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Toren Y, Ziv Y, Sragovich S, McKinney RA, Barak S, Shazman S, Gozes I. Sex-Specific ADNP/NAP (Davunetide) Regulation of Cocaine-Induced Plasticity. J Mol Neurosci 2024; 74:76. [PMID: 39251453 PMCID: PMC11384652 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-024-02234-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
Cocaine use disorder (CUD) is a chronic neuropsychiatric disorder estimated to effect 1-3% of the population. Activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP) is essential for brain development and functioning, shown to be protective in fetal alcohol syndrome and to regulate alcohol consumption in adult mice. The goal of this study was to characterize the role of ADNP, and its active peptide NAP (NAPVSIPQ), which is also known as davunetide (investigational drug) in mediating cocaine-induced neuroadaptations. Real time PCR was used to test levels of Adnp and Adnp2 in the nucleus accumbens (NAc), ventral tegmental area (VTA), and dorsal hippocampus (DH) of cocaine-treated mice (15 mg/kg). Adnp heterozygous (Adnp +/-)and wild-type (Adnp +/-) mice were further tagged with excitatory neuronal membrane-expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) that allowed for in vivo synaptic quantification. The mice were treated with cocaine (5 injections; 15 mg/kg once every other day) with or without NAP daily injections (0.4 µg/0.1 ml) and sacrificed following the last treatment. We analyzed hippocampal CA1 pyramidal cells from 3D confocal images using the Imaris x64.8.1.2 (Oxford Instruments) software to measure changes in dendritic spine density and morphology. In silico ADNP/NAP/cocaine structural modeling was performed as before. Cocaine decreased Adnp and Adnp2 expression 2 h after injection in the NAc and VTA of male mice, with mRNA levels returning to baseline levels after 24 h. Cocaine further reduced hippocampal spine density, particularly synaptically weaker immature thin and stubby spines, in male Adnp+/+) mice while increasing synaptically stronger mature (mushroom) spines in Adnp+/-) male mice and thin and stubby spines in females. Lastly, we showed that cocaine interacts with ADNP on a zinc finger domain identical to ketamine and adjacent to a NAP-zinc finger interaction site. Our results implicate ADNP in cocaine abuse, further placing the ADNP gene as a key regulator in neuropsychiatric disorders. Ketamine/cocaine and NAP treatment may be interchangeable to some degree, implicating an interaction with adjacent zinc finger motifs on ADNP and suggestive of a potential sex-dependent, non-addictive NAP treatment for CUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yael Toren
- The Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience and Adams Super Center for Brain Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel
| | - Yarden Ziv
- The Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience and Adams Super Center for Brain Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel
- School of Psychological Sciences, Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel
| | - Shlomo Sragovich
- The Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience and Adams Super Center for Brain Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel
| | - R Anne McKinney
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Segev Barak
- School of Psychological Sciences, Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel
| | - Shula Shazman
- Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, The Open University of Israel, Ra'anana, Israel
| | - Illana Gozes
- The Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience and Adams Super Center for Brain Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel.
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2
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Wang Y, Sun X, Xiong B, Duan M, Sun Y. Genetic and Environmental Factors Co-Contributing to Behavioral Abnormalities in adnp/ adnp2 Mutant Zebrafish. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:9469. [PMID: 39273418 PMCID: PMC11395604 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25179469] [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: 08/08/2024] [Revised: 08/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Human mutations of ADNP and ADNP2 are known to be associated with neural developmental disorders (NDDs), including autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and schizophrenia (SZ). However, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. In this study, using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technology, we generated adnp and adnp2 mutant zebrafish models, which exhibited developmental delays, brain deficits, and core behavioral features of NDDs. RNA sequencing analysis of adnpa-/-; adnpb-/- and adnp2a-/-; adnp2b-/- larval brains revealed altered gene expression profiles affecting synaptic transmission, autophagy, apoptosis, microtubule dynamics, hormone signaling, and circadian rhythm regulation. Validation using whole-mount in situ hybridization (WISH) and real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR) corroborated these findings, supporting the RNA-seq results. Additionally, loss of adnp and adnp2 resulted in significant downregulation of pan-neuronal HuC and neuronal fiber network α-Tubulin signals. Importantly, prolonged low-dose exposure to environmental endocrine disruptors (EEDs) aggravated behavioral abnormalities in adnp and adnp2 mutants. This comprehensive approach enhances our understanding of the complex interplay between genetic mutations and environmental factors in NDDs. Our findings provide novel insights and experimental foundations into the roles of adnp and adnp2 in neurodevelopment and behavioral regulation, offering a framework for future preclinical drug screening aimed at elucidating the pathogenesis of NDDs and related conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongxin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Breeding Biotechnology and Sustainable Aquaculture, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xiaoyun Sun
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Bo Xiong
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Ming Duan
- Key Laboratory of Breeding Biotechnology and Sustainable Aquaculture, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- The Innovation of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Yuhua Sun
