéria de Lima Kaminski
- Laboratório de Imunobiologia e Imunogenética, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Genética e Biologia Molecular, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Laboratório de Imunologia Aplicada, Instituto de Ciência e Tecnologia - ICT, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP, São José dos Campos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rafael Tomoya Michita
- Laboratório de Genética Molecular Humana, Universidade Luterana do Brasil - ULBRA, Canoas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Joel Henrique Ellwanger
- Laboratório de Imunobiologia e Imunogenética, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Genética e Biologia Molecular, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Tiago Degani Veit
- Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Departmento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul - UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Jaqueline Bohrer Schuch
- Centro de Pesquisa em Álcool e Drogas, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul - UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Psiquiatria e Ciências do Comportamento, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Rudimar dos Santos Riesgo
- Child Neurology Unit, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul - UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Tatiana Roman
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Genética e Biologia Molecular, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - José Artur Bogo Chies
- Laboratório de Imunobiologia e Imunogenética, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Genética e Biologia Molecular, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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Gervasi MT, Romero R, Cainelli E, Veronese P, Tran MR, Jung E, Suksai M, Bosco M, Gotsch F. Intra-amniotic inflammation in the mid-trimester of pregnancy is a risk factor for neuropsychological disorders in childhood. J Perinat Med 2023; 51:363-378. [PMID: 36173676 PMCID: PMC10010737 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2022-0255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Intra-amniotic inflammation is a subclinical condition frequently caused by either microbial invasion of the amniotic cavity or sterile inflammatory stimuli, e.g., alarmins. An accumulating body of evidence supports a role for maternal immune activation in the genesis of fetal neuroinflammation and the occurrence of neurodevelopmental disorders such as cerebral palsy, schizophrenia, and autism. The objective of this study was to determine whether fetal exposure to mid-trimester intra-amniotic inflammation is associated with neurodevelopmental disorders in children eight to 12 years of age. METHODS This is a retrospective case-control study comprising 20 children with evidence of prenatal exposure to intra-amniotic inflammation in the mid-trimester and 20 controls matched for gestational age at amniocentesis and at delivery. Amniotic fluid samples were tested for concentrations of interleukin-6 and C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 10, for bacteria by culture and molecular microbiologic methods as well as by polymerase chain reaction for eight viruses. Neuropsychological testing of children, performed by two experienced psychologists, assessed cognitive and behavioral domains. Neuropsychological dysfunction was defined as the presence of an abnormal score (<2 standard deviations) on at least two cognitive tasks. RESULTS Neuropsychological dysfunction was present in 45% (9/20) of children exposed to intra-amniotic inflammation but in only 10% (2/20) of those in the control group (p=0.03). The relative risk (RR) of neuropsychological dysfunction conferred by amniotic fluid inflammation remained significant after adjusting for gestational age at delivery [aRR=4.5 (1.07-16.7)]. Of the 11 children diagnosed with neuropsychological dysfunction, nine were delivered at term and eight of them had mothers with intra-amniotic inflammation. Children exposed to intra-amniotic inflammation were found to have abnormalities in neuropsychological tasks evaluating complex skills, e.g., auditory attention, executive functions, and social skills, whereas the domains of reasoning, language, and memory were not affected in the cases and controls. CONCLUSIONS Asymptomatic sterile intra-amniotic inflammation in the mid-trimester of pregnancy, followed by a term birth, can still confer to the offspring a substantial risk for neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood. Early recognition and treatment of maternal immune activation in pregnancy may be a strategy for the prevention of subsequent neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Gervasi
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, USA, and Detroit, MI, USA
- Gynaecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, USA, and Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Elisa Cainelli
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Paola Veronese
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, AOPD, Padua, Italy
| | - Maria Rosa Tran
- Gynaecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Eunjung Jung
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, USA, and Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Manaphat Suksai
