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Fare CM, Rothstein JD. Nuclear pore dysfunction and disease: a complex opportunity. Nucleus 2024; 15:2314297. [PMID: 38383349 PMCID: PMC10883112 DOI: 10.1080/19491034.2024.2314297] [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: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The separation of genetic material from bulk cytoplasm has enabled the evolution of increasingly complex organisms, allowing for the development of sophisticated forms of life. However, this complexity has created new categories of dysfunction, including those related to the movement of material between cellular compartments. In eukaryotic cells, nucleocytoplasmic trafficking is a fundamental biological process, and cumulative disruptions to nuclear integrity and nucleocytoplasmic transport are detrimental to cell survival. This is particularly true in post-mitotic neurons, where nuclear pore injury and errors to nucleocytoplasmic trafficking are strongly associated with neurodegenerative disease. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of nuclear pore biology in physiological and pathological contexts and discuss potential therapeutic approaches for addressing nuclear pore injury and dysfunctional nucleocytoplasmic transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte M Fare
- Department of Neurology and Brain Science Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jeffrey D Rothstein
- Department of Neurology and Brain Science Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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2
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Nickerson JA, Momen-Heravi F. Long non-coding RNAs: roles in cellular stress responses and epigenetic mechanisms regulating chromatin. Nucleus 2024; 15:2350180. [PMID: 38773934 PMCID: PMC11123517 DOI: 10.1080/19491034.2024.2350180] [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: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Most of the genome is transcribed into RNA but only 2% of the sequence codes for proteins. Non-coding RNA transcripts include a very large number of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). A growing number of identified lncRNAs operate in cellular stress responses, for example in response to hypoxia, genotoxic stress, and oxidative stress. Additionally, lncRNA plays important roles in epigenetic mechanisms operating at chromatin and in maintaining chromatin architecture. Here, we address three lncRNA topics that have had significant recent advances. The first is an emerging role for many lncRNAs in cellular stress responses. The second is the development of high throughput screening assays to develop causal relationships between lncRNAs across the genome with cellular functions. Finally, we turn to recent advances in understanding the role of lncRNAs in regulating chromatin architecture and epigenetics, advances that build on some of the earliest work linking RNA to chromatin architecture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey A Nickerson
- Division of Genes & Development, Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Fatemeh Momen-Heravi
- College of Dental Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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3
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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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4
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Sirtori R, J Gregoire M, M Potts E, Collins A, Donatelli L, Fallini C. LINC complex alterations are a key feature of sporadic and familial ALS/FTD. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2024; 12:69. [PMID: 38664831 PMCID: PMC11046770 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-024-01778-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: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects motor neurons, leading to progressive muscle weakness and loss of voluntary muscle control. While the exact cause of ALS is not fully understood, emerging research suggests that dysfunction of the nuclear envelope (NE) may contribute to disease pathogenesis and progression. The NE plays a role in ALS through several mechanisms, including nuclear pore defects, nucleocytoplasmic transport impairment, accumulation of mislocalized proteins, and nuclear morphology abnormalities. The LINC complex is the second biggest multi-protein complex in the NE and consists of the SUN1/2 proteins spanning the inner nuclear membrane and Nesprin proteins embedded in the outer membrane. The LINC complex, by interacting with both the nuclear lamina and the cytoskeleton, transmits mechanical forces to the nucleus regulating its morphology and functional homeostasis. In this study we show extensive alterations to the LINC complex in motor and cortical iPSC-derived neurons and spinal cord organoids carrying the ALS causative mutation in the C9ORF72 gene (C9). Importantly, we show that such alterations are present in vivo in a cohort of sporadic ALS and C9-ALS postmortem spinal cord and motor cortex specimens. We also found that LINC complex disruption strongly correlated with nuclear morphological alterations occurring in ALS neurons, independently of TDP43 mislocalization. Altogether, our data establish morphological and functional alterations to the LINC complex as important events in ALS pathogenic cascade, making this pathway a possible target for both biomarker and therapy development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Sirtori
- Ryan Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rhode Island, 130 Flagg Rd, 02881, Kingston, RI, United States of America
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Rhode Island, 120 Flagg Rd, 02881, Kingston, RI, United States of America
| | - Michelle J Gregoire
- Ryan Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rhode Island, 130 Flagg Rd, 02881, Kingston, RI, United States of America
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Rhode Island, 120 Flagg Rd, 02881, Kingston, RI, United States of America
- Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program, University of Rhode Island, 9 Greenhouse Road, 02881, Kingston, RI, United States of America
| | - Emily M Potts
- Ryan Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rhode Island, 130 Flagg Rd, 02881, Kingston, RI, United States of America
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Rhode Island, 120 Flagg Rd, 02881, Kingston, RI, United States of America
- Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program, University of Rhode Island, 9 Greenhouse Road, 02881, Kingston, RI, United States of America
| | - Alicia Collins
- Ryan Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rhode Island, 130 Flagg Rd, 02881, Kingston, RI, United States of America
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Rhode Island, 120 Flagg Rd, 02881, Kingston, RI, United States of America
- Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program, University of Rhode Island, 9 Greenhouse Road, 02881, Kingston, RI, United States of America
| | - Liviana Donatelli
- Ryan Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rhode Island, 130 Flagg Rd, 02881, Kingston, RI, United States of America
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Rhode Island, 120 Flagg Rd, 02881, Kingston, RI, United States of America
- Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program, University of Rhode Island, 9 Greenhouse Road, 02881, Kingston, RI, United States of America
| | - Claudia Fallini
- Ryan Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rhode Island, 130 Flagg Rd, 02881, Kingston, RI, United States of America.
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Rhode Island, 120 Flagg Rd, 02881, Kingston, RI, United States of America.
- Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program, University of Rhode Island, 9 Greenhouse Road, 02881, Kingston, RI, United States of America.
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, United States of America.