- Key Laboratory of Breeding Biotechnology and Sustainable Aquaculture, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- The Innovation of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan 430070, China
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D'Incal C, Van Dijck A, Ibrahim J, De Man K, Bastini L, Konings A, Elinck E, Gozes L, Marusic Z, Anicic M, Vukovic J, Van der Aa N, Mateiu L, Vanden Berghe W, Kooy RF. ADNP dysregulates methylation and mitochondrial gene expression in the cerebellum of a Helsmoortel-Van der Aa syndrome autopsy case. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2024; 12:62. [PMID: 38637827 PMCID: PMC11027339 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-024-01743-w] [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: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Helsmoortel-Van der Aa syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder in which patients present with autism, intellectual disability, and frequent extra-neurological features such as feeding and gastrointestinal problems, visual impairments, and cardiac abnormalities. All patients exhibit heterozygous de novo nonsense or frameshift stop mutations in the Activity-Dependent Neuroprotective Protein (ADNP) gene, accounting for a prevalence of 0.2% of all autism cases worldwide. ADNP fulfills an essential chromatin remodeling function during brain development. In this study, we investigated the cerebellum of a died 6-year-old male patient with the c.1676dupA/p.His559Glnfs*3 ADNP mutation. RESULTS The clinical presentation of the patient was representative of the Helsmoortel-Van der Aa syndrome. During his lifespan, he underwent two liver transplantations after which the child died because of multiple organ failure. An autopsy was performed, and various tissue samples were taken for further analysis. We performed a molecular characterization of the cerebellum, a brain region involved in motor coordination, known for its highest ADNP expression and compared it to an age-matched control subject. Importantly, epigenome-wide analysis of the ADNP cerebellum identified CpG methylation differences and expression of multiple pathways causing neurodevelopmental delay. Interestingly, transcription factor motif enrichment analysis of differentially methylated genes showed that the ADNP binding motif was the most significantly enriched. RNA sequencing of the autopsy brain further identified downregulation of the WNT signaling pathway and autophagy defects as possible causes of neurodevelopmental delay. Ultimately, label-free quantification mass spectrometry identified differentially expressed proteins involved in mitochondrial stress and sirtuin signaling pathways amongst others. Protein-protein interaction analysis further revealed a network including chromatin remodelers (ADNP, SMARCC2, HDAC2 and YY1), autophagy-related proteins (LAMP1, BECN1 and LC3) as well as a key histone deacetylating enzyme SIRT1, involved in mitochondrial energy metabolism. The protein interaction of ADNP with SIRT1 was further biochemically validated through the microtubule-end binding proteins EB1/EB3 by direct co-immunoprecipitation in mouse cerebellum, suggesting important mito-epigenetic crosstalk between chromatin remodeling and mitochondrial energy metabolism linked to autophagy stress responses. This is further supported by mitochondrial activity assays and stainings in patient-derived fibroblasts which suggest mitochondrial dysfunctions in the ADNP deficient human brain. CONCLUSION This study forms the baseline clinical and molecular characterization of an ADNP autopsy cerebellum, providing novel insights in the disease mechanisms of the Helsmoortel-Van der Aa syndrome. By combining multi-omic and biochemical approaches, we identified a novel SIRT1-EB1/EB3-ADNP protein complex which may contribute to autophagic flux alterations and impaired mitochondrial metabolism in the Helsmoortel-Van der Aa syndrome and holds promise as a new therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio D'Incal
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Prins Boudewijnlaan 43/6, 2650, Edegem, Antwerp, Belgium
- Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Epigenetic Signaling lab (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Anke Van Dijck
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Prins Boudewijnlaan 43/6, 2650, Edegem, Antwerp, Belgium
- Family Medicine and Population Health (FAMPOP), Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Joe Ibrahim
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Prins Boudewijnlaan 43/6, 2650, Edegem, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Kevin De Man
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Prins Boudewijnlaan 43/6, 2650, Edegem, Antwerp, Belgium
- Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Epigenetic Signaling lab (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Lina Bastini
- Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Epigenetic Signaling lab (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Anthony Konings
- Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Epigenetic Signaling lab (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Ellen Elinck
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Prins Boudewijnlaan 43/6, 2650, Edegem, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Lllana Gozes
- The Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Adams Super Center for Brain Studies and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Zlatko Marusic
- Clinical Department of Pathology and Cytology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Mirna Anicic
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Jurica Vukovic
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nathalie Van der Aa
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Prins Boudewijnlaan 43/6, 2650, Edegem, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Ligia Mateiu
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Prins Boudewijnlaan 43/6, 2650, Edegem, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Wim Vanden Berghe
- Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Epigenetic Signaling lab (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - R Frank Kooy
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Prins Boudewijnlaan 43/6, 2650, Edegem, Antwerp, Belgium.