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, USA, and Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Mariachiara Bosco
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, USA, and Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Francesca Gotsch
- Perinatology Research Branch, Division of Obstetrics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, USA, and Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
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Hanson KL, Weir RK, Iosif AM, Van de Water J, Carter CS, McAllister AK, Bauman MD, Schumann CM. Altered dendritic morphology in dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of nonhuman primates prenatally exposed to maternal immune activation. Brain Behav Immun 2023; 109:92-101. [PMID: 36610487 PMCID: PMC10023379 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2023.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Women who contract a viral or bacterial infection during pregnancy have an increased risk of giving birth to a child with a neurodevelopmental or psychiatric disorder. The effects of maternal infection are likely mediated by the maternal immune response, as preclinical animal models have confirmed that maternal immune activation (MIA) leads to long lasting changes in offspring brain and behavior development. The present study sought to determine the impact of MIA-exposure during the first or second trimester on neuronal morphology in dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and hippocampus from brain tissue obtained from MIA-exposed and control male rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta) during late adolescence. MIA-exposed offspring display increased neuronal dendritic branching in pyramidal cells in DLPFC infra- and supragranular layers relative to controls, with no significant differences observed between offspring exposed to maternal infection in the first and second trimester. In addition, the diameter of apical dendrites in DLPFC infragranular layer is significantly decreased in MIA-exposed offspring relative to controls, irrespective of trimester exposure. In contrast, alterations in hippocampal neuronal morphology of MIA-exposed offspring were not evident. These findings demonstrate that a maternal immune challenge during pregnancy has long-term consequences for primate offspring dendritic structure, selectively in a brain region vital for socioemotional and cognitive development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kari L Hanson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, United States; MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, United States
| | - Ruth K Weir
- Innovation & Enterprise Department, University College London, United Kingdom
| | - Ana-Maria Iosif
- Division of Biostatistics, Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, United States
| | - Judy Van de Water
- MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, United States; Rheumatology/Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, United States
| | - Cameron S Carter
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, United States; Center for Neuroscience, University of California, Davis, United States
| | | | - Melissa D Bauman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, United States; MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, United States; California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, United States.
| | - Cynthia M Schumann
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, United States; MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, United States.
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Baker JA, Bodnar TS, Breit KR, Weinberg J, Thomas JD. Choline Supplementation Alters Hippocampal Cytokine Levels in Adolescence and Adulthood in an Animal Model of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. Cells 2023; 12:546. [PMID: 36831213 PMCID: PMC9953782 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Alcohol (ethanol) exposure during pregnancy can adversely affect development, with long-lasting consequences that include neuroimmune, cognitive, and behavioral dysfunction. Alcohol-induced alterations in cytokine levels in the hippocampus may contribute to abnormal cognitive and behavioral outcomes in individuals with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). Nutritional intervention with the essential nutrient choline can improve hippocampal-dependent behavioral impairments and may also influence neuroimmune function. Thus, we examined the effects of choline supplementation on hippocampal cytokine levels in adolescent and adult rats exposed to alcohol early in development. From postnatal day (PD) 4-9 (third trimester-equivalent), Sprague-Dawley rat pups received ethanol (5.25 g/kg/day) or sham intubations and were treated with choline chloride (100 mg/kg/day) or saline from PD 10-30; hippocampi were collected at PD 35 or PD 60. Age-specific ethanol-induced increases in interferon gamma (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and keratinocyte chemoattractant/human growth-regulated oncogene (KC/GRO) were identified in adulthood, but not adolescence, whereas persistent ethanol-induced increases of interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels were present at both ages. Interestingly, choline supplementation reduced age-related changes in interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and interleukin-5 (IL-5) as well as mitigating the long-lasting increase in IFN-γ in ethanol-exposed adults. Moreover, choline influenced inflammatory tone by modulating ratios of pro- to -anti-inflammatory cytokines. These results suggest that ethanol-induced changes in hippocampal cytokine levels are more evident during adulthood than adolescence, and that choline can mitigate some effects of ethanol exposure on long-lasting inflammatory tone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A. Baker
