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Xu H, Li H, Zhang P, Gao Y, Ma H, Gao T, Liu H, Hua W, Zhang L, Zhang X, Yang P, Liu J. The functions of exosomes targeting astrocytes and astrocyte-derived exosomes targeting other cell types. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1947-1953. [PMID: 38227520 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.390961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are the most abundant glial cells in the central nervous system; they participate in crucial biological processes, maintain brain structure, and regulate nervous system function. Exosomes are cell-derived extracellular vesicles containing various bioactive molecules including proteins, peptides, nucleotides, and lipids secreted from their cellular sources. Increasing evidence shows that exosomes participate in a communication network in the nervous system, in which astrocyte-derived exosomes play important roles. In this review, we have summarized the effects of exosomes targeting astrocytes and the astrocyte-derived exosomes targeting other cell types in the central nervous system. We also discuss the potential research directions of the exosome-based communication network in the nervous system. The exosome-based intercellular communication focused on astrocytes is of great significance to the biological and/or pathological processes in different conditions in the brain. New strategies may be developed for the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders by focusing on astrocytes as the central cells and utilizing exosomes as communication mediators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongye Xu
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - He Li
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Emergency, Naval Hospital of Eastern Theater, Zhoushan, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ping Zhang
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Gao
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongyu Ma
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianxiang Gao
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hanchen Liu
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weilong Hua
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoxi Zhang
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Pengfei Yang
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianmin Liu
- Neurovascular Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
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van den Berg LH, Rothstein JD, Shaw PJ, Babu S, Benatar M, Bucelli RC, Genge A, Glass JD, Hardiman O, Libri V, Mobach T, Oskarsson B, Pattee GL, Ravits J, Shaw CE, Weber M, Zinman L, Jafar-Nejad P, Rigo F, Lin L, Ferguson TA, Gotter AL, Graham D, Monine M, Inra J, Sinks S, Eraly S, Garafalo S, Fradette S. Safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of antisense oligonucleotide BIIB078 in adults with C9orf72-associated amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a phase 1, randomised, double blinded, placebo-controlled, multiple ascending dose study. Lancet Neurol 2024; 23:901-912. [PMID: 39059407 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(24)00216-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hexanucleotide repeat expansion of C9orf72 is a common genetic cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). No C9orf72-targeted treatments are available. BIIB078 is an investigational antisense oligonucleotide targeting C9orf72 sense RNA. We aimed to assess the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of BIIB078 in participants with C9orf72-associated ALS. METHODS This phase 1, randomised controlled trial was done at 22 sites in six countries (Canada, Ireland, Netherlands, Switzerland, UK, and USA). Adults with ALS and a pathogenic repeat expansion in C9orf72 were randomly assigned within six cohorts, via Interactive Response Technology in a 3:1 ratio per cohort, to receive BIIB078 (5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, 35 mg, 60 mg, or 90 mg in cohorts 1-6, respectively) or placebo, via an intrathecal bolus injection. The treatment period consisted of three loading doses of study treatment, administered approximately once every 2 weeks, followed by monthly maintenance doses during a treatment period of about 3 months for cohorts 1-3 and about 6 months for cohorts 4-6. Patients and investigators were masked to treatment assignment. The primary endpoint was the incidence of adverse events and serious adverse events. This trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03626012) and is completed. FINDINGS Between Sept 10, 2018, and Nov 17, 2021, 124 patients were screened for inclusion in the study. 18 patients were excluded and 106 participants were enrolled and randomly assigned to receive 5 mg (n=6), 10 mg (n=9), 20 mg (n=9), 35 mg (n=19), 60 mg (n=18), or 90 mg (n=18) of BIIB078, or placebo (n=27). 58 (55%) of 106 patients were female. All patients received at least one dose of study treatment and were included in all analyses. All participants had at least one adverse event; most adverse events were mild or moderate in severity and did not lead to treatment discontinuation. The most common adverse events in BIIB078-treated participants were falls, procedural pain, headache, and post lumbar puncture syndrome. 14 (18%) of 79 patients who received any dose of BIIB078 reported serious adverse events, compared with nine (33%) of 27 patients who received placebo. Five participants who received BIIB078 and three participants who received placebo had fatal adverse events: respiratory failure in a participant who received 10 mg BIIB078, ALS worsening in two participants who received 35 mg BIIB078, traumatic intracerebral haemorrhage in one participant who received 35 mg BIIB078, pulmonary embolism in one participant who received 60 mg BIIB078, and respiratory failure in three participants who received placebo. All deaths were assessed as not related to the study treatment by the reporting investigator. INTERPRETATION On the basis of these phase 1 study results, including secondary and exploratory findings showing no reduction in neurofilament levels and no benefit on clinical outcomes relative to the placebo cohort, BIIB078 clinical development has been discontinued. However, these results will be informative in furthering our understanding of the complex pathobiology of C9orf72-associated ALS. FUNDING Biogen.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Pamela J Shaw
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK; National Institute for Health and Care Research Sheffield Biomedical Research Centre and Clinical Research Facility, University of Sheffield and Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - Suma Babu
- Sean M Healey and AMG Center for ALS, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael Benatar
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Robert C Bucelli
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Angela Genge
- Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, Montreal, Canada
| | | | - Orla Hardiman
- School of Medicine, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Vincenzo Libri
- University College London Institute of Neurology and National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) University College London Hospitals (UCLH) Clinical Research Facility and Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | - Theodore Mobach
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Gary L Pattee
- Bryan Physicians Network, Lincoln, NE, USA; Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - John Ravits
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego Health, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - Markus Weber
- Neuromuscular Diseases Unit/ALS Clinic, Kantonsspital St Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Lorne Zinman
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Frank Rigo
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Carlsbad, CA, USA
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Ruan K, Bai G, Fang Y, Li D, Li T, Liu X, Lu B, Lu Q, Songyang Z, Sun S, Wang Z, Zhang X, Zhou W, Zhang H. Biomolecular condensates and disease pathogenesis. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2024; 67:1792-1832. [PMID: 39037698 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-024-2661-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Biomolecular condensates or membraneless organelles (MLOs) formed by liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) divide intracellular spaces into discrete compartments for specific functions. Dysregulation of LLPS or aberrant phase transition that disturbs the formation or material states of MLOs is closely correlated with neurodegeneration, tumorigenesis, and many other pathological processes. Herein, we summarize the recent progress in development of methods to monitor phase separation and we discuss the biogenesis and function of MLOs formed through phase separation. We then present emerging proof-of-concept examples regarding the disruption of phase separation homeostasis in a diverse array of clinical conditions including neurodegenerative disorders, hearing loss, cancers, and immunological diseases. Finally, we describe the emerging discovery of chemical modulators of phase separation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Ruan
- The First Affiliated Hospital & School of Life Sciences, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membrane-less Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Hefei National Research Center for Interdisciplinary Sciences at the Microscale, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
| | - Ge Bai
- Nanhu Brain-computer Interface Institute, Hangzhou, 311100, China.
- Department of Neurology of Second Affiliated Hospital and School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
| | - Yanshan Fang
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201210, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Dan Li
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China.
| | - Tingting Li
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Xingguo Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China.
- Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, China.
| | - Boxun Lu
- Neurology Department at Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Qing Lu
- Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Ministry of Education, Bio-X Institutes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China.
| | - Zhou Songyang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation and Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Healthy Aging Research, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China.
| | - Shuguo Sun
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Zheng Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedical Innovation, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, China.
| | - Xin Zhang
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, 310024, China.
| | - Wen Zhou
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
| | - Hong Zhang
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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4
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Briones MRS, Campos JH, Ferreira RC, Schneper L, Santos IM, Antoneli FM, Broach JR. Mitochondrial genome variants associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and their haplogroup distribution. Muscle Nerve 2024. [PMID: 39126144 DOI: 10.1002/mus.28230] [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: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) may be familial or sporadic, and twin studies have revealed that even sporadic forms have a significant genetic component. Variants in 55 nuclear genes have been associated with ALS and although mitochondrial dysfunction is observed in ALS, variants in mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) have not yet been tested for association with ALS. The aim of this study was to determine whether mitogenome variants are associated with ALS. METHODS We conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) in mitogenomes of 1965 ALS patients and 2547 controls. RESULTS We identified 51 mitogenome variants with p values <10-7, of which 13 had odds ratios (ORs) >1, in genes RNR1, ND1, CO1, CO3, ND5, ND6, and CYB, while 38 variants had OR <1 in genes RNR1, RNA2, ND1, ND2, CO2, ATP8, ATP6, CO3, ND3, ND4, ND5, ND6, and CYB. The frequencies of haplogroups H, U, and L, the most frequent in our ALS data set, were the same in different onset sites (bulbar, limb, spinal, and axial). Also, intra-haplogroup GWAS revealed unique ALS-associated variants in haplogroups L and U. DISCUSSION Our study shows that mitogenome single nucleotide variants (SNVs) are associated with ALS and suggests that these SNVs could be included in routine genetic testing for ALS and that mitochondrial replacement therapy has the potential to serve as a basis for ALS treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo R S Briones
- Center for Medical Bioinformatics, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - João H Campos
- Graduate Program in Microbiology and Immunology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Renata C Ferreira
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Bridges Genomics, M.E., São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lisa Schneper
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute for Personalized Medicine, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ilda M Santos
- Graduate Program in Microbiology and Immunology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernando M Antoneli
- Center for Medical Bioinformatics, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - James R Broach
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute for Personalized Medicine, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
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Vicario R, Fragkogianni S, Weber L, Lazarov T, Hu Y, Hayashi SY, Craddock BP, Socci ND, Alberdi A, Baako A, Ay O, Ogishi M, Lopez-Rodrigo E, Kappagantula R, Viale A, Iacobuzio-Donahue CA, Zhou T, Ransohoff RM, Chesworth R, Abdel-Wahab O, Boisson B, Elemento O, Casanova JL, Miller WT, Geissmann F. A microglia clonal inflammatory disorder in Alzheimer's Disease. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.25.577216. [PMID: 38328106 PMCID: PMC10849735 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.25.577216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Somatic genetic heterogeneity resulting from post-zygotic DNA mutations is widespread in human tissues and can cause diseases, however few studies have investigated its role in neurodegenerative processes such as Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Here we report the selective enrichment of microglia clones carrying pathogenic variants, that are not present in neuronal, glia/stromal cells, or blood, from patients with AD in comparison to age-matched controls. Notably, microglia-specific AD-associated variants preferentially target the MAPK pathway, including recurrent CBL ring-domain mutations. These variants activate ERK and drive a microglia transcriptional program characterized by a strong neuro-inflammatory response, both in vitro and in patients. Although the natural history of AD-associated microglial clones is difficult to establish in human, microglial expression of a MAPK pathway activating variant was previously shown to cause neurodegeneration in mice, suggesting that AD-associated neuroinflammatory microglial clones may contribute to the neurodegenerative process in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocio Vicario
- Immunology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Stamatina Fragkogianni
- Immunology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Leslie Weber
- Immunology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Tomi Lazarov
- Immunology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Yang Hu
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute for Computational Biomedicine,Weill Cornell New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Samantha Y. Hayashi
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, 11794-8661
| | - Barbara P. Craddock
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, 11794-8661
| | - Nicholas D. Socci
- Marie-Josée & Henry R. Kravis Center for Molecular Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Araitz Alberdi
- Immunology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Ann Baako
- Immunology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Oyku Ay
- Immunology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Masato Ogishi
- St. Giles Laboratory of Human Genetics of Infectious Diseases, Rockefeller Branch, The Rockefeller University, New York, 10065 NY, USA
| | - Estibaliz Lopez-Rodrigo
- Immunology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Rajya Kappagantula
- Human Oncology & Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Agnes Viale
- Marie-Josée & Henry R. Kravis Center for Molecular Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Christine A. Iacobuzio-Donahue
- Human Oncology & Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Ting Zhou
- SKI Stem Cell Research Core, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | | | | | | | - Omar Abdel-Wahab
- Human Oncology & Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Bertrand Boisson
- St. Giles Laboratory of Human Genetics of Infectious Diseases, Rockefeller Branch, The Rockefeller University, New York, 10065 NY, USA
| | - Olivier Elemento
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute for Computational Biomedicine,Weill Cornell New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Jean-Laurent Casanova
- St. Giles Laboratory of Human Genetics of Infectious Diseases, Rockefeller Branch, The Rockefeller University, New York, 10065 NY, USA
| | - W. Todd Miller
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, 11794-8661
| | - Frederic Geissmann
- Immunology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
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Leighton DJ, Ansari M, Newton J, Cleary E, Stephenson L, Beswick E, Carod Artal J, Davenport R, Duncan C, Gorrie GH, Morrison I, Swingler R, Deary IJ, Porteous M, Chandran S, Pal S. Genotypes and phenotypes of motor neuron disease: an update of the genetic landscape in Scotland. J Neurol 2024; 271:5256-5266. [PMID: 38852112 PMCID: PMC11319561 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12450-w] [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: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Using the Clinical Audit Research and Evaluation of Motor Neuron Disease (CARE-MND) database and the Scottish Regenerative Neurology Tissue Bank, we aimed to outline the genetic epidemiology and phenotypes of an incident cohort of people with MND (pwMND) to gain a realistic impression of the genetic landscape and genotype-phenotype associations. METHODS Phenotypic markers were identified from the CARE-MND platform. Sequence analysis of 48 genes was undertaken. Variants were classified using a structured evidence-based approach. Samples were also tested for C9orf72 hexanucleotide expansions using repeat-prime PCR methodology. RESULTS 339 pwMND donated a DNA sample: 44 (13.0%) fulfilled criteria for having a pathogenic variant/repeat expansion, 53.5% of those with a family history of MND and 9.3% of those without. The majority (30 (8.8%)) had a pathogenic C9orf72 repeat expansion, including two with intermediate expansions. Having a C9orf72 expansion was associated with a significantly lower Edinburgh Cognitive and Behavioural ALS Screen ALS-Specific score (p = 0.0005). The known pathogenic SOD1 variant p.(Ile114Thr), frequently observed in the Scottish population, was detected in 9 (2.7%) of total cases but in 17.9% of familial cases. Rare variants were detected in FUS and NEK1. One individual carried both a C9orf72 expansion and SOD1 variant. CONCLUSIONS Our results provide an accurate summary of MND demographics and genetic epidemiology. We recommend early genetic testing of people with cognitive impairment to ensure that C9orf72 carriers are given the best opportunity for informed treatment planning. Scotland is enriched for the SOD1 p.(Ile114Thr) variant and this has significant implications with regards to future genetically-targeted treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle J Leighton
- School of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
- The Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
- Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic, Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, UK.