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Liu B, Xu Y, Zhang W. Transcriptome analysis of Apis mellifera antennae reveals molecular divergence underlying the division of labour in worker bees. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 33:101-111. [PMID: 37864451 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
The olfactory system plays a fundamental role in mediating insect behaviour. Worker bees exhibit an age-dependent division of labour, performing discrete sets of behaviours throughout their lifespan. The behavioural states of bees rely on their sense of the environment and chemical communication via their olfactory system, the antennae. However, the olfactory adaptation mechanism of worker bees during their behavioural development remains unclear. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive and quantitative analysis of antennal gene expression in the Apis mellifera of newly emerged workers, nurses, foragers and defenders using RNA-seq. We found that the antenna tissues of honey bees continued developing after transformation from newly emerged workers to adults. Additionally, we identified differentially expressed genes associated with bee development and division of labour. We validated that major royal jelly protein genes are highly and specifically expressed in nurse honey bee workers. Furthermore, we identified and validated significant alternative splicing events correlated with the development and division of labour. These findings provide a comprehensive transcriptome profile and a new perspective on the molecular mechanisms that may underlie the worker honey bee division of labour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bairu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yicong Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weixing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Ge C, Tian Y, Hu C, Mei L, Li D, Dong P, Zhang Y, Li H, Sun D, Peng W, Xu X, Jiang Y, Xu Q. Clinical impact and in vitro characterization of ADNP variants in pediatric patients. Mol Autism 2024; 15:5. [PMID: 38254177 PMCID: PMC10804707 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-024-00584-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Helsmoortel-Van der Aa syndrome (HVDAS) is a rare genetic disorder caused by variants in the activity-dependent neuroprotector homeobox (ADNP) gene; hence, it is also called ADNP syndrome. ADNP is a multitasking protein with the function as a transcription factor, playing a critical role in brain development. Furthermore, ADNP variants have been identified as one of the most common single-gene causes of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual disability. METHODS We assembled a cohort of 15 Chinese pediatric patients, identified 13 variants in the coding region of ADNP gene, and evaluated their clinical phenotypes. Additionally, we constructed the corresponding ADNP variants and performed western blotting and immunofluorescence analysis to examine their protein expression and subcellular localization in human HEK293T and SH-SY5Y cells. RESULTS Our study conducted a thorough characterization of the clinical manifestations in 15 children with ADNP variants, and revealed a broad spectrum of symptoms including global developmental delay, intellectual disability, ASD, facial abnormalities, and other features. In vitro studies were carried out to check the expression of ADNP with identified variants. Two cases presented missense variants, while the remainder exhibited nonsense or frameshift variants, leading to truncated mutants in in vitro overexpression systems. Both overexpressed wildtype ADNP and all the different mutants were found to be confined to the nuclei in HEK293T cells; however, the distinctive pattern of nuclear bodies formed by the wildtype ADNP was either partially or entirely disrupted by the mutant proteins. Moreover, two variants of p.Y719* on the nuclear localization signal (NLS) of ADNP disrupted the nuclear expression pattern, predominantly manifesting in the cytoplasm in SH-SY5Y cells. LIMITATIONS Our study was limited by a relatively small sample size and the absence of a longitudinal framework to monitor the progression of patient conditions over time. Additionally, we lacked in vivo evidence to further indicate the causal implications of the identified ADNP variants. CONCLUSIONS Our study reported the first cohort of HVDAS patients in the Chinese population and provided systematic clinical presentations and laboratory examinations. Furthermore, we identified multiple genetic variants and validated them in vitro. Our findings offered valuable insights into the diverse genetic variants associated with HVDAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanhui Ge
- Institutes of Brain Science, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yuxin Tian
- Department of Child Health Care, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201102, China
| | - Chunchun Hu
- Department of Child Health Care, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201102, China
| | - Lianni Mei
- Department of Child Health Care, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201102, China
| | - Dongyun Li
- Department of Child Health Care, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201102, China
| | - Ping Dong
- Department of Child Health Care, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201102, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Child Health Care, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201102, China
| | - Huiping Li
- Department of Child Health Care, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201102, China
| | - Daijing Sun
- Institutes of Brain Science, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Wenzhu Peng
- Institutes of Brain Science, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xiu Xu
- Department of Child Health Care, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201102, China
| | - Yan Jiang
- Institutes of Brain Science, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Qiong Xu
- Department of Child Health Care, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 201102, China.