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5
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Funes S, Jung J, Gadd DH, Mosqueda M, Zhong J, Shankaracharya, Unger M, Stallworth K, Cameron D, Rotunno MS, Dawes P, Fowler-Magaw M, Keagle PJ, McDonough JA, Boopathy S, Sena-Esteves M, Nickerson JA, Lutz C, Skarnes WC, Lim ET, Schafer DP, Massi F, Landers JE, Bosco DA. Expression of ALS-PFN1 impairs vesicular degradation in iPSC-derived microglia. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2497. [PMID: 38509062 PMCID: PMC10954694 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46695-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: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Microglia play a pivotal role in neurodegenerative disease pathogenesis, but the mechanisms underlying microglia dysfunction and toxicity remain to be elucidated. To investigate the effect of neurodegenerative disease-linked genes on the intrinsic properties of microglia, we studied microglia-like cells derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), termed iMGs, harboring mutations in profilin-1 (PFN1) that are causative for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). ALS-PFN1 iMGs exhibited evidence of lipid dysmetabolism, autophagy dysregulation and deficient phagocytosis, a canonical microglia function. Mutant PFN1 also displayed enhanced binding affinity for PI3P, a critical signaling molecule involved in autophagic and endocytic processing. Our cumulative data implicate a gain-of-toxic function for mutant PFN1 within the autophagic and endo-lysosomal pathways, as administration of rapamycin rescued phagocytic dysfunction in ALS-PFN1 iMGs. These outcomes demonstrate the utility of iMGs for neurodegenerative disease research and implicate microglial vesicular degradation pathways in the pathogenesis of these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salome Funes
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Translational Science Program, Morningside Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Jonathan Jung
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Neuroscience Program, Morningside Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Del Hayden Gadd
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Michelle Mosqueda
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology Program, Morningside Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Jianjun Zhong
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Shankaracharya
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Matthew Unger
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology Program, Morningside Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Karly Stallworth
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Debra Cameron
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Melissa S Rotunno
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Pepper Dawes
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Department of Genomics and Computational Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Megan Fowler-Magaw
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Neuroscience Program, Morningside Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Pamela J Keagle
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | | | - Sivakumar Boopathy
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology Program, Morningside Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Miguel Sena-Esteves
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Nickerson
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Cathleen Lutz
- The Jackson Laboratory Center for Precision Genetics, Rare Disease Translational Center, Bar Harbor, ME, 04609, USA
| | - William C Skarnes
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, 06032, USA
| | - Elaine T Lim
- Neuroscience Program, Morningside Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Department of Genomics and Computational Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Dorothy P Schafer
- Neuroscience Program, Morningside Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, Brudnick Neuropsychiatric Research Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Francesca Massi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology Program, Morningside Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - John E Landers
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
- Neuroscience Program, Morningside Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Daryl A Bosco
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
- Translational Science Program, Morningside Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
- Neuroscience Program, Morningside Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology Program, Morningside Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
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6
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Sirtori R, Gregoire M, Potts E, Collins A, Donatelli L, Fallini C. LINC complex alterations are a hallmark of sporadic and familial ALS/FTD. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.08.584123. [PMID: 38559165 PMCID: PMC10979905 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.08.584123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects motor neurons, leading to progressive muscle weakness and loss of voluntary muscle control. While the exact cause of ALS is not fully understood, emerging research suggests that dysfunction of the nuclear envelope (NE) may contribute to disease pathogenesis and progression. The NE plays a role in ALS through several mechanisms, including nuclear pore defects, nucleocytoplasmic transport impairment, accumulation of mislocalized proteins, and nuclear morphology abnormalities. The LINC complex is the second biggest multi-protein complex in the NE and consists of the SUN1/2 proteins spanning the inner nuclear membrane and Nesprin proteins embedded in the outer membrane. The LINC complex, by interacting with both the nuclear lamina and the cytoskeleton, transmits mechanical forces to the nucleus regulating its morphology and functional homeostasis. In this study we show extensive alterations to the LINC complex in motor and cortical iPSC-derived neurons and spinal cord organoids carrying the ALS causative mutation in the C9ORF72 gene (C9). Importantly, we show that such alterations are present in vivo in a cohort of sporadic ALS and C9-ALS postmortem spinal cord and motor cortex biopsies. We also found that LINC complex disruption strongly correlated with nuclear morphological alterations occurring in ALS neurons, independently of TDP43 mislocalization. Altogether, our data establish morphological and functional alterations to the LINC complex as important events in ALS pathogenic cascade, making this pathway a possible target for both biomarker and therapy development.