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
- Institute of Neurological Sciences, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow, G51 4TF, UK.
| | - Morad Ansari
- South East Scotland Genetics Service, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Judith Newton
- The Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic, Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, UK
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Elaine Cleary
- South East Scotland Genetics Service, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Laura Stephenson
- The Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Emily Beswick
- Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic, Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Richard Davenport
- The Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic, Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Callum Duncan
- Department of Neurology, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen, UK
| | - George H Gorrie
- The Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Institute of Neurological Sciences, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow, G51 4TF, UK
| | - Ian Morrison
- Department of Neurology, NHS Tayside, Dundee, UK
| | - Robert Swingler
- The Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Ian J Deary
- Lothian Birth Cohorts Group, Department of Psychology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Mary Porteous
- South East Scotland Genetics Service, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Siddharthan Chandran
- The Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic, Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, UK
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Suvankar Pal
- The Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic, Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, UK
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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7
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Wu J, Zhang G, Zhang L, Ye S, Huang T, Fan D. The integrity of the corticospinal tract and corpus callosum, and the risk of ALS: univariable and multivariable Mendelian randomization. Sci Rep 2024; 14:17216. [PMID: 39060317 PMCID: PMC11282093 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-68374-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Studies suggest that amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) compromises the integrity of white matter fiber tracts, primarily affecting motor fibers. However, it remains uncertain whether the integrity of these fibers influences the risk of ALS. We performed bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) and multivariable MR analyses to evaluate the associative relationships between the integrity of fiber tracts [including the corticospinal tract (CST) and corpus callosum (CC)] and the risk of ALS. Genetic instrumental variables for specific fiber tracts were obtained from published genome-wide association studies (GWASs), including 33,292 European individuals from five diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI) datasets. Summary-level GWAS data for ALS were derived from 27,205 ALS patients and 110,881 controls. The MR results suggested that an increase in the first principal component (PC1) of fractional anisotropy (FA) in the genu of the CC (GCC) was correlated with an increased risk of ALS (PFDR = 0.001, odds ratio = 1.363, 95% confidence interval 1.178-1.577). Although other neuroimaging phenotypes [mean diffusivity in the CST, radial diffusivity (RD) in the CST, FA in the GCC, PC1 in the body of the CC (BCC), PC1 in the CST, and RD in the GCC] did not pass correction, they were also considered to have suggestive associations with the risk of ALS. No evidence revealed that ALS caused changes in the integrity of fiber tracts. In summary, the results of this study provide genetic support for the potential association between the integrity of specific fiber tracts and the risk of ALS. Greater fiber integrity in the GCC and BCC may be a risk factor for ALS, while greater fiber integrity in the CST may have a protective effect on ALS. This study provides insights into ALS development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jieying Wu
- Department of Neurology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Biomarker and Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, Beijing, 100191, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, National Health Commission/Ministry of Education, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Gan Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Biomarker and Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, Beijing, 100191, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, National Health Commission/Ministry of Education, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Linjing Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Biomarker and Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, Beijing, 100191, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, National Health Commission/Ministry of Education, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Shan Ye
- Department of Neurology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Biomarker and Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, Beijing, 100191, China
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, National Health Commission/Ministry of Education, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Tao Huang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China.
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Sciences, Peking University, Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Dongsheng Fan
- Department of Neurology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China.
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Biomarker and Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, Beijing, 100191, China.
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, National Health Commission/Ministry of Education, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China.
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Ho PC, Hsieh TC, Tsai KJ. TDP-43 proteinopathy in frontotemporal lobar degeneration and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: From pathomechanisms to therapeutic strategies. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 100:102441. [PMID: 39069095 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102441] [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: 05/31/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Proteostasis failure is a common pathological characteristic in neurodegenerative diseases. Revitalizing clearance systems could effectively mitigate these diseases. The transactivation response (TAR) DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) plays a critical role as an RNA/DNA-binding protein in RNA metabolism and synaptic function. Accumulation of TDP-43 aggregates in the central nervous system is a hallmark of frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Autophagy, a major and highly conserved degradation pathway, holds the potential for degrading aggregated TDP-43 and alleviating FTLD/ALS. This review explores the causes of TDP-43 aggregation, FTLD/ALS-related genes, key autophagy factors, and autophagy-based therapeutic strategies targeting TDP-43 proteinopathy. Understanding the underlying pathological mechanisms of TDP-43 proteinopathy can facilitate therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Chuan Ho
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Chi Hsieh
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Kuen-Jer Tsai
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan; Research Center of Clinical Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.
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9
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Chen HH, Yeo HT, Huang YH, Tsai LK, Lai HJ, Tsao YP, Chen SL. AAV-NRIP gene therapy ameliorates motor neuron degeneration and muscle atrophy in ALS model mice. Skelet Muscle 2024; 14:17. [PMID: 39044305 PMCID: PMC11267858 DOI: 10.1186/s13395-024-00349-z] [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: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is characterized by progressive motor neuron (MN) degeneration, leading to neuromuscular junction (NMJ) dismantling and severe muscle atrophy. The nuclear receptor interaction protein (NRIP) functions as a multifunctional protein. It directly interacts with calmodulin or α-actinin 2, serving as a calcium sensor for muscle contraction and maintaining sarcomere integrity. Additionally, NRIP binds with the acetylcholine receptor (AChR) for NMJ stabilization. Loss of NRIP in muscles results in progressive motor neuron degeneration with abnormal NMJ architecture, resembling ALS phenotypes. Therefore, we hypothesize that NRIP could be a therapeutic factor for ALS. METHODS We used SOD1 G93A mice, expressing human SOD1 with the ALS-linked G93A mutation, as an ALS model. An adeno-associated virus vector encoding the human NRIP gene (AAV-NRIP) was generated and injected into the muscles of SOD1 G93A mice at 60 days of age, before disease onset. Pathological and behavioral changes were measured to evaluate the therapeutic effects of AAV-NRIP on the disease progression of SOD1 G93A mice. RESULTS SOD1 G93A mice exhibited lower NRIP expression than wild-type mice in both the spinal cord and skeletal muscle tissues. Forced NRIP expression through AAV-NRIP intramuscular injection was observed in skeletal muscles and retrogradely transduced into the spinal cord. AAV-NRIP gene therapy enhanced movement distance and rearing frequencies in SOD1 G93A mice. Moreover, AAV-NRIP increased myofiber size and slow myosin expression, ameliorated NMJ degeneration and axon terminal denervation at NMJ, and increased the number of α-motor neurons (α-MNs) and compound muscle action potential (CMAP) in SOD1 G93A mice. CONCLUSIONS AAV-NRIP gene therapy ameliorates muscle atrophy, motor neuron degeneration, and axon terminal denervation at NMJ, leading to increased NMJ transmission and improved motor functions in SOD1 G93A mice. Collectively, AAV-NRIP could be a potential therapeutic drug for ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsin-Hsiung Chen
- Graduate Institute of Microbiology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 100, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Tung Yeo
- Graduate Institute of Microbiology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 100, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Hsin Huang
- Graduate Institute of Microbiology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 100, Taiwan
| | - Li-Kai Tsai
- Department of Neurology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, 100, Taiwan
| | - Hsing-Jung Lai
- Department of Neurology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, 100, Taiwan
| | - Yeou-Ping Tsao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, 104, Taiwan
| | - Show-Li Chen
- Graduate Institute of Microbiology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 100, Taiwan.
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10
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Sacharczuk M, Mickael ME, Kubick N, Kamińska A, Horbańczuk JO, Atanasov AG, Religa P, Ławiński M. The Current Landscape of Hypotheses Describing the Contribution of CD4+ Heterogeneous Populations to ALS. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:7846-7861. [PMID: 39194682 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46080465] [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: 06/07/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a poorly understood and fatal disease. It has a low prevalence and a 2-4 year survival period. Various theories and hypotheses relating to its development process have been proposed, albeit with no breakthrough in its treatment. Recently, the role of the adaptive immune system in ALS, particularly CD4+ T cells, has begun to be investigated. CD4+ T cells are a heterogeneous group of immune cells. They include highly pro-inflammatory types such as Th1 and Th17, as well as highly anti-inflammatory cells such as Tregs. However, the landscape of the role of CD4+ T cells in ALS is still not clearly understood. This review covers current hypotheses that elucidate how various CD4+ T cells can contribute to ALS development. These hypotheses include the SWITCH model, which suggests that, in the early stages of the disease, Tregs are highly capable of regulating the immune response. However, in the later stages of the disease, it seems that pro-inflammatory cells such as Th1 and Th17 are capable of overwhelming Treg function. The reason why this occurs is not known. Several research groups have proposed that CD4+ T cells as a whole might experience aging. Others have proposed that gamma delta T cells might directly target Tregs. Additionally, other research groups have argued that less well-known CD4+ T cells, such as Emoes+ CD4+ T cells, may be directly responsible for neuron death by producing granzyme B. We propose that the ALS landscape is highly complicated and that there is more than one feasible hypothesis. However, it is critical to take into consideration the differences in the ability of different populations of CD4+ T cells to infiltrate the blood-brain barrier, taking into account the brain region and the time of infiltration. Shedding more light on these still obscure factors can help to create a personalized therapy capable of regaining the balance of power in the battle between the anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory cells in the central nervous system of ALS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariusz Sacharczuk
- Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Postępu 36A, 05-552 Jastrzębiec, Poland
- Department of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michel-Edwar Mickael
- Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Postępu 36A, 05-552 Jastrzębiec, Poland
| | - Norwin Kubick
- Department of Biology, Institute of Plant Science and Microbiology, University of Hamburg, Ohnhorststr. 18, 22609 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Agnieszka Kamińska
- Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, 01-938 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jarosław Olav Horbańczuk
- Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Postępu 36A, 05-552 Jastrzębiec, Poland
| | - Atanas G Atanasov
- Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Postępu 36A, 05-552 Jastrzębiec, Poland
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute Digital Health and Patient Safety, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Piotr Religa
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Pathology, Karolinska Institute, SE-141 86 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Michał Ławiński
- Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Postępu 36A, 05-552 Jastrzębiec, Poland
- Department of General Surgery, Gastroenterology and Oncology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
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11
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Dash BP, Freischmidt A, Weishaupt JH, Hermann A. An integrative miRNA-mRNA expression analysis identifies miRNA signatures associated with SOD1 and TARDBP patient-derived motor neurons. Hum Mol Genet 2024; 33:1300-1314. [PMID: 38676626 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddae072] [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: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a subset of small non-coding single-stranded RNA molecules involved in the regulation of post-transcriptional gene expression of a variety of transcript targets. Therefore altered miRNA expression may result in the dysregulation of key genes and biological pathways that has been reported with the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). ALS is marked by a progressive degeneration of motor neurons (MNs) present in the spinal cord, brain stem and motor cortex. Although the pathomechanism underlying molecular interactions of ALS remains poorly understood, alterations in RNA metabolism, including dysregulation of miRNA expression in familial as well as sporadic forms are still scarcely studied. In this study, we performed combined transcriptomic data and miRNA profiling in MN samples of the same samples of iPSC-derived MNs from SOD1- and TARDBP (TDP-43 protein)-mutant-ALS patients and healthy controls. We report a global upregulation of mature miRNAs, and suggest that differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs have a significant impact on mRNA-level in SOD1-, but not in TARDBP-linked ALS. Furthermore, in SOD1-ALS we identified dysregulated miRNAs such as miR-124-3p, miR-19b-3p and miR-218 and their potential targets previously implicated in important functional process and pathogenic pathways underlying ALS. These miRNAs may play key roles in the neuronal development and cell survival related functions in SOD1-ALS. Altogether, we provide evidence of miRNA regulated genes expression mainly in SOD1 rather than TDP43-ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Banaja P Dash
- Translational Neurodegeneration Section "Albrecht Kossel", Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Rostock, Gehlsheimer Str. 20, Rostock 18147, Germany
| | - Axel Freischmidt
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, Ulm 89081, Germany
| | - Jochen H Weishaupt
- Division of Neurodegeneration, Department of Neurology, Mannheim Center for Translational Neurosciences, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, Mannheim 68167, Germany
| | - Andreas Hermann
- Translational Neurodegeneration Section "Albrecht Kossel", Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Rostock, Gehlsheimer Str. 20, Rostock 18147, Germany
- Center for Transdisciplinary Neurosciences Rostock, University Medical Center Rostock, Gehlsheimer Str. 20, Rostock 18147, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE) Rostock/Greifswald, Gehlsheimer Str. 20, Rostock 18147, Germany
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12
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Çelik MH, Gagneur J, Lim RG, Wu J, Thompson LM, Xie X. Identifying dysregulated regions in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis through chromatin accessibility outliers. HGG ADVANCES 2024; 5:100318. [PMID: 38872308 PMCID: PMC11260578 DOI: 10.1016/j.xhgg.2024.100318] [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: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The high heritability of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) contrasts with its low molecular diagnosis rate post-genetic testing, pointing to potential undiscovered genetic factors. To aid the exploration of these factors, we introduced EpiOut, an algorithm to identify chromatin accessibility outliers that are regions exhibiting divergent accessibility from the population baseline in a single or few samples. Annotation of accessible regions with histone chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing and Hi-C indicates that outliers are concentrated in functional loci, especially among promoters interacting with active enhancers. Across different omics levels, outliers are robustly replicated, and chromatin accessibility outliers are reliable predictors of gene expression outliers and aberrant protein levels. When promoter accessibility does not align with gene expression, our results indicate that molecular aberrations are more likely to be linked to post-transcriptional regulation rather than transcriptional regulation. Our findings demonstrate that the outlier detection paradigm can uncover dysregulated regions in rare diseases. EpiOut is available at github.com/uci-cbcl/EpiOut.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammed Hasan Çelik
- Department of Computer Science, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA; Center for Complex Biological Systems, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Julien Gagneur
- Department of Informatics, Technical University of Munich, Garching, Germany; Helmholtz Association - Munich School for Data Science (MUDS), Munich, Germany; Institute of Human Genetics, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany; Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Ryan G Lim
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Jie Wu
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Leslie M Thompson
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA; UCI MIND, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior and Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Center, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA; Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Xiaohui Xie
- Department of Computer Science, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA.
