1
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Cordone V. Biochemical and molecular determinants of the subclinical inflammatory mechanisms in Rett syndrome. Arch Biochem Biophys 2024; 757:110046. [PMID: 38815782 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2024.110046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
To date, Rett syndrome (RTT), a genetic disorder mainly caused by mutations in the X-linked MECP2 gene, is increasingly considered a broad-spectrum pathology, instead of just a neurodevelopmental disease, due to the multitude of peripheral co-morbidities and the compromised metabolic pathways, affecting the patients. The altered molecular processes include an impaired mitochondrial function, a perturbed redox homeostasis, a chronic subclinical inflammation and an improper cholesterol metabolism. The persistent subclinical inflammatory condition was first defined ten years ago, as a previously unrecognized feature of RTT, playing a role in the pathology progress and modulation of phenotypical severity. In light of this, the present work aims at reviewing the current knowledge on the chronic inflammatory status and the altered immune/inflammatory functions in RTT, as well as investigating the emerging mechanisms underlying this condition with a special focus on the latest findings about inflammasome system, autoimmunity responses and intestinal micro- and mycobiota. On these bases, although further research is needed, future therapeutic strategies able to re-establish an adequate immune/inflammatory response could represent potential approaches for RTT patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Cordone
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.
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2
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Gomathi M, Dhivya V, Padmavathi V, Pradeepkumar M, Robert Wilson S, Kumar NS, Balachandar V. Genetic Instability and Disease Progression of Indian Rett Syndrome Patients. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:4868-4878. [PMID: 38147229 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03882-y] [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: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is the rare neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutations in methyl CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene with a prevalence of 1:10,000 worldwide. The hallmark clinical features of RTT are developmental delay, microcephaly, repetitive behaviours, gait abnormalities, respiratory abnormalities and seizures. Still, the understanding on the diagnosis of RTT among clinicians are less. The aim of our work was to study various clinical manifestations and a spectrum of MECP2 genetic heterogeneity in RTT patients from South Indian population. We screened 208 autistic patients and diagnosed 20 RTT patients, who were further divided into classical RTT (group I; N = 11) and variant RTT (group II; N = 9). The clinical severity of RTT was measured using RSSS, RSBQ, SSI, SSS and RTT gross motor scale. The biochemical analysis showed that thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), plasma dopamine and cholesterol levels were higher in group I when compared to group II, whereas the level of blood pressure, calcium, ferritin and high-density lipoprotein levels were significantly decreased in both RTT groups, when compared to the control group. The genetic mutational spectrum of MECP2 mutations were found in 12/20 of RTT patients, which revealed the occurrence of 60% pathogenic mutation and 20% unknown mutation and it was correlated with the clinical finding of respiratory dysfunction, scoliosis and sleeping problems. The significant results of this study provided clinical and genetic aspects of RTT diagnosis and proposed the clinicians to screen abnormal cholesterol, calcium and TSH levels tailed with MECP2 gene mutations for early prognosis of disease severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohan Gomathi
- Centre for Neuroscience, Department of Biotechnology, Karpagam Academy of Higher Education (Deemed to be University), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641021, India.
- Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641 046, India.
| | - Venkatesan Dhivya
- Centre for Neuroscience, Department of Biotechnology, Karpagam Academy of Higher Education (Deemed to be University), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641021, India
- Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641 046, India
| | - Vijayakumar Padmavathi
- Department of Microbiology, Sacred Heart College (Autonomous), Tirupattur, Tamil Nadu, 635601, India
| | - Murugasamy Pradeepkumar
- Department of Medical Genetics, KMCH Institute of Health Sciences and Research, Civil Aerodrome Road, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641014, India
| | - S Robert Wilson
- SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Kancheepuram District, Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu, 603203, India
| | - Nachimuthu Senthil Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, Mizoram University (A Central University), Aizawl, Mizoram, 796004, India
| | - Vellingiri Balachandar
- Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641 046, India
- Human Cytogenetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, 151401, India
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3
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Audouard E, Khefif N, Gillet-Legrand B, Nobilleau F, Bouazizi O, Stanga S, Despres G, Alves S, Lamazière A, Cartier N, Piguet F. Modulation of Brain Cholesterol Metabolism through CYP46A1 Overexpression for Rett Syndrome. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:756. [PMID: 38931878 PMCID: PMC11207948 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16060756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutation in the X-linked gene methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (Mecp2), a ubiquitously expressed transcriptional regulator. RTT results in mental retardation and developmental regression that affects approximately 1 in 10,000 females. Currently, there is no curative treatment for RTT. Thus, it is crucial to develop new therapeutic approaches for children suffering from RTT. Several studies suggested that RTT is linked with defects in cholesterol homeostasis, but for the first time, therapeutic evaluation is carried out by modulating this pathway. Moreover, AAV-based CYP46A1 overexpression, the enzyme involved in cholesterol pathway, has been demonstrated to be efficient in several neurodegenerative diseases. Based on these data, we strongly believe that CYP46A1 could be a relevant therapeutic target for RTT. Herein, we evaluated the effects of intravenous AAVPHP.eB-hCYP46A1-HA delivery in male and female Mecp2-deficient mice. The applied AAVPHP.eB-hCYP46A1 transduced essential neurons of the central nervous system (CNS). CYP46A1 overexpression alleviates behavioral alterations in both male and female Mecp2 knockout mice and extends the lifespan in Mecp2-deficient males. Several parameters related to cholesterol pathway are improved and correction of mitochondrial activity is demonstrated in treated mice, which highlighted the clear therapeutic benefit of CYP46A1 through the neuroprotection effect. IV delivery of AAVPHP.eB-CYP46A1 is perfectly well tolerated with no inflammation observed in the CNS of the treated mice. Altogether, our results strongly suggest that CYP46A1 is a relevant target and overexpression could alleviate the phenotype of Rett patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Audouard
- TIDU GENOV, Institut du Cerveau, ICM, F-75013 Paris, France;
- Institut du Cerveau, ICM, Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Université, F-75013 Paris, France (B.G.-L.); (S.A.)
| | - Nicolas Khefif
- Institut du Cerveau, ICM, Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Université, F-75013 Paris, France (B.G.-L.); (S.A.)
| | - Béatrix Gillet-Legrand
- Institut du Cerveau, ICM, Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Université, F-75013 Paris, France (B.G.-L.); (S.A.)
| | - Fanny Nobilleau
- Institut du Cerveau, ICM, Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Université, F-75013 Paris, France (B.G.-L.); (S.A.)
| | - Ouafa Bouazizi
- Institut du Cerveau, ICM, Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Université, F-75013 Paris, France (B.G.-L.); (S.A.)
| | - Serena Stanga
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, 10043 Orbassano, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Gaëtan Despres
- Saint Antoine Research Center, INSERM UMR 938, Département de Métabolomique Clinique, Hôpital Saint Antoine, AP-HP Sorbonne Université, F-75013 Paris, France
| | - Sandro Alves
- Institut du Cerveau, ICM, Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Université, F-75013 Paris, France (B.G.-L.); (S.A.)
| | - Antonin Lamazière
- Saint Antoine Research Center, INSERM UMR 938, Département de Métabolomique Clinique, Hôpital Saint Antoine, AP-HP Sorbonne Université, F-75013 Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Cartier
- Institut du Cerveau, ICM, Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Université, F-75013 Paris, France (B.G.-L.); (S.A.)
| | - Françoise Piguet
- TIDU GENOV, Institut du Cerveau, ICM, F-75013 Paris, France;
- Institut du Cerveau, ICM, Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Université, F-75013 Paris, France (B.G.-L.); (S.A.)
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4
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Gan Y, Chen Y, Zhong H, Liu Z, Geng J, Wang H, Wang W. Gut microbes in central nervous system development and related disorders. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1288256. [PMID: 38343438 PMCID: PMC10854220 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1288256] [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: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The association between gut microbiota and central nervous system (CNS) development has garnered significant research attention in recent years. Evidence suggests bidirectional communication between the CNS and gut microbiota through the brain-gut axis. As a long and complex process, CNS development is highly susceptible to both endogenous and exogenous factors. The gut microbiota impacts the CNS by regulating neurogenesis, myelination, glial cell function, synaptic pruning, and blood-brain barrier permeability, with implication in various CNS disorders. This review outlines the relationship between gut microbiota and stages of CNS development (prenatal and postnatal), emphasizing the integral role of gut microbes. Furthermore, the review explores the implications of gut microbiota in neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder, Rett syndrome, and Angelman syndrome, offering insights into early detection, prompt intervention, and innovative treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumeng Gan
- Department of Infectious Disease and Hepatic Disease, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- School of Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Yao Chen
- Department of Infectious Disease and Hepatic Disease, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- School of Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Huijie Zhong
- Department of Infectious Disease and Hepatic Disease, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- School of Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Zhuo Liu
- Department of Infectious Disease and Hepatic Disease, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- School of Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jiawei Geng
- Department of Infectious Disease and Hepatic Disease, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- School of Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Huishan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Wenxue Wang
- Department of Infectious Disease and Hepatic Disease, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- School of Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, Yunnan, China
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5
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Lopes AG, Loganathan SK, Caliaperumal J. Rett Syndrome and the Role of MECP2: Signaling to Clinical Trials. Brain Sci 2024; 14:120. [PMID: 38391695 PMCID: PMC10886956 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14020120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a neurological disorder that mostly affects females, with a frequency of 1 in 10,000 to 20,000 live birth cases. Symptoms include stereotyped hand movements; impaired learning, language, and communication skills; sudden loss of speech; reduced lifespan; retarded growth; disturbance of sleep and breathing; seizures; autism; and gait apraxia. Pneumonia is the most common cause of death for patients with Rett syndrome, with a survival rate of 77.8% at 25 years of age. Survival into the fifth decade is typical in Rett syndrome, and the leading cause of death is cardiorespiratory compromise. Rett syndrome progression has multiple stages; however, most phenotypes are associated with the nervous system and brain. In total, 95% of Rett syndrome cases are due to mutations in the MECP2 gene, an X-linked gene that encodes for the methyl CpG binding protein, a regulator of gene expression. In this review, we summarize the recent developments in the field of Rett syndrome and therapeutics targeting MECP2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adele Gaspar Lopes
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 2M1, Canada
- Cancer Research Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Sampath Kumar Loganathan
- Cancer Research Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
- Departments of Experimental Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Jayalakshmi Caliaperumal
- Ingram School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 2M7, Canada
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6
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Spoiala EL, Cinteza E, Vatasescu R, Vlaiculescu MV, Moisa SM. Statins-Beyond Their Use in Hypercholesterolemia: Focus on the Pediatric Population. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:117. [PMID: 38255430 PMCID: PMC10813894 DOI: 10.3390/children11010117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Statins are a class of medications primarily used in adults to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. However, the use of statins in children is generally limited and carefully considered despite the well-documented anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, and pro-apoptotic effects, as well as their effect on cell signaling pathways. These multifaceted effects, known as pleiotropic effects, encompass enhancements in endothelial function, a significant reduction in oxidative stress, the stabilization of atherosclerotic plaques, immunomodulation, the inhibition of vascular smooth muscle proliferation, an influence on bone metabolism, anti-inflammatory properties, antithrombotic effects, and a diminished risk of dementia. In children, recent research revealed promising perspectives on the use of statins in various conditions including neurological, cardiovascular, and oncologic diseases, as well as special situations, such as transplanted children. The long-term safety and efficacy of statins in children are still subjects of ongoing research, and healthcare providers carefully assess the individual risk factors and benefits before prescribing these medications to pediatric patients. The use of statins in children is generally less common than in adults, and it requires close monitoring and supervision by healthcare professionals. Further research is needed to fully assess the pleiotropic effects of statins in the pediatric population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Lia Spoiala
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, “Gr. T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (E.L.S.); (S.M.M.)
| | - Eliza Cinteza
- Department of Pediatrics, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, “Marie Curie” Emergency Children’s Hospital, 041451 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Radu Vatasescu
- Cardio-Thoracic Department, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Clinical Emergency Hospital, 014461 Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Stefana Maria Moisa
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, “Gr. T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (E.L.S.); (S.M.M.)