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7
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Tzeplaeff L, Jürs AV, Wohnrade C, Demleitner AF. Unraveling the Heterogeneity of ALS-A Call to Redefine Patient Stratification for Better Outcomes in Clinical Trials. Cells 2024; 13:452. [PMID: 38474416 PMCID: PMC10930688 DOI: 10.3390/cells13050452] [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: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite tremendous efforts in basic research and a growing number of clinical trials aiming to find effective treatments, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) remains an incurable disease. One possible reason for the lack of effective causative treatment options is that ALS may not be a single disease entity but rather may represent a clinical syndrome, with diverse genetic and molecular causes, histopathological alterations, and subsequent clinical presentations contributing to its complexity and variability among individuals. Defining a way to subcluster ALS patients is becoming a central endeavor in the field. Identifying specific clusters and applying them in clinical trials could enable the development of more effective treatments. This review aims to summarize the available data on heterogeneity in ALS with regard to various aspects, e.g., clinical, genetic, and molecular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Tzeplaeff
- Department of Neurology, Rechts der Isar Hospital, Technical University of Munich, 81675 München, Germany
| | - Alexandra V. Jürs
- Translational Neurodegeneration Section “Albrecht Kossel”, Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany
| | - Camilla Wohnrade
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany;
| | - Antonia F. Demleitner
- Department of Neurology, Rechts der Isar Hospital, Technical University of Munich, 81675 München, Germany
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8
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Jagaraj CJ, Shadfar S, Kashani SA, Saravanabavan S, Farzana F, Atkin JD. Molecular hallmarks of ageing in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:111. [PMID: 38430277 PMCID: PMC10908642 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05164-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal, severely debilitating and rapidly progressing disorder affecting motor neurons in the brain, brainstem, and spinal cord. Unfortunately, there are few effective treatments, thus there remains a critical need to find novel interventions that can mitigate against its effects. Whilst the aetiology of ALS remains unclear, ageing is the major risk factor. Ageing is a slowly progressive process marked by functional decline of an organism over its lifespan. However, it remains unclear how ageing promotes the risk of ALS. At the molecular and cellular level there are specific hallmarks characteristic of normal ageing. These hallmarks are highly inter-related and overlap significantly with each other. Moreover, whilst ageing is a normal process, there are striking similarities at the molecular level between these factors and neurodegeneration in ALS. Nine ageing hallmarks were originally proposed: genomic instability, loss of telomeres, senescence, epigenetic modifications, dysregulated nutrient sensing, loss of proteostasis, mitochondrial dysfunction, stem cell exhaustion, and altered inter-cellular communication. However, these were recently (2023) expanded to include dysregulation of autophagy, inflammation and dysbiosis. Hence, given the latest updates to these hallmarks, and their close association to disease processes in ALS, a new examination of their relationship to pathophysiology is warranted. In this review, we describe possible mechanisms by which normal ageing impacts on neurodegenerative mechanisms implicated in ALS, and new therapeutic interventions that may arise from this.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cyril Jones Jagaraj
- MND Research Centre, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, 75 Talavera Road, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Sina Shadfar
- MND Research Centre, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, 75 Talavera Road, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Sara Assar Kashani
- MND Research Centre, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, 75 Talavera Road, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Sayanthooran Saravanabavan
- MND Research Centre, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, 75 Talavera Road, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Fabiha Farzana
- MND Research Centre, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, 75 Talavera Road, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Julie D Atkin
- MND Research Centre, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, 75 Talavera Road, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia.
- La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia.
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9
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Izumi R, Ikeda K, Niihori T, Suzuki N, Shirota M, Funayama R, Nakayama K, Warita H, Tateyama M, Aoki Y, Aoki M. Nuclear pore pathology underlying multisystem proteinopathy type 3-related inclusion body myopathy. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2024; 11:577-592. [PMID: 38158701 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51977] [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: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Multisystem proteinopathy type 3 (MSP3) is an inherited, pleiotropic degenerative disorder caused by a mutation in heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A1 (hnRNPA1), which can affect the muscle, bone, and/or nervous system. This study aimed to determine detailed histopathological features and transcriptomic profile of HNRNPA1-mutated skeletal muscles to reveal the core pathomechanism of hereditary inclusion body myopathy (hIBM), a predominant phenotype of MSP3. METHODS Histopathological analyses and RNA sequencing of HNRNPA1-mutated skeletal muscles harboring a c.940G > A (p.D314N) mutation (NM_031157) were performed, and the results were compared with those of HNRNPA1-unlinked hIBM and control muscle tissues. RESULTS RNA sequencing revealed aberrant alternative splicing events that predominantly occurred in myofibril components and mitochondrial respiratory complex. Enrichment analyses identified the nuclear pore complex (NPC) and nucleocytoplasmic transport as suppressed pathways. These two pathways were linked by the hub genes NUP50, NUP98, NUP153, NUP205, and RanBP2. In immunohistochemistry, these nucleoporin proteins (NUPs) were mislocalized to the cytoplasm and aggregated mostly with TAR DNA-binding protein 43 kDa and, to a lesser extent, with hnRNPA1. Based on ultrastructural observation, irregularly shaped myonuclei with deep invaginations were frequently observed in atrophic fibers, consistent with the disorganization of NPCs. Additionally, regarding the expression profiles of overall NUPs, reduced expression of NUP98, NUP153, and RanBP2 was shared with HNRNPA1-unlinked hIBMs. INTERPRETATION The shared subset of altered NUPs in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), as demonstrated in prior research, HNRNPA1-mutated, and HNRNPA1-unlinked hIBM muscle tissues may provide evidence regarding the underlying common nuclear pore pathology of hIBM, ALS, and MSP.
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Grants
- KAKENHI (20K16571) Grant-in-Aid for Early-Career Scientists from Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS)
- KAKENHI (20H03586) Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (B) from Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS)
- KAKENHI (23H02821) Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (B) from Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS)
- KAKENHI (20K07897) Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C) from Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS)
- 23FC1008 Grants-in-Aid from the Research Committee of CNS Degenerative Diseases, Research on Policy Planning and Evaluation for Rare and Intractable Diseases, Health, Labour and Welfare Sciences Research Grants, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Japan
- 23FC1010 Grants-in-Aid from the Research Committee of CNS Degenerative Diseases, Research on Policy Planning and Evaluation for Rare and Intractable Diseases, Health, Labour and Welfare Sciences Research Grants, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Japan
- 20FC1036 Grants-in-Aid for Research on Rare and Intractable Diseases from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan
- 23FC1014 Grants-in-Aid for Research on Rare and Intractable Diseases from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan
- Haruki ALS Research Foundation
- 2-5 Intramural Research Grant for Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders Provided from National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry of Japan
- 5-6 Intramural Research Grant for Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders Provided from National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry of Japan
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Affiliation(s)
- Rumiko Izumi
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Medical Genetics, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Kensuke Ikeda
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Niihori
- Department of Medical Genetics, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Naoki Suzuki
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Matsuyuki Shirota
- Division of Interdisciplinary Medical Science, United Centers for Advanced Research and Translational Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Ryo Funayama
- Division of Cell Proliferation, United Centers for Advanced Research and Translational Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Keiko Nakayama
- Division of Cell Proliferation, United Centers for Advanced Research and Translational Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Warita
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Maki Tateyama