- Center for Behavioral Teratology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92120, USA
| | - Tamara S. Bodnar
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Kristen R. Breit
- Center for Behavioral Teratology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92120, USA
- Department of Psychology, West Chester University, West Chester, PA 19383, USA
| | - Joanne Weinberg
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Jennifer D. Thomas
- Center for Behavioral Teratology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92120, USA
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Bagnall-Moreau C, Spielman B, Brimberg L. Maternal brain reactive antibodies profile in autism spectrum disorder: an update. Transl Psychiatry 2023; 13:37. [PMID: 36737600 PMCID: PMC9898547 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-023-02335-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder with multifactorial etiologies involving both genetic and environmental factors. In the past two decades it has become clear that in utero exposure to toxins, inflammation, microbiome, and antibodies (Abs), may play a role in the etiology of ASD. Maternal brain-reactive Abs, present in 10-20% of mothers of a child with ASD, pose a potential risk to the developing brain because they can gain access to the brain during gestation, altering brain development during a critical period. Different maternal anti-brain Abs have been associated with ASD and have been suggested to bind extracellular or intracellular neuronal antigens. Clinical data from various cohorts support the increase in prevalence of such maternal brain-reactive Abs in mothers of a child with ASD compared to mothers of a typically developing child. Animal models of both non-human primates and rodents have provided compelling evidence supporting a pathogenic role of these Abs. In this review we summarize the data from clinical and animal models addressing the role of pathogenic maternal Abs in ASD. We propose that maternal brain-reactive Abs are an overlooked and promising field of research, representing a modifiable risk factor that may account for up to 20% of cases of ASD. More studies are needed to better characterize the Abs that contribute to the risk of having a child with ASD, to understand whether we can we predict such cases of ASD, and to better pinpoint the antigenic specificity of these Abs and their mechanisms of pathogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciara Bagnall-Moreau
- grid.250903.d0000 0000 9566 0634Institute of Molecular Medicine, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health System, Manhasset, New York, NY USA
| | - Benjamin Spielman
- grid.250903.d0000 0000 9566 0634Institute of Molecular Medicine, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health System, Manhasset, New York, NY USA ,grid.512756.20000 0004 0370 4759Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY USA
| | - Lior Brimberg
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health System, Manhasset, New York, NY, USA. .,Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA.
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Lipkin WI, Bresnahan M, Susser E. Cohort-guided insights into gene-environment interactions in autism spectrum disorders. Nat Rev Neurol 2023; 19:118-125. [PMID: 36646930 PMCID: PMC9841497 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-022-00764-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Prospective birth cohorts offer unprecedented opportunities to investigate the pathogenesis of complex disorders such as autism, in which gene-environment interactions must be appreciated in a temporal context. This Perspective article considers the history of autism research, including missteps that reflected an incomplete understanding of the epidemiology of autistic spectrum disorders, the effects of advocacy and philanthropy on the trajectory of scientific inquiry, and the current and future roles of prospective birth cohort research in illuminating the pathology of these and other complex disorders wherein exposures during gestation might not manifest until later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Ian Lipkin
- Center for Infection and Immunity, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Neurology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Michaeline Bresnahan
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ezra Susser
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