- “Sfanta Maria” Clinical Emergency Hospital for Children, 700309 Iasi, Romania
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7
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Zlatic SA, Werner E, Surapaneni V, Lee CE, Gokhale A, Singleton K, Duong D, Crocker A, Gentile K, Middleton F, Dalloul JM, Liu WLY, Patgiri A, Tarquinio D, Carpenter R, Faundez V. Systemic proteome phenotypes reveal defective metabolic flexibility in Mecp2 mutants. Hum Mol Genet 2023; 33:12-32. [PMID: 37712894 PMCID: PMC10729867 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddad154] [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: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Genes mutated in monogenic neurodevelopmental disorders are broadly expressed. This observation supports the concept that monogenic neurodevelopmental disorders are systemic diseases that profoundly impact neurodevelopment. We tested the systemic disease model focusing on Rett syndrome, which is caused by mutations in MECP2. Transcriptomes and proteomes of organs and brain regions from Mecp2-null mice as well as diverse MECP2-null male and female human cells were assessed. Widespread changes in the steady-state transcriptome and proteome were identified in brain regions and organs of presymptomatic Mecp2-null male mice as well as mutant human cell lines. The extent of these transcriptome and proteome modifications was similar in cortex, liver, kidney, and skeletal muscle and more pronounced than in the hippocampus and striatum. In particular, Mecp2- and MECP2-sensitive proteomes were enriched in synaptic and metabolic annotated gene products, the latter encompassing lipid metabolism and mitochondrial pathways. MECP2 mutations altered pyruvate-dependent mitochondrial respiration while maintaining the capacity to use glutamine as a mitochondrial carbon source. We conclude that mutations in Mecp2/MECP2 perturb lipid and mitochondrial metabolism systemically limiting cellular flexibility to utilize mitochondrial fuels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie A Zlatic
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University, 615 Michael Steet, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
| | - Erica Werner
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University, 615 Michael Steet, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
| | - Veda Surapaneni
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University, 615 Michael Steet, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
| | - Chelsea E Lee
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University, 615 Michael Steet, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
| | - Avanti Gokhale
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University, 615 Michael Steet, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
| | - Kaela Singleton
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University, 615 Michael Steet, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
| | - Duc Duong
- Department of Biochemistry, Emory University, 1510 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
| | - Amanda Crocker
- Program in Neuroscience, Middlebury College, Bicentennial Way, Middlebury, VT 05753, United States
| | - Karen Gentile
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, 505 Irving Avenue, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
| | - Frank Middleton
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, 505 Irving Avenue, Syracuse, NY 13210, United States
| | - Joseph Martin Dalloul
- Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University, 1510 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
| | - William Li-Yun Liu
- Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University, 1510 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
| | - Anupam Patgiri
- Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University, 1510 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
| | - Daniel Tarquinio
- Center for Rare Neurological Diseases, 5600 Oakbrook Pkwy, Norcross, GA 30093, United States
| | - Randall Carpenter
- Rett Syndrome Research Trust, 67 Under Cliff Rd, Trumbull, CT 06611, United States
| | - Victor Faundez
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University, 615 Michael Steet, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
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Maroilley T, Rahit KMTH, Chida AR, Cotra F, Rodrigues Alves Barbosa V, Tarailo-Graovac M. Model Organism Modifier (MOM): a user-friendly Galaxy workflow to detect modifiers from genome sequencing data using Caenorhabditis elegans. G3 (BETHESDA, MD.) 2023; 13:jkad184. [PMID: 37585487 PMCID: PMC10627290 DOI: 10.1093/g3journal/jkad184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Genetic modifiers are variants modulating phenotypic outcomes of a primary detrimental variant. They contribute to rare diseases phenotypic variability, but their identification is challenging. Genetic screening with model organisms is a widely used method for demystifying genetic modifiers. Forward genetics screening followed by whole genome sequencing allows the detection of variants throughout the genome but typically produces thousands of candidate variants making the interpretation and prioritization process very time-consuming and tedious. Despite whole genome sequencing is more time and cost-efficient, usage of computational pipelines specific to modifier identification remains a challenge for biological-experiment-focused laboratories doing research with model organisms. To facilitate a broader implementation of whole genome sequencing in genetic screens, we have developed Model Organism Modifier or MOM, a pipeline as a user-friendly Galaxy workflow. Model Organism Modifier analyses raw short-read whole genome sequencing data and implements tailored filtering to provide a Candidate Variant List short enough to be further manually curated. We provide a detailed tutorial to run the Galaxy workflow Model Organism Modifier and guidelines to manually curate the Candidate Variant Lists. We have tested Model Organism Modifier on published and validated Caenorhabditis elegans modifiers screening datasets. As whole genome sequencing facilitates high-throughput identification of genetic modifiers in model organisms, Model Organism Modifier provides a user-friendly solution to implement the bioinformatics analysis of the short-read datasets in laboratories without expertise or support in Bioinformatics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Maroilley
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - K M Tahsin Hassan Rahit
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Afiya Razia Chida
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Filip Cotra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Victoria Rodrigues Alves Barbosa
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Maja Tarailo-Graovac
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
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9
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Benachenhou S, Laroui A, Dionne O, Rojas D, Toupin A, Çaku A. Cholesterol alterations in fragile X syndrome, autism spectrum disorders and other neurodevelopmental disorders. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 173:115-139. [PMID: 37993175 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2023.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are a group of etiologically diverse diseases primarily associated with abnormal brain development, impaired cognition, and various behavioral problems. The majority of NDDs present a wide range of clinical phenotypes while sharing distinct cellular and biochemical alterations. Low plasma cholesterol levels have been reported in a subset of NNDs including, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and fragile X syndrome (FXS). The present review focuses on cholesterol metabolism and discusses the current evidence of lipid disruption in ASD, FXS, and other genetically related NDDs. The characterization of these common deficits might provide valuable insights into their underlying physiopathology and help identify potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sérine Benachenhou
- Biochemistry and Functional Genomic Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Asma Laroui
- Biochemistry and Functional Genomic Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Olivier Dionne
- Biochemistry and Functional Genomic Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Daniela Rojas
- Biochemistry and Functional Genomic Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Amanda Toupin
- Biochemistry and Functional Genomic Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Artuela Çaku
- Biochemistry and Functional Genomic Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.
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10
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Powers S, Likhite S, Gadalla KK, Miranda CJ, Huffenberger AJ, Dennys C, Foust KD, Morales P, Pierson CR, Rinaldi F, Perry S, Bolon B, Wein N, Cobb S, Kaspar BK, Meyer KC. Novel MECP2 gene therapy is effective in a multicenter study using two mouse models of Rett syndrome and is safe in non-human primates. Mol Ther 2023; 31:2767-2782. [PMID: 37481701 PMCID: PMC10492029 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The AAV9 gene therapy vector presented in this study is safe in mice and non-human primates and highly efficacious without causing overexpression toxicity, a major challenge for clinical translation of Rett syndrome gene therapy vectors to date. Our team designed a new truncated methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) promoter allowing widespread expression of MECP2 in mice and non-human primates after a single injection into the cerebrospinal fluid without causing overexpression symptoms up to 18 months after injection. Additionally, this new vector is highly efficacious at lower doses compared with previous constructs as demonstrated in extensive efficacy studies performed by two independent laboratories in two different Rett syndrome mouse models carrying either a knockout or one of the most frequent human mutations of Mecp2. Overall, data from this multicenter study highlight the efficacy and safety of this gene therapy construct, making it a promising candidate for first-in-human studies to treat Rett syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Powers
- Center for Gene Therapy, Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA; Neuroscience Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Shibi Likhite
- Center for Gene Therapy, Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Kamal K Gadalla
- Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, EH8 9XD Edinburgh, UK
| | - Carlos J Miranda
- Center for Gene Therapy, Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Amy J Huffenberger
- Center for Gene Therapy, Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Cassandra Dennys
- Center for Gene Therapy, Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Kevin D Foust
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Pablo Morales
- The Mannheimer Foundation Inc, Homestead, FL 33034, USA
| | - Christopher R Pierson
- The Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA; Department of Pathology and the Department of Biomedical Education & Anatomy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Federica Rinaldi
- Center for Gene Therapy, Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Stephanie Perry
- Center for Gene Therapy, Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | | | - Nicolas Wein
- Center for Gene Therapy, Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Stuart Cobb
- Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, EH8 9XD Edinburgh, UK
| | - Brian K Kaspar
- Center for Gene Therapy, Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Kathrin C Meyer
- Center for Gene Therapy, Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA; Neuroscience Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
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11
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Zlatic SA, Werner E, Surapaneni V, Lee CE, Gokhale A, Singleton K, Duong D, Crocker A, Gentile K, Middleton F, Dalloul JM, Liu WLY, Patgiri A, Tarquinio D, Carpenter R, Faundez V. Systemic Proteome Phenotypes Reveal Defective Metabolic Flexibility in Mecp2 Mutants. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.03.535431. [PMID: 37066332 PMCID: PMC10103972 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.03.535431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/24/2023]
Abstract
Genes mutated in monogenic neurodevelopmental disorders are broadly expressed. This observation supports the concept that monogenic neurodevelopmental disorders are systemic diseases that profoundly impact neurodevelopment. We tested the systemic disease model focusing on Rett syndrome, which is caused by mutations in MECP2. Transcriptomes and proteomes of organs and brain regions from Mecp2-null mice as well as diverse MECP2-null male and female human cells were assessed. Widespread changes in the steady-state transcriptome and proteome were identified in brain regions and organs of presymptomatic Mecp2-null male mice as well as mutant human cell lines. The extent of these transcriptome and proteome modifications was similar in cortex, liver, kidney, and skeletal muscle and more pronounced than in the hippocampus and striatum. In particular, Mecp2- and MECP2-sensitive proteomes were enriched in synaptic and metabolic annotated gene products, the latter encompassing lipid metabolism and mitochondrial pathways. MECP2 mutations altered pyruvate-dependent mitochondrial respiration while maintaining the capacity to use glutamine as a mitochondrial carbon source. We conclude that mutations in Mecp2/MECP2 perturb lipid and mitochondrial metabolism systemically limiting cellular flexibility to utilize mitochondrial fuels.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Erica Werner
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA, 30322
| | - Veda Surapaneni
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA, 30322
| | - Chelsea E. Lee
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA, 30322
| | - Avanti Gokhale
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA, 30322
| | - Kaela Singleton
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA, 30322
| | - Duc Duong
- Department of Biochemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA, 30322
| | - Amanda Crocker
- Program in Neuroscience, Middlebury College, Middlebury, Vermont 05753
| | - Karen Gentile
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Frank Middleton
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Joseph Martin Dalloul
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA, 30322
| | - William Li-Yun Liu
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA, 30322
| | - Anupam Patgiri
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA, 30322
| | | | | | - Victor Faundez
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA, 30322
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12
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Zhang M, Yu J, Liu A, Liu QQ, Sun T, Li X, Du Y, Li J, Wang B, Yang Q. Luteolin in the Qi Bi Anshen decoction improves propionic acid-induced autism-like behavior in rats by inhibiting LRP1/MMP9. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 118:154965. [PMID: 37451152 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A neurodevelopmental illness with a high frequency and unidentified pathophysiology is known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A research hotspot in this field is the identification of disease-specific biomarkers and drug intervention targets. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) can eliminate the symptoms of autism by precisely regulating human physiology. The Qi Bi Anshen decoction (QAT) is a commonly used TCM clinical drug commonly-used to treat for treating ASD. However, the primary active ingredients and underlying mechanisms of action of this decoction remain unknown. PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate the active ingredients and pharmacodynamics of QAT in the treatment of ASD using a Sprague-Dawley rat model that resembled autism. METHODS Autism-like rat models were established through intracerebroventricular injections of propionic acid (PPA). Subsequently, the rats were treated with QAT, and their efficacy was evaluated using the three-chamber method to analyze social interactions and grooming behavior. Additionally, open-field tests, elevated cross-maze tests, hematoxylin and eosin staining, Nissl staining, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were performed; Western blot analysis was employed to determine the expression of synaptic plasticity-related proteins. Utilizing ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS), the effectiveness of active QAT components was assessed, and potential QAT targets were screened through molecular docking, surface plasmon resonance, and thermal migration experiments. To better understand the precise processes involved in treating ASD with active QAT components, in vivo and in vitro knockdown tests were also performed. RESULTS QATexhibited a significant improvement in autism-like behavior and a notable increase in the production of proteins associated with synaptic plasticity. Furthermore, luteolin (LUT), identified as a potentially important active ingredient in QAT for treating ASD, reduced matrix metallopeptidase-9 (MMP9) expression. However, this effect was attenuated by the knockdown of low-density lipoprotein receptor-associated protein 1 (LRP1), which is the target binding site for LUT. CONCLUSIONS LUT emerges as a potentially crucial active component of QAT in the treatment of ASD, with the ability to antagonize LRP1 and subsequently reduce MMP9 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengjia Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Mechanism and Material Basis of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shaanxi Provincial Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, China; Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jiaoyan Yu
- Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - An Liu
- Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Qing-Qing Liu
- Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ting Sun
- Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xi Li
- Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yaya Du
- Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jiamin Li
- Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Mechanism and Material Basis of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shaanxi Provincial Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, China; Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Mechanism and Material Basis of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shaanxi Provincial Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, China.
| | - Qi Yang
- Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China.