- Department of Neurology, National Hospital Organization Iwate Hospital, Ichinoseki, Japan
| | - Yoko Aoki
- Department of Medical Genetics, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Masashi Aoki
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
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10
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Wu J, Ren J, Cui H, Xie Y, Tang Y. Rapid and high-purity differentiation of human medium spiny neurons reveals LMNB1 hypofunction and subtype necessity in modeling Huntington's disease. Inflamm Regen 2024; 44:7. [PMID: 38360694 PMCID: PMC10870681 DOI: 10.1186/s41232-024-00320-x] [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: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Different neural subtypes are selectively lost in diverse neurodegenerative diseases. Huntington's disease (HD) is an inherited neurodegenerative disease characterized by motor abnormalities that primarily affect the striatum. The Huntingtin (HTT) mutation involves an expanded CAG repeat, leading to insoluble polyQ, which renders GABA+ medium spiny neurons (MSN) more venerable to cell death. Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) technology allows for the construction of disease-specific models, providing valuable cellular models for studying pathogenesis, drug screening, and high-throughput analysis. METHODS In this study, we established a method that allows for rapid and efficient generation of MSNs (> 90%) within 21 days from hPSC-derived neural progenitor cells, by introducing a specific combination of transcription factors. RESULTS We efficiently induced several neural subtypes, in parallel, based on the same cell source, and revealed that, compared to other neural subtypes, MSNs exhibited higher polyQ aggregation propensity and overexpression toxicity, more severe dysfunction in BDNF/TrkB signaling, greater susceptibility to BDNF withdrawal, and more severe disturbances in nucleocytoplasmic transport (NCT). We further found that the nuclear lamina protein LMNB1 was greatly reduced in HD neurons and mislocalized to the cytoplasm and axons. Knockdown of HTT or treatment with KPT335, an orally selective inhibitor of nuclear export (SINE), effectively attenuated the pathological phenotypes and alleviated neuronal death caused by BDNF withdrawal. CONCLUSIONS This study thus establishes an effective method for obtaining MSNs and underscores the necessity of using high-purity MSNs to study HD pathogenesis, especially the MSN-selective vulnerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjiao Wu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- Provincial Clinical Research Center for Rheumatic and Immunologic Diseases, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Jie Ren
- Department of Geriatrics, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Hongfei Cui
- Department of Geriatrics, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Yali Xie
- Department of Geriatrics, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Yu Tang
- Department of Geriatrics, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China.
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province in Neurodegenerative Disorders, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China.
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11
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Khalil B, Linsenmeier M, Smith CL, Shorter J, Rossoll W. Nuclear-import receptors as gatekeepers of pathological phase transitions in ALS/FTD. Mol Neurodegener 2024; 19:8. [PMID: 38254150 PMCID: PMC10804745 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-023-00698-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) are fatal neurodegenerative disorders on a disease spectrum that are characterized by the cytoplasmic mislocalization and aberrant phase transitions of prion-like RNA-binding proteins (RBPs). The common accumulation of TAR DNA-binding protein-43 (TDP-43), fused in sarcoma (FUS), and other nuclear RBPs in detergent-insoluble aggregates in the cytoplasm of degenerating neurons in ALS/FTD is connected to nuclear pore dysfunction and other defects in the nucleocytoplasmic transport machinery. Recent advances suggest that beyond their canonical role in the nuclear import of protein cargoes, nuclear-import receptors (NIRs) can prevent and reverse aberrant phase transitions of TDP-43, FUS, and related prion-like RBPs and restore their nuclear localization and function. Here, we showcase the NIR family and how they recognize cargo, drive nuclear import, and chaperone prion-like RBPs linked to ALS/FTD. We also discuss the promise of enhancing NIR levels and developing potentiated NIR variants as therapeutic strategies for ALS/FTD and related neurodegenerative proteinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilal Khalil
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, U.S.A
| | - Miriam Linsenmeier
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, U.S.A
| | - Courtney L Smith
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, U.S.A
- Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Neuroscience Track, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, U.S.A
| | - James Shorter
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, U.S.A..
| | - Wilfried Rossoll
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, U.S.A..
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12
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Baskerville V, Rapuri S, Mehlhop E, Coyne AN. SUN1 facilitates CHMP7 nuclear influx and injury cascades in sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Brain 2024; 147:109-121. [PMID: 37639327 PMCID: PMC10766250 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awad291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
We have recently identified the aberrant nuclear accumulation of the ESCRT-III protein CHMP7 as an initiating event that leads to a significant injury to the nuclear pore complex (NPC) characterized by the reduction of specific nucleoporins from the neuronal NPC in sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (sALS) and C9orf72 ALS/frontotemporal dementia (FTD)-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons (iPSNs), a phenomenon also observed in post-mortem patient tissues. Importantly, this NPC injury is sufficient to contribute to TDP-43 dysfunction and mislocalization, a common pathological hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases. However, the molecular mechanisms and events that give rise to increased nuclear translocation and/or retention of CHMP7 to initiate this pathophysiological cascade remain largely unknown. Here, using an iPSN model of sALS, we demonstrate that impaired NPC permeability barrier integrity and interactions with the LINC complex protein SUN1 facilitate CHMP7 nuclear localization and the subsequent 'activation' of NPC injury cascades. Collectively, our data provide mechanistic insights in the pathophysiological underpinnings of ALS/FTD and highlight SUN1 as a potent contributor to and modifier of CHMP7-mediated toxicity in sALS pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Baskerville
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Brain Science Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Sampath Rapuri
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Brain Science Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Emma Mehlhop
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Brain Science Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Alyssa N Coyne
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Brain Science Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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13
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Yang Y, Guo L, Chen L, Gong B, Jia D, Sun Q. Nuclear transport proteins: structure, function, and disease relevance. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:425. [PMID: 37945593 PMCID: PMC10636164 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01649-4] [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: 04/09/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Proper subcellular localization is crucial for the functioning of biomacromolecules, including proteins and RNAs. Nuclear transport is a fundamental cellular process that regulates the localization of many macromolecules within the nuclear or cytoplasmic compartments. In humans, approximately 60 proteins are involved in nuclear transport, including nucleoporins that form membrane-embedded nuclear pore complexes, karyopherins that transport cargoes through these complexes, and Ran system proteins that ensure directed and rapid transport. Many of these nuclear transport proteins play additional and essential roles in mitosis, biomolecular condensation, and gene transcription. Dysregulation of nuclear transport is linked to major human diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and viral infections. Selinexor (KPT-330), an inhibitor targeting the nuclear export factor XPO1 (also known as CRM1), was approved in 2019 to treat two types of blood cancers, and dozens of clinical trials of are ongoing. This review summarizes approximately three decades of research data in this field but focuses on the structure and function of individual nuclear transport proteins from recent studies, providing a cutting-edge and holistic view on the role of nuclear transport proteins in health and disease. In-depth knowledge of this rapidly evolving field has the potential to bring new insights into fundamental biology, pathogenic mechanisms, and therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Lu Guo
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Lin Chen
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Bo Gong
- The Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study of Sichuan Province and Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Research Unit for Blindness Prevention of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU026), Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Da Jia
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Qingxiang Sun
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China.