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Lampiasi N, Bonaventura R, Deidda I, Zito F, Russo R. Inflammation and the Potential Implication of Macrophage-Microglia Polarization in Human ASD: An Overview. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:2703. [PMID: 36769026 PMCID: PMC9916462 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous collection of neurodevelopmental disorders, difficult to diagnose and currently lacking treatment options. The possibility of finding reliable biomarkers useful for early identification would offer the opportunity to intervene with treatment strategies to improve the life quality of ASD patients. To date, there are many recognized risk factors for the development of ASD, both genetic and non-genetic. Although genetic and epigenetic factors may play a critical role, the extent of their contribution to ASD risk is still under study. On the other hand, non-genetic risk factors include pollution, nutrition, infection, psychological states, and lifestyle, all together known as the exposome, which impacts the mother's and fetus's life, especially during pregnancy. Pathogenic and non-pathogenic maternal immune activation (MIA) and autoimmune diseases can cause various alterations in the fetal environment, also contributing to the etiology of ASD in offspring. Activation of monocytes, macrophages, mast cells and microglia and high production of pro-inflammatory cytokines are indeed the cause of neuroinflammation, and the latter is involved in ASD's onset and development. In this review, we focused on non-genetic risk factors, especially on the connection between inflammation, macrophage polarization and ASD syndrome, MIA, and the involvement of microglia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Lampiasi
- Istituto per la Ricerca e l’Innovazione Biomedica IRIB, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy
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Nagai Y, Mizutani Y, Nomura K, Uemura O, Saitoh S, Iwata O. Autistic traits of children born very preterm assessed using Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition. Early Hum Dev 2023; 176:105716. [PMID: 36708635 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2023.105716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Preterm birth has been linked with increased incidence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Despite the remarkable difference in the clinical backgrounds between ASD children born preterm and term, cross-sectional studies have found no striking difference in their autistic traits. To highlight autistic traits related with preterm birth, children born very preterm (prospective birth cohort, n = 50) and term (case cohort, n = 16), who were diagnosed as "Autism" by the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), 2nd edition, were compared using the calibrated severity scores of ADOS-2 and T-scores of the Social Responsiveness Scale, 2nd edition. No significant difference was found in the calibrated severity scores between ASD children born preterm and term. There was a trend that T-scores were smaller for the preterm cohort, which did not reach a statistical significance. Even when detailed cross-sectional information was obtained using ADOS-2, no difference in autistic traits was observed between children born very preterm and term. Our findings were consistent with a previous study, which assessed the entire prospective cohort of children born very preterm and found no difference in original ADOS scores. Further studies are warranted to delineate how preterm birth affects the autistic traits and their parental perception in a large prospective cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukiyo Nagai
- Department of Pediatrics, Japanese Red Cross Aichi Medical Center Nagoya Daini Hospital, Aichi, Japan.
| | - Yuko Mizutani
- Center for Human Development and Family Science, Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Aichi, Japan
| | - Kayo Nomura
- Department of Education, Gifu Shotoku Gakuen University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Osamu Uemura
- Department of Pediatrics, Ichinomiya Medical Treatment & Habilitation Center, Aichi, Japan
| | - Shinji Saitoh
- Center for Human Development and Family Science, Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Aichi, Japan
| | - Osuke Iwata
- Center for Human Development and Family Science, Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Aichi, Japan
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Alshammery S, Patel S, Jones HF, Han VX, Gloss BS, Gold WA, Dale RC. Common targetable inflammatory pathways in brain transcriptome of autism spectrum disorders and Tourette syndrome. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:999346. [PMID: 36590292 PMCID: PMC9799059 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.999346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), including autism-spectrum disorders (ASD) and Tourette syndrome (TS) are common brain conditions which often co-exist, and have no approved treatments targeting disease mechanisms. Accumulating literature implicates the immune system in NDDs, and transcriptomics of post-mortem brain tissue has revealed an inflammatory signal. We interrogated two RNA-sequencing datasets of ASD and TS and identified differentially expressed genes, to explore commonly enriched pathways through GO, KEGG, and Reactome. The DEGs [False Discovery Rate (FDR) <0.05] in the ASD dataset (n = 248) and the TS dataset (n = 156) enriched pathways involving inflammation, cytokines, signal transduction and cell signalling. Of the DEGs from the ASD and TS analyses, 23 were shared, all of which were up-regulated: interaction networks of the common protein-coding genes using STRING revealed 5 central up-regulated hub genes: CCL2, ICAM1, HMOX1, MYC, and SOCS3. Applying KEGG and Reactome analysis to the 23 common genes identified pathways involving the innate immune response such as interleukin and interferon signalling pathways. These findings bring new evidence of shared immune signalling in ASD and TS brain transcriptome, to support the overlapping symptoms that individuals with these complex disorders experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Alshammery