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13
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Magalhães RSS, Monteiro Neto JR, Ribeiro GD, Paranhos LH, Eleutherio ECA. Trehalose Protects against Superoxide Dismutase 1 Proteinopathy in an Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Model. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:807. [PMID: 39061876 PMCID: PMC11274086 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13070807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This work aimed to study the effect of trehalose in protecting cells against Sod1 proteinopathy associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Humanized yeast cells in which native Sod1 was replaced by wild-type human Sod1 or an ALS mutant (WT-A4V Sod1 heterodimer) were used as the experimental model. Cells were treated with 10% trehalose (p/v) before or after the appearance of hSod1 proteinopathy induced by oxidative stress. In both conditions, trehalose reduced the number of cells with Sod1 inclusions, increased Sod1 activity, and decreased the levels of intracellular oxidation, demonstrating that trehalose avoids Sod1 misfolding and loss of function in response to oxidative stress. The survival rates of ALS Sod1 cells stressed in the presence of trehalose were 60% higher than in their absence. Treatment with trehalose after the appearance of Sod1 inclusions in cells expressing WT Sod1 doubled longevity; after 5 days, non-treated cells did not survive, but 15% of cells treated with sugar were still alive. Altogether, our results emphasize the potential of trehalose as a novel therapy, which might be applied preventively in ALS patients with a family history of the disease or after diagnosis in ALS patients who discover the disease following the first symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Elis C. A. Eleutherio
- Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil; (R.S.S.M.); (J.R.M.N.); (G.D.R.); (L.H.P.)
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14
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Spencer D, Polke J, Campbell J, Houlden H, Radunovic A. 'Outcomes of genetic testing in the London MND Center: the importance of achieving timely results and correlations to family history'. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2024:1-6. [PMID: 38932488 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2024.2370808] [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: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Background: Despite recognition of the importance of genetic factors in the pathogenesis of MND and the increasing availability of genetic testing, testing practice remains highly variable. With the arrival of gene-targeted therapies there is a growing need to promptly identify actionable genetic results and patient death before receipt of results raises ethical dilemmas and limits access to novel therapies. Objective: To identify pathogenic mutations within a London tertiary MND center and their correlation with family history. To record waiting times for genetic results and deaths prior to receipt of results. Methods: In this series of 100 cases, genetic testing was offered to all patients with an MND diagnosis from the tertiary clinic. Data on demographics, disease progression and a detailed family history were taken. Time to receipt of genetic results and patient deaths prior to this were recorded. Results: Of the 97 patients who accepted testing a genetic cause was identified in 10%, including seven C9orf72 and two positive SOD1 cases. Only three patients with positive genetic findings had a family history of MND, although alternative neurological diagnoses and symptoms in the family were frequently reported. 14% of patients who underwent testing were deceased by the time results were received, including one actionable SOD1 case. Conclusions: Genetic testing should be made available to all patients who receive an MND diagnosis as family history alone is inadequate to identify potential familial cases. Time to receipt of results remains a significant issue due to the limited life expectancy following diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dean Spencer
- Department of Neurology, Barts Health NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK and
| | - James Polke
- Neurogenetics Laboratory, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery and North Thames Genomics Laboratory Hub, London, UK
| | - Joanna Campbell
- Neurogenetics Laboratory, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery and North Thames Genomics Laboratory Hub, London, UK
| | - Henry Houlden
- Neurogenetics Laboratory, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery and North Thames Genomics Laboratory Hub, London, UK
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15
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Okekenwa S, Tsai M, Dooley P, Wang B, Comassio P, Moreira J, Kriefall N, Martin S, Morfini G, Brady S, Song Y. Divergent Molecular Pathways for Toxicity of Selected Mutant C9ORF72-derived Dipeptide Repeats. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.09.28.558663. [PMID: 37808871 PMCID: PMC10557653 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.28.558663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Expansion of a hexanucleotide repeat in a noncoding region of the C9ORF72 gene is responsible for a significant fraction of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) cases, but mechanisms linking mutant gene products to neuronal toxicity remain debatable. Pathogenesis was proposed to involve the production of toxic RNA species and/or accumulation of toxic dipeptide repeats (DPRs) but distinguishing between these mechanisms has been challenging. In this study, we first use complementary model systems for analyzing pathogenesis in adult-onset neurodegenerative diseases to characterize the pathogenicity of DPRs produced by Repeat Associated Non-ATG translation of C9ORF72 in specific cellular compartments: isolated axoplasm and giant synapse from the squid. Results showed selective axonal and presynaptic toxicity of GP-DPRs, independent of associated RNA. These effects involved a MAPK signaling pathway that affects fast axonal transport and synaptic function, a pathogenic mechanism shared with other mutant proteins associated with familial ALS, like SOD1 and FUS. In primary cultured neurons, GP but not other DPRs promote the "dying-back" axonopathy seen in ALS. Interestingly, GR- and PR-DPRs, which had no effect on axonal transport or synaptic transmission, were found to disrupt the nuclear membrane, promoting "dying-forward" neuropathy. All C9-DPR-mediated toxic effects observed in these studies are independent of whether the corresponding mRNAs contained hexanucleotide repeats or alternative codons. Finally, C9ORF72 human tissues confirmed a close association between GP and active P38 in degenerating motor neurons as well as GR-associated nuclear damage in the cortex. Collectively, our studies establish compartment-specific toxic effects of C9-DPRs associated with degeneration, suggesting that two independent pathogenic mechanisms may contribute to disease heterogeneity and/or synergize on disease progression in C9ORF72 patients with ALS and/or FTD symptoms.
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16
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Thulasidharan A, Garg L, Tendulkar S, Ratnaparkhi GS. Age-dependent dynamics of neuronal VAPB ALS inclusions in the adult brain. Neurobiol Dis 2024; 196:106517. [PMID: 38679111 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2024.106517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a relentlessly progressive and fatal disease, caused by the degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons within the brain and spinal cord in the ageing human. The dying neurons contain cytoplasmic inclusions linked to the onset and progression of the disease. Here, we use a Drosophila model of ALS8 (VAPP58S) to understand the modulation of these inclusions in the ageing adult brain. The adult VAPP58S fly shows progressive deterioration in motor function till its demise 25 days post-eclosion. The density of VAPP58S-positive brain inclusions is stable for 5-15 days of age. In contrast, adding a single copy of VAPWT to the VAPP58S animal leads to a large decrease in inclusion density with concomitant rescue of motor function and lifespan. ER stress, a contributing factor in disease, shows reduction with ageing for the disease model. Autophagy, rather than the Ubiquitin Proteasome system, is the dominant mechanism for aggregate clearance. We explored the ability of Drosophila Valosin-containing protein (VCP/TER94), the ALS14 locus, which is involved in cellular protein clearance, to regulate age-dependent aggregation. Contrary to expectation, TER94 overexpression increased VAPP58S punctae density, while its knockdown led to enhanced clearance. Expression of a dominant positive allele, TER94R152H, further stabilised VAPP58S puncta, cementing roles for an ALS8-ALS14 axis. Our results are explained by a mechanism where autophagy is modulated by TER94 knockdown. Our study sheds light on the complex regulatory events involved in the neuronal maintenance of ALS8 aggregates, suggesting a context-dependent switch between proteasomal and autophagy-based mechanisms as the larvae develop into an adult. A deeper understanding of the nucleation and clearance of the inclusions, which affect cellular stress and function, is essential for understanding the initiation and progression of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aparna Thulasidharan
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education & Research (IISER), Pune 411008, India
| | - Lovleen Garg
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education & Research (IISER), Pune 411008, India
| | - Shweta Tendulkar
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education & Research (IISER), Pune 411008, India
| | - Girish S Ratnaparkhi
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education & Research (IISER), Pune 411008, India.
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17
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Al-kuraishy HM, Jabir MS, Sulaiman GM, Mohammed HA, Al-Gareeb AI, Albuhadily AK, Jawad SF, Swelum AA, Abomughaid MM. The role of statins in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: protective or not? Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1422912. [PMID: 38903602 PMCID: PMC11188367 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1422912] [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: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease of motor neurons characterized by muscle weakness, muscle twitching, and muscle wasting. ALS is regarded as the third-most frequent neurodegenerative disease, subsequent to Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). The World Health Organization (WHO) in 2007 declared that prolonged use of statins may induce development of ALS-like syndrome and may increase ALS risk. Subsequently, different studies have implicated statins in the pathogenesis of ALS. In contrast, results from preclinical and clinical studies highlighted the protective role of statins against ALS neuropathology. Recently, meta-analyses and systematic reviews illustrated no association between long-term use of statins and ALS risk. These findings highlighted controversial points regarding the effects of statins on ALS pathogenesis and risk. The neuroprotective effects of statins against the development and progression of ALS may be mediated by regulating dyslipidemia and inflammatory changes. However, the mechanism for induction of ALS neuropathology by statins may be related to the dysregulation of liver X receptor signaling (LXR) signaling in the motor neurons and reduction of cholesterol, which has a neuroprotective effect against ALS neuropathology. Nevertheless, the exact role of statins on the pathogenesis of ALS was not fully elucidated. Therefore, this narrative review aims to discuss the role of statins in ALS neuropathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayder M. Al-kuraishy
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Majid S. Jabir
- Department of Applied Sciences, University of Technology, Baghdad, Iraq
| | | | - Hamdoon A. Mohammed
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Medicinal Plants, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ali I. Al-Gareeb
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, Jabir Ibn Hayyan Medical University, Kufa, Iraq
| | - Ali K. Albuhadily
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Sabrean F. Jawad
- Department of Pharmacy, Al-Mustaqbal University College, Hillah, Iraq
| | - Ayman A. Swelum
- Department of Animal Production, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mosleh M. Abomughaid
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Bisha, Bisha, Saudi Arabia
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18
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Gotte G. Effects of Pathogenic Mutants of the Neuroprotective RNase 5-Angiogenin in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:738. [PMID: 38927674 PMCID: PMC11202570 DOI: 10.3390/genes15060738] [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: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease that affects the motoneurons. More than 40 genes are related with ALS, and amyloidogenic proteins like SOD1 and/or TDP-43 mutants are directly involved in the onset of ALS through the formation of polymorphic fibrillogenic aggregates. However, efficacious therapeutic approaches are still lacking. Notably, heterozygous missense mutations affecting the gene coding for RNase 5, an enzyme also called angiogenin (ANG), were found to favor ALS onset. This is also true for the less-studied but angiogenic RNase 4. This review reports the substrate targets and illustrates the neuroprotective role of native ANG in the neo-vascularization of motoneurons. Then, it discusses the molecular determinants of many pathogenic ANG mutants, which almost always cause loss of function related to ALS, resulting in failures in angiogenesis and motoneuron protection. In addition, ANG mutations are sometimes combined with variants of other factors, thereby potentiating ALS effects. However, the activity of the native ANG enzyme should be finely balanced, and not excessive, to avoid possible harmful effects. Considering the interplay of these angiogenic RNases in many cellular processes, this review aims to stimulate further investigations to better elucidate the consequences of mutations in ANG and/or RNase 4 genes, in order to achieve early diagnosis and, possibly, successful therapies against ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Gotte
- Biological Chemistry Section, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, I-37134 Verona, Italy
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19
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Li X, Bedlack R. Evaluating emerging drugs in phase II & III for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2024; 29:93-102. [PMID: 38516735 DOI: 10.1080/14728214.2024.2333420] [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: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis is a rapidly progressive motor neuron disorder causing severe disability and premature death. Owing to the advances in uncovering ALS pathophysiology, efficient clinical trial design and research advocacy program, several disease-modifying drugs have been approved for treating ALS. Despite this progress, ALS remains a rapidly disabling and life shortening condition. There is a critical need for more effective therapies. AREAS COVERED Here, we reviewed the emerging ALS therapeutics undergoing phase II & III clinical trials. To identify the investigational drugs, we searched ALS and phase II/III trials that are active and recruiting or not yet recruiting on clinicaltrials.gov and Pharmaprojects database. EXPERT OPINION The current pipeline is larger and more diverse than ever, with drugs targeting potential genetic and retroviral causes of ALS and drugs targeting a wide array of downstream pathways, including RNA metabolism, protein aggregation, integrated stress response and neuroinflammation.We remain most excited about those that target direct causes of ALS, e.g. antisense oligonucleotides targeting causative genes. Drugs that eliminate abnormal protein aggregates are also up-and-coming. Eventually, because of the heterogeneity of ALS pathophysiology, biomarkers that determine which biological events are most important for an individual ALS patient are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Li
- Department of Neurology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
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20
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Cabras S, Di Pede F, Canosa A, Grassano M, Mongini TE, Gadaleta G, Calvo A, Chiò A, Moglia C, Gallone S. Hereditary motor sensory neuropathy with proximal involvement (HMSN-P) associated with TFG p.Pro285Leu variant in an Italian family with a motor neuron disease-like clinical picture. Muscle Nerve 2024; 69:730-732. [PMID: 38533668 DOI: 10.1002/mus.28088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Cabras
- ALS Center, "Rita Levi Montalcini" Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- School of Advanced Studies, Center for Neuroscience, University of Camerino, Camerino, Italy
| | - Francesca Di Pede
- ALS Center, "Rita Levi Montalcini" Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Antonio Canosa
- ALS Center, "Rita Levi Montalcini" Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- S.C. Neurologia 1U, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
- Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies, National Council of Research, Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Grassano
- ALS Center, "Rita Levi Montalcini" Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Tiziana Enrica Mongini
- S.C. Neurologia 1U, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
- Neuromuscular Center, "Rita Levi Montalcini" Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- ERN Euro-NMD, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Giulio Gadaleta
- Neuromuscular Center, "Rita Levi Montalcini" Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Andrea Calvo
- ALS Center, "Rita Levi Montalcini" Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- S.C. Neurologia 1U, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Adriano Chiò
- ALS Center, "Rita Levi Montalcini" Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- S.C. Neurologia 1U, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
- Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies, National Council of Research, Rome, Italy
- ERN Euro-NMD, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Cristina Moglia
- ALS Center, "Rita Levi Montalcini" Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- S.C. Neurologia 1U, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Salvatore Gallone
- S.C. Neurologia 1U, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
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Abyadeh M, Gupta V, Paulo JA, Mahmoudabad AG, Shadfar S, Mirshahvaladi S, Gupta V, Nguyen CTO, Finkelstein DI, You Y, Haynes PA, Salekdeh GH, Graham SL, Mirzaei M. Amyloid-beta and tau protein beyond Alzheimer's disease. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1262-1276. [PMID: 37905874 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.386406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT The aggregation of amyloid-beta peptide and tau protein dysregulation are implicated to play key roles in Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis and are considered the main pathological hallmarks of this devastating disease. Physiologically, these two proteins are produced and expressed within the normal human body. However, under pathological conditions, abnormal expression, post-translational modifications, conformational changes, and truncation can make these proteins prone to aggregation, triggering specific disease-related cascades. Recent studies have indicated associations between aberrant behavior of amyloid-beta and tau proteins and various neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, as well as retinal neurodegenerative diseases like Glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration. Additionally, these proteins have been linked to cardiovascular disease, cancer, traumatic brain injury, and diabetes, which are all leading causes of morbidity and mortality. In this comprehensive review, we provide an overview of the connections between amyloid-beta and tau proteins and a spectrum of disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vivek Gupta
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Joao A Paulo
- Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Sina Shadfar
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Shahab Mirshahvaladi
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Veer Gupta
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Christine T O Nguyen
- Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - David I Finkelstein
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Yuyi You
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Paul A Haynes
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW, Australia
| | - Ghasem H Salekdeh
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW, Australia
| | - Stuart L Graham
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Mehdi Mirzaei
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie Medical School, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, North Ryde, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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22
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Oliveira Santos M, de Carvalho M. Profiling tofersen as a treatment of superoxide dismutase 1 amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Expert Rev Neurother 2024; 24:549-553. [PMID: 38758193 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2024.2355983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rapidly progressive motor neuron disorder with a fatal outcome 3-5 years after disease onset due to respiratory complications. Superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) mutations are found in about 2% of all patients. Tofersen is a novel oligonucleotide antisense drug specifically developed to treat SOD1-ALS patients. AREAS COVERED Our review covers and discusses tofersen pharmacological properties and its phase I/II and III clinical trials results. Other available drugs and their limitations are also addressed. EXPERT OPINION VALOR study failed to meet the primary endpoint (change in the revised Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale score from baseline to week 28, tofersen arm vs. placebo), but a significant reduction in plasma neurofilament light chain (NfL) levels was observed in tofersen arm (60% vs. 20%). PrefALS study has proposed plasma NfL has a potential biomarker for presymptomatic treatment, since it increases 6-12 months before phenoconversion. There is probably a delay between plasma NfL reduction and the clinical benefit. ATLAS study will allow more insights regarding tofersen clinical efficacy in disease progression rate, survival, and even disease onset delay in presymptomatic SOD1 carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Oliveira Santos
- Institute of Physiology, Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Centro de Estudos Egas Moniz, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Mamede de Carvalho
- Institute of Physiology, Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Centro de Estudos Egas Moniz, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
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Martínez P, Silva M, Abarzúa S, Tevy MF, Jaimovich E, Constantine-Paton M, Bustos FJ, van Zundert B. Skeletal myotubes expressing ALS mutant SOD1 induce pathogenic changes, impair mitochondrial axonal transport, and trigger motoneuron death. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.24.595817. [PMID: 38826246 PMCID: PMC11142234 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.24.595817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease characterized by the loss of motoneurons (MNs), and despite progress, there is no effective treatment. A large body of evidence shows that astrocytes expressing ALS-linked mutant proteins cause non-cell autonomous toxicity of MNs. Although MNs innervate muscle fibers and ALS is characterized by the early disruption of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) and axon degeneration, there are controversies about whether muscle contributes to non-cell-autonomous toxicity to MNs. In this study, we generated primary skeletal myotubes from myoblasts derived from ALS mice expressing human mutant SOD1 G93A (termed hereafter mutSOD1). Characterization revealed that mutSOD1 skeletal myotubes display intrinsic phenotypic and functional differences compared to control myotubes generated from non-transgenic (NTg) littermates. Next, we analyzed whether ALS myotubes exert non-cell-autonomous toxicity to MNs. We report that conditioned media from mutSOD1 myotubes (mutSOD1-MCM), but not from control myotubes (NTg-MCM), induced robust death of primary MNs in mixed spinal cord cultures and compartmentalized microfluidic chambers. Our study further revealed that applying mutSOD1-MCM to the MN axonal side in microfluidic devices rapidly reduces mitochondrial axonal transport while increasing Ca2+ transients and reactive oxygen species (i.e., H 2 O 2 ). These results indicate that soluble factor(s) released by mutSOD1 myotubes cause MN axonopathy that leads to lethal pathogenic changes.
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Zhu L, Bai D, Wang X, Ou K, Li B, Jia Q, Tan Z, Liang J, He D, Yan S, Wang L, Li S, Li XJ, Yin P. Pathologic TDP-43 downregulates myelin gene expression in the monkey brain. Brain Pathol 2024:e13277. [PMID: 38779803 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.13277] [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: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Growing evidence indicates that non-neuronal oligodendrocyte plays an important role in Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other neurodegenerative diseases. In patient's brain, the impaired myelin structure is a pathological feature with the observation of TDP-43 in cytoplasm of oligodendrocyte. However, the mechanism underlying the gain of function by TDP-43 in oligodendrocytes, which are vital for the axonal integrity, remains unclear. Recently, we found that the primate-specific cleavage of truncated TDP-43 fragments occurred in cytoplasm of monkey neural cells. This finding opened up the avenue to investigate the myelin integrity affected by pathogenic TDP-43 in oligodendrocytes. In current study, we demonstrated that the truncated TDP-35 in oligodendrocytes specifically, could lead to the dysfunctional demyelination in corpus callosum of monkey. As a consequence of the interaction of myelin regulatory factor with the accumulated TDP-35 in cytoplasm, the downstream myelin-associated genes expression was downregulated at the transcriptional level. Our study aims to investigate the potential effect on myelin structure injury, affected by the truncated TDP-43 in oligodendrocyte, which provided the additional clues on the gain of function during the progressive pathogenesis and symptoms in TDP-43 related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longhong Zhu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dazhang Bai
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Institute of Neurological Diseases, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Xiang Wang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kaili Ou
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bang Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qingqing Jia
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiqiang Tan
- Department of Medical Imaging, First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiahui Liang
- Department of Medical Imaging, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dajian He
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sen Yan
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Medical Imaging, First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shihua Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Jiang Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peng Yin
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
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25
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Castelli L, Vasta R, Allen SP, Waller R, Chiò A, Traynor BJ, Kirby J. From use of omics to systems biology: Identifying therapeutic targets for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 176:209-268. [PMID: 38802176 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2024.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a heterogeneous progressive neurodegenerative disorder with available treatments such as riluzole and edaravone extending survival by an average of 3-6 months. The lack of highly effective, widely available therapies reflects the complexity of ALS. Omics technologies, including genomics, transcriptomic and proteomics have contributed to the identification of biological pathways dysregulated and targeted by therapeutic strategies in preclinical and clinical trials. Integrating clinical, environmental and neuroimaging information with omics data and applying a systems biology approach can further improve our understanding of the disease with the potential to stratify patients and provide more personalised medicine. This chapter will review the omics technologies that contribute to a systems biology approach and how these components have assisted in identifying therapeutic targets. Current strategies, including the use of genetic screening and biosampling in clinical trials, as well as the future application of additional technological advances, will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Castelli
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Population Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Neuroscience Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Rosario Vasta
- ALS Expert Center,'Rita Levi Montalcini' Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy; Neuromuscular Diseases Research Section, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Scott P Allen
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Population Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Neuroscience Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Waller
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Population Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Neuroscience Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Adriano Chiò
- ALS Expert Center,'Rita Levi Montalcini' Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy; Neurology 1, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Bryan J Traynor
- Neuromuscular Diseases Research Section, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States; RNA Therapeutics Laboratory, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, NIH, Rockville, MD, United States; National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD, United States; Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, United States; Reta Lila Weston Institute, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology,University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Janine Kirby
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Population Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Neuroscience Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom.
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Prasad K, Hassan MI, Raghuvanshi S, Kumar V. Understanding the relationship between cerebellum and the frontal-cortex region of C9orf72-related amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A comparative analysis of genetic features. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301267. [PMID: 38753768 PMCID: PMC11098475 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a relentlessly progressive and fatal neurodegenerative diseases for which at present no cure is available. Despite the extensive research the progress from diagnosis to prognosis in ALS and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) has been slow which represents suboptimal understanding of disease pathophysiological processes. In recent studies, several genes have been associated with the ALS and FTD diseases such as SOD1, TDP43, and TBK1, whereas the hexanucleotide GGGGCC repeat expansion (HRE) in C9orf72 gene is a most frequent cause of ALS and FTD, that has changed the understanding of these diseases. METHODS The goal of this study was to identify and spatially determine differential gene expression signature differences between cerebellum and frontal cortex in C9orf72-associated ALS (C9-ALS), to study the network properties of these differentially expressed genes, and to identify miRNAs targeting the common differentially expressed genes in both the tissues. This study thus highlights underlying differential cell susceptibilities to the disease mechanisms in C9-ALS and suggesting therapeutic target selection in C9-ALS. RESULTS In this manuscript, we have identified that the genes involved in neuron development, protein localization and transcription are mostly enriched in cerebellum of C9-ALS patients, while the UPR-related genes are enriched in the frontal cortex. Of note, UPR pathway genes were mostly dysregulated both in the C9-ALS cerebellum and frontal cortex. Overall, the data presented here show that defects in normal RNA processing and the UPR pathway are the pathological hallmarks of C9-ALS. Interestingly, the cerebellum showed more strong transcriptome changes than the frontal cortex. CONCLUSION Interestingly, the cerebellum region showed more significant transcriptomic changes as compared to the frontal cortex region suggesting its active participation in the disease process. This nuanced understanding may offer valuable insights for the development of targeted therapeutic strategies aimed at mitigating disease progression in C9-ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kartikay Prasad
- Amity Institute of Neuropsychology & Neurosciences, Amity University, Noida, UP, India
| | - Md Imtaiyaz Hassan
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
| | - Saurabh Raghuvanshi
- Department of Plant Molecular Biology, University of Delhi, South Campus, New Delhi, India
| | - Vijay Kumar
- Amity Institute of Neuropsychology & Neurosciences, Amity University, Noida, UP, India
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Shelkovnikova TA, Hautbergue GM. RNP granules in ALS and neurodegeneration: From multifunctional membraneless organelles to therapeutic opportunities. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 176:455-479. [PMID: 38802180 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2024.04.009] [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] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and related neurodegenerative diseases are characterised by dysfunction of a host of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and a severely disrupted RNA metabolism. Recently, RBP-harbouring phase-separated complexes, ribonucleoprotein (RNP) granules, have come into the limelight as "crucibles" of neuronal pathology in ALS. RNP granules are indispensable for the multitude of regulatory processes underlying cellular RNA metabolism and serve as critical organisers of cellular biochemistry. Neurons, highly specialised cells, heavily rely on RNP granules for efficient trafficking, signalling and stress responses. Multiple RNP granule components, primarily RBPs such as TDP-43 and FUS, are affected by ALS mutations. However, even in the absence of mutations, RBP proteinopathies represent pathophysiological hallmarks of ALS. Given the high local concentrations of RBPs and RNAs, their weakened or enhanced interactions within RNP granules disrupt their homeostasis. Thus, the physiological process of phase separation and RNP granule formation, vital for maintaining the high-functioning state of neuronal cells, becomes their Achilles heel. Here, we will review the recent literature on the causes and consequences of abnormal RNP granule functioning in ALS and related disorders. In particular, we will summarise the evidence for the network-level dysfunction of RNP granules in these conditions and discuss considerations for therapeutic interventions to target RBPs, RNP granules and their network as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatyana A Shelkovnikova
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Neuroscience Institute, University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield, United Kingdom.
| | - Guillaume M Hautbergue
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Neuroscience Institute, University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Healthy Lifespan Institute (HELSI), University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield, United Kingdom.