- Department of Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Centre, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, and Collaborative Innovation Centre of Biotherapy, Chengdu, China.
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14
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Kour S, Fortuna T, Anderson EN, Mawrie D, Bilstein J, Sivasubramanian R, Ward C, Roy R, Rajasundaram D, Sterneckert J, Pandey UB. Drosha-dependent microRNAs modulate FUS-mediated neurodegeneration in vivo. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:11258-11276. [PMID: 37791873 PMCID: PMC10639082 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the Fused in Sarcoma (FUS) gene cause the familial and progressive form of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). FUS is a nuclear RNA-binding protein involved in RNA processing and the biogenesis of a specific set of microRNAs. Here we report that Drosha and two previously uncharacterized Drosha-dependent miRNAs are strong modulators of FUS expression and prevent the cytoplasmic segregation of insoluble mutant FUS in vivo. We demonstrate that depletion of Drosha mitigates FUS-mediated degeneration, survival and motor defects in Drosophila. Mutant FUS strongly interacts with Drosha and causes its cytoplasmic mis-localization into the insoluble FUS inclusions. Reduction in Drosha levels increases the solubility of mutant FUS. Interestingly, we found two Drosha dependent microRNAs, miR-378i and miR-6832-5p, which differentially regulate the expression, solubility and cytoplasmic aggregation of mutant FUS in iPSC neurons and mammalian cells. More importantly, we report different modes of action of these miRNAs against mutant FUS. Whereas miR-378i may regulate mutant FUS inclusions by preventing G3BP-mediated stress granule formation, miR-6832-5p may affect FUS expression via other proteins or pathways. Overall, our research reveals a possible association between ALS-linked FUS mutations and the Drosha-dependent miRNA regulatory circuit, as well as a useful perspective on potential ALS treatment via microRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sukhleen Kour
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Tyler Fortuna
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Eric N Anderson
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Darilang Mawrie
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Jessica Bilstein
- Center for Regenerative Therapies TU Dresden (CRTD), Technische Universität (TU) Dresden, Dresden, 01307, Germany
| | - Ramakrishnan Sivasubramanian
- Center for Regenerative Therapies TU Dresden (CRTD), Technische Universität (TU) Dresden, Dresden, 01307, Germany
| | - Caroline Ward
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Rishit Roy
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Dhivyaa Rajasundaram
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Health Informatics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Jared Sterneckert
- Center for Regenerative Therapies TU Dresden (CRTD), Technische Universität (TU) Dresden, Dresden, 01307, Germany
- Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus of TU Dresden, Dresden, 01307, Germany
| | - Udai Bhan Pandey
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
- Children's Neuroscience Institute, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
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15
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Ziff OJ, Harley J, Wang Y, Neeves J, Tyzack G, Ibrahim F, Skehel M, Chakrabarti AM, Kelly G, Patani R. Nucleocytoplasmic mRNA redistribution accompanies RNA binding protein mislocalization in ALS motor neurons and is restored by VCP ATPase inhibition. Neuron 2023; 111:3011-3027.e7. [PMID: 37480846 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2023.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is characterized by nucleocytoplasmic mislocalization of the RNA-binding protein (RBP) TDP-43. However, emerging evidence suggests more widespread mRNA and protein mislocalization. Here, we employed nucleocytoplasmic fractionation, RNA sequencing, and mass spectrometry to investigate the localization of mRNA and protein in induced pluripotent stem cell-derived motor neurons (iPSMNs) from ALS patients with TARDBP and VCP mutations. ALS mutant iPSMNs exhibited extensive nucleocytoplasmic mRNA redistribution, RBP mislocalization, and splicing alterations. Mislocalized proteins exhibited a greater affinity for redistributed transcripts, suggesting a link between RBP mislocalization and mRNA redistribution. Notably, treatment with ML240, a VCP ATPase inhibitor, partially restored mRNA and protein localization in ALS mutant iPSMNs. ML240 induced changes in the VCP interactome and lysosomal localization and reduced oxidative stress and DNA damage. These findings emphasize the link between RBP mislocalization and mRNA redistribution in ALS motor neurons and highlight the therapeutic potential of VCP inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver J Ziff
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, NW1 1AT London, UK; Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, WC1N 3BG London, UK; National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London NHS Foundation Trust, WC1N 3BG London, UK.
| | - Jasmine Harley
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, NW1 1AT London, UK; Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, WC1N 3BG London, UK; Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, A(∗)STAR Research Entities, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Yiran Wang
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, NW1 1AT London, UK; Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, WC1N 3BG London, UK
| | - Jacob Neeves
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, NW1 1AT London, UK; Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, WC1N 3BG London, UK
| | - Giulia Tyzack
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, NW1 1AT London, UK; Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, WC1N 3BG London, UK
| | - Fairouz Ibrahim
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, NW1 1AT London, UK
| | - Mark Skehel
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, NW1 1AT London, UK
| | | | - Gavin Kelly
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, NW1 1AT London, UK; Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, WC1N 3BG London, UK
| | - Rickie Patani
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, NW1 1AT London, UK; Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, WC1N 3BG London, UK; National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London NHS Foundation Trust, WC1N 3BG London, UK.