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Gozes I. Tau, ADNP, and sex. Cytoskeleton (Hoboken) 2024; 81:16-23. [PMID: 37572043 DOI: 10.1002/cm.21776] [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: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
With 50 years to the original discovery of Tau, I gave here my perspective, looking through the prism of activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP), and the influence of sex. My starting point was vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), a regulator of ADNP. I then moved to the original discovery of ADNP and its active neuroprotective site, NAP, drug candidate, davunetide. Tau-ADNP-NAP interactions were then explained with emphasis on sex and future translational medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Illana Gozes
- Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Adams Super Center for Brain Studies and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Magrì B, D'Amico AG, Maugeri G, Morello G, La Cognata V, Saccone S, Federico C, Cavallaro S, D'Agata V. Neuroprotective effect of the PACAP-ADNP axis on SOD1G93A mutant motor neuron death induced by trophic factors deprivation. Neuropeptides 2023; 102:102386. [PMID: 37856900 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2023.102386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive degeneration of motor neurons in the central nervous system. Mutations in the gene encoding Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1) account for approximately in 20% of familial ALS cases. The pathological mechanisms underlying the toxicity induced by mutated SOD1 are still unknown. However, it has been hypothesized that oxidative stress (OS) has a crucial role in motor neuron degeneration in ALS patients. Moreover, it has been described that SOD1 mutation interferes expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a protective key modulator against OS and reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation. The protective effect of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP) has been demonstrated in various neurological disorders, including ALS. Some of its effects are mediated by the stimulation of an intracellular factor known as activity-dependent protein (ADNP). The role of PACAP-ADNP axis on mutated SOD1 motor neuron degeneration has not been explored, yet. The present study aimed to investigate whether PACAP prevented apoptotic cell death induced by growth factor deprivation through ADNP activation and whether the peptidergic axis can counteract the OS insult. By using an in vitro model of ALS, we demonstrated that PACAP by binding to PAC1 receptor (PAC1R) prevented motor neuron death induced by serum deprivation through induction of the ADNP expression via PKC stimulation. Furthermore, we have also demonstrated that the PACAP/ADNP axis counteracted ROS formation by inducing translocation of the Nfr2 from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. In conclusion, our study provides new insights regarding the protective role of PACAP-ADNP in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedetta Magrì
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, Italy
| | | | - Grazia Maugeri
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanna Morello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Via P. Gaifami 18, Catania 95126, Italy
| | - Valentina La Cognata
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Via P. Gaifami 18, Catania 95126, Italy
| | - Salvatore Saccone
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Section of Animal Biology, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Concetta Federico
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Section of Animal Biology, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Cavallaro
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Via P. Gaifami 18, Catania 95126, Italy
| | - Velia D'Agata
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, Italy.