- Kids Neuroscience Centre, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,The Children’s Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Shrujna Patel
- Kids Neuroscience Centre, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,The Children’s Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Hannah F. Jones
- Kids Neuroscience Centre, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,The Children’s Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Department of Neuroservices, Starship Children’s Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Velda X. Han
- Kids Neuroscience Centre, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Khoo Teck Puat-National University Children’s Medical Institute, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Brian S. Gloss
- Westmead Research Hub, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Wendy A. Gold
- Kids Neuroscience Centre, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,The Children’s Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Russell C. Dale
- Kids Neuroscience Centre, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,The Children’s Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,The Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,*Correspondence: Russell C. Dale,
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Kelly RS, Lee-Sarwar K, Chen YC, Laranjo N, Fichorova R, Chu SH, Prince N, Lasky-Su J, Weiss ST, Litonjua AA. Maternal Inflammatory Biomarkers during Pregnancy and Early Life Neurodevelopment in Offspring: Results from the VDAART Study. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315249. [PMID: 36499584 PMCID: PMC9739845 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal infection and stress during the prenatal period have been associated with adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in offspring, suggesting that biomarkers of increased inflammation in the mothers may associate with poorer developmental outcomes. In 491 mother-child pairs from the Vitamin D Antenatal Asthma Reduction Trial (VDAART), we investigated the association between maternal levels of two inflammatory biomarkers; interleukin-8 (IL-8) and C-Reactive Protein (CRP) during early (10-18 wks) and late (32-38 wks) pregnancy with offspring scores in the five domains of the Ages and Stages Questionnaire, a validated screening tool for assessing early life development. We identified a robust association between early pregnancy IL-8 levels and decreased fine-motor (β: -0.919, 95%CI: -1.425, -0.414, p = 3.9 × 10-4) and problem-solving skills at age two (β: -1.221, 95%CI: -1.904, -0.414, p = 4.9 × 10-4). Associations between IL-8 with other domains of development and those for CRP did not survive correction for multiple testing. Similarly, while there was some evidence that the detrimental effects of early pregnancy IL-8 were strongest in boys and in those who were not breastfed, these interactions were not robust to correction for multiple testing. However, further research is required to determine if other maternal inflammatory biomarkers associate with offspring neurodevelopment and work should continue to focus on the management of factors leading to increases in IL-8 levels in pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel S. Kelly
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Kathleen Lee-Sarwar
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02467, USA
| | - Yih-Chieh Chen
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02467, USA
| | - Nancy Laranjo
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Raina Fichorova
- Laboratory of Genital Tract Biology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Su H. Chu
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Nicole Prince
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jessica Lasky-Su
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Scott T. Weiss
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Augusto A. Litonjua
- Division of Pediatric Pulmonary Medicine, Golisano Children’s Hospital at Strong, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
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45
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The role of maternal immune activation in the immunological and neurological pathogenesis of autism. JOURNAL OF NEURORESTORATOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jnrt.2022.100030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Meyer U. Sources and Translational Relevance of Heterogeneity in Maternal Immune Activation Models. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2022; 61:71-91. [PMID: 36306055 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2022_398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The epidemiological literature reporting increased risk for neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders after prenatal exposure to maternal immune activation (MIA) is still evolving, and so are the attempts to model this association in animals. Epidemiological studies of MIA offer the advantage of directly evaluating human populations but are often limited in their ability to uncover pathogenic mechanisms. Animal models, on the other hand, are limited in their generalizability to psychiatric disorders but have made significant strides toward discovering causal relationships and biological pathways between MIA and neurobiological phenotypes. Like in any other model system, both planned and unplanned sources of variability exist in animal models of MIA. Therefore, the design, implementation, and interpretation of MIA models warrant a careful consideration of these sources, so that appropriate strategies can be developed to handle them satisfactorily. While every research group may have its own strategy to this aim, it is essential to report the methodological details of the chosen MIA model in order to enhance the transparency and comparability of models across research laboratories. Even though it poses a challenge for attempts to compare experimental findings across laboratories, variability does not undermine the utility of MIA models for translational research. In fact, variability and heterogenous outcomes in MIA models offer unique opportunities for new discoveries and developments in this field, including the identification of disease pathways and molecular mechanisms determining susceptibility and resilience to MIA. This review summarizes the most important sources of variability in animal models of MIA and discusses how model variability can be used to investigate neurobiological and immunological factors causing phenotypic heterogeneity in offspring exposed to MIA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urs Meyer
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich-Vetsuisse, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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47
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Ramirez-Celis A, Croen LA, Yoshida CK, Alexeeff SE, Schauer J, Yolken RH, Ashwood P, Van de Water J. Maternal autoantibody profiles as biomarkers for ASD and ASD with co-occurring intellectual disability. Mol Psychiatry 2022; 27:3760-3767. [PMID: 35618885 PMCID: PMC9708563 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01633-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Maternal autoantibody-related ASD (MAR ASD) is a subtype of autism in which pathogenic maternal autoantibodies (IgG) cross the placenta, access the developing brain, and cause neurodevelopmental alterations and behaviors associated with autism in the exposed offspring. We previously reported maternal IgG response to eight proteins (CRMP1, CRMP2, GDA LDHA, LDHB, NSE, STIP1, and YBOX) and that reactivity to nine specific combinations of these proteins (MAR ASD patterns) was predictive of ASD risk. The aim of the current study was to validate the previously identified MAR ASD patterns (CRMP1 + GDA, CRMP1 + CRMP2, NSE + STIP1, CRMP2 + STIP1, LDHA + YBOX, LDHB + YBOX, GDA + YBOX, STIP1 + YBOX, and CRMP1 + STIP1) and their accuracy in predicting ASD risk in a prospective cohort employing maternal samples collected prior to parturition. We used prenatal plasma from mothers of autistic children with or without co-occurring intellectual disability (ASD = 540), intellectual disability without autism (ID = 184) and general population controls (GP = 420) collected by the Early Markers for Autism (EMA) study. We found reactivity to one or more of the nine previously identified MAR ASD patterns in 10% of the ASD group compared with 4% of the ID group and 1% of the GP controls (ASD vs GP: Odds Ratio (OR) = 7.81, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 3.32 to 22.43; ASD vs ID: OR = 2.77, 95% CI (1.19-7.47)) demonstrating that the MAR ASD patterns are strongly associated with the ASD group and could be used to assess ASD risk prior to symptom onset. The pattern most strongly associated with ASD was CRMP1 + CRMP2 and increased the odds for an ASD diagnosis 16-fold (3.32 to >999.99). In addition, we found that several of these specific MAR ASD patterns were strongly associated with ASD with intellectual disability (ASD + ID) and others associated with ASD without ID (ASD-no ID). Prenatal screening for these MAR patterns may lead to earlier identification of ASD and facilitate access to the appropriate early intervention services based on each child's needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Ramirez-Celis
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, One Shields Avenue, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Lisa A Croen
- Kaiser Permanente Division of Research, 2000 Broadway, Oakland, CA, 94612, USA
| | - Cathleen K Yoshida
- Kaiser Permanente Division of Research, 2000 Broadway, Oakland, CA, 94612, USA
| | - Stacey E Alexeeff
- Kaiser Permanente Division of Research, 2000 Broadway, Oakland, CA, 94612, USA
| | - Joseph Schauer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, One Shields Avenue, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Robert H Yolken
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Paul Ashwood
- UC Davis MIND Institute, 2825 50th St, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, One Shields Avenue, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Judy Van de Water
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, One Shields Avenue, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
- UC Davis MIND Institute, 2825 50th St, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.