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13
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Boksha IS, Prokhorova TA, Tereshkina EB, Savushkina OK, Burbaeva GS. Differentiated Approach to Pharmacotherapy of Autism Spectrum Disorders: Biochemical Aspects. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) 2023; 88:303-318. [PMID: 37076279 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297923030021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are highly heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorders caused by a complex interaction of numerous genetic and environmental factors and leading to deviations in the nervous system formation at the very early developmental stages. Currently, there are no accepted pharmacological treatments for the so-called core symptoms of ASD, such as social communication disorders and restricted and repetitive behavior patterns. Lack of knowledge about biological basis of ASD, absence of the clinically significant biochemical parameters reflecting abnormalities in the signaling cascades controlling the nervous system development and functioning, and lack of methods for selection of clinically and biologically homogeneous subgroups are considered as causes for the failure of clinical trials of ASD pharmacotherapy. This review considers the possibilities of applying differentiated clinical and biological approaches to the targeted search for ASD pharmacotherapy with emphasis on biochemical markers associated with ASD and attempts to stratify patients by biochemical parameters. The use of such approach as "the target-oriented therapy and assessment of the target status before and during the treatment to identify patients with a positive response to treatment" is discussed using the published results of clinical trials as examples. It is concluded that identification of biochemical parameters for selection of the distinct subgroups among the ASD patients requires research on large samples reflecting clinical and biological diversity of the patients with ASD, and use of unified approaches for such studies. An integrated approach, including clinical observation, clinical-psychological assessment of the patient behavior, study of medical history and description of individual molecular profiles should become a new strategy for stratifying patients with ASD for clinical pharmacotherapeutic trials, as well as for evaluating their efficiency.
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14
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MeCP2 Is an Epigenetic Factor That Links DNA Methylation with Brain Metabolism. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24044218. [PMID: 36835623 PMCID: PMC9966807 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24044218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA methylation, one of the most well-studied epigenetic modifications, is involved in a wide spectrum of biological processes. Epigenetic mechanisms control cellular morphology and function. Such regulatory mechanisms involve histone modifications, chromatin remodeling, DNA methylation, non-coding regulatory RNA molecules, and RNA modifications. One of the most well-studied epigenetic modifications is DNA methylation that plays key roles in development, health, and disease. Our brain is probably the most complex part of our body, with a high level of DNA methylation. A key protein that binds to different types of methylated DNA in the brain is the methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2). MeCP2 acts in a dose-dependent manner and its abnormally high or low expression level, deregulation, and/or genetic mutations lead to neurodevelopmental disorders and aberrant brain function. Recently, some of MeCP2-associated neurodevelopmental disorders have emerged as neurometabolic disorders, suggesting a role for MeCP2 in brain metabolism. Of note, MECP2 loss-of-function mutation in Rett Syndrome is reported to cause impairment of glucose and cholesterol metabolism in human patients and/or mouse models of disease. The purpose of this review is to outline the metabolic abnormalities in MeCP2-associated neurodevelopmental disorders that currently have no available cure. We aim to provide an updated overview into the role of metabolic defects associated with MeCP2-mediated cellular function for consideration of future therapeutic strategies.
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15
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Lin J, de Rezende VL, de Aguiar da Costa M, de Oliveira J, Gonçalves CL. Cholesterol metabolism pathway in autism spectrum disorder: From animal models to clinical observations. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2023; 223:173522. [PMID: 36717034 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2023.173522] [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: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a persistent impairment of social skills, including aspects of perception, interpretation, and response, combined with restricted and repetitive behavior. ASD is a complex and multifactorial condition, and its etiology could be attributed to genetic and environmental factors. Despite numerous clinical and experimental studies, no etiological factor, biomarker, and specific model of transmission have been consistently associated with ASD. However, an imbalance in cholesterol levels has been observed in many patients, more specifically, a condition of hypocholesterolemia, which seems to be shared between ASD and ASD-related genetic syndromes such as fragile X syndrome (FXS), Rett syndrome (RS), and Smith- Lemli-Opitz (SLO). Furthermore, it is known that alterations in cholesterol levels lead to neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, impaired myelination and synaptogenesis. Thus, the aim of this review is to discuss the cholesterol metabolic pathways in the ASD context, as well as in genetic syndromes related to ASD, through clinical observations and animal models. In fact, SLO, FXS, and RS patients display early behavioral markers of ASD followed by cholesterol disturbances. Several studies have demonstrated the role of cholesterol in psychiatric conditions and how its levels modulate brain neurodevelopment. This review suggests an important relationship between ASD pathology and cholesterol metabolism impairment; thus, some strategies could be raised - at clinical and pre-clinical levels - to explore whether cholesterol metabolism disturbance has a generally adverse effect in exacerbating the symptoms of ASD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Lin
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurology, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Victória Linden de Rezende
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurology, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Maiara de Aguiar da Costa
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurology, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Jade de Oliveira
- Laboratory for Research in Metabolic Disorders and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Cinara Ludvig Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurology, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil.
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16
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Panayotis N, Ehinger Y, Felix MS, Roux JC. State-of-the-art therapies for Rett syndrome. Dev Med Child Neurol 2023; 65:162-170. [PMID: 36056801 PMCID: PMC10087176 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is an X-linked neurogenetic disorder caused by mutations of the MECP2 (methyl-CpG-binding protein 2) gene. Over two decades of work established MeCP2 as a protein with pivotal roles in the regulation of the epigenome, neuronal physiology, synaptic maintenance, and behaviour. Given the genetic aetiology of RTT and the proof of concept of its reversal in a mouse model, considerable efforts have been made to design therapeutic approaches to re-express MeCP2. By being at the forefront of the development of innovative gene therapies, research on RTT is of paramount importance for the treatment of monogenic neurological diseases. Here we discuss the recent advances and challenges of promising genetic strategies for the treatment of RTT including gene replacement therapies, gene/RNA editing strategies, and reactivation of the silenced X chromosome. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: Recent advances shed light on the promises of gene replacement therapy with new vectors designed to control the levels of MeCP2 expression. New developments in DNA/RNA editing approaches or reactivation of the silenced X chromosome open the possibility to re-express the native MeCP2 locus at endogenous levels. Current strategies still face limitations in transduction efficiency and future work is needed to improve brain delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Panayotis
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel.,Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel.,Université Paris Cité, CNRS, Saints-Pères Paris Institute for the Neurosciences, Paris, France
| | - Yann Ehinger
- Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Spennato M, Roggero OM, Varriale S, Asaro F, Cortesi A, Kašpar J, Tongiorgi E, Pezzella C, Gardossi L. Neuroprotective Properties of Cardoon Leaves Extracts against Neurodevelopmental Deficits in an In Vitro Model of Rett Syndrome Depend on the Extraction Method and Harvest Time. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27248772. [PMID: 36557905 PMCID: PMC9783035 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27248772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
This study investigates the bioactive properties of different extracts of cardoon leaves in rescuing neuronal development arrest in an in vitro model of Rett syndrome (RTT). Samples were obtained from plants harvested at different maturity stages and extracted with two different methodologies, namely Naviglio® and supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2). While scCO2 extracts more hydrophobic fractions, the Naviglio® method extracts phenolic compounds and less hydrophobic components. Only the scCO2 cardoon leaves extract obtained from plants harvested in spring induced a significant rescue of neuronal atrophy in RTT neurons, while the scCO2 extract from the autumn harvest stimulated dendrite outgrowth in Wild-Type (WT) neurons. The scCO2 extracts were the richest in squalene, 3ß-taraxerol and lupeol, with concentrations in autumn harvest doubling those in spring harvest. The Naviglio® extract was rich in cynaropicrin and exerted a toxic effect at 20 µM on both WT and RTT neurons. When cynaropicrin, squalene, lupeol and 3ß-taraxerol were tested individually, no positive effect was observed, whereas a significant neurotoxicity of cynaropicrin and lupeol was evident. In conclusion, cardoon leaves extracts with high content of hydrophobic bioactive molecules and low cynaropicrin and lupeol concentrations have pharmacological potential to stimulate neuronal development in RTT and WT neurons in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariachiara Spennato
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Trieste, Via L. Giorgieri 1, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Ottavia Maria Roggero
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Via L. Giorgieri 5, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Simona Varriale
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University Federico II of Naples, Via Cinthia, 4, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Fioretta Asaro
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Trieste, Via L. Giorgieri 1, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Angelo Cortesi
- Department of Engineering and Architecture, University of Trieste, Via Alfonso Valerio 6/A, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Jan Kašpar
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Trieste, Via L. Giorgieri 1, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Enrico Tongiorgi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Via L. Giorgieri 5, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Cinzia Pezzella
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University Federico II of Naples, Via Cinthia, 4, 80126 Napoli, Italy
| | - Lucia Gardossi
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Trieste, Via L. Giorgieri 1, 34127 Trieste, Italy
- Correspondence:
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18
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Wang R, Liu C, Guo W, Wang L, Chen S, Zhao J, Qin X, Bai W, Yang Z, Kong D, Jia Z, Liu S, Zhang W. Movement disorder caused by FRRS1L deficiency may be associated with morphological and functional disorders in Purkinje cells. Brain Res Bull 2022; 191:93-106. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2022.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Megagiannis P, Suresh R, Rouleau GA, Zhou Y. Reversibility and therapeutic development for neurodevelopmental disorders, insights from genetic animal models. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 191:114562. [PMID: 36183904 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental Disorders (NDDs) encompass a broad spectrum of conditions resulting from atypical brain development. Over the past decades, we have had the fortune to witness enormous progress in diagnosis, etiology discovery, modeling, and mechanistic understanding of NDDs from both fundamental and clinical research. Here, we review recent neurobiological advances from experimental models of NDDs. We introduce several examples and highlight breakthroughs in reversal studies of phenotypes using genetically engineered models of NDDs. The in-depth understanding of brain pathophysiology underlying NDDs and evaluations of reversibility in animal models paves the foundation for discovering novel treatment options. We discuss how the expanding property of cutting-edge technologies, such as gene editing and AAV-mediated gene delivery, are leveraged in animal models for the therapeutic development of NDDs. We envision opportunities and challenges toward faithful modeling and fruitful clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Platon Megagiannis
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Rahul Suresh
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Guy A Rouleau
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Yang Zhou
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2B4, Canada.
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Retinoic acid-induced 1 gene haploinsufficiency alters lipid metabolism and causes autophagy defects in Smith-Magenis syndrome. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:981. [PMID: 36411275 PMCID: PMC9678881 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05410-7] [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: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Smith-Magenis syndrome (SMS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by cognitive and behavioral symptoms, obesity, and sleep disturbance, and no therapy has been developed to alleviate its symptoms or delay disease onset. SMS occurs due to haploinsufficiency of the retinoic acid-induced-1 (RAI1) gene caused by either chromosomal deletion (SMS-del) or RAI1 missense/nonsense mutation. The molecular mechanisms underlying SMS are unknown. Here, we generated and characterized primary cells derived from four SMS patients (two with SMS-del and two carrying RAI1 point mutations) and four control subjects to investigate the pathogenetic processes underlying SMS. By combining transcriptomic and lipidomic analyses, we found altered expression of lipid and lysosomal genes, deregulation of lipid metabolism, accumulation of lipid droplets, and blocked autophagic flux. We also found that SMS cells exhibited increased cell death associated with the mitochondrial pathology and the production of reactive oxygen species. Treatment with N-acetylcysteine reduced cell death and lipid accumulation, which suggests a causative link between metabolic dyshomeostasis and cell viability. Our results highlight the pathological processes in human SMS cells involving lipid metabolism, autophagy defects and mitochondrial dysfunction and suggest new potential therapeutic targets for patient treatment.
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21
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Mok RSF, Zhang W, Sheikh TI, Pradeepan K, Fernandes IR, DeJong LC, Benigno G, Hildebrandt MR, Mufteev M, Rodrigues DC, Wei W, Piekna A, Liu J, Muotri AR, Vincent JB, Muller L, Martinez-Trujillo J, Salter MW, Ellis J. Wide spectrum of neuronal and network phenotypes in human stem cell-derived excitatory neurons with Rett syndrome-associated MECP2 mutations. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:450. [PMID: 36253345 PMCID: PMC9576700 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-02216-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder primarily caused by heterozygous loss-of-function mutations in the X-linked gene MECP2 that is a global transcriptional regulator. Mutations in the methyl-CpG binding domain (MBD) of MECP2 disrupt its interaction with methylated DNA. Here, we investigate the effect of a novel MECP2 L124W missense mutation in the MBD of an atypical RTT patient with preserved speech in comparison to severe MECP2 null mutations. L124W protein had a limited ability to disrupt heterochromatic chromocenters due to decreased binding dynamics. We isolated two pairs of isogenic WT and L124W induced pluripotent stem cells. L124W induced excitatory neurons expressed stable protein, exhibited increased input resistance and decreased voltage-gated Na+ and K+ currents, and their neuronal dysmorphology was limited to decreased dendritic complexity. Three isogenic pairs of MECP2 null neurons had the expected more extreme morphological and electrophysiological phenotypes. We examined development and maturation of L124W and MECP2 null excitatory neural network activity using micro-electrode arrays. Relative to isogenic controls, L124W neurons had an increase in synchronous network burst frequency, in contrast to MECP2 null neurons that suffered a significant decrease in synchronous network burst frequency and a transient extension of network burst duration. A biologically motivated computational neural network model shows the observed changes in network dynamics are explained by changes in intrinsic Na+ and K+ currents in individual neurons. Our multilevel results demonstrate that RTT excitatory neurons show a wide spectrum of morphological, electrophysiological and circuitry phenotypes that are dependent on the severity of the MECP2 mutation.