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Gozes I, Shapira G, Lobyntseva A, Shomron N. Unexpected gender differences in progressive supranuclear palsy reveal efficacy for davunetide in women. Transl Psychiatry 2023; 13:319. [PMID: 37845254 PMCID: PMC10579238 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-023-02618-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a pure tauopathy, implicating davunetide, enhancing Tau-microtubule interaction, as an ideal drug candidate. However, pooling patient data irrespective of sex concluded no efficacy. Here, analyzing sex-dependency in a 52 week-long- PSP clinical trial (involving over 200 patients) demonstrated clear baseline differences in brain ventricular volumes, a secondary endpoint. Dramatic baseline ventricular volume-dependent/volume increase correlations were observed in 52-week-placebo-treated females (r = 0.74, P = 2.36-9), whereas davunetide-treated females (like males) revealed no such effects. Assessment of primary endpoints, by the PSP Rating Scale (PSPRS) and markedly more so by the Schwab and England Activities of Daily Living (SEADL) scale, showed significantly faster deterioration in females, starting at trial week 13 (P = 0.01, and correlating with most other endpoints by week 52). Twice daily davunetide treatments slowed female disease progression and revealed significant protection according to the SEADL scale as early as at 39 weeks (P = 0.008), as well as protection of the bulbar and limb motor domains considered by the PSPRS, including speaking and swallowing difficulties caused by brain damage, and deterioration of fine motor skills, respectably (P = 0.01), at 52 weeks. Furthermore, at 52 weeks of trial, the exploratory Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) significantly correlated with the SEADL scale deterioration in the female placebo group and demonstrated davunetide-mediated protection of females. Female-specific davunetide-mediated protection of ventricular volume corresponded to clinical efficacy. Together with the significantly slower disease progression seen in men, the results reveal sex-based drug efficacy differences, demonstrating the neuroprotective and disease-modifying impact of davunetide treatment for female PSP patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Illana Gozes
- Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Adams Super Center for Brain Studies and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Guy Shapira
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience, Edmond J Safra Center for Bioinformatics, Tel Aviv University, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Alexandra Lobyntseva
- Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Adams Super Center for Brain Studies and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Noam Shomron
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience, Edmond J Safra Center for Bioinformatics, Tel Aviv University, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Ganaiem M, Gildor ND, Shazman S, Karmon G, Ivashko-Pachima Y, Gozes I. NAP (Davunetide): The Neuroprotective ADNP Drug Candidate Penetrates Cell Nuclei Explaining Pleiotropic Mechanisms. Cells 2023; 12:2251. [PMID: 37759476 PMCID: PMC10527813 DOI: 10.3390/cells12182251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Recently, we showed aberrant nuclear/cytoplasmic boundaries/activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP) distribution in ADNP-mutated cells. This malformation was corrected upon neuronal differentiation by the ADNP-derived fragment drug candidate NAP (davunetide). Here, we investigated the mechanism of NAP nuclear protection. (2) Methods: CRISPR/Cas9 DNA-editing established N1E-115 neuroblastoma cell lines that express two different green fluorescent proteins (GFPs)-labeled mutated ADNP variants (p.Tyr718* and p.Ser403*). Cells were exposed to NAP conjugated to Cy5, followed by live imaging. Cells were further characterized using quantitative morphology/immunocytochemistry/RNA and protein quantifications. (3) Results: NAP rapidly distributed in the cytoplasm and was also seen in the nucleus. Furthermore, reduced microtubule content was observed in the ADNP-mutated cell lines. In parallel, disrupting microtubules by zinc or nocodazole intoxication mimicked ADNP mutation phenotypes and resulted in aberrant nuclear-cytoplasmic boundaries, which were rapidly corrected by NAP treatment. No NAP effects were noted on ADNP levels. Ketamine, used as a control, was ineffective, but both NAP and ketamine exhibited direct interactions with ADNP, as observed via in silico docking. (4) Conclusions: Through a microtubule-linked mechanism, NAP rapidly localized to the cytoplasmic and nuclear compartments, ameliorating mutated ADNP-related deficiencies. These novel findings explain previously published gene expression results and broaden NAP (davunetide) utilization in research and clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maram Ganaiem
- The Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience and Adams Super Center for Brain Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel; (M.G.); (N.D.G.); (G.K.); (Y.I.-P.)
| | - Nina D. Gildor
- The Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience and Adams Super Center for Brain Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel; (M.G.); (N.D.G.); (G.K.); (Y.I.-P.)
| | - Shula Shazman
- Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, The Open University of Israel, Raanana 4353107, Israel;
- Department of Information Systems, The Max Stern Yezreel Valley College, Yezreel Valley, Afula 1930600, Israel
| | - Gidon Karmon
- The Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience and Adams Super Center for Brain Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel; (M.G.); (N.D.G.); (G.K.); (Y.I.-P.)
| | - Yanina Ivashko-Pachima
- The Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience and Adams Super Center for Brain Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel; (M.G.); (N.D.G.); (G.K.); (Y.I.-P.)
| | - Illana Gozes
- The Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience and Adams Super Center for Brain Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel; (M.G.); (N.D.G.); (G.K.); (Y.I.-P.)