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28
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Nementzik LR, Thumbadoo KM, Murray HC, Gordon D, Yang S, Blair IP, Turner C, Faull RLM, Curtis MA, McLean C, Nicholson GA, Swanson MEV, Scotter EL. Distribution of ubiquilin 2 and TDP-43 aggregates throughout the CNS in UBQLN2 p.T487I-linked amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia. Brain Pathol 2024; 34:e13230. [PMID: 38115557 PMCID: PMC11007053 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.13230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the UBQLN2 gene cause amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). The neuropathology of such UBQLN2-linked cases of ALS/FTD is characterised by aggregates of the ubiquilin 2 protein in addition to aggregates of the transactive response DNA-binding protein of 43 kDa (TDP-43). ALS and FTD without UBQLN2 mutations are also characterised by TDP-43 aggregates, that may or may not colocalise with wildtype ubiquilin 2. Despite this, the relative contributions of TDP-43 and ubiquilin 2 to disease pathogenesis remain largely under-characterised, as does their relative deposition as aggregates across the central nervous system (CNS). Here we conducted multiplex immunohistochemistry of three UBQLN2 p.T487I-linked ALS/FTD cases, three non-UBQLN2-linked (sporadic) ALS cases, and 8 non-neurodegenerative disease controls, covering 40 CNS regions. We then quantified ubiquilin 2 aggregates, TDP-43 aggregates and aggregates containing both proteins in regions of interest to determine how UBQLN2-linked and non-UBQLN2-linked proteinopathy differ. We find that ubiquilin 2 aggregates that are negative for TDP-43 are predominantly small and punctate and are abundant in the hippocampal formation, spinal cord, all tested regions of neocortex, medulla and substantia nigra in UBQLN2-linked ALS/FTD but not sporadic ALS. Curiously, the striatum harboured small punctate ubiquilin 2 aggregates in all cases examined, while large diffuse striatal ubiquilin 2 aggregates were specific to UBQLN2-linked ALS/FTD. Overall, ubiquilin 2 is mainly deposited in clinically unaffected regions throughout the CNS such that symptomology in UBQLN2-linked cases maps best to the aggregation of TDP-43.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura R. Nementzik
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
- Centre for Brain ResearchUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | - Kyrah M. Thumbadoo
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
- Centre for Brain ResearchUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | - Helen C. Murray
- Centre for Brain ResearchUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
- Department of Anatomy and Medical ImagingUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | - David Gordon
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
- Centre for Brain ResearchUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | - Shu Yang
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Human SciencesMacquarie UniversityNorth RydeNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Ian P. Blair
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Human SciencesMacquarie UniversityNorth RydeNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Clinton Turner
- Centre for Brain ResearchUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
- Department of Anatomy and Medical ImagingUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, LabPlusAuckland City HospitalAucklandNew Zealand
| | - Richard L. M. Faull
- Centre for Brain ResearchUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
- Department of Anatomy and Medical ImagingUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | - Maurice A. Curtis
- Centre for Brain ResearchUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
- Department of Anatomy and Medical ImagingUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | - Catriona McLean
- Department of Anatomical PathologyAlfred HealthMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Garth A. Nicholson
- Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health, and Human SciencesMacquarie UniversityNorth RydeNew South WalesAustralia
- Northcott Neuroscience LaboratoryANZAC Research InstituteSydneyAustralia
- Molecular Medicine LaboratoryConcord Repatriation General HospitalSydneyAustralia
| | - Molly E. V. Swanson
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
- Centre for Brain ResearchUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | - Emma L. Scotter
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
- Centre for Brain ResearchUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
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29
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Hu Y, Chen W, Wei C, Jiang S, Li S, Wang X, Xu R. Pathological mechanisms of amyotrophic lateral Sclerosis. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1036-1044. [PMID: 37862206 PMCID: PMC10749610 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.382985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis refers to a neurodegenerative disease involving the motor system, the cause of which remains unexplained despite several years of research. Thus, the journey to understanding or treating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is still a long one. According to current research, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is likely not due to a single factor but rather to a combination of mechanisms mediated by complex interactions between molecular and genetic pathways. The progression of the disease involves multiple cellular processes and the interaction between different complex mechanisms makes it difficult to identify the causative factors of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Here, we review the most common amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-associated pathogenic genes and the pathways involved in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, as well as summarize currently proposed potential mechanisms responsible for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis disease and their evidence for involvement in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. In addition, we discuss current emerging strategies for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Studying the emergence of these new therapies may help to further our understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yushu Hu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Wenzhi Chen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Caihui Wei
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Shishi Jiang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Shu Li
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Xinxin Wang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Renshi Xu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College; The Clinical College of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
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30
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Tarot P, Lasbleiz C, Liévens JC. NRF2 signaling cascade in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: bridging the gap between promise and reality. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1006-1012. [PMID: 37862202 PMCID: PMC10749620 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.385283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a very disabling disease due to the degeneration of motor neurons. Symptoms include muscle weakness and atrophy, spasticity, and progressive paralysis. Currently, there is no treatment to reverse damage to motor neurons and cure amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The only two treatments actually approved, riluzole and edaravone, have shown mitigated beneficial effects. The difficulty to find a cure lies in the complexity and multifaceted pattern of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis pathogenesis. Among mechanisms, abnormal RNA metabolism, nucleocytoplasmic transport defects, accumulation of unfolded protein, and mitochondrial dysfunction would in fine induce oxidative damage and vice versa. A potent therapeutic strategy will be to find molecules that break this vicious circle. Sharpening the nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor 2 signaling may fulfill this objective since nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor 2 has a multitarget profile controlling antioxidant defense, mitochondrial functioning, and inflammation. We here discuss the interest of developing nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor 2-based therapy in regard to the pathophysiological mechanisms and we provide a general overview of the attempted clinical assays in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Tarot
- MMDN, Univ Montpellier, EPHE, INSERM, Montpellier, France
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31
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Sellier C, Corcia P, Vourc'h P, Dupuis L. C9ORF72 hexanucleotide repeat expansion: From ALS and FTD to a broader pathogenic role? Rev Neurol (Paris) 2024; 180:417-428. [PMID: 38609750 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2024.03.008] [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: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
The major gene underlying monogenic forms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and fronto-temporal dementia (FTD) is C9ORF72. The causative mutation in C9ORF72 is an abnormal hexanucleotide (G4C2) repeat expansion (HRE) located in the first intron of the gene. The aim of this review is to propose a comprehensive update on recent developments on clinical, biological and therapeutics aspects related to C9ORF72 in order to highlight the current understanding of genotype-phenotype correlations, and also on biological machinery leading to neuronal death. We will particularly focus on the broad phenotypic presentation of C9ORF72-related diseases, that goes well beyond the classical phenotypes observed in ALS and FTD patients. Last, we will comment the possible therapeutical hopes for patients carrying a C9ORF72 HRE.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Sellier
- Centre de recherches en biomédecine de Strasbourg, UMR-S1329, Inserm, université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - P Corcia
- UMR 1253 iBrain, Inserm, université de Tours, Tours, France; Centre constitutif de coordination SLA, CHU de Bretonneau, 2, boulevard Tonnelle, 37044 Tours cedex 1, France
| | - P Vourc'h
- UMR 1253 iBrain, Inserm, université de Tours, Tours, France; Service de biochimie et biologie moléculaire, CHU de Tours, Tours, France
| | - L Dupuis
- Centre de recherches en biomédecine de Strasbourg, UMR-S1329, Inserm, université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.
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Kinger S, Jagtap YA, Kumar P, Choudhary A, Prasad A, Prajapati VK, Kumar A, Mehta G, Mishra A. Proteostasis in neurodegenerative diseases. Adv Clin Chem 2024; 121:270-333. [PMID: 38797543 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acc.2024.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Proteostasis is essential for normal function of proteins and vital for cellular health and survival. Proteostasis encompasses all stages in the "life" of a protein, that is, from translation to functional performance and, ultimately, to degradation. Proteins need native conformations for function and in the presence of multiple types of stress, their misfolding and aggregation can occur. A coordinated network of proteins is at the core of proteostasis in cells. Among these, chaperones are required for maintaining the integrity of protein conformations by preventing misfolding and aggregation and guide those with abnormal conformation to degradation. The ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) and autophagy are major cellular pathways for degrading proteins. Although failure or decreased functioning of components of this network can lead to proteotoxicity and disease, like neuron degenerative diseases, underlying factors are not completely understood. Accumulating misfolded and aggregated proteins are considered major pathomechanisms of neurodegeneration. In this chapter, we have described the components of three major branches required for proteostasis-chaperones, UPS and autophagy, the mechanistic basis of their function, and their potential for protection against various neurodegenerative conditions, like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's disease. The modulation of various proteostasis network proteins, like chaperones, E3 ubiquitin ligases, proteasome, and autophagy-associated proteins as therapeutic targets by small molecules as well as new and unconventional approaches, shows promise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumit Kinger
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Yuvraj Anandrao Jagtap
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Prashant Kumar
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Akash Choudhary
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Amit Prasad
- School of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Vijay Kumar Prajapati
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Delhi South Campus, Dhaula Kuan, New Delhi, India
| | - Amit Kumar
- Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Simrol, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Gunjan Mehta
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Amit Mishra
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India.
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Zambon AA, Falzone YM, Bolino A, Previtali SC. Molecular mechanisms and therapeutic strategies for neuromuscular diseases. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:198. [PMID: 38678519 PMCID: PMC11056344 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05229-9] [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: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Neuromuscular diseases encompass a heterogeneous array of disorders characterized by varying onset ages, clinical presentations, severity, and progression. While these conditions can stem from acquired or inherited causes, this review specifically focuses on disorders arising from genetic abnormalities, excluding metabolic conditions. The pathogenic defect may primarily affect the anterior horn cells, the axonal or myelin component of peripheral nerves, the neuromuscular junction, or skeletal and/or cardiac muscles. While inherited neuromuscular disorders have been historically deemed not treatable, the advent of gene-based and molecular therapies is reshaping the treatment landscape for this group of condition. With the caveat that many products still fail to translate the positive results obtained in pre-clinical models to humans, both the technological development (e.g., implementation of tissue-specific vectors) as well as advances on the knowledge of pathogenetic mechanisms form a collective foundation for potentially curative approaches to these debilitating conditions. This review delineates the current panorama of therapies targeting the most prevalent forms of inherited neuromuscular diseases, emphasizing approved treatments and those already undergoing human testing, offering insights into the state-of-the-art interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Andrea Zambon
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Institute for Experimental Neurology, Inspe, Milan, Italy
- Neurology Department, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Yuri Matteo Falzone
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Institute for Experimental Neurology, Inspe, Milan, Italy
- Neurology Department, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Bolino
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Institute for Experimental Neurology, Inspe, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Carlo Previtali
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Institute for Experimental Neurology, Inspe, Milan, Italy.
- Neurology Department, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
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Cantara S, Simoncelli G, Ricci C. Antisense Oligonucleotides (ASOs) in Motor Neuron Diseases: A Road to Cure in Light and Shade. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4809. [PMID: 38732027 PMCID: PMC11083842 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are short oligodeoxynucleotides designed to bind to specific regions of target mRNA. ASOs can modulate pre-mRNA splicing, increase levels of functional proteins, and decrease levels of toxic proteins. ASOs are being developed for the treatment of motor neuron diseases (MNDs), including spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA). The biggest success has been the ASO known as nusinersen, the first effective therapy for SMA, able to improve symptoms and slow disease progression. Another success is tofersen, an ASO designed to treat ALS patients with SOD1 gene mutations. Both ASOs have been approved by the FDA and EMA. On the other hand, ASO treatment in ALS patients with the C9orf72 gene mutation did not show any improvement in disease progression. The aim of this review is to provide an up-to-date overview of ASO research in MNDs, from preclinical studies to clinical trials and, where available, regulatory approval. We highlight the successes and failures, underline the strengths and limitations of the current ASO research, and suggest possible approaches that could lead to more effective treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Cantara
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Neurological Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Giorgia Simoncelli
- Unit of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurological and Motor Sciences, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Senese, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Claudia Ricci
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Neurological Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy;
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Dai T, Lou J, Kong D, Li J, Ren Q, Chen Y, Sun S, Yun Y, Sun X, Yang Y, Shao K, Li W, Zhao Y, Meng X, Yan C, Lin P, Liu S. Choroid plexus enlargement in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients and its correlation with clinical disability and blood-CSF barrier permeability. Fluids Barriers CNS 2024; 21:36. [PMID: 38632611 PMCID: PMC11025206 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-024-00536-6] [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: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Using in vivo neuroimaging techniques, growing evidence has demonstrated that the choroid plexus (CP) volume is enlarged in patients with several neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. However, although animal and postmortem findings suggest that CP abnormalities are likely important pathological mechanisms underlying amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the third most common neurodegenerative disease, no available study has been conducted to thoroughly assess CP abnormalities and their clinical relevance in vivo in ALS patients to date. Thus, we aimed to determine whether in vivo CP enlargement may occur in ALS patients. We also aimed to identify the relationships of CP volume with clinical disabilities and blood-CSF barrier (BCSFB) permeability in ALS patients. METHODS In this retrospective study, based on structural MRI data, CP volume was assessed using a Gaussian mixture model and underwent further manual correction in 155 ALS patients and 105 age- and sex-matched HCs from October 2021 to April 2023. The ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-R) was used to assess clinical disability. The CSF/serum albumin quotient (Qalb) was used to assess BCSFB permeability. Moreover, all the ALS patients completed genetic testing, and according to genetic testing, the ALS patients were further divided into genetic ALS subgroup and sporadic ALS subgroup. RESULTS We found that compared with HCs, ALS patients had a significantly higher CP volume (p < 0.001). Moreover, compared with HCs, CP volume was significantly increased in both ALS patients with and without known genetic mutations after family-wise error correction (p = 0.006 and p < 0.001, respectively), while there were no significant differences between the two ALS groups. Furthermore, the CP volume was significantly correlated with the ALSFRS-r score (r = -0.226; p = 0.005) and the Qalb (r = 0.479; p < 0.001) in ALS patients. CONCLUSION Our study first demonstrates CP enlargement in vivo in ALS patients, and continues to suggest an important pathogenetic role for CP abnormalities in ALS. Moreover, assessing CP volume is likely a noninvasive and easy-to-implement approach for screening BCSFB dysfunction in ALS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingjun Dai
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, West Wenhua Street No.107, 250012, Jinan, China
| | - Jianwei Lou
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, West Wenhua Street No.107, 250012, Jinan, China
| | - Deyuan Kong
- School of Clinical Medicine, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Jinyu Li
- Department of Neurology, Xiamen Branch, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 361015, Xiamen, China
| | - Qingguo Ren
- Department of Radiology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yujing Chen
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, West Wenhua Street No.107, 250012, Jinan, China
| | - Sujuan Sun
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, West Wenhua Street No.107, 250012, Jinan, China
| | - Yan Yun
- Department of Radiology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaohan Sun
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, West Wenhua Street No.107, 250012, Jinan, China
| | - Yiru Yang
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Kai Shao
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, West Wenhua Street No.107, 250012, Jinan, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Wei Li
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, West Wenhua Street No.107, 250012, Jinan, China
| | - Yuying Zhao
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, West Wenhua Street No.107, 250012, Jinan, China
| | - Xiangshui Meng
- Department of Radiology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Chuanzhu Yan
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, West Wenhua Street No.107, 250012, Jinan, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Pengfei Lin
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, West Wenhua Street No.107, 250012, Jinan, China.
| | - Shuangwu Liu
- Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, West Wenhua Street No.107, 250012, Jinan, China.