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Grants
- R01 MH108528 NIMH NIH HHS
- MOP-133423 CIHR
- R01 MH109885 NIMH NIH HHS
- FDN-154336 CIHR
- R01 MH100175 NIMH NIH HHS
- Col Harland Sanders Rett Syndrome Research Fund at the University of Toronto (to J.E.), SFARI (Research grant #514918 to J.E. and J.M-T), CIHR (MOP-133423 to J.E. and M.W.S.; ERARE Team Grant ERT161303 to J.E.), CIHR foundation grant (FDN-154336 to M.W.S), Ontario Brain Institute (POND Network to J.E.), McLaughlin Centre Accelerator grant (to J.E.), John Evans Leadership Fund & Ontario Research Fund (to J.E), Canada Research Chair in Stem Cell Models of Childhood Disease (to J.E.), Beta Sigma Phi International Endowment Fund (to J.E.).
- BrainsCAN at Western University through the Canada First Research Excellence Fund (CFREF) (to GB, KP, LM, JMT). NSERC Postgraduate Scholarship–Doctoral (PGS-D) Scholarship to KP.
- Trainee support was provided by Restracomp (to LCD).
- National Institutes of Health (NIH) grants # R01MH108528, R01MH109885, and R01MH1000175 to ARM.
- Ontario Rett Syndrome Association to JBV.
- SFARI (Research grant #514918 to J.E. and J.M-T), BrainsCAN at Western University through the Canada First Research Excellence Fund (CFREF) (to GB, KP, LM, JMT)
- CIHR (MOP-133423 to J.E. and M.W.S.; CIHR foundation grant (FDN-154336 to M.W.S),
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca S F Mok
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada
- Developmental & Stem Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Wenbo Zhang
- Neurosciences & Mental Health Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, M5G 0A4, ON, Canada
| | - Taimoor I Sheikh
- Molecular Neuropsychiatry & Development (MiND) Lab, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada
| | - Kartik Pradeepan
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Department of Psychiatry, Neuroscience Graduate Program, Robarts Research and Brain and Mind Institutes, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Isabella R Fernandes
- University of California San Diego, School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics/Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, Stem Cell Program, La Jolla, CA, 92037-0695, USA
| | - Leah C DeJong
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada
- Developmental & Stem Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Gabriel Benigno
- Department of Applied Mathematics, Robarts Research Institute, Brain and Mind Institute, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Matthew R Hildebrandt
- Developmental & Stem Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Marat Mufteev
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada
- Developmental & Stem Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Deivid C Rodrigues
- Developmental & Stem Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Wei Wei
- Developmental & Stem Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Alina Piekna
- Developmental & Stem Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Jiajie Liu
- Developmental & Stem Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Alysson R Muotri
- University of California San Diego, School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics/Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, Stem Cell Program, La Jolla, CA, 92037-0695, USA
- Department of Pediatrics/Rady Children's Hospital, Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny, Archealization Center, Kavli Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - John B Vincent
- Molecular Neuropsychiatry & Development (MiND) Lab, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, M5T 1R8, Canada
| | - Lyle Muller
- Department of Applied Mathematics, Robarts Research Institute, Brain and Mind Institute, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Julio Martinez-Trujillo
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Department of Psychiatry, Neuroscience Graduate Program, Robarts Research and Brain and Mind Institutes, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Michael W Salter
- Neurosciences & Mental Health Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, M5G 0A4, ON, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - James Ellis
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada.
- Developmental & Stem Cell Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada.
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22
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Convergent cerebrospinal fluid proteomes and metabolic ontologies in humans and animal models of Rett syndrome. iScience 2022; 25:104966. [PMID: 36060065 PMCID: PMC9437849 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
MECP2 loss-of-function mutations cause Rett syndrome, a neurodevelopmental disorder resulting from a disrupted brain transcriptome. How these transcriptional defects are decoded into a disease proteome remains unknown. We studied the proteome of Rett cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to identify consensus Rett proteome and ontologies shared across three species. Rett CSF proteomes enriched proteins annotated to HDL lipoproteins, complement, mitochondria, citrate/pyruvate metabolism, synapse compartments, and the neurosecretory protein VGF. We used shared Rett ontologies to select analytes for orthogonal quantification and functional validation. VGF and ontologically selected CSF proteins had genotypic discriminatory capacity as determined by receiver operating characteristic analysis in Mecp2 -/y and Mecp2 -/+ . Differentially expressed CSF proteins distinguished Rett from a related neurodevelopmental disorder, CDKL5 deficiency disorder. We propose that Mecp2 mutant CSF proteomes and ontologies inform putative mechanisms and biomarkers of disease. We suggest that Rett syndrome results from synapse and metabolism dysfunction.
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23
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Lu F, Ferriero DM, Jiang X. Cholesterol in Brain Development and Perinatal Brain Injury: More than a Building Block. Curr Neuropharmacol 2022; 20:1400-1412. [PMID: 34766894 PMCID: PMC9881076 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x19666211111122311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The central nervous system (CNS) is enriched with important classes of lipids, in which cholesterol is known to make up a major portion of myelin sheaths, besides being a structural and functional unit of CNS cell membranes. Unlike in the adult brain, where the cholesterol pool is relatively stable, cholesterol is synthesized and accumulated at the highest rate in the developing brain to meet the needs of rapid brain growth at this stage, which is also a critical period for neuroplasticity. In addition to its biophysical role in membrane organization, cholesterol is crucial for brain development due to its involvement in brain patterning, myelination, neuronal differentiation, and synaptogenesis. Thus any injuries to the immature brain that affect cholesterol homeostasis may have long-term adverse neurological consequences. In this review, we describe the unique features of brain cholesterol biosynthesis and metabolism, cholesterol trafficking between different cell types, and highlight cholesterol-dependent biological processes during brain maturation. We also discuss the association of impaired cholesterol homeostasis with several forms of perinatal brain disorders in term and preterm newborns, including hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. Strategies targeting the cholesterol pathways may open new avenues for the diagnosis and treatment of developmental brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuxin Lu
- Departments of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA;
| | - Donna M. Ferriero
- Departments of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; ,Departments of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Xiangning Jiang
- Departments of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; ,Address correspondence to this author at the Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, 675 Nelson Rising Lane Room 494, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Tel/Fax: 415-502-7285; E-mail:
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24
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Romero-Galisteo RP, González-Sánchez M, Costa L, Brandão R, Ramalhete C, Leão C, Jacobsohn L. Outcome measurement instruments in Rett syndrome: A systematic review. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2022; 39:79-87. [PMID: 35717810 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2022.06.003] [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: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to identify and characterize outcome measures for objective and subjective assessment in persons with Rett syndrome (RS). METHODS A systematic review was conducted consulting the EBSCO, Cochrane, Web of Science, Scielo, MEDLINE and PsycINFO databases for published studies describing the use of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and other outcome measures in persons with RS. Validation studies and observational studies were included. The PROMs were first described, and then the measurement properties were evaluated using predefined criteria according to the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN). The outcome measures were then grouped according to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) to establish a relationship between outcome measures and ICF domains. RESULTS Twenty out of 2327 articles were appraised, and seventeen different outcome measures were identified and described. Ten outcome measures corresponded to evaluation questionnaires, while the remaining seven assessed functional outcomes: walking distance, physical activity level and ability to interact visually. A relation between these outcome measures that assess RS and the ICF allows understanding that most of the instruments (fifteen) include the assessment of activity limitations. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study seem to be promising for their use by clinicians and researchers, although they have methodological limitations. The accuracy and quality of these individual outcome measures should continue to be assessed in an attempt to gather a consensus on the best tools used in RS.
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Affiliation(s)
- R P Romero-Galisteo
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Science, University of Málaga, Biomedical Research Institute of Málaga (IBIMA), Málaga, Spain
| | - M González-Sánchez
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Science, University of Málaga, Biomedical Research Institute of Málaga (IBIMA), Málaga, Spain.
| | - L Costa
- Escola Superior de Saúde Atlantica, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - R Brandão
- Escola Superior de Saúde Atlantica, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - C Ramalhete
- Atlântica- Instituto Universitário, Oeiras, Portugal; Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - C Leão
- Escola Superior de Saúde Atlantica, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - L Jacobsohn
- Escola Superior de Saúde Atlantica, Oeiras, Portugal
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25
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Weatherly SM, Collin GB, Charette JR, Stone L, Damkham N, Hyde LF, Peterson JG, Hicks W, Carter GW, Naggert JK, Krebs MP, Nishina PM. Identification of Arhgef12 and Prkci as genetic modifiers of retinal dysplasia in the Crb1rd8 mouse model. PLoS Genet 2022; 18:e1009798. [PMID: 35675330 PMCID: PMC9212170 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the apicobasal polarity gene CRB1 lead to diverse retinal diseases, such as Leber congenital amaurosis, cone-rod dystrophy, retinitis pigmentosa (with and without Coats-like vasculopathy), foveal retinoschisis, macular dystrophy, and pigmented paravenous chorioretinal atrophy. Limited correlation between disease phenotypes and CRB1 alleles, and evidence that patients sharing the same alleles often present with different disease features, suggest that genetic modifiers contribute to clinical variation. Similarly, the retinal phenotype of mice bearing the Crb1 retinal degeneration 8 (rd8) allele varies with genetic background. Here, we initiated a sensitized chemical mutagenesis screen in B6.Cg-Crb1rd8/Pjn, a strain with a mild clinical presentation, to identify genetic modifiers that cause a more severe disease phenotype. Two models from this screen, Tvrm266 and Tvrm323, exhibited increased retinal dysplasia. Genetic mapping with high-throughput exome and candidate-gene sequencing identified causative mutations in Arhgef12 and Prkci, respectively. Epistasis analysis of both strains indicated that the increased dysplastic phenotype required homozygosity of the Crb1rd8 allele. Retinal dysplastic lesions in Tvrm266 mice were smaller and caused less photoreceptor degeneration than those in Tvrm323 mice, which developed an early, large diffuse lesion phenotype. At one month of age, Müller glia and microglia mislocalization at dysplastic lesions in both modifier strains was similar to that in B6.Cg-Crb1rd8/Pjn mice but photoreceptor cell mislocalization was more extensive. External limiting membrane disruption was comparable in Tvrm266 and B6.Cg-Crb1rd8/Pjn mice but milder in Tvrm323 mice. Immunohistological analysis of mice at postnatal day 0 indicated a normal distribution of mitotic cells in Tvrm266 and Tvrm323 mice, suggesting normal early development. Aberrant electroretinography responses were observed in both models but functional decline was significant only in Tvrm323 mice. These results identify Arhgef12 and Prkci as modifier genes that differentially shape Crb1-associated retinal disease, which may be relevant to understanding clinical variability and underlying disease mechanisms in humans. Inherited eye diseases affect roughly 1:1,000 individuals worldwide. Although these diseases are often linked to variants of a single gene, it is increasingly recognized that a second variant in other genes may modify disease characteristics, including age of onset, severity, and lesion appearance. Identifying such modifier genes in humans is difficult. In this study, two modifiers of a gene associated with retinal damage leading to childhood blindness in humans (CRB1) were identified in mice. Retinal damage caused by Crb1 mutation alone was less severe than in the presence of Arhgef12 or Prkci mutations. Furthermore, the modifier gene mutations caused retinal damage only in the presence of the Crb1 mutation. Our results point to a role of mouse Crb1 and the modifying effects of Arhgef12 and Prkci in a biological network that controls adhesive interactions between cells. The variation in disease severity, lesion appearance, and visual responses in these mice provide a dramatic example of modifier gene influence. This work may lead to an improved understanding of the molecular basis of CRB1-associated retinal disease, with possible relevance to diagnostic and therapeutic intervention in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gayle B. Collin
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, United States of America
| | | | - Lisa Stone
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, United States of America
| | - Nattaya Damkham
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, United States of America
- Graduate Program in Immunology, Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Siriraj Center of Excellence for Stem Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Lillian F. Hyde
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, United States of America
| | | | - Wanda Hicks
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, United States of America
| | | | | | - Mark P. Krebs
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, United States of America
- * E-mail: (MPK); (PMN)
| | - Patsy M. Nishina
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, United States of America
- * E-mail: (MPK); (PMN)
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26
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Changes in the Cerebrospinal Fluid and Plasma Lipidome in Patients with Rett Syndrome. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12040291. [PMID: 35448478 PMCID: PMC9026385 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12040291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is defined as a rare disease caused by mutations of the methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2). It is one of the most common causes of genetic mental retardation in girls, characterized by normal early psychomotor development, followed by severe neurologic regression. Hitherto, RTT lacks a specific biomarker, but altered lipid homeostasis has been found in RTT model mice as well as in RTT patients. We performed LC-MS/MS lipidomics analysis to investigate the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma composition of patients with RTT for biochemical variations compared to healthy controls. In all seven RTT patients, we found decreased CSF cholesterol levels compared to age-matched controls (n = 13), whereas plasma cholesterol levels were within the normal range in all 13 RTT patients compared to 18 controls. Levels of phospholipid (PL) and sphingomyelin (SM) species were decreased in CSF of RTT patients, whereas the lipidomics profile of plasma samples was unaltered in RTT patients compared to healthy controls. This study shows that the CSF lipidomics profile is altered in RTT, which is the basis for future (functional) studies to validate selected lipid species as CSF biomarkers for RTT.