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Tamayo JM, Rose D, Church JS, Schwartzer JJ, Ashwood P. Maternal Allergic Asthma Induces Prenatal Neuroinflammation. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12081041. [PMID: 36009104 PMCID: PMC9405898 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12081041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a class of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by impaired social interactions and communication skills and repetitive or stereotyped behaviors. Rates of ASD diagnosis continue to rise, with current estimates at 1 in 44 children in the US (Maenner 2021). Epidemiological studies have suggested a link between maternal allergic asthma and an increased likelihood of having a child diagnosed with ASD. However, a lack of robust laboratory models prevents mechanistic research from being carried out. We developed a novel mouse model of maternal asthma-allergy (MAA) and previously reported that offspring from these mothers exhibit behavioral deficits compared to controls. In addition, it was shown that epigenetic regulation of gene expression in microglia was altered in these offspring, including several autism candidate genes. To further elucidate if there is neuroinflammation in the fetus following MAA, we investigated how allergic asthma impacts the maternal environment and inflammatory markers in the placenta and fetal brain during gestation. Female C57Bl/6 mice were primed with ovalbumin (OVA) prior to allergic asthma induction during pregnancy by administering aerosolized ovalbumin or PBS control to pregnant dams at gestational days (GD)9.5, 12.5, and 17.5. Four hours after the final induction, placenta and fetal brains were collected and measured for changes in cytokines using a Luminex bead-based multiplex assay. Placental MAA tissue showed a decrease in interleukin (IL)-17 in male and female offspring. There was a sex-dependent decrease in female monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1). In male placentas, IL-4, C-X-C motif chemokine 10 (CXCL10)-also known as interferon γ-induced protein 10 kDa (IP-10)-and chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 5 (RANTES) were decreased. In fetal brains, elevated inflammatory cytokines were found in MAA offspring when compared to controls. Specifically, interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), interleukin 1α (IL-1α), IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) were elevated in both males and females. In contrast, a decrease in the cytokine IL-9 was also observed. There were slight sex differences after OVA exposures. Male fetal brains showed elevated levels of macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2), whereas female brains showed increased keratinocytes-derived chemokine (KC). In addition, IL-1𝛽 and IP-10 in male fetal brains were decreased. Together, these data indicate that repeated exposure to allergic asthma during pregnancy alters cytokine expression in the fetal environment in a sex-dependent way, resulting in homeostatic and neuroinflammatory alterations in the fetal brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan M. Tamayo
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA 95817, USA
- The M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Destanie Rose
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA 95817, USA
- The M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Jamie S. Church
- Program in Neuroscience and Behavior, Department of Psychology and Education, Mount Holyoke College, 50 College Street, South Hadley, MA 01075, USA
| | - Jared J. Schwartzer
- Program in Neuroscience and Behavior, Department of Psychology and Education, Mount Holyoke College, 50 College Street, South Hadley, MA 01075, USA
| | - Paul Ashwood
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA 95817, USA
- The M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
- Correspondence:
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Zhou J, Teng Y, Zhang F, Ru X, Li P, Wang J, Yan S, Zhu P, Tao F, Huang K. Sex-specific association between placental inflammatory cytokine mRNA expression and preschoolers' behavioral development: The Ma'anshan birth cohort study. Brain Behav Immun 2022; 104:110-121. [PMID: 35661681 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2022.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Placental inflammation may contribute to brain abnormalities and childhood neuropsychiatric disorders, but limited knowledge is available on the association of placental inflammatory cytokine levels and offspring's behavioral development. This study aimed to examine the sex-specific association between placental inflammatory cytokine mRNA expression and preschoolers' behavioral development. METHODS 3474 pregnant women were recruited as the initial study population in the Ma'anshan birth cohort (MABC) study. Placentas (n = 2519) were collected during childbirth, and the mRNA expression of IL-8, IL-1β, CRP, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10, and IL-4 was assessed. The Child Behavior Checklist 1.5-5 (CBCL 1.5-5) was used to assess children's behavioral development at 4 years old. A T-score ≥ 60 on summary scales or a score ≥ 65 on syndrome scales was regarded as the borderline clinical range. Multiple linear regression models and binary logistic regression models were applied to explore the sex-specific associations between placental inflammatory cytokines mRNA transcript levels and preschoolers' behavioral development. RESULTS Sex-specific associations between placental inflammatory cytokines mRNA expression and preschoolers' behavioral development were observed. There was a positive association between IL-8 and CBCL scores for boys on anxious/depressed problems, aggressive behaviors, externalizing problems and total problems. Logistic regression models showed that high levels of IL-8 were associated with a higher risk of girls' emotionally reactive problems and sleep problems compared to