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16
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Cristi AC, Rapuri S, Coyne AN. Nuclear pore complex and nucleocytoplasmic transport disruption in neurodegeneration. FEBS Lett 2023; 597:2546-2566. [PMID: 37657945 PMCID: PMC10612469 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
Nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) play a critical role in maintaining the equilibrium between the nucleus and cytoplasm, enabling bidirectional transport across the nuclear envelope, and are essential for proper nuclear organization and gene regulation. Perturbations in the regulatory mechanisms governing NPCs and nuclear envelope homeostasis have been implicated in the pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative diseases. The ESCRT-III pathway emerges as a critical player in the surveillance and preservation of well-assembled, functional NPCs, as well as nuclear envelope sealing. Recent studies have provided insights into the involvement of nuclear ESCRT-III in the selective reduction of specific nucleoporins associated with neurodegenerative pathologies. Thus, maintaining quality control of the nuclear envelope and NPCs represents a pivotal element in the pathological cascade leading to neurodegenerative diseases. This review describes the constituents of the nuclear-cytoplasmic transport machinery, encompassing the nuclear envelope, NPC, and ESCRT proteins, and how their structural and functional alterations contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- América Chandía Cristi
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21205, USA
- Brain Science Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21205, USA
| | - Sampath Rapuri
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21205, USA
- Brain Science Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21205, USA
| | - Alyssa N Coyne
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21205, USA
- Brain Science Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21205, USA
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17
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McGoldrick P, Robertson J. Unraveling the impact of disrupted nucleocytoplasmic transport systems in C9orf72-associated ALS. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1247297. [PMID: 37720544 PMCID: PMC10501458 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1247297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) are two adult-onset neurodegenerative diseases that are part of a common disease spectrum due to clinical, genetic, and pathological overlap. A prominent genetic factor contributing to both diseases is a hexanucleotide repeat expansion in a non-coding region of the C9orf72 gene. This mutation in C9orf72 leads to nuclear depletion and cytoplasmic aggregation of Tar DNA-RNA binding protein 43 (TDP-43). TDP-43 pathology is characteristic of the majority of ALS cases, irrespective of disease causation, and is present in ~50% of FTD cases. Defects in nucleocytoplasmic transport involving the nuclear pore complex, the Ran-GTPase cycle, and nuclear transport factors have been linked with the mislocalization of TDP-43. Here, we will explore and discuss the implications of these system abnormalities of nucleocytoplasmic transport in C9orf72-ALS/FTD, as well as in other forms of familial and sporadic ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip McGoldrick
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Janice Robertson
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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18
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Cheng J, Ho WK, Wu BT, Liu HP, Lin WY. miRNA profiling as a complementary diagnostic tool for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13805. [PMID: 37612427 PMCID: PMC10447559 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40879-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: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the most prevalent motor neuron disease characterized by its complex genetic structure, lacks a single diagnostic test capable of providing a conclusive diagnosis. In order to demonstrate the potential for genetic diagnosis and shed light on the pathogenic role of miRNAs in ALS, we developed an ALS diagnostic rule by training the model using 80% of a miRNA profiling dataset consisting of 253 ALS samples and 103 control samples. Subsequently, we validated the diagnostic rule using the remaining 20% of unseen samples. The diagnostic rule we developed includes miR-205-5p, miR-206, miR-376a-5p, miR-412-5p, miR-3927-3p, miR-4701-3p, miR-6763-5p, and miR-6801-3p. Remarkably, the rule achieved an 82% true positive rate and a 73% true negative rate when predicting the unseen samples. Furthermore, the identified miRNAs target 21 genes in the PI3K-Akt pathway and 27 genes in the ALS pathway, including notable genes such as BCL2, NEFH, and OPTN. We propose that miRNA profiling may serve as a complementary diagnostic tool to supplement the clinical presentation and aid in the early recognition of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Cheng
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Kuang Ho
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan
| | - Bor-Tsang Wu
- Department of Senior Citizen Service Management, National Taichung University of Science and Technology, Taichung City, 40343, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Ping Liu
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan.
| | - Wei-Yong Lin
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan.
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan.
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19
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Funes S, Gadd DH, Mosqueda M, Zhong J, Jung J, Shankaracharya, Unger M, Cameron D, Dawes P, Keagle PJ, McDonough JA, Boopathy S, Sena-Esteves M, Lutz C, Skarnes WC, Lim ET, Schafer DP, Massi F, Landers JE, Bosco DA. Expression of ALS-PFN1 impairs vesicular degradation in iPSC-derived microglia. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.01.541136. [PMID: 37398081 PMCID: PMC10312575 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.01.541136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Microglia play a pivotal role in neurodegenerative disease pathogenesis, but the mechanisms underlying microglia dysfunction and toxicity remain to be fully elucidated. To investigate the effect of neurodegenerative disease-linked genes on the intrinsic properties of microglia, we studied microglia-like cells derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), termed iMGs, harboring mutations in profilin-1 (PFN1) that are causative for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). ALS-PFN1 iMGs exhibited lipid dysmetabolism and deficits in phagocytosis, a critical microglia function. Our cumulative data implicate an effect of ALS-linked PFN1 on the autophagy pathway, including enhanced binding of mutant PFN1 to the autophagy signaling molecule PI3P, as an underlying cause of defective phagocytosis in ALS-PFN1 iMGs. Indeed, phagocytic processing was restored in ALS-PFN1 iMGs with Rapamycin, an inducer of autophagic flux. These outcomes demonstrate the utility of iMGs for neurodegenerative disease research and highlight microglia vesicular degradation pathways as potential therapeutic targets for these disorders.