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27
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Kwon SJ, Hong KW, Choi S, Hong JS, Kim JW, Kim JW, Lee HJ, Jang HB, Yum KS. Association of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase gene polymorphism with obesity and lipid metabolism in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. Metab Brain Dis 2022; 37:319-328. [PMID: 34806144 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-021-00877-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is higher than that among typically developing children and adolescents. However, very few studies have explored the genetic factors associated with obesity in children and adolescents with ASD. Thus, the aim of this study was to examine the associations between 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR) gene polymorphisms and obesity among children and adolescents with ASD. The study participants consisted of 33 children and adolescents with ASD and 271 age- and sex-matched typically developing controls. We compared the metabolic traits (body mass index, blood pressure, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein, and fasting glucose levels) between the ASD and control group. Furthermore, we assessed the genotypes of rs12654264 in the HMGCR gene within the participants with ASD, and compared metabolic traits among the different allele subgroups. The mean body mass index (BMI) and triglyceride level of the ASD group were significantly higher than those of the control group. Within the ASD group, the triglyceride level of participants with rs12654264-T alleles was significantly higher than that of participants with A-alleles. A pattern of increasing values in the BMI and fasting glucose was also observed in participants with T allele. This is the first study to show that obesity in children and adolescents with ASD is associated with the cholesterol synthesis pathway. Future studies are needed to further clarify the molecular mechanisms by which the HMGCR gene influences metabolic traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Jin Kwon
- Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Silvia Choi
- Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Su Hong
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine/Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Kennedy Kreger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jung Won Kim
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ju Whi Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye-Ja Lee
- Department of Chronic Disease Convergence Research, Korea National Institute of Health, Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Han Byul Jang
- Department of Chronic Disease Convergence Research, Korea National Institute of Health, Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Keun-Sang Yum
- Department of Family Medicine, Uijeongbu St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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28
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Neier K, Grant TE, Palmer RL, Chappell D, Hakam SM, Yasui KM, Rolston M, Settles ML, Hunter SS, Madany A, Ashwood P, Durbin-Johnson B, LaSalle JM, Yasui DH. Sex disparate gut microbiome and metabolome perturbations precede disease progression in a mouse model of Rett syndrome. Commun Biol 2021; 4:1408. [PMID: 34916612 PMCID: PMC8677842 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02915-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a regressive neurodevelopmental disorder in girls, characterized by multisystem complications including gut dysbiosis and altered metabolism. While RTT is known to be caused by mutations in the X-linked gene MECP2, the intermediate molecular pathways of progressive disease phenotypes are unknown. Mecp2 deficient rodents used to model RTT pathophysiology in most prior studies have been male. Thus, we utilized a patient-relevant mouse model of RTT to longitudinally profile the gut microbiome and metabolome across disease progression in both sexes. Fecal metabolites were altered in Mecp2e1 mutant females before onset of neuromotor phenotypes and correlated with lipid deficiencies in brain, results not observed in males. Females also displayed altered gut microbial communities and an inflammatory profile that were more consistent with RTT patients than males. These findings identify new molecular pathways of RTT disease progression and demonstrate the relevance of further study in female Mecp2 animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kari Neier
- UC Davis School of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Genome Center, MIND Institute, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Tianna E Grant
- UC Davis School of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Genome Center, MIND Institute, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Rebecca L Palmer
- UC Davis School of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Genome Center, MIND Institute, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Demario Chappell
- UC Davis School of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Genome Center, MIND Institute, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Sophia M Hakam
- UC Davis School of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Genome Center, MIND Institute, Davis, CA, USA
| | | | - Matt Rolston
- UC Davis School of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Genome Center, MIND Institute, Davis, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Abdullah Madany
- UC Davis School of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Genome Center, MIND Institute, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Paul Ashwood
- UC Davis School of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Genome Center, MIND Institute, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Blythe Durbin-Johnson
- UC Davis Genome Center, Davis, CA, USA
- UC Davis School of Medicine, Department of Public Health Sciences, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Janine M LaSalle
- UC Davis School of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Genome Center, MIND Institute, Davis, CA, USA.
- UC Davis Genome Center, Davis, CA, USA.
| | - Dag H Yasui
- UC Davis School of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Genome Center, MIND Institute, Davis, CA, USA
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29
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Ali Khan A, Raess M, de Angelis MH. Moving forward with forward genetics: A summary of the INFRAFRONTIER Forward Genetics Panel Discussion. F1000Res 2021; 10:456. [PMID: 34900227 PMCID: PMC8634052 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.25369.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last few decades, forward genetics approaches have been extensively used to identify gene function. Essentially, forward genetics is the elucidation of the genetic basis of a specific phenotype by screening a population containing random genomic modifications that alter gene function. These approaches have shed light on some essential gene functions in development and disease and have expanded the realm of understanding for genetic disorders. Due to the availability of efficient mutagenesis methods, phenotyping techniques, reliable validation, comprehensive sequence information and translational potential, mouse models are favored for forward genetics approaches. However, in this post-genomic CRISPR-Cas9 era, the relevance and future of forward genetics was brought into question. With more than 7300 mouse strains archived and close interactions with several leading mouse researchers around the world, INFRAFRONTIER - the European Research Infrastructure for mouse models organised a panel discussion on forward genetics at the International Mammalian Genome Conference 2018 to discuss the future of forward genetics as well as challenges faced by researchers using this approach in the current research environment. The commentary presents an overview of this discussion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asrar Ali Khan
- INFRAFRONTIER GmbH, Neuherberg / Munich, Bavaria, 85764, Germany
| | - Michael Raess
- INFRAFRONTIER GmbH, Neuherberg / Munich, Bavaria, 85764, Germany
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30
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Vallés AS, Barrantes FJ. Dysregulation of Neuronal Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor-Cholesterol Crosstalk in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:744597. [PMID: 34803605 PMCID: PMC8604044 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.744597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a set of complex neurodevelopmental diseases that include impaired social interaction, delayed and disordered language, repetitive or stereotypic behavior, restricted range of interests, and altered sensory processing. The underlying causes of the core symptoms remain unclear, as are the factors that trigger their onset. Given the complexity and heterogeneity of the clinical phenotypes, a constellation of genetic, epigenetic, environmental, and immunological factors may be involved. The lack of appropriate biomarkers for the evaluation of neurodevelopmental disorders makes it difficult to assess the contribution of early alterations in neurochemical processes and neuroanatomical and neurodevelopmental factors to ASD. Abnormalities in the cholinergic system in various regions of the brain and cerebellum are observed in ASD, and recently altered cholesterol metabolism has been implicated at the initial stages of the disease. Given the multiple effects of the neutral lipid cholesterol on the paradigm rapid ligand-gated ion channel, the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, we explore in this review the possibility that the dysregulation of nicotinic receptor-cholesterol crosstalk plays a role in some of the neurological alterations observed in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Sofía Vallés
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (UNS-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Francisco J Barrantes
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (BIOMED), UCA-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Golubiani G, Lagani V, Solomonia R, Müller M. Metabolomic Fingerprint of Mecp2-Deficient Mouse Cortex: Evidence for a Pronounced Multi-Facetted Metabolic Component in Rett Syndrome. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092494. [PMID: 34572143 PMCID: PMC8472238 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Using unsupervised metabolomics, we defined the complex metabolic conditions in the cortex of a mouse model of Rett syndrome (RTT). RTT, which represents a cause of mental and cognitive disabilities in females, results in profound cognitive impairment with autistic features, motor disabilities, seizures, gastrointestinal problems, and cardiorespiratory irregularities. Typical RTT originates from mutations in the X-chromosomal methyl-CpG-binding-protein-2 (Mecp2) gene, which encodes a transcriptional modulator. It then causes a deregulation of several target genes and metabolic alterations in the nervous system and peripheral organs. We identified 101 significantly deregulated metabolites in the Mecp2-deficient cortex of adult male mice; 68 were increased and 33 were decreased compared to wildtypes. Pathway analysis identified 31 mostly upregulated metabolic pathways, in particular carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism, key metabolic mitochondrial/extramitochondrial pathways, and lipid metabolism. In contrast, neurotransmitter-signaling is dampened. This metabolic fingerprint of the Mecp2-deficient cortex of severely symptomatic mice provides further mechanistic insights into the complex RTT pathogenesis. The deregulated pathways that were identified—in particular the markedly affected amino acid and carbohydrate metabolism—confirm a complex and multifaceted metabolic component in RTT, which in turn signifies putative therapeutic targets. Furthermore, the deregulated key metabolites provide a choice of potential biomarkers for a more detailed rating of disease severity and disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gocha Golubiani
- Institut für Neuro- und Sinnesphysiologie, Zentrum Physiologie und Pathophysiologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, D-37130 Göttingen, Germany;
- Institute of Chemical Biology, Ilia State University, 0162 Tbilisi, Georgia; (V.L.); (R.S.)
| | - Vincenzo Lagani
- Institute of Chemical Biology, Ilia State University, 0162 Tbilisi, Georgia; (V.L.); (R.S.)
| | - Revaz Solomonia
- Institute of Chemical Biology, Ilia State University, 0162 Tbilisi, Georgia; (V.L.); (R.S.)
| | - Michael Müller
- Institut für Neuro- und Sinnesphysiologie, Zentrum Physiologie und Pathophysiologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, D-37130 Göttingen, Germany;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-551-39-22933
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32
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Marballi K, MacDonald JL. Proteomic and transcriptional changes associated with MeCP2 dysfunction reveal nodes for therapeutic intervention in Rett syndrome. Neurochem Int 2021; 148:105076. [PMID: 34048843 PMCID: PMC8286335 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2021.105076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in the methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene cause Rett syndrome (RTT), an X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder predominantly impacting females. MECP2 is an epigenetic transcriptional regulator acting mainly to repress gene expression, though it plays multiple gene regulatory roles and has distinct molecular targets across different cell types and specific developmental stages. In this review, we summarize MECP2 loss-of-function associated transcriptome and proteome disruptions, delving deeper into the latter which have been comparatively severely understudied. These disruptions converge on multiple biochemical and cellular pathways, including those involved in synaptic function and neurodevelopment, NF-κB signaling and inflammation, and the vitamin D pathway. RTT is a complex neurological disorder characterized by myriad physiological disruptions, in both the central nervous system and peripheral systems. Thus, treating RTT will likely require a combinatorial approach, targeting multiple nodes within the interactomes of these cellular pathways. To this end, we discuss the use of dietary supplements and factors, namely, vitamin D and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), as possible partial therapeutic agents given their demonstrated benefit in RTT and their ability to restore homeostasis to multiple disrupted cellular pathways simultaneously. Further unravelling the complex molecular alterations induced by MECP2 loss-of-function, and contextualizing them at the level of proteome homeostasis, will identify new therapeutic avenues for this complex disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ketan Marballi
- Department of Biology, Program in Neuroscience, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Jessica L MacDonald
- Department of Biology, Program in Neuroscience, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, USA.