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.
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Swindell WR. Meta-analysis of differential gene expression in lower motor neurons isolated by laser capture microdissection from post-mortem ALS spinal cords. Front Genet 2024; 15:1385114. [PMID: 38689650 PMCID: PMC11059082 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1385114] [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: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction ALS is a fatal neurodegenerative disease for which underlying mechanisms are incompletely understood. The motor neuron is a central player in ALS pathogenesis but different transcriptome signatures have been derived from bulk analysis of post-mortem tissue and iPSC-derived motor neurons (iPSC-MNs). Methods This study performed a meta-analysis of six gene expression studies (microarray and RNA-seq) in which laser capture microdissection (LCM) was used to isolate lower motor neurons from post-mortem spinal cords of ALS and control (CTL) subjects. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with consistent ALS versus CTL expression differences across studies were identified. Results The analysis identified 222 ALS-increased DEGs (FDR <0.10, SMD >0.80) and 278 ALS-decreased DEGs (FDR <0.10, SMD < -0.80). ALS-increased DEGs were linked to PI3K-AKT signaling, innate immunity, inflammation, motor neuron differentiation and extracellular matrix. ALS-decreased DEGs were associated with the ubiquitin-proteosome system, microtubules, axon growth, RNA-binding proteins and synaptic membrane. ALS-decreased DEG mRNAs frequently interacted with RNA-binding proteins (e.g., FUS, HuR). The complete set of DEGs (increased and decreased) overlapped significantly with genes near ALS-associated SNP loci (p < 0.01). Transcription factor target motifs with increased proximity to ALS-increased DEGs were identified, most notably DNA elements predicted to interact with forkhead transcription factors (e.g., FOXP1) and motor neuron and pancreas homeobox 1 (MNX1). Some of these DNA elements overlie ALS-associated SNPs within known enhancers and are predicted to have genotype-dependent MNX1 interactions. DEGs were compared to those identified from SOD1-G93A mice and bulk spinal cord segments or iPSC-MNs from ALS patients. There was good correspondence with transcriptome changes from SOD1-G93A mice (r ≤ 0.408) but most DEGs were not differentially expressed in bulk spinal cords or iPSC-MNs and transcriptome-wide effect size correlations were weak (bulk tissue: r ≤ 0.207, iPSC-MN: r ≤ 0.037). Conclusion This study defines a robust transcriptome signature from LCM-based motor neuron studies of post-mortem tissue from ALS and CTL subjects. This signature differs from those obtained from analysis of bulk spinal cord segments and iPSC-MNs. Results provide insight into mechanisms underlying gene dysregulation in ALS and highlight connections between these mechanisms, ALS genetics, and motor neuron biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- William R. Swindell
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hospital Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
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Gonzalez D, Cuenca X, Allende ML. Knockdown of tgfb1a partially improves ALS phenotype in a transient zebrafish model. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1384085. [PMID: 38644973 PMCID: PMC11032012 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1384085] [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: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) corresponds to a neurodegenerative disorder marked by the progressive degeneration of both upper and lower motor neurons located in the brain, brainstem, and spinal cord. ALS can be broadly categorized into two main types: sporadic ALS (sALS), which constitutes approximately 90% of all cases, and familial ALS (fALS), which represents the remaining 10% of cases. Transforming growth factor type-β (TGF-β) is a cytokine involved in various cellular processes and pathological contexts, including inflammation and fibrosis. Elevated levels of TGF-β have been observed in the plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of both ALS patients and mouse models. In this perspective, we explore the impact of the TGF-β signaling pathway using a transient zebrafish model for ALS. Our findings reveal that the knockdown of tgfb1a lead to a partial prevention of motor axon abnormalities and locomotor deficits in a transient ALS zebrafish model at 48 h post-fertilization (hpf). In this context, we delve into the proposed distinct roles of TGF-β in the progression of ALS. Indeed, some evidence suggests a dual role for TGF-β in ALS progression. Initially, it seems to exert a neuroprotective effect in the early stages, but paradoxically, it may contribute to disease progression in later stages. Consequently, we suggest that the TGF-β signaling pathway emerges as an attractive therapeutic target for treating ALS. Nevertheless, further research is crucial to comprehensively understand the nuanced role of TGF-β in the pathological context.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Gonzalez
- Departamento de Ciencias Químicas y Biológicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Bernardo O’Higgins, Santiago, Chile
- Escuela de Terapia Ocupacional, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Bernardo O’Higgins, Santiago, Chile
- Millennium Institute Center for Genome Regulation, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Xiomara Cuenca
- Escuela de Terapia Ocupacional, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Bernardo O’Higgins, Santiago, Chile
| | - Miguel L. Allende
- Millennium Institute Center for Genome Regulation, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Bashir S, Aiman A, Shahid M, Chaudhary AA, Sami N, Basir SF, Hassan I, Islam A. Amyloid-induced neurodegeneration: A comprehensive review through aggregomics perception of proteins in health and pathology. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 96:102276. [PMID: 38499161 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102276] [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: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Amyloidosis of protein caused by fibrillation and aggregation are some of the most exciting new edges not only in protein sciences but also in molecular medicines. The present review discusses recent advancements in the field of neurodegenerative diseases and therapeutic applications with ongoing clinical trials, featuring new areas of protein misfolding resulting in aggregation. The endogenous accretion of protein fibrils having fibrillar morphology symbolizes the beginning of neuro-disorders. Prognostic amyloidosis is prominent in numerous degenerative infections such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), etc. However, the molecular basis determining the intracellular or extracellular evidence of aggregates, playing a significant role as a causative factor in neurodegeneration is still unclear. Structural conversions and protein self-assembly resulting in the formation of amyloid oligomers and fibrils are important events in the pathophysiology of the disease. This comprehensive review sheds light on the evolving landscape of potential treatment modalities, highlighting the ongoing clinical trials and the potential socio-economic impact of novel therapeutic interventions in the realm of neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, many drugs are undergoing different levels of clinical trials that would certainly help in treating these disorders and will surely improve the socio-impact of human life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sania Bashir
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025, India.
| | - Ayesha Aiman
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025, India; Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025, India.
| | - Mohammad Shahid
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Anis Ahmad Chaudhary
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Neha Sami
- Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025, India.
| | - Seemi Farhat Basir
- Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025, India.
| | - Imtaiyaz Hassan
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025, India.
| | - Asimul Islam
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025, India.
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Libonati L, Cambieri C, Colavito D, Moret F, D'Andrea E, Del Giudice E, Leon A, Inghilleri M, Ceccanti M. Genetics screening in an Italian cohort of patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: the importance of early testing and its implication. J Neurol 2024; 271:1921-1936. [PMID: 38112783 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-12142-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease with an elusive etiology. While environmental factors have been considered, familial ALS cases have raised the possibility of genetic involvement. This genetic connection is increasingly evident, even in patients with sporadic ALS. We allowed access to the genetic test to all patients attending our clinic to identify the prevalence and the role of genetic variants in the development of the disease and to identify patients with potentially treatable forms of the disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS 194 patients with probable or definite ALS, were enrolled. A comprehensive genetic testing was performed, including sequencing all exons of the SOD1 gene and testing for hexanucleotide intronic repeat expansions (G4C2) in the C9orf72 gene using fluorescent repeat-primed PCR (RP-PCR). Whole Exome NGS Sequencing (WES) was performed, followed by an in silico multigene panel targeting neuromuscular diseases, spastic paraplegia, and motor distal neuropathies. We conducted statistical analyses to compare different patient groups. RESULTS Clinically significant pathogenetic variants were detected in 14.43% of cases. The highest prevalence of pathogenetic variants was observed in fALS patients, but a substantial proportion of sALS patients also displayed at least one variant, either pathogenetic or of uncertain significance (VUS). The most observed pathogenetic variant was the expansion of the C9orf72 gene, which was associated with a shorter survival. SOD1 variants were found in 1.6% of fALS and 2.5% of sALS patients. DISCUSSION The study reveals a significant number of ALS patients carrying pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants, with a higher prevalence in familial ALS cases. The expansion of the C9orf72 gene emerges as the most common genetic cause of ALS, affecting familial and sporadic cases. Additionally, SOD1 variants are detected at an unexpectedly higher rate, even in patients without a familial history of ALS, underscoring the crucial role of genetic testing in treatment decisions and potential participation in clinical trials. We also investigated variants in genes such as TARDBP, FUS, NEK1, TBK1, and DNAJC7, shedding light on their potential involvement in ALS. These findings underscore the complexity of interpreting variants of uncertain significance (VUS) and their ethical implications in patient communication and genetic counseling for patients' relatives. CONCLUSION This study emphasizes the diverse genetic basis of ALS and advocates for integrating comprehensive genetic testing into diagnostic protocols. The evolving landscape of genetic therapies requires identifying all eligible patients transcending traditional familial boundaries. The presence of VUS highlights the multifaceted nature of ALS genetics, prompting further exploration of complex interactions among genetic variants, environmental factors, and disease development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Libonati
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Rare Neuromuscular Diseases Centre, Sapienza University, Viale Dell'Università 30, 00185, Rome, Italy.