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20
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Ionescu A, Altman T, Perlson E. Looking for answers far away from the soma-the (un)known axonal functions of TDP-43, and their contribution to early NMJ disruption in ALS. Mol Neurodegener 2023; 18:35. [PMID: 37259156 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-023-00623-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Axon degeneration and Neuromuscular Junction (NMJ) disruption are key pathologies in the fatal neurodegenerative disease Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Despite accumulating evidence that axons and NMJs are impacted at a very early stage of the disease, current knowledge about the mechanisms leading to their degeneration remains elusive. Cytoplasmic mislocalization and accumulation of the protein TDP-43 are considered key pathological hallmarks of ALS, as they occur in ~ 97% of ALS patients, both sporadic and familial. Recent studies have identified pathological accumulation of TDP-43 in intramuscular nerves of muscle biopsies collected from pre-diagnosed, early symptomatic ALS patients. These findings suggest a gain of function for TDP-43 in axons, which might facilitate early NMJ disruption. In this review, we dissect the process leading to axonal TDP-43 accumulation and phosphorylation, discuss the known and hypothesized roles TDP-43 plays in healthy axons, and review possible mechanisms that connect TDP-43 pathology to the axon and NMJ degeneration in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariel Ionescu
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Room 605, Ramat Aviv, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Topaz Altman
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Room 605, Ramat Aviv, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Eran Perlson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Room 605, Ramat Aviv, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel.
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel.
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21
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Kinger S, Dubey AR, Kumar P, Jagtap YA, Choudhary A, Kumar A, Prajapati VK, Dhiman R, Mishra A. Molecular Chaperones' Potential against Defective Proteostasis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Cells 2023; 12:cells12091302. [PMID: 37174703 PMCID: PMC10177248 DOI: 10.3390/cells12091302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neuronal degenerative condition identified via a build-up of mutant aberrantly folded proteins. The native folding of polypeptides is mediated by molecular chaperones, preventing their pathogenic aggregation. The mutant protein expression in ALS is linked with the entrapment and depletion of chaperone capacity. The lack of a thorough understanding of chaperones' involvement in ALS pathogenesis presents a significant challenge in its treatment. Here, we review how the accumulation of the ALS-linked mutant FUS, TDP-43, SOD1, and C9orf72 proteins damage cellular homeostasis mechanisms leading to neuronal loss. Further, we discuss how the HSP70 and DNAJ family co-chaperones can act as potential targets for reducing misfolded protein accumulation in ALS. Moreover, small HSPB1 and HSPB8 chaperones can facilitate neuroprotection and prevent stress-associated misfolded protein apoptosis. Designing therapeutic strategies by pharmacologically enhancing cellular chaperone capacity to reduce mutant protein proteotoxic effects on ALS pathomechanisms can be a considerable advancement. Chaperones, apart from directly interacting with misfolded proteins for protein quality control, can also filter their toxicity by initiating strong stress-response pathways, modulating transcriptional expression profiles, and promoting anti-apoptotic functions. Overall, these properties of chaperones make them an attractive target for gaining fundamental insights into misfolded protein disorders and designing more effective therapies against ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumit Kinger
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Jodhpur 342037, India
| | - Ankur Rakesh Dubey
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Jodhpur 342037, India
| | - Prashant Kumar
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Jodhpur 342037, India
| | - Yuvraj Anandrao Jagtap
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Jodhpur 342037, India
| | - Akash Choudhary
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Jodhpur 342037, India
| | - Amit Kumar
- Discipline of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Simrol, Indore 453552, India
| | - Vijay Kumar Prajapati
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer 305817, India
| | - Rohan Dhiman
- Laboratory of Mycobacterial Immunology, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008, India
| | - Amit Mishra
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Jodhpur 342037, India
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22
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Kim S, Phan S, Shaw TR, Ellisman MH, Veatch SL, Barmada SJ, Pappas SS, Dauer WT. TorsinA is essential for the timing and localization of neuronal nuclear pore complex biogenesis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.26.538491. [PMID: 37162852 PMCID: PMC10168336 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.26.538491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) regulate information transfer between the nucleus and cytoplasm. NPC defects are linked to several neurological diseases, but the processes governing NPC biogenesis and spatial organization are poorly understood. Here, we identify a temporal window of strongly upregulated NPC biogenesis during neuronal maturation. We demonstrate that the AAA+ protein torsinA, whose loss of function causes the neurodevelopmental movement disorder DYT-TOR1A (DYT1) dystonia, coordinates NPC spatial organization during this period without impacting total NPC density. Using a new mouse line in which endogenous Nup107 is Halo-Tagged, we find that torsinA is essential for correct localization of NPC formation. In the absence of torsinA, the inner nuclear membrane buds excessively at sites of mislocalized, nascent NPCs, and NPC assembly completion is delayed. Our work implies that NPC spatial organization and number are independently regulated and suggests that torsinA is critical for the normal localization and assembly kinetics of NPCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumin Kim
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Sébastien Phan
- National Center for Microscopy and Imaging Research, Center for Research on Biological Systems, Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Thomas R. Shaw
- Department of Biophysics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Mark H. Ellisman
- National Center for Microscopy and Imaging Research, Center for Research on Biological Systems, Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Sarah L. Veatch
- Department of Biophysics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Sami J. Barmada
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Samuel S. Pappas
- Peter O’Donnell Jr. Brain Institute, UT Southwestern, Dallas, TX
- Department of Neurology, UT Southwestern, Dallas, TX
| | - William T. Dauer
- Peter O’Donnell Jr. Brain Institute, UT Southwestern, Dallas, TX
- Department of Neurology, UT Southwestern, Dallas, TX
- Department of Neuroscience, UT Southwestern, Dallas, TX
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23