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Buist M, Fuss D, Rastegar M. Transcriptional Regulation of MECP2E1-E2 Isoforms and BDNF by Metformin and Simvastatin through Analyzing Nascent RNA Synthesis in a Human Brain Cell Line. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11081253. [PMID: 34439919 PMCID: PMC8391797 DOI: 10.3390/biom11081253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Revised: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Methyl CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) is the main DNA methyl-binding protein in the brain that binds to 5-methylcytosine and 5-hydroxymethyl cytosine. MECP2 gene mutations are the main origin of Rett Syndrome (RTT), a neurodevelopmental disorder in young females. The disease has no existing cure, however, metabolic drugs such as metformin and statins have recently emerged as potential therapeutic candidates. In addition, induced MECP2-BDNF homeostasis regulation has been suggested as a therapy avenue. Here, we analyzed nascent RNA synthesis versus steady state total cellular RNA to study the transcriptional effects of metformin (an anti-diabetic drug) on MECP2 isoforms (E1 and E2) and BNDF in a human brain cell line. Additionally, we investigated the impact of simvastatin (a cholesterol lowering drug) on transcriptional regulation of MECP2E1/E2-BDNF. Metformin was capable of post-transcriptionally inducing BDNF and/or MECP2E1, while transcriptionally inhibiting MECP2E2. In contrast simvastatin significantly inhibited BDNF transcription without significantly impacting MECP2E2 transcripts. Further analysis of ribosomal RNA transcripts confirmed that the drug neither individually nor in combination affected these fundamentally important transcripts. Experimental analysis was completed in conditions of the presence or absence of serum starvation that showed minimal impact for serum deprival, although significant inhibition of steady state MECP2E1 by simvastatin was only detected in non-serum starved cells. Taken together, our results suggest that metformin controls MECP2E1/E2-BDNF transcriptionally and/or post-transcriptionally, and that simvastatin is a potent transcriptional inhibitor of BDNF. The transcriptional effect of these drugs on MECP2E1/E2-BDNF were not additive under these tested conditions, however, either drug may have potential application for related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mojgan Rastegar
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(204)-272-3108; Fax: +1-(204)-789-3900
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Li J, Zhang X, Yang M, Yang H, Xu N, Fan X, Liu G, Jiang X, Fan J, Zhang L, Zhang H, Zhou Y, Li R, Gao S, Jin J, Jin Z, Zheng J, Tu Q, Ren J. DNA methylome profiling reveals epigenetic regulation of lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A 2 in human vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque. Clin Epigenetics 2021; 13:161. [PMID: 34419168 PMCID: PMC8379831 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-021-01152-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atherosclerotic plaque vulnerability is a key feature of atheroprogression and precipitating acute cardiovascular events. Although the pivotal role of epigenetic regulation in atherosclerotic plaque destabilization is being recognized, the DNA methylation profile and its potential role in driving the progression and destabilization of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease remains largely unknown. We conducted a genome-wide analysis to identify differentially methylated genes in vulnerable and non-vulnerable atherosclerotic lesions to understand more about pathogenesis. RESULTS We compared genome-wide DNA methylation profiling between carotid artery plaques of patients with clinically symptomatic (recent stroke or transient ischemic attack) and asymptomatic disease (no recent stroke) using Infinium Methylation BeadChip arrays, which revealed 90,368 differentially methylated sites (FDR < 0.05, |delta beta|> 0.03) corresponding to 14,657 annotated genes. Among these genomic sites, 30% were located at the promoter regions and 14% in the CpG islands, according to genomic loci and genomic proximity to the CpG islands, respectively. Moreover, 67% displayed hypomethylation in symptomatic plaques, and the differentially hypomethylated genes were found to be involved in various aspects of inflammation. Subsequently, we focus on CpG islands and revealed 14,596 differentially methylated sites (|delta beta|> 0.1) located at the promoter regions of 7048 genes. Integrated analysis of methylation and gene expression profiles identified that 107 genes were hypomethylated in symptomatic plaques and showed elevated expression levels in both advanced plaques and ruptured plaques. The imprinted gene PLA2G7, which encodes lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2), was one of the top hypomethylated genes with an increased expression upon inflammation. Further, the hypomethylated CpG site at the promoter region of PLA2G7 was identified as cg11874627, demethylation of which led to increased binding of Sp3 and expression of Lp-PLA2 through bisulfate sequencing, chromatin immunoprecipitation assay and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. These effects were further enhanced by deacetylase. CONCLUSION Extensive DNA methylation modifications serve as a new and critical layer of biological regulation that contributes to atheroprogression and destabilization via inflammatory processes. Revelation of this hitherto unknown epigenetic regulatory mechanism could rejuvenate the prospects of Lp-PLA2 as a therapeutic target to stabilize the atherosclerotic plaque and reduce clinical sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjin Li
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital of Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoping Zhang
- Beijing Anzhen Hospital of Capital Medical University and Beijing Institute of Heart Lung and Blood Vessel Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Mengxi Yang
- Department of Cardiology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hang Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Molecular and Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ning Xu
- Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Xueqiang Fan
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Gang Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xintong Jiang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jiasai Fan
- Department of Cardiology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lifang Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hu Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Department of Cardiology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Li
- Department of Cardiology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Si Gao
- Department of Cardiology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jiangli Jin
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zening Jin
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital of Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jingang Zheng
- Department of Cardiology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qiang Tu
- State Key Laboratory for Molecular and Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jingyi Ren
- Department of Cardiology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China. .,Vascular Health Research Center of Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.
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35
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Blatnik AJ, McGovern VL, Burghes AHM. What Genetics Has Told Us and How It Can Inform Future Experiments for Spinal Muscular Atrophy, a Perspective. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:8494. [PMID: 34445199 PMCID: PMC8395208 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Proximal spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor neuron loss and subsequent atrophy of skeletal muscle. SMA is caused by deficiency of the essential survival motor neuron (SMN) protein, canonically responsible for the assembly of the spliceosomal small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (snRNPs). Therapeutics aimed at increasing SMN protein levels are efficacious in treating SMA. However, it remains unknown how deficiency of SMN results in motor neuron loss, resulting in many reported cellular functions of SMN and pathways affected in SMA. Herein is a perspective detailing what genetics and biochemistry have told us about SMA and SMN, from identifying the SMA determinant region of the genome, to the development of therapeutics. Furthermore, we will discuss how genetics and biochemistry have been used to understand SMN function and how we can determine which of these are critical to SMA moving forward.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Arthur H. M. Burghes
- Department of Biological Chemistry & Pharmacology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Rightmire Hall, Room 168, 1060 Carmack Road, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; (A.J.B.III); (V.L.M.)
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36
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Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a severe X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by neurodevelopmental regression between 6 and 18 months of life and associated with multi-system comorbidities. Caused mainly by pathogenic variants in the MECP2 (methyl CpG binding protein 2) gene, it is the second leading genetic cause of intellectual disability in girls after Down syndrome. RTT affects not only neurological function but also a wide array of non-neurological organs. RTT-related disorders involve abnormalities of the respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive, metabolic, skeletal, endocrine, muscular, and urinary systems and immune response. Here, we review the different aspects of RTT affecting the main peripheral groups of organs and sometimes occurring independently of nervous system defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Borloz
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, MMG, U1251, Faculté de médecine Timone, 13385, Marseille, France
| | - Laurent Villard
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, MMG, U1251, Faculté de médecine Timone, 13385, Marseille, France
| | - Jean-Christophe Roux
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, MMG, U1251, Faculté de médecine Timone, 13385, Marseille, France
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37
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Vashi N, Ackerley C, Post M, Justice MJ. Aberrant lung lipids cause respiratory impairment in a Mecp2-deficient mouse model of Rett syndrome. Hum Mol Genet 2021; 30:2161-2176. [PMID: 34230964 PMCID: PMC8561422 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddab182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe respiratory impairment is a prominent feature of Rett syndrome (RTT), an X-linked disorder caused by mutations in methyl CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2). Despite MECP2's ubiquitous expression, respiratory anomalies are attributed to neuronal dysfunction. Here, we show that neutral lipids accumulate in mouse Mecp2-mutant lungs, while surfactant phospholipids decrease. Conditional deletion of Mecp2 from lipid-producing alveolar epithelial 2 (AE2) cells causes aberrant lung lipids and respiratory symptoms, while deletion of Mecp2 from hindbrain neurons results in distinct respiratory abnormalities. Single-cell RNA sequencing of AE2 cells suggests lipid production and storage increase at the expense of phospholipid synthesis. Lipid production enzymes are confirmed as direct targets of MECP2-directed nuclear receptor corepressor 1/2 (NCOR1/2) transcriptional repression. Remarkably, lipid-lowering fluvastatin improves respiratory anomalies in Mecp2-mutant mice. These data implicate autonomous pulmonary loss of MECP2 in respiratory symptoms for the first time and have immediate impacts on patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neeti Vashi
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A1, Canada.,Genetics and Genome Biology Program, Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Cameron Ackerley
- Translational Medicine Program, Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Martin Post
- Translational Medicine Program, Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Monica J Justice
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A1, Canada.,Genetics and Genome Biology Program, Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada
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Transcriptomic and Epigenomic Landscape in Rett Syndrome. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11070967. [PMID: 34209228 PMCID: PMC8301932 DOI: 10.3390/biom11070967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Revised: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is an extremely invalidating, cureless, developmental disorder, and it is considered one of the leading causes of intellectual disability in female individuals. The vast majority of RTT cases are caused by de novo mutations in the X-linked Methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene, which encodes a multifunctional reader of methylated DNA. MeCP2 is a master epigenetic modulator of gene expression, with a role in the organization of global chromatin architecture. Based on its interaction with multiple molecular partners and the diverse epigenetic scenario, MeCP2 triggers several downstream mechanisms, also influencing the epigenetic context, and thus leading to transcriptional activation or repression. In this frame, it is conceivable that defects in such a multifaceted factor as MeCP2 lead to large-scale alterations of the epigenome, ranging from an unbalanced deposition of epigenetic modifications to a transcriptional alteration of both protein-coding and non-coding genes, with critical consequences on multiple downstream biological processes. In this review, we provide an overview of the current knowledge concerning the transcriptomic and epigenomic alterations found in RTT patients and animal models.
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39
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The Role of Lipids, Lipid Metabolism and Ectopic Lipid Accumulation in Axon Growth, Regeneration and Repair after CNS Injury and Disease. Cells 2021; 10:cells10051078. [PMID: 34062747 PMCID: PMC8147289 DOI: 10.3390/cells10051078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Axons in the adult mammalian nervous system can extend over formidable distances, up to one meter or more in humans. During development, axonal and dendritic growth requires continuous addition of new membrane. Of the three major kinds of membrane lipids, phospholipids are the most abundant in all cell membranes, including neurons. Not only immature axons, but also severed axons in the adult require large amounts of lipids for axon regeneration to occur. Lipids also serve as energy storage, signaling molecules and they contribute to tissue physiology, as demonstrated by a variety of metabolic disorders in which harmful amounts of lipids accumulate in various tissues through the body. Detrimental changes in lipid metabolism and excess accumulation of lipids contribute to a lack of axon regeneration, poor neurological outcome and complications after a variety of central nervous system (CNS) trauma including brain and spinal cord injury. Recent evidence indicates that rewiring lipid metabolism can be manipulated for therapeutic gain, as it favors conditions for axon regeneration and CNS repair. Here, we review the role of lipids, lipid metabolism and ectopic lipid accumulation in axon growth, regeneration and CNS repair. In addition, we outline molecular and pharmacological strategies to fine-tune lipid composition and energy metabolism in neurons and non-neuronal cells that can be exploited to improve neurological recovery after CNS trauma and disease.
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40
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Sharifi O, Yasui DH. The Molecular Functions of MeCP2 in Rett Syndrome Pathology. Front Genet 2021; 12:624290. [PMID: 33968128 PMCID: PMC8102816 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.624290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
MeCP2 protein, encoded by the MECP2 gene, binds to DNA and affects transcription. Outside of this activity the true range of MeCP2 function is still not entirely clear. As MECP2 gene mutations cause the neurodevelopmental disorder Rett syndrome in 1 in 10,000 female births, much of what is known about the biologic function of MeCP2 comes from studying human cell culture models and rodent models with Mecp2 gene mutations. In this review, the full scope of MeCP2 research available in the NIH Pubmed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/) data base to date is considered. While not all original research can be mentioned due to space limitations, the main aspects of MeCP2 and Rett syndrome research are discussed while highlighting the work of individual researchers and research groups. First, the primary functions of MeCP2 relevant to Rett syndrome are summarized and explored. Second, the conflicting evidence and controversies surrounding emerging aspects of MeCP2 biology are examined. Next, the most obvious gaps in MeCP2 research studies are noted. Finally, the most recent discoveries in MeCP2 and Rett syndrome research are explored with a focus on the potential and pitfalls of novel treatments and therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osman Sharifi
- LaSalle Laboratory, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, UC Davis School of Medicine, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Dag H Yasui
- LaSalle Laboratory, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, UC Davis School of Medicine, Davis, CA, United States
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41
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Mauvais-Jarvis F, Berthold HK, Campesi I, Carrero JJ, Dakal S, Franconi F, Gouni-Berthold I, Heiman ML, Kautzky-Willer A, Klein SL, Murphy A, Regitz-Zagrosek V, Reue K, Rubin JB. Sex- and Gender-Based Pharmacological Response to Drugs. Pharmacol Rev 2021; 73:730-762. [PMID: 33653873 PMCID: PMC7938661 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.120.000206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In humans, the combination of all sex-specific genetic, epigenetic, and hormonal influences of biologic sex produces different in vivo environments for male and female cells. We dissect how these influences of sex modify the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of multiple drugs and provide examples for common drugs acting on specific organ systems. We also discuss how gender of physicians and patients may influence the therapeutic response to drugs. We aim to highlight sex as a genetic modifier of the pharmacological response to drugs, which should be considered as a necessary step toward precision medicine that will benefit men and women. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This study discusses the influences of biologic sex on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drugs and provides examples for common drugs acting on specific organ systems. This study also discusses how gender of physicians and patients influence the therapeutic response to drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franck Mauvais-Jarvis
- Section of Endocrinology, John W. Deming Department of Medicine, Diabetes Discovery and Sex-Based Medicine Laboratory, Tulane University School of Medicine and Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System Medical Center, New Orleans, Louisiana (F.M.-J.); Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Bethel Clinic (EvKB), Bielefeld, Germany (H.K.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy (I.C.); Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden (J.-J.C.); W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland (S.D., S.L.K.); Laboratory of Sex-Gender Medicine, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Sassari, Italy (F.F.); Polyclinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Preventive Medicine (PEDP), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany (I.G.-B.); Scioto Biosciences, Indianapolis, Indiana (M.L.H.); Department of Internal Medicine III, Clinical Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Gender Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna and Gender Institute Gars am Kamp, Vienna, Austria (A.K.-W.); Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia (A.M.); Berlin Institute of Gender Medicine, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany and University of Zürich, Switzerland (V.R.-Z.); Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, and the Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California (K.R.); and Departments of Medicine, Pediatrics, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (J.B.R.)