| | - Chiara Cambieri
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Rare Neuromuscular Diseases Centre, Sapienza University, Viale Dell'Università 30, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Davide Colavito
- R & I Genetics, C.So Stati Uniti 4int.F, 35127, Padua, Italy
| | - Federica Moret
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Rare Neuromuscular Diseases Centre, Sapienza University, Viale Dell'Università 30, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Edoardo D'Andrea
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Rare Neuromuscular Diseases Centre, Sapienza University, Viale Dell'Università 30, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Alberta Leon
- R & I Genetics, C.So Stati Uniti 4int.F, 35127, Padua, Italy
| | - Maurizio Inghilleri
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Rare Neuromuscular Diseases Centre, Sapienza University, Viale Dell'Università 30, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Ceccanti
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Rare Neuromuscular Diseases Centre, Sapienza University, Viale Dell'Università 30, 00185, Rome, Italy
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Sitruk-Ware R, Sussman H, Brinton R, Schumacher M, Singer P, Kumar N, De Nicola AF, El-Etr M, Guennoun R, V Borlongan C. Nestorone (segesterone acetate) effects on neuroregeneration. Front Neuroendocrinol 2024; 73:101136. [PMID: 38670433 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2024.101136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Nestorone® (segesterone acetate) is a progestin with a chemical structure closely related to progesterone with high affinity and selectivity for the progesterone receptor without significant interaction with other steroid receptors. It has been developed for female and male contraception and is FDA-approved in a first long-acting contraceptive vaginal system for female contraception. Its safety has been extensively demonstrated in both preclinical and clinical studies for contraceptive indications. Nestorone was found to display neuroprotective and neuroregenerative activity in animal models of various central nervous system diseases, including multiple sclerosis, stroke, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Reviewed herein are neuroprotective and myelin- regenerating properties of Nestorone in various animal models and its translational potential as a therapeutic agent for debilitating neurological diseases for which limited therapeutic options are available (Table 1).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Roberta Brinton
- Center for Innovation in Brain Science, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | | | | | | | | | - Martine El-Etr
- U1195 Inserm and University Paris-Saclay Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Rachida Guennoun
- U1195 Inserm and University Paris-Saclay Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Cesar V Borlongan
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Repair, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, FL, USA
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Naruse H, Ishiura H, Esaki K, Mitsui J, Satake W, Greimel P, Shingai N, Machino Y, Kokubo Y, Hamaguchi H, Oda T, Ikkaku T, Yokota I, Takahashi Y, Suzuki Y, Matsukawa T, Goto J, Koh K, Takiyama Y, Morishita S, Yoshikawa T, Tsuji S, Toda T. SPTLC2 variants are associated with early-onset ALS and FTD due to aberrant sphingolipid synthesis. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2024; 11:946-957. [PMID: 38316966 PMCID: PMC11021611 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.52013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating, incurable neurodegenerative disease. A subset of ALS patients manifests with early-onset and complex clinical phenotypes. We aimed to elucidate the genetic basis of these cases to enhance our understanding of disease etiology and facilitate the development of targeted therapies. METHODS Our research commenced with an in-depth genetic and biochemical investigation of two specific families, each with a member diagnosed with early-onset ALS (onset age of <40 years). This involved whole-exome sequencing, trio analysis, protein structure analysis, and sphingolipid measurements. Subsequently, we expanded our analysis to 62 probands with early-onset ALS and further included 440 patients with adult-onset ALS and 1163 healthy controls to assess the prevalence of identified genetic variants. RESULTS We identified heterozygous variants in the serine palmitoyltransferase long chain base subunit 2 (SPTLC2) gene in patients with early-onset ALS. These variants, located in a region closely adjacent to ORMDL3, bear similarities to SPTLC1 variants previously implicated in early-onset ALS. Patients with ALS carrying these SPTLC2 variants displayed elevated plasma ceramide levels, indicative of increased serine palmitoyltransferase (SPT) activity leading to sphingolipid overproduction. INTERPRETATION Our study revealed novel SPTLC2 variants in patients with early-onset ALS exhibiting frontotemporal dementia. The combination of genetic evidence and the observed elevation in plasma ceramide levels establishes a crucial link between dysregulated sphingolipid metabolism and ALS pathogenesis. These findings expand our understanding of ALS's genetic diversity and highlight the distinct roles of gene defects within SPT subunits in its development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroya Naruse
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
- Department of Precision Medicine Neurology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Hiroyuki Ishiura
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
- Department of NeurologyOkayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical SciencesOkayamaJapan
| | - Kayoko Esaki
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Faculty of Biotechnology and Life SciencesSojo UniversityKumamotoJapan
| | - Jun Mitsui
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
- Department of Precision Medicine Neurology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Wataru Satake
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Peter Greimel
- Laboratory for Cell Function Dynamics, RIKEN Centre for Brain SciencesWakoSaitamaJapan
| | - Nanoka Shingai
- Division of Applied Life Science, Graduate School of EngineeringSojo UniversityKumamotoJapan
| | - Yuka Machino
- Department of NeurologyNational Hospital Organization Mie National HospitalTsuMieJapan
| | - Yasumasa Kokubo
- Kii ALS/PDC Research Center, Graduate School of Regional Innovation StudiesMie UniversityTsuMieJapan
| | | | - Tetsuya Oda
- Department of NeurologyKita‐Harima Medical CenterOnoHyogoJapan
| | - Tomoko Ikkaku
- Division of NeurologyKobe University Graduate School of MedicineKobeHyogoJapan
- Department of NeurologyHyogo Prefectural Rehabilitation Central HospitalKobeHyogoJapan
| | - Ichiro Yokota
- Division of NeurologyKobe University Graduate School of MedicineKobeHyogoJapan
- Department of NeurologyNational Hospital Organization Hyogo‐Chuo National HospitalSandaHyogoJapan
| | - Yuji Takahashi
- Department of NeurologyNational Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and PsychiatryTokyoJapan
| | - Yuta Suzuki
- Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Frontier SciencesThe University of TokyoChibaJapan
| | - Takashi Matsukawa
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Jun Goto
- Department of NeurologyInternational University of Health and Welfare Ichikawa HospitalChibaJapan
| | - Kishin Koh
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medical SciencesUniversity of YamanashiYamanashiJapan
- Department of NeurologyYumura Onsen HospitalYamanashiJapan
| | - Yoshihisa Takiyama
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medical SciencesUniversity of YamanashiYamanashiJapan
- Department of NeurologyFuefuki Central HospitalYamanashiJapan
| | - Shinichi Morishita
- Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Frontier SciencesThe University of TokyoChibaJapan
| | - Takeo Yoshikawa
- Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry, RIKEN Center for Brain ScienceWakoSaitamaJapan
| | - Shoji Tsuji
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
- Institute of Medical GenomicsInternational University of Health and WelfareChibaJapan
| | - Tatsushi Toda
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
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Cox SN, Lo Giudice C, Lavecchia A, Poeta ML, Chiara M, Picardi E, Pesole G. Mitochondrial and Nuclear DNA Variants in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Enrichment in the Mitochondrial Control Region and Sirtuin Pathway Genes in Spinal Cord Tissue. Biomolecules 2024; 14:411. [PMID: 38672428 PMCID: PMC11048214 DOI: 10.3390/biom14040411] [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: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive disease with prevalent mitochondrial dysfunctions affecting both upper and lower motor neurons in the motor cortex, brainstem, and spinal cord. Despite mitochondria having their own genome (mtDNA), in humans, most mitochondrial genes are encoded by the nuclear genome (nDNA). Our study aimed to simultaneously screen for nDNA and mtDNA genomes to assess for specific variant enrichment in ALS compared to control tissues. Here, we analysed whole exome (WES) and whole genome (WGS) sequencing data from spinal cord tissues, respectively, of 6 and 12 human donors. A total of 31,257 and 301,241 variants in nuclear-encoded mitochondrial genes were identified from WES and WGS, respectively, while mtDNA reads accounted for 73 and 332 variants. Despite technical differences, both datasets consistently revealed a specific enrichment of variants in the mitochondrial Control Region (CR) and in several of these genes directly associated with mitochondrial dynamics or with Sirtuin pathway genes within ALS tissues. Overall, our data support the hypothesis of a variant burden in specific genes, highlighting potential actionable targets for therapeutic interventions in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Natasha Cox
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnology and Environment, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70126 Bari, Italy; (A.L.); (M.L.P.); (E.P.)
| | - Claudio Lo Giudice
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, 70126 Bari, Italy;
| | - Anna Lavecchia
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnology and Environment, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70126 Bari, Italy; (A.L.); (M.L.P.); (E.P.)
| | - Maria Luana Poeta
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnology and Environment, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70126 Bari, Italy; (A.L.); (M.L.P.); (E.P.)
| | - Matteo Chiara
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy;
- Institute of Biomembranes, Bioenergetics and Molecular Biotechnology, National Research Council, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Ernesto Picardi
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnology and Environment, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70126 Bari, Italy; (A.L.); (M.L.P.); (E.P.)
- Institute of Biomembranes, Bioenergetics and Molecular Biotechnology, National Research Council, 70126 Bari, Italy
| | - Graziano Pesole
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnology and Environment, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70126 Bari, Italy; (A.L.); (M.L.P.); (E.P.)
- Institute of Biomembranes, Bioenergetics and Molecular Biotechnology, National Research Council, 70126 Bari, Italy
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Du R, Chen P, Li M, Zhu Y, He Z, Huang X. Developing a novel immune infiltration-associated mitophagy prediction model for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis using bioinformatics strategies. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1360527. [PMID: 38601155 PMCID: PMC11005030 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1360527] [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: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease, which leads to muscle weakness and eventual paralysis. Numerous studies have indicated that mitophagy and immune inflammation have a significant impact on the onset and advancement of ALS. Nevertheless, the possible diagnostic and prognostic significance of mitophagy-related genes associated with immune infiltration in ALS is uncertain. The purpose of this study is to create a predictive model for ALS using genes linked with mitophagy-associated immune infiltration. Methods ALS gene expression profiles were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Univariate Cox analysis and machine learning methods were applied to analyze mitophagy-associated genes and develop a prognostic risk score model. Subsequently, functional and immune infiltration analyses were conducted to study the biological attributes and immune cell enrichment in individuals with ALS. Additionally, validation of identified feature genes in the prediction model was performed using ALS mouse models and ALS patients. Results In this study, a comprehensive analysis revealed the identification of 22 mitophagy-related differential expression genes and 40 prognostic genes. Additionally, an 18-gene prognostic signature was identified with machine learning, which was utilized to construct a prognostic risk score model. Functional enrichment analysis demonstrated the enrichment of various pathways, including oxidative phosphorylation, unfolded proteins, KRAS, and mTOR signaling pathways, as well as other immune-related pathways. The analysis of immune infiltration revealed notable distinctions in certain congenital immune cells and adaptive immune cells between the low-risk and high-risk groups, particularly concerning the T lymphocyte subgroup. ALS mouse models and ALS clinical samples demonstrated consistent expression levels of four mitophagy-related immune infiltration genes (BCKDHA, JTB, KYNU, and GTF2H5) with the results of bioinformatics analysis. Conclusion This study has successfully devised and verified a pioneering prognostic predictive risk score for ALS, utilizing eighteen mitophagy-related genes. Furthermore, the findings indicate that four of these genes exhibit promising roles in the context of ALS prognostic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongrong Du
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- Department of Neurology, The First Medical Center, Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Chen
- Medical School of Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), Beijing, China
- Department of General Surgery & Institute of General Surgery, The First Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Mao Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Medical Center, Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yahui Zhu
- Department of Neurology, The First Medical Center, Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Medical School of Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), Beijing, China
| | - Zhengqing He
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xusheng Huang
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- Department of Neurology, The First Medical Center, Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Medical School of Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), Beijing, China
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Sini P, Galleri G, Ciampelli C, Galioto M, Padedda BM, Lugliè A, Iaccarino C, Crosio C. Evaluation of cyanotoxin L-BMAA effect on α-synuclein and TDP43 proteinopathy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1360068. [PMID: 38596666 PMCID: PMC11002123 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1360068] [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: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors is considered the cause of neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson's disease (PD) and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Among the environmental factors, toxins produced by cyanobacteria have received much attention due to the significant increase in cyanobacteria growth worldwide. In particular, L-BMAA toxin, produced by diverse taxa of cyanobacteria, dinoflagellates and diatoms, has been extensively correlated to neurodegeneration. The molecular mechanism of L-BMAA neurotoxicity is still cryptic and far from being understood. In this research article, we have investigated the molecular pathways altered by L-BMAA exposure in cell systems, highlighting a significant increase in specific stress pathways and an impairment in autophagic processes. Interestingly, these changes lead to the accumulation of both α-synuclein and TDP43, which are correlated with PD and ALS proteinopathy, respectively. Finally, we were able to demonstrate specific alterations of TDP43 WT or pathological mutants with respect to protein accumulation, aggregation and cytoplasmic translocation, some of the typical features of both sporadic and familial ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Sini
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Grazia Galleri
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Cristina Ciampelli
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Manuela Galioto
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Bachisio Mario Padedda
- Laboratory of Ecology, Department of Architecture, Design and Urban Planning, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Antonella Lugliè
- Laboratory of Ecology, Department of Architecture, Design and Urban Planning, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Ciro Iaccarino
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Claudia Crosio
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
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Gao C, Shi Q, Pan X, Chen J, Zhang Y, Lang J, Wen S, Liu X, Cheng TL, Lei K. Neuromuscular organoids model spinal neuromuscular pathologies in C9orf72 amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Cell Rep 2024; 43:113892. [PMID: 38431841 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.113892] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Hexanucleotide repeat expansions in the C9orf72 gene are the most common cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia. Due to the lack of trunk neuromuscular organoids (NMOs) from ALS patients' induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), an organoid system was missing to model the trunk spinal neuromuscular neurodegeneration. With the C9orf72 ALS patient-derived iPSCs and isogenic controls, we used an NMO system containing trunk spinal cord neural and peripheral muscular tissues to show that the ALS NMOs could model peripheral defects in ALS, including contraction weakness, neural denervation, and loss of Schwann cells. The neurons and astrocytes in ALS NMOs manifested the RNA foci and dipeptide repeat proteins. Acute treatment with the unfolded protein response inhibitor GSK2606414 increased the glutamatergic muscular contraction 2-fold and reduced the dipeptide repeat protein aggregation and autophagy. This study provides an organoid system for spinal neuromuscular pathologies in ALS and its application for drug testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong Gao
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Brain and Cognitive Science, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qinghua Shi
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xue Pan
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiajia Chen
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuhong Zhang
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiali Lang
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shan Wen
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaodong Liu
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tian-Lin Cheng
- Institute for Translational Brain Research, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institute of Pediatrics, National Children's Medical Center, Children's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kai Lei