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10
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Cho H, Yoo T, Moon H, Kang H, Yang Y, Kang M, Yang E, Lee D, Hwang D, Kim H, Kim D, Kim JY, Kim E. Adnp-mutant mice with cognitive inflexibility, CaMKIIα hyperactivity, and synaptic plasticity deficits. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:3548-3562. [PMID: 37365244 PMCID: PMC10618100 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02129-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
ADNP syndrome, involving the ADNP transcription factor of the SWI/SNF chromatin-remodeling complex, is characterized by developmental delay, intellectual disability, and autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Although Adnp-haploinsufficient (Adnp-HT) mice display various phenotypic deficits, whether these mice display abnormal synaptic functions remain poorly understood. Here, we report synaptic plasticity deficits associated with cognitive inflexibility and CaMKIIα hyperactivity in Adnp-HT mice. These mice show impaired and inflexible contextual learning and memory, additional to social deficits, long after the juvenile-stage decrease of ADNP protein levels to ~10% of the newborn level. The adult Adnp-HT hippocampus shows hyperphosphorylated CaMKIIα and its substrates, including SynGAP1, and excessive long-term potentiation that is normalized by CaMKIIα inhibition. Therefore, Adnp haploinsufficiency in mice leads to cognitive inflexibility involving CaMKIIα hyperphosphorylation and excessive LTP in adults long after its marked expressional decrease in juveniles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heejin Cho
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute for Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Korea
- Center for Synaptic Brain Dysfunctions, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon, 34141, Korea
| | - Taesun Yoo
- Center for Synaptic Brain Dysfunctions, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon, 34141, Korea
| | - Heera Moon
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute for Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Korea
| | - Hyojin Kang
- Division of National Supercomputing, Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information, Daejeon, 34141, Korea
| | - Yeji Yang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute for Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Korea
- Research Center for Bioconvergence Analysis, Korea Basic Science Institute, 162 Yeongudanjiro, Ochang, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 28119, Korea
| | - MinSoung Kang
- Therapeutics & Biotechnology Division, Drug discovery platform research center, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Daejeon, 34114, Korea
| | - Esther Yang
- Department of Anatomy and BK21 Graduate Program, Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Korea
| | - Dowoon Lee
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Korea
| | - Daehee Hwang
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Korea
| | - Hyun Kim
- Department of Anatomy and BK21 Graduate Program, Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Korea
| | - Doyoun Kim
- Therapeutics & Biotechnology Division, Drug discovery platform research center, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Daejeon, 34114, Korea
- Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacology, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, 34113, Korea
| | - Jin Young Kim
- Research Center for Bioconvergence Analysis, Korea Basic Science Institute, 162 Yeongudanjiro, Ochang, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 28119, Korea
| | - Eunjoon Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute for Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Korea.
- Center for Synaptic Brain Dysfunctions, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon, 34141, Korea.
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11
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Licinio J, Wong ML. Psychosis and autism spectrum disorder: a special issue of Molecular Psychiatry. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:1830-1832. [PMID: 37833367 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02250-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Julio Licinio
- State University of New York, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, 13210, USA.