| | - Heiner K Berthold
- Section of Endocrinology, John W. Deming Department of Medicine, Diabetes Discovery and Sex-Based Medicine Laboratory, Tulane University School of Medicine and Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System Medical Center, New Orleans, Louisiana (F.M.-J.); Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Bethel Clinic (EvKB), Bielefeld, Germany (H.K.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy (I.C.); Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden (J.-J.C.); W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland (S.D., S.L.K.); Laboratory of Sex-Gender Medicine, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Sassari, Italy (F.F.); Polyclinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Preventive Medicine (PEDP), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany (I.G.-B.); Scioto Biosciences, Indianapolis, Indiana (M.L.H.); Department of Internal Medicine III, Clinical Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Gender Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna and Gender Institute Gars am Kamp, Vienna, Austria (A.K.-W.); Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia (A.M.); Berlin Institute of Gender Medicine, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany and University of Zürich, Switzerland (V.R.-Z.); Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, and the Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California (K.R.); and Departments of Medicine, Pediatrics, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (J.B.R.)
| | - Ilaria Campesi
- Section of Endocrinology, John W. Deming Department of Medicine, Diabetes Discovery and Sex-Based Medicine Laboratory, Tulane University School of Medicine and Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System Medical Center, New Orleans, Louisiana (F.M.-J.); Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Bethel Clinic (EvKB), Bielefeld, Germany (H.K.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy (I.C.); Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden (J.-J.C.); W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland (S.D., S.L.K.); Laboratory of Sex-Gender Medicine, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Sassari, Italy (F.F.); Polyclinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Preventive Medicine (PEDP), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany (I.G.-B.); Scioto Biosciences, Indianapolis, Indiana (M.L.H.); Department of Internal Medicine III, Clinical Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Gender Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna and Gender Institute Gars am Kamp, Vienna, Austria (A.K.-W.); Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia (A.M.); Berlin Institute of Gender Medicine, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany and University of Zürich, Switzerland (V.R.-Z.); Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, and the Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California (K.R.); and Departments of Medicine, Pediatrics, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (J.B.R.)
| | - Juan-Jesus Carrero
- Section of Endocrinology, John W. Deming Department of Medicine, Diabetes Discovery and Sex-Based Medicine Laboratory, Tulane University School of Medicine and Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System Medical Center, New Orleans, Louisiana (F.M.-J.); Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Bethel Clinic (EvKB), Bielefeld, Germany (H.K.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy (I.C.); Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden (J.-J.C.); W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland (S.D., S.L.K.); Laboratory of Sex-Gender Medicine, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Sassari, Italy (F.F.); Polyclinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Preventive Medicine (PEDP), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany (I.G.-B.); Scioto Biosciences, Indianapolis, Indiana (M.L.H.); Department of Internal Medicine III, Clinical Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Gender Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna and Gender Institute Gars am Kamp, Vienna, Austria (A.K.-W.); Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia (A.M.); Berlin Institute of Gender Medicine, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany and University of Zürich, Switzerland (V.R.-Z.); Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, and the Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California (K.R.); and Departments of Medicine, Pediatrics, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (J.B.R.)
| | - Santosh Dakal
- Section of Endocrinology, John W. Deming Department of Medicine, Diabetes Discovery and Sex-Based Medicine Laboratory, Tulane University School of Medicine and Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System Medical Center, New Orleans, Louisiana (F.M.-J.); Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Bethel Clinic (EvKB), Bielefeld, Germany (H.K.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy (I.C.); Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden (J.-J.C.); W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland (S.D., S.L.K.); Laboratory of Sex-Gender Medicine, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Sassari, Italy (F.F.); Polyclinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Preventive Medicine (PEDP), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany (I.G.-B.); Scioto Biosciences, Indianapolis, Indiana (M.L.H.); Department of Internal Medicine III, Clinical Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Gender Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna and Gender Institute Gars am Kamp, Vienna, Austria (A.K.-W.); Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia (A.M.); Berlin Institute of Gender Medicine, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany and University of Zürich, Switzerland (V.R.-Z.); Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, and the Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California (K.R.); and Departments of Medicine, Pediatrics, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (J.B.R.)
| | - Flavia Franconi
- Section of Endocrinology, John W. Deming Department of Medicine, Diabetes Discovery and Sex-Based Medicine Laboratory, Tulane University School of Medicine and Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System Medical Center, New Orleans, Louisiana (F.M.-J.); Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Bethel Clinic (EvKB), Bielefeld, Germany (H.K.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy (I.C.); Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden (J.-J.C.); W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland (S.D., S.L.K.); Laboratory of Sex-Gender Medicine, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Sassari, Italy (F.F.); Polyclinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Preventive Medicine (PEDP), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany (I.G.-B.); Scioto Biosciences, Indianapolis, Indiana (M.L.H.); Department of Internal Medicine III, Clinical Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Gender Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna and Gender Institute Gars am Kamp, Vienna, Austria (A.K.-W.); Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia (A.M.); Berlin Institute of Gender Medicine, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany and University of Zürich, Switzerland (V.R.-Z.); Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, and the Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California (K.R.); and Departments of Medicine, Pediatrics, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (J.B.R.)
| | - Ioanna Gouni-Berthold
- Section of Endocrinology, John W. Deming Department of Medicine, Diabetes Discovery and Sex-Based Medicine Laboratory, Tulane University School of Medicine and Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System Medical Center, New Orleans, Louisiana (F.M.-J.); Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Bethel Clinic (EvKB), Bielefeld, Germany (H.K.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy (I.C.); Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden (J.-J.C.); W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland (S.D., S.L.K.); Laboratory of Sex-Gender Medicine, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Sassari, Italy (F.F.); Polyclinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Preventive Medicine (PEDP), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany (I.G.-B.); Scioto Biosciences, Indianapolis, Indiana (M.L.H.); Department of Internal Medicine III, Clinical Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Gender Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna and Gender Institute Gars am Kamp, Vienna, Austria (A.K.-W.); Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia (A.M.); Berlin Institute of Gender Medicine, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany and University of Zürich, Switzerland (V.R.-Z.); Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, and the Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California (K.R.); and Departments of Medicine, Pediatrics, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (J.B.R.)
| | - Mark L Heiman
- Section of Endocrinology, John W. Deming Department of Medicine, Diabetes Discovery and Sex-Based Medicine Laboratory, Tulane University School of Medicine and Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System Medical Center, New Orleans, Louisiana (F.M.-J.); Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Bethel Clinic (EvKB), Bielefeld, Germany (H.K.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy (I.C.); Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden (J.-J.C.); W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland (S.D., S.L.K.); Laboratory of Sex-Gender Medicine, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Sassari, Italy (F.F.); Polyclinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Preventive Medicine (PEDP), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany (I.G.-B.); Scioto Biosciences, Indianapolis, Indiana (M.L.H.); Department of Internal Medicine III, Clinical Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Gender Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna and Gender Institute Gars am Kamp, Vienna, Austria (A.K.-W.); Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia (A.M.); Berlin Institute of Gender Medicine, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany and University of Zürich, Switzerland (V.R.-Z.); Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, and the Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California (K.R.); and Departments of Medicine, Pediatrics, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (J.B.R.)
| | - Alexandra Kautzky-Willer
- Section of Endocrinology, John W. Deming Department of Medicine, Diabetes Discovery and Sex-Based Medicine Laboratory, Tulane University School of Medicine and Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System Medical Center, New Orleans, Louisiana (F.M.-J.); Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Bethel Clinic (EvKB), Bielefeld, Germany (H.K.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy (I.C.); Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden (J.-J.C.); W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland (S.D., S.L.K.); Laboratory of Sex-Gender Medicine, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Sassari, Italy (F.F.); Polyclinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Preventive Medicine (PEDP), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany (I.G.-B.); Scioto Biosciences, Indianapolis, Indiana (M.L.H.); Department of Internal Medicine III, Clinical Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Gender Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna and Gender Institute Gars am Kamp, Vienna, Austria (A.K.-W.); Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia (A.M.); Berlin Institute of Gender Medicine, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany and University of Zürich, Switzerland (V.R.-Z.); Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, and the Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California (K.R.); and Departments of Medicine, Pediatrics, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (J.B.R.)
| | - Sabra L Klein
- Section of Endocrinology, John W. Deming Department of Medicine, Diabetes Discovery and Sex-Based Medicine Laboratory, Tulane University School of Medicine and Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System Medical Center, New Orleans, Louisiana (F.M.-J.); Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Bethel Clinic (EvKB), Bielefeld, Germany (H.K.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy (I.C.); Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden (J.-J.C.); W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland (S.D., S.L.K.); Laboratory of Sex-Gender Medicine, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Sassari, Italy (F.F.); Polyclinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Preventive Medicine (PEDP), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany (I.G.-B.); Scioto Biosciences, Indianapolis, Indiana (M.L.H.); Department of Internal Medicine III, Clinical Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Gender Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna and Gender Institute Gars am Kamp, Vienna, Austria (A.K.-W.); Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia (A.M.); Berlin Institute of Gender Medicine, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany and University of Zürich, Switzerland (V.R.-Z.); Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, and the Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California (K.R.); and Departments of Medicine, Pediatrics, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (J.B.R.)
| | - Anne Murphy
- Section of Endocrinology, John W. Deming Department of Medicine, Diabetes Discovery and Sex-Based Medicine Laboratory, Tulane University School of Medicine and Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System Medical Center, New Orleans, Louisiana (F.M.-J.); Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Bethel Clinic (EvKB), Bielefeld, Germany (H.K.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy (I.C.); Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden (J.-J.C.); W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland (S.D., S.L.K.); Laboratory of Sex-Gender Medicine, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Sassari, Italy (F.F.); Polyclinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Preventive Medicine (PEDP), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany (I.G.-B.); Scioto Biosciences, Indianapolis, Indiana (M.L.H.); Department of Internal Medicine III, Clinical Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Gender Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna and Gender Institute Gars am Kamp, Vienna, Austria (A.K.-W.); Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia (A.M.); Berlin Institute of Gender Medicine, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany and University of Zürich, Switzerland (V.R.-Z.); Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, and the Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California (K.R.); and Departments of Medicine, Pediatrics, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (J.B.R.)
| | - Vera Regitz-Zagrosek
- Section of Endocrinology, John W. Deming Department of Medicine, Diabetes Discovery and Sex-Based Medicine Laboratory, Tulane University School of Medicine and Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System Medical Center, New Orleans, Louisiana (F.M.-J.); Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Bethel Clinic (EvKB), Bielefeld, Germany (H.K.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy (I.C.); Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden (J.-J.C.); W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland (S.D., S.L.K.); Laboratory of Sex-Gender Medicine, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Sassari, Italy (F.F.); Polyclinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Preventive Medicine (PEDP), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany (I.G.-B.); Scioto Biosciences, Indianapolis, Indiana (M.L.H.); Department of Internal Medicine III, Clinical Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Gender Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna and Gender Institute Gars am Kamp, Vienna, Austria (A.K.-W.); Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia (A.M.); Berlin Institute of Gender Medicine, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany and University of Zürich, Switzerland (V.R.-Z.); Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, and the Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California (K.R.); and Departments of Medicine, Pediatrics, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (J.B.R.)
| | - Karen Reue
- Section of Endocrinology, John W. Deming Department of Medicine, Diabetes Discovery and Sex-Based Medicine Laboratory, Tulane University School of Medicine and Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System Medical Center, New Orleans, Louisiana (F.M.-J.); Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Bethel Clinic (EvKB), Bielefeld, Germany (H.K.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy (I.C.); Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden (J.-J.C.); W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland (S.D., S.L.K.); Laboratory of Sex-Gender Medicine, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Sassari, Italy (F.F.); Polyclinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Preventive Medicine (PEDP), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany (I.G.-B.); Scioto Biosciences, Indianapolis, Indiana (M.L.H.); Department of Internal Medicine III, Clinical Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Gender Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna and Gender Institute Gars am Kamp, Vienna, Austria (A.K.-W.); Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia (A.M.); Berlin Institute of Gender Medicine, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany and University of Zürich, Switzerland (V.R.-Z.); Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, and the Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California (K.R.); and Departments of Medicine, Pediatrics, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (J.B.R.)
| | - Joshua B Rubin
- Section of Endocrinology, John W. Deming Department of Medicine, Diabetes Discovery and Sex-Based Medicine Laboratory, Tulane University School of Medicine and Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System Medical Center, New Orleans, Louisiana (F.M.-J.); Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Bethel Clinic (EvKB), Bielefeld, Germany (H.K.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy (I.C.); Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden (J.-J.C.); W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland (S.D., S.L.K.); Laboratory of Sex-Gender Medicine, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems, Sassari, Italy (F.F.); Polyclinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Preventive Medicine (PEDP), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany (I.G.-B.); Scioto Biosciences, Indianapolis, Indiana (M.L.H.); Department of Internal Medicine III, Clinical Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Gender Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna and Gender Institute Gars am Kamp, Vienna, Austria (A.K.-W.); Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia (A.M.); Berlin Institute of Gender Medicine, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany and University of Zürich, Switzerland (V.R.-Z.); Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, and the Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California (K.R.); and Departments of Medicine, Pediatrics, and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri (J.B.R.)