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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Cohen J, Mathew A, Dourvetakis KD, Sanchez-Guerrero E, Pangeni RP, Gurusamy N, Aenlle KK, Ravindran G, Twahir A, Isler D, Sosa-Garcia SR, Llizo A, Bested AC, Theoharides TC, Klimas NG, Kempuraj D. Recent Research Trends in Neuroinflammatory and Neurodegenerative Disorders. Cells 2024; 13:511. [PMID: 38534355 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060511] [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: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), traumatic brain injury (TBI) and Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are chronic major health disorders. The exact mechanism of the neuroimmune dysfunctions of these disease pathogeneses is currently not clearly understood. These disorders show dysregulated neuroimmune and inflammatory responses, including activation of neurons, glial cells, and neurovascular unit damage associated with excessive release of proinflammatory cytokines, chemokines, neurotoxic mediators, and infiltration of peripheral immune cells into the brain, as well as entry of inflammatory mediators through damaged neurovascular endothelial cells, blood-brain barrier and tight junction proteins. Activation of glial cells and immune cells leads to the release of many inflammatory and neurotoxic molecules that cause neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. Gulf War Illness (GWI) and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) are chronic disorders that are also associated with neuroimmune dysfunctions. Currently, there are no effective disease-modifying therapeutic options available for these diseases. Human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neurons, astrocytes, microglia, endothelial cells and pericytes are currently used for many disease models for drug discovery. This review highlights certain recent trends in neuroinflammatory responses and iPSC-derived brain cell applications in neuroinflammatory disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Cohen
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Annette Mathew
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Kirk D Dourvetakis
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Estella Sanchez-Guerrero
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Rajendra P Pangeni
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Narasimman Gurusamy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Barry and Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Kristina K Aenlle
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
- Miami VA Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), Miami Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Miami, FL 33125, USA
| | - Geeta Ravindran
- Cell Therapy Institute, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Allopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Assma Twahir
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Dylan Isler
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Sara Rukmini Sosa-Garcia
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Axel Llizo
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Alison C Bested
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Theoharis C Theoharides
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Nancy G Klimas
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
- Miami VA Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), Miami Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Miami, FL 33125, USA
| | - Duraisamy Kempuraj
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
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Holdom CJ, Janse van Mantgem MR, He J, Howe SL, McCombe PA, Fan D, van den Berg LH, Henderson RD, van Eijk R, Steyn FJ, Ngo ST. Variation in Resting Metabolic Rate Affects Identification of Metabolic Change in Geographically Distinct Cohorts of Patients With ALS. Neurology 2024; 102:e208117. [PMID: 38350046 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000208117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Altered metabolism is observed in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, without a standardized methodology to define metabolic changes, our understanding of factors contributing to and the clinical significance of altered metabolism in ALS is limited. METHODS We aimed to determine how geographic variation in metabolic rates influences estimates and accuracy of predicted resting energy expenditure (REE) in patients with ALS and controls, while validating the effectiveness of cohort-specific approaches in predicting altered metabolic rate in ALS. Participants from 3 geographically distinct sites across Australia, China, and the Netherlands underwent REE assessments, and we considered 22 unique equations for estimating REE. Analyses evaluated equation performance and the influence of demographics on metabolic status. Comparisons were made using standardized and local reference values to identify metabolic alterations. RESULTS 606 participants were included from Australia (patients with ALS: 140, controls: 154), the Netherlands (patients with ALS: 79, controls: 37) and China (patients with ALS: 67, controls: 129). Measured REE was variable across geographic cohorts, with fat-free mass contributing to this variation across all patients (p = 0.002 to p < 0.001). Of the 22 predication equations assessed, the Sabounchi Structure 4 (S4) equation performed relatively well across all control cohorts. Use of prediction thresholds generated using data from Australian controls generally increased the prevalence of hypermetabolism in Chinese (55%, [43%-67%]) and Dutch (44%, [33%-55%]) cases when compared with Australian cases (30%, [22%-38%]). Adjustment of prediction thresholds to consider geographically distinct characteristics from matched control cohorts resulted in a decrease in the proportion of hypermetabolic cases in Chinese and Dutch cohorts (25%-31% vs 55% and 20%-34% vs 43%-44%, respectively), and increased prevalence of hypometabolism in Dutch cases with ALS (1% to 8%-10%). DISCUSSION The identification of hypermetabolism in ALS is influenced by the formulae and demographic-specific prediction thresholds used for defining alterations in metabolic rate. A consensus approach is needed for identification of metabolic changes in ALS and will facilitate improved understanding of the cause and clinical significance of this in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cory J Holdom
- From the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (C.J.H., S.L.H., S.T.N.), The University of Queensland, Australia; Department of Neurology (M.R.J.M., R.P.A.E., L.H.B.), UMC Utrecht Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Neurology (D.F.), Peking University Third Hospital; Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Biomarker and Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (D.F.), China; Centre for Clinical Research (P.A.M., R.D.H., F.J.S., S.T.N.), The University of Queensland; Department of Neurology (P.A.M., R.D.H., F.J.S., S.T.N.), Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Australia; Biostatistics and Research Support (R.P.A.E.), Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands; and School of Biomedical Sciences (F.J.S.), The University of Queensland, Australia
| | - Mark R Janse van Mantgem
- From the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (C.J.H., S.L.H., S.T.N.), The University of Queensland, Australia; Department of Neurology (M.R.J.M., R.P.A.E., L.H.B.), UMC Utrecht Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Neurology (D.F.), Peking University Third Hospital; Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Biomarker and Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (D.F.), China; Centre for Clinical Research (P.A.M., R.D.H., F.J.S., S.T.N.), The University of Queensland; Department of Neurology (P.A.M., R.D.H., F.J.S., S.T.N.), Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Australia; Biostatistics and Research Support (R.P.A.E.), Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands; and School of Biomedical Sciences (F.J.S.), The University of Queensland, Australia
| | - Ji He
- From the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (C.J.H., S.L.H., S.T.N.), The University of Queensland, Australia; Department of Neurology (M.R.J.M., R.P.A.E., L.H.B.), UMC Utrecht Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Neurology (D.F.), Peking University Third Hospital; Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Biomarker and Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (D.F.), China; Centre for Clinical Research (P.A.M., R.D.H., F.J.S., S.T.N.), The University of Queensland; Department of Neurology (P.A.M., R.D.H., F.J.S., S.T.N.), Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Australia; Biostatistics and Research Support (R.P.A.E.), Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands; and School of Biomedical Sciences (F.J.S.), The University of Queensland, Australia
| | - Stephanie L Howe
- From the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (C.J.H., S.L.H., S.T.N.), The University of Queensland, Australia; Department of Neurology (M.R.J.M., R.P.A.E., L.H.B.), UMC Utrecht Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Neurology (D.F.), Peking University Third Hospital; Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Biomarker and Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (D.F.), China; Centre for Clinical Research (P.A.M., R.D.H., F.J.S., S.T.N.), The University of Queensland; Department of Neurology (P.A.M., R.D.H., F.J.S., S.T.N.), Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Australia; Biostatistics and Research Support (R.P.A.E.), Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands; and School of Biomedical Sciences (F.J.S.), The University of Queensland, Australia
| | - Pamela A McCombe
- From the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (C.J.H., S.L.H., S.T.N.), The University of Queensland, Australia; Department of Neurology (M.R.J.M., R.P.A.E., L.H.B.), UMC Utrecht Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Neurology (D.F.), Peking University Third Hospital; Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Biomarker and Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (D.F.), China; Centre for Clinical Research (P.A.M., R.D.H., F.J.S., S.T.N.), The University of Queensland; Department of Neurology (P.A.M., R.D.H., F.J.S., S.T.N.), Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Australia; Biostatistics and Research Support (R.P.A.E.), Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands; and School of Biomedical Sciences (F.J.S.), The University of Queensland, Australia
| | - Dongsheng Fan
- From the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (C.J.H., S.L.H., S.T.N.), The University of Queensland, Australia; Department of Neurology (M.R.J.M., R.P.A.E., L.H.B.), UMC Utrecht Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Neurology (D.F.), Peking University Third Hospital; Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Biomarker and Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (D.F.), China; Centre for Clinical Research (P.A.M., R.D.H., F.J.S., S.T.N.), The University of Queensland; Department of Neurology (P.A.M., R.D.H., F.J.S., S.T.N.), Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Australia; Biostatistics and Research Support (R.P.A.E.), Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands; and School of Biomedical Sciences (F.J.S.), The University of Queensland, Australia
| | - Leonard H van den Berg
- From the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (C.J.H., S.L.H., S.T.N.), The University of Queensland, Australia; Department of Neurology (M.R.J.M., R.P.A.E., L.H.B.), UMC Utrecht Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Neurology (D.F.), Peking University Third Hospital; Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Biomarker and Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (D.F.), China; Centre for Clinical Research (P.A.M., R.D.H., F.J.S., S.T.N.), The University of Queensland; Department of Neurology (P.A.M., R.D.H., F.J.S., S.T.N.), Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Australia; Biostatistics and Research Support (R.P.A.E.), Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands; and School of Biomedical Sciences (F.J.S.), The University of Queensland, Australia
| | - Robert D Henderson
- From the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (C.J.H., S.L.H., S.T.N.), The University of Queensland, Australia; Department of Neurology (M.R.J.M., R.P.A.E., L.H.B.), UMC Utrecht Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Neurology (D.F.), Peking University Third Hospital; Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Biomarker and Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (D.F.), China; Centre for Clinical Research (P.A.M., R.D.H., F.J.S., S.T.N.), The University of Queensland; Department of Neurology (P.A.M., R.D.H., F.J.S., S.T.N.), Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Australia; Biostatistics and Research Support (R.P.A.E.), Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands; and School of Biomedical Sciences (F.J.S.), The University of Queensland, Australia
| | - Ruben van Eijk
- From the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (C.J.H., S.L.H., S.T.N.), The University of Queensland, Australia; Department of Neurology (M.R.J.M., R.P.A.E., L.H.B.), UMC Utrecht Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Neurology (D.F.), Peking University Third Hospital; Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Biomarker and Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (D.F.), China; Centre for Clinical Research (P.A.M., R.D.H., F.J.S., S.T.N.), The University of Queensland; Department of Neurology (P.A.M., R.D.H., F.J.S., S.T.N.), Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Australia; Biostatistics and Research Support (R.P.A.E.), Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands; and School of Biomedical Sciences (F.J.S.), The University of Queensland, Australia
| | - Frederik J Steyn
- From the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (C.J.H., S.L.H., S.T.N.), The University of Queensland, Australia; Department of Neurology (M.R.J.M., R.P.A.E., L.H.B.), UMC Utrecht Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Neurology (D.F.), Peking University Third Hospital; Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Biomarker and Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (D.F.), China; Centre for Clinical Research (P.A.M., R.D.H., F.J.S., S.T.N.), The University of Queensland; Department of Neurology (P.A.M., R.D.H., F.J.S., S.T.N.), Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Australia; Biostatistics and Research Support (R.P.A.E.), Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands; and School of Biomedical Sciences (F.J.S.), The University of Queensland, Australia
| | - Shyuan T Ngo
- From the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (C.J.H., S.L.H., S.T.N.), The University of Queensland, Australia; Department of Neurology (M.R.J.M., R.P.A.E., L.H.B.), UMC Utrecht Brain Centre, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Neurology (D.F.), Peking University Third Hospital; Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Biomarker and Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (D.F.), China; Centre for Clinical Research (P.A.M., R.D.H., F.J.S., S.T.N.), The University of Queensland; Department of Neurology (P.A.M., R.D.H., F.J.S., S.T.N.), Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Australia; Biostatistics and Research Support (R.P.A.E.), Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Centre Utrecht, The Netherlands; and School of Biomedical Sciences (F.J.S.), The University of Queensland, Australia
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Rao Y, Peng B. Allogenic microglia replacement: A novel therapeutic strategy for neurological disorders. FUNDAMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 4:237-245. [PMID: 38933508 PMCID: PMC11197774 DOI: 10.1016/j.fmre.2023.02.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Microglia are resident immune cells in the central nervous system (CNS) that play vital roles in CNS development, homeostasis and disease pathogenesis. Genetic defects in microglia lead to microglial dysfunction, which in turn leads to neurological disorders. The correction of the specific genetic defects in microglia in these disorders can lead to therapeutic effects. Traditional genetic defect correction approaches are dependent on viral vector-based genetic defect corrections. However, the viruses used in these approaches, including adeno-associated viruses, lentiviruses and retroviruses, do not primarily target microglia; therefore, viral vector-based genetic defect corrections are ineffective in microglia. Microglia replacement is a novel approach to correct microglial genetic defects via replacing microglia of genetic defects with allogenic healthy microglia. In this paper, we systematically review the history, rationale and therapeutic perspectives of microglia replacement, which would be a novel strategy for treating CNS disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanxia Rao
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Bo Peng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Institute for Translational Brain Research, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, MOE Innovative Center for New Drug Development of Immune Inflammatory Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai 200000, China
- Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
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49
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Dar NJ, John U, Bano N, Khan S, Bhat SA. Oxytosis/Ferroptosis in Neurodegeneration: the Underlying Role of Master Regulator Glutathione Peroxidase 4 (GPX4). Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:1507-1526. [PMID: 37725216 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03646-8] [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: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
Oxytosis/ferroptosis is an iron-dependent oxidative form of cell death triggered by lethal accumulation of phospholipid hydroperoxides (PLOOHs) in membranes. Failure of the intricate PLOOH repair system is a principle cause of ferroptotic cell death. Glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) is distinctly vital for converting PLOOHs in membranes to non-toxic alcohols. As such, GPX4 is known as the master regulator of oxytosis/ferroptosis. Ferroptosis has been implicated in a number of disorders such as neurodegenerative diseases (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and Huntington's disease (HD), etc.), ischemia/reperfusion injury, and kidney degeneration. Reduced function of GPX4 is frequently observed in degenerative disorders. In this study, we examine how diminished GPX4 function may be a critical event in triggering oxytosis/ferroptosis to perpetuate or initiate the neurodegenerative diseases and assess the possible therapeutic importance of oxytosis/ferroptosis in neurodegenerative disorders. These discoveries are important for advancing our understanding of neurodegenerative diseases because oxytosis/ferroptosis may provide a new target to slow the course of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nawab John Dar
- School of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA.
| | - Urmilla John
- School of Studies in Neuroscience, Jiwaji University, Gwalior, India
- School of Studies in Zoology, Jiwaji University, Gwalior, India
| | - Nargis Bano
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, U.P, India
| | - Sameera Khan
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, U.P, India
| | - Shahnawaz Ali Bhat
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, U.P, India.
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50
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Van Daele SH, Masrori P, Van Damme P, Van Den Bosch L. The sense of antisense therapies in ALS. Trends Mol Med 2024; 30:252-262. [PMID: 38216448 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2023.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
Treatment of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) has entered a new era now that encouraging results about antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are becoming available and a first ASO therapy for ALS has been approved by the FDA. Moreover, there is hope not only that ALS can be stopped but also that symptoms can be reversed. Until now, degrading ASOs seemed to be successful mostly for rarer forms of familial ALS. However, the first attempts to correct mis-splicing events in sporadic ALS are underway, as well as a clinical trial examining interference with a genetic modifier. In this review, we discuss the current status of using ASOs in ALS and the possibilities and pitfalls of this therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sien H Van Daele
- KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Pegah Masrori
- KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Philip Van Damme
- KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium; Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium.
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