low/medium levels. High TNF-α was correlated with increased sleep problem scores in boys, and medium TNF-α (vs. low levels) was associated with an increased risk of girls' externalizing problems. Medium levels of CRP, IL-1β, and IL-6 were found to be associated with a decreased risk of girls' behavioral problems compared to low/high levels. For anti-inflammatory cytokines, medium IL-10 and IL-4 (vs. low levels) were observed to be associated with a lower risk of internalizing problems in boys and externalizing problems in girls, respectively. High IL-10 was correlated with decreased attention problem scores in boys. CONCLUSION This study indicates that placental inflammatory cytokine mRNA expression of IL-8, CRP, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-4 and IL-10 may be associated with preschoolers' behavioral development in a sex-specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jixing Zhou
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (AHMU), MOE, Hefei 230032, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei 230032, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health and Aristogenics, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Yuzhu Teng
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (AHMU), MOE, Hefei 230032, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei 230032, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health and Aristogenics, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Fu Zhang
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (AHMU), MOE, Hefei 230032, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei 230032, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health and Aristogenics, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Xue Ru
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (AHMU), MOE, Hefei 230032, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei 230032, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health and Aristogenics, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Peixuan Li
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (AHMU), MOE, Hefei 230032, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei 230032, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health and Aristogenics, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Jianqing Wang
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University
| | - Shuangqin Yan
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University; Maternal and Child Health Care Center of Ma'anshan, No 24 Jiashan Road, Ma'anshan 243011, Anhui, China
| | - Peng Zhu
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (AHMU), MOE, Hefei 230032, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei 230032, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health and Aristogenics, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Fangbiao Tao
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (AHMU), MOE, Hefei 230032, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei 230032, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health and Aristogenics, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Kun Huang
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (AHMU), MOE, Hefei 230032, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei 230032, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health and Aristogenics, Hefei 230032, China; Scientific Research Center in Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Anhui Province, China.
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50
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Haddad FL, Patel SV, Doornaert EE, De Oliveira C, Allman BL, Baines KJ, Renaud SJ, Schmid S. Interleukin 15 modulates the effects of poly I:C maternal immune activation on offspring behaviour. Brain Behav Immun Health 2022; 23:100473. [PMID: 35668725 PMCID: PMC9166394 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2022.100473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal infections during pregnancy are linked with an increased risk for disorders like Autism Spectrum Disorder and schizophrenia in the offspring. Although precise mechanisms are still unclear, clinical and preclinical evidence suggest a strong role for maternal immune activation (MIA) in the neurodevelopmental disruptions caused by maternal infection. Previously, studies using the Polyinosinic:Polycytidylic (Poly I:C) MIA preclinical model showed that cytokines like Interleukin 6 (Il6) are important mediators of MIA's effects. In this study, we hypothesized that Il15 may similarly act as a mediator of Poly I:C MIA, given its role in the antiviral immune response. To test this hypothesis, we induced Poly I:C MIA at gestational day 9.5 in wildtype (WT) and Il15−/− rat dams and tested their offspring in adolescence and adulthood. Poly I:C MIA and Il15 knockout produced both independent and synergistic effects on offspring behaviour. Poly I:C MIA decreased startle reactivity in adult WT offspring but resulted in increased adolescent anxiety and decreased adult locomotor activity in Il15−/− offspring. In addition, Poly I:C MIA led to genotype-independent effects on locomotor activity and prepulse inhibition. Finally, we showed that Il15−/− offspring exhibit distinct phenotypes that were unrelated to Poly I:C MIA including altered startle reactivity, locomotion and signal transduction in the auditory brainstem. Overall, our findings indicate that the lack of Il15 can leave offspring either more or less susceptible to Poly I:C MIA, depending on the phenotype in question. Future studies should examine the contribution of fetal versus maternal Il15 in MIA to determine the precise developmental mechanisms underlying these changes. Poly I:C MIA decreases startle reactivity in adult WT but not Il15−/− offspring. Il15−/− offspring exposed to Poly I:C MIA show altered PPI and open field exploration. Il15−/− rats exhibit distinct behavioural phenotypes independent from MIA.
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