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The Degron Architecture of Squalene Monooxygenase and How Specific Lipids Calibrate Levels of This Key Cholesterol Synthesis Enzyme. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021. [PMID: 32979157 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2020_583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
Abstract
Cholesterol synthesis is a fundamental process that contributes to cellular cholesterol homeostasis. Cells execute transcriptional and post-translational mechanisms to control the abundance of enzymes of the cholesterol synthesis pathway, consequently affecting cholesterol production. One such highly tuned enzyme is squalene monooxygenase (SM), which catalyzes a rate-limiting step in the pathway. A well-characterized mechanism is the cholesterol-mediated degradation of SM. Notably, lipids (cholesterol, plasmalogens, squalene, and unsaturated fatty acids) can act as cellular signals that either promote or reduce SM degradation. The N-terminal region of SM consists of the shortest known cholesterol-responsive degron, characterized by atypical membrane anchoring structures, namely a re-entrant loop and an amphipathic helix. SM also undergoes non-canonical ubiquitination on serine, a relatively uncommon attachment site for ubiquitination. The structure of the catalytic domain of SM has been solved, providing insights into the catalytic mechanisms and modes of inhibition by well-known SM inhibitors, some of which have been effective in lowering cholesterol levels in animal models. Certain human cancers have been linked to dysregulation of SM levels and activity, further emphasizing the relevance of SM in health and disease.
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D'Mello SR. MECP2 and the Biology of MECP2 Duplication Syndrome. J Neurochem 2021; 159:29-60. [PMID: 33638179 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
MECP2 duplication syndrome (MDS), a rare X-linked genomic disorder affecting predominantly males, is caused by duplication of the chromosomal region containing the methyl CpG binding protein-2 (MECP2) gene, which encodes methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2), a multi-functional protein required for proper brain development and maintenance of brain function during adulthood. Disease symptoms include severe motor and cognitive impairment, delayed or absent speech development, autistic features, seizures, ataxia, recurrent respiratory infections and shortened lifespan. The cellular and molecular mechanisms by which a relatively modest increase in MECP2 protein causes such severe disease symptoms are poorly understood and consequently there are no treatments available for this fatal disorder. This review summarizes what is known to date about the structure and complex regulation of MECP2 and its many functions in the developing and adult brain. Additionally, recent experimental findings on the cellular and molecular underpinnings of MDS based on cell culture and mouse models of the disorder are reviewed. The emerging picture from these studies is that MDS is a neurodegenerative disorder in which neurons die in specific parts of the central nervous system, including the cortex, hippocampus, cerebellum and spinal cord. Neuronal death likely results from astrocytic dysfunction, including a breakdown of glutamate homeostatic mechanisms. The role of elevations in the expression of glial acidic fibrillary protein (GFAP) in astrocytes and the microtubule-associated protein, Tau, in neurons to the pathogenesis of MDS is discussed. Lastly, potential therapeutic strategies to potentially treat MDS are discussed.
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Quach TT, Stratton HJ, Khanna R, Kolattukudy PE, Honnorat J, Meyer K, Duchemin AM. Intellectual disability: dendritic anomalies and emerging genetic perspectives. Acta Neuropathol 2021; 141:139-158. [PMID: 33226471 PMCID: PMC7855540 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-020-02244-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Intellectual disability (ID) corresponds to several neurodevelopmental disorders of heterogeneous origin in which cognitive deficits are commonly associated with abnormalities of dendrites and dendritic spines. These histological changes in the brain serve as a proxy for underlying deficits in neuronal network connectivity, mostly a result of genetic factors. Historically, chromosomal abnormalities have been reported by conventional karyotyping, targeted fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and chromosomal microarray analysis. More recently, cytogenomic mapping, whole-exome sequencing, and bioinformatic mining have led to the identification of novel candidate genes, including genes involved in neuritogenesis, dendrite maintenance, and synaptic plasticity. Greater understanding of the roles of these putative ID genes and their functional interactions might boost investigations into determining the plausible link between cellular and behavioral alterations as well as the mechanisms contributing to the cognitive impairment observed in ID. Genetic data combined with histological abnormalities, clinical presentation, and transgenic animal models provide support for the primacy of dysregulation in dendrite structure and function as the basis for the cognitive deficits observed in ID. In this review, we highlight the importance of dendrite pathophysiology in the etiologies of four prototypical ID syndromes, namely Down Syndrome (DS), Rett Syndrome (RTT), Digeorge Syndrome (DGS) and Fragile X Syndrome (FXS). Clinical characteristics of ID have also been reported in individuals with deletions in the long arm of chromosome 10 (the q26.2/q26.3), a region containing the gene for the collapsin response mediator protein 3 (CRMP3), also known as dihydropyrimidinase-related protein-4 (DRP-4, DPYSL4), which is involved in dendritogenesis. Following a discussion of clinical and genetic findings in these syndromes and their preclinical animal models, we lionize CRMP3/DPYSL4 as a novel candidate gene for ID that may be ripe for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tam T Quach
- Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
- INSERM U1217/CNRS, UMR5310, Université de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
| | | | - Rajesh Khanna
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85724, USA
| | | | - Jérome Honnorat
- INSERM U1217/CNRS, UMR5310, Université de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
- French Reference Center on Paraneoplastic Neurological Syndromes and Autoimmune Encephalitis, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
- SynatAc Team, Institut NeuroMyoGène, Lyon, France
| | - Kathrin Meyer
- The Research Institute of Nationwide Children Hospital, Columbus, OH, 43205, USA
- Department of Pediatric, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Anne-Marie Duchemin
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
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Mohan G, Bharathi G, Vellingiri B. A Middle-aged Woman With Severe Scoliosis and Encephalopathy. JAMA Neurol 2021; 78:251-252. [PMID: 33196788 DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2020.4270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Gomathi Mohan
- Human Molecular Cytogenetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Geetha Bharathi
- Human Molecular Cytogenetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Balachandar Vellingiri
- Human Molecular Cytogenetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
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Lee HM, Kuijer MB, Ruiz Blanes N, Clark EP, Aita M, Galiano Arjona L, Kokot A, Sciaky N, Simon JM, Bhatnagar S, Philpot BD, Cerase A. A small-molecule screen reveals novel modulators of MeCP2 and X-chromosome inactivation maintenance. J Neurodev Disord 2020; 12:29. [PMID: 33172406 PMCID: PMC7657357 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-020-09332-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rett syndrome (RTT) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutations in the X-linked methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) gene. While MeCP2 mutations are lethal in most males, females survive birth but show severe neurological defects. Because X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) is a random process, approximately 50% of the cells silence the wild-type (WT) copy of the MeCP2 gene. Thus, reactivating the silent WT copy of MeCP2 could provide therapeutic intervention for RTT. METHODS Toward this goal, we screened ~ 28,000 small-molecule compounds from several libraries using a MeCP2-luciferase reporter cell line and cortical neurons from a MeCP2-EGFP mouse model. We used gain/increase of luminescence or fluorescence as a readout of MeCP2 reactivation and tested the efficacy of these drugs under different drug regimens, conditions, and cellular contexts. RESULTS We identified inhibitors of the JAK/STAT pathway as XCI-reactivating agents, both by in vitro and ex vivo assays. In particular, we show that AG-490, a Janus Kinase 2 (JAK2) kinase inhibitor, and Jaki, a pan JAK/STAT inhibitor, are capable of reactivating MeCP2 from the inactive X chromosome, in different cellular contexts. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that inhibition of the JAK/STAT pathway is a new potential pathway to reinstate MeCP2 gene expression as an efficient RTT treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeong-Min Lee
- Department of Cell Biology & Physiology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- UNC Neuroscience Center, Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Current Address: High-Throughput Bioscience Center, Chemical Biology & Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - M Bram Kuijer
- Department of Cell Biology & Physiology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Ellen P Clark
- Department of Cell Biology & Physiology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Megumi Aita
- Department of Cell Biology & Physiology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Agnieszka Kokot
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Department of Neuroscience, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Noah Sciaky
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jeremy M Simon
- UNC Neuroscience Center, Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Sanchita Bhatnagar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Department of Neuroscience, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Benjamin D Philpot
- Department of Cell Biology & Physiology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- UNC Neuroscience Center, Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Andrea Cerase
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.
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47
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Gomathi M, Padmapriya S, Balachandar V. Drug Studies on Rett Syndrome: From Bench to Bedside. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 50:2740-2764. [PMID: 32016693 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04381-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Drug studies on Rett syndrome (RTT) have drastically increased over the past few decades. This review aims to provide master data on bench-to-bedside drug studies involving RTT. A comprehensive literature review was performed by searching in PUBMED, MEDLINE and Google Scholar, international, national and regional clinical trial registries and pharmaceutical companies using the keywords "Rett syndrome treatment and/or drug or compound or molecule". Seventy drugs were investigated in non-clinical (N = 65 animal/cell line-based studies; N = 5 iPSC-based study) and clinical trials (N = 34) for ameliorating the symptoms of RTT. Though there is good progress in both clinical and non-clinical studies, none of these drugs entered phase III/IV for being launched as a therapeutic agent for RTT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohan Gomathi
- Human Molecular Genetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641046, India
| | | | - Vellingiri Balachandar
- Human Molecular Genetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, 641046, India.
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48
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A multidimensional precision medicine approach identifies an autism subtype characterized by dyslipidemia. Nat Med 2020; 26:1375-1379. [PMID: 32778826 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-020-1007-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2017] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The promise of precision medicine lies in data diversity. More than the sheer size of biomedical data, it is the layering of multiple data modalities, offering complementary perspectives, that is thought to enable the identification of patient subgroups with shared pathophysiology. In the present study, we use autism to test this notion. By combining healthcare claims, electronic health records, familial whole-exome sequences and neurodevelopmental gene expression patterns, we identified a subgroup of patients with dyslipidemia-associated autism.
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49
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A Differential Effect of Lovastatin versus Simvastatin in Neurodevelopmental Disorders. eNeuro 2020; 7:ENEURO.0162-20.2020. [PMID: 32651266 PMCID: PMC7433894 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0162-20.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
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50
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Fluoxetine rescues rotarod motor deficits in Mecp2 heterozygous mouse model of Rett syndrome via brain serotonin. Neuropharmacology 2020; 176:108221. [PMID: 32652084 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2019] [Revised: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Motor skill is a specific area of disability of Rett syndrome (RTT), a rare disorder occurring almost exclusively in girls, caused by loss-of-function mutations of the X-linked methyl-CpG-binding protein2 (MECP2) gene, encoding the MECP2 protein, a member of the methyl-CpG-binding domain nuclear proteins family. Brain 5-HT, which is defective in RTT patients and Mecp2 mutant mice, regulates motor circuits and SSRIs enhance motor skill learning and plasticity. In the present study, we used heterozygous (Het) Mecp2 female and Mecp2-null male mice to investigate whether fluoxetine, a SSRI with pleiotropic effects on neuronal circuits, rescues motor coordination deficits. Repeated administration of 10 mg/kg fluoxetine fully rescued rotarod deficit in Mecp2 Het mice regardless of age, route of administration or pre-training to rotarod. The motor improvement was confirmed in the beam walking test while no effect was observed in the hanging-wire test, suggesting a preferential action of fluoxetine on motor coordination. Citalopram mimicked the effects of fluoxetine, while the inhibition of 5-HT synthesis abolished the fluoxetine-induced improvement of motor coordination. Mecp2 null mice, which responded poorly to fluoxetine in the rotarod, showed reduced 5-HT synthesis in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus and striatum, and reduced efficacy of fluoxetine in raising extracellular 5-HT as compared to female mutants. No sex differences were observed in the ability of fluoxetine to desensitize 5-HT1A autoreceptors upon repeated administration. These findings indicate that fluoxetine rescues motor coordination in Mecp2 Het mice through its ability to enhance brain 5-HT and suggest that drugs enhancing 5-HT neurotransmission may have beneficial effects on motor symptoms of RTT.
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