| | - Ma-Li Wong
- State University of New York, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, 13210, USA
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12
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D'Incal CP, Van Rossem KE, De Man K, Konings A, Van Dijck A, Rizzuti L, Vitriolo A, Testa G, Gozes I, Vanden Berghe W, Kooy RF. Chromatin remodeler Activity-Dependent Neuroprotective Protein (ADNP) contributes to syndromic autism. Clin Epigenetics 2023; 15:45. [PMID: 36945042 PMCID: PMC10031977 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-023-01450-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals affected with autism often suffer additional co-morbidities such as intellectual disability. The genes contributing to autism cluster on a relatively limited number of cellular pathways, including chromatin remodeling. However, limited information is available on how mutations in single genes can result in such pleiotropic clinical features in affected individuals. In this review, we summarize available information on one of the most frequently mutated genes in syndromic autism the Activity-Dependent Neuroprotective Protein (ADNP). RESULTS Heterozygous and predicted loss-of-function ADNP mutations in individuals inevitably result in the clinical presentation with the Helsmoortel-Van der Aa syndrome, a frequent form of syndromic autism. ADNP, a zinc finger DNA-binding protein has a role in chromatin remodeling: The protein is associated with the pericentromeric protein HP1, the SWI/SNF core complex protein BRG1, and other members of this chromatin remodeling complex and, in murine stem cells, with the chromodomain helicase CHD4 in a ChAHP complex. ADNP has recently been shown to possess R-loop processing activity. In addition, many additional functions, for instance, in association with cytoskeletal proteins have been linked to ADNP. CONCLUSIONS We here present an integrated evaluation of all current aspects of gene function and evaluate how abnormalities in chromatin remodeling might relate to the pleiotropic clinical presentation in individual"s" with Helsmoortel-Van der Aa syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Peter D'Incal
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Prins Boudewijnlaan 43/6, 2650, Edegem, Belgium
- Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Epigenetic Signaling Lab (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Kirsten Esther Van Rossem
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Prins Boudewijnlaan 43/6, 2650, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Kevin De Man
- Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Epigenetic Signaling Lab (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Anthony Konings
- Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Epigenetic Signaling Lab (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Anke Van Dijck
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Prins Boudewijnlaan 43/6, 2650, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Ludovico Rizzuti
- High Definition Disease Modelling Lab, Stem Cell and Organoid Epigenetics, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, 20141, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, 20122, Milan, Italy
- Human Technopole, V. Le Rita Levi-Montalcini, 1, 20157, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Vitriolo
- High Definition Disease Modelling Lab, Stem Cell and Organoid Epigenetics, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, 20141, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, 20122, Milan, Italy
- Human Technopole, V. Le Rita Levi-Montalcini, 1, 20157, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Testa
- High Definition Disease Modelling Lab, Stem Cell and Organoid Epigenetics, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, 20141, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, 20122, Milan, Italy
- Human Technopole, V. Le Rita Levi-Montalcini, 1, 20157, Milan, Italy
| | - Illana Gozes
- Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Adams Super Center for Brain Studies and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Sackler School of Medicine, 727, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Wim Vanden Berghe
- Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Epigenetic Signaling Lab (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium.
| | - R Frank Kooy
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Prins Boudewijnlaan 43/6, 2650, Edegem, Belgium.
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13
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Chen LJ, You ZM, Chen WH, Yang S, Feng CC, Wang HY, Wang T, Zhu YY. Helsmoortel-van der Aa syndrome in a Chinese pediatric patient due to ADNP nonsense mutation: A case report. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1122513. [PMID: 37063667 PMCID: PMC10097981 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1122513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Helsmoortel-van der Aa syndrome, also known as ADNP syndrome, is a condition that causes developmental delay, language impairment, autism spectrum, and variable extraneurologic features. It is caused by heterozygous mutations in the ADNP gene on chromosome 20q13. Most of the genetic causes of Helsmoortel-van der Aa syndrome have been reported are as de novo nonsense or frameshift stop mutations in exon 5 of ADNP gene, while fewer truncating variants were discovered in exons 4 and the 5' end of exon 5. Methods In our study, a 4-year-old female Chinese patient was reported with delayed psychomotor development, language impairment, ataxia, anxiety, aggressive behavior, and congenital heart defect. Trio whole exome sequencing and copy number variation sequencing were performed. Results A novel de novo heterozygous pathogenic mutation c.568C > T (p.Gln190Ter) was identified in the ADNP gene of the proband. His unaffected parents did not have the variant. According to the American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG) guidelines, c.568C > T was classified as "pathogenic". Conclusion Our report indicated that c.568C > T (p.Gln190Ter) in ADNP gene is the cause of abnormal development of the nervous system, congenital heart disease and strabismus, broadening the spectrum of ADNP gene mutations associated with Helsmoortel-van der Aa syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-juan Chen
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
- Correspondence: Li-juan Chen
| | - Zhong-min You
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Wen-hong Chen
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Si Yang
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Chun-chen Feng
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Hai-yong Wang
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuan-yuan Zhu
- Department of Marketing, Aegicare (Shenzhen) Technology Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, China
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