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Kumar MS, Stallworth KM, Murthy AC, Lim SM, Li N, Jain A, Munro JB, Fawzi NL, Lagier-Tourenne C, Bosco DA. Interactions between FUS and the C-terminal Domain of Nup62 are Sufficient for their Co-phase Separation into Amorphous Assemblies. J Mol Biol 2023; 435:167972. [PMID: 36690069 PMCID: PMC10329203 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2023.167972] [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: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Deficient nucleocytoplasmic transport is emerging as a pathogenic feature of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD), including in ALS caused by mutations in Fused in Sarcoma (FUS). Recently, both wild-type and ALS-linked mutant FUS were shown to directly interact with the phenylalanine-glycine (FG)-rich nucleoporin 62 (Nup62) protein, where FUS WT/ Nup62 interactions were enriched within the nucleus but ALS-linked mutant FUS/ Nup62 interactions were enriched within the cytoplasm of cells. Nup62 is a central channel Nup that has a prominent role in forming the selectivity filter within the nuclear pore complex and in regulating effective nucleocytoplasmic transport. Under conditions where FUS phase separates into liquid droplets in vitro, the addition of Nup62 caused the synergistic formation of amorphous assemblies containing both FUS and Nup62. Here, we examined the molecular determinants of this process using recombinant FUS and Nup62 proteins and biochemical approaches. We demonstrate that the structured C-terminal domain of Nup62 containing an alpha-helical coiled-coil region plays a dominant role in binding FUS and is sufficient for inducing the formation of FUS/Nup62 amorphous assemblies. In contrast, the natively unstructured, F/G repeat-rich N-terminal domain of Nup62 modestly contributed to FUS/Nup62 phase separation behavior. Expression of individual Nup62 domain constructs in human cells confirmed that the Nup62 C-terminal domain is essential for localization of the protein to the nuclear envelope. Our results raise the possibility that interactions between FUS and the C-terminal domain of Nup62 can influence the function of Nup62 under physiological and/or pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meenakshi Sundaram Kumar
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, MA 01605, USA; Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology Program, Morningside Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Karly M Stallworth
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, MA 01605, USA
| | - Anastasia C Murthy
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Su Min Lim
- Department of Neurology, The Sean M. Healey and AMG Center for ALS at Mass General, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Nan Li
- Department of Neurology, The Sean M. Healey and AMG Center for ALS at Mass General, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Aastha Jain
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - James B Munro
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Nicolas L Fawzi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Clotilde Lagier-Tourenne
- Department of Neurology, The Sean M. Healey and AMG Center for ALS at Mass General, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Daryl A Bosco
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, MA 01605, USA.
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24
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Suzuki N, Nishiyama A, Warita H, Aoki M. Genetics of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: seeking therapeutic targets in the era of gene therapy. J Hum Genet 2023; 68:131-152. [PMID: 35691950 PMCID: PMC9968660 DOI: 10.1038/s10038-022-01055-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an intractable disease that causes respiratory failure leading to mortality. The main locus of ALS is motor neurons. The success of antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) therapy in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a motor neuron disease, has triggered a paradigm shift in developing ALS therapies. The causative genes of ALS and disease-modifying genes, including those of sporadic ALS, have been identified one after another. Thus, the freedom of target choice for gene therapy has expanded by ASO strategy, leading to new avenues for therapeutic development. Tofersen for superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) was a pioneer in developing ASO for ALS. Improving protocols and devising early interventions for the disease are vital. In this review, we updated the knowledge of causative genes in ALS. We summarized the genetic mutations identified in familial ALS and their clinical features, focusing on SOD1, fused in sarcoma (FUS), and transacting response DNA-binding protein. The frequency of the C9ORF72 mutation is low in Japan, unlike in Europe and the United States, while SOD1 and FUS are more common, indicating that the target mutations for gene therapy vary by ethnicity. A genome-wide association study has revealed disease-modifying genes, which could be the novel target of gene therapy. The current status and prospects of gene therapy development were discussed, including ethical issues. Furthermore, we discussed the potential of axonal pathology as new therapeutic targets of ALS from the perspective of early intervention, including intra-axonal transcription factors, neuromuscular junction disconnection, dysregulated local translation, abnormal protein degradation, mitochondrial pathology, impaired axonal transport, aberrant cytoskeleton, and axon branching. We simultaneously discuss important pathological states of cell bodies: persistent stress granules, disrupted nucleocytoplasmic transport, and cryptic splicing. The development of gene therapy based on the elucidation of disease-modifying genes and early intervention in molecular pathology is expected to become an important therapeutic strategy in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoki Suzuki
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan.
| | - Ayumi Nishiyama
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Warita
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
| | - Masashi Aoki
- Department of Neurology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan.
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25
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Liao Y, Cai H, Luo F, Li D, Li H, Liao G, Duan J, Xu R, Zhang X. Three nervous system-specific expressed genes are potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis through a bioinformatic analysis. BMC Med Genomics 2023; 16:15. [PMID: 36707813 PMCID: PMC9881351 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-023-01441-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common neurodegenerative disease in adults. However, ALS, especially sporadic ALS (sALS), is difficult to diagnose due to the lack of biomarkers. RESULTS We used the bioinformatics technology to find the potential biomarker and we found that two hundred seventy-four DEGs were identified and enrichment analysis showed DEGs were involved in nervous system activity, like axon_guidance and the neurotrophin_signaling_pathway. Five nervous system-specific expressed hub genes were further validated by three GEO datasets. APP, LRRK2, and PSEN1 might be potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers of sALS, and NEAT1-miR-373-3p/miR-302c-3p/miR-372-3p-APP, circ_0000002-miR-302d-3p/miR-373-3p-APP and XIST-miR-9-5p/miR-30e-5p/miR-671-5p might be potential ceRNA regulatory pathways. APP SNP analysis showed subjects harboring the minor G allele of rs463946, minor G allele of rs466433 and minor C allele of rs364048 had an increased risk of sALS development. CONCLUSIONS Our results identified three nervous system-specific expressed hub genes that might be diagnostic and prognostic markers of sALS and APP might be a genetic susceptibility factor contributing to sALS development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifu Liao
- grid.284723.80000 0000 8877 7471Department of Neurology, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haiping Cai
- grid.284723.80000 0000 8877 7471Department of Neurosurgery, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Feifei Luo
- grid.10784.3a0000 0004 1937 0482Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory, Department of Clinical Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sir YK Pao Center for Cancer and Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Dongcheng Li
- grid.284723.80000 0000 8877 7471The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hao Li
- grid.513391.c0000 0004 8339 0314Department of Neurology, Maoming People’s Hospital, Maoming, China
| | - Geng Liao
- grid.513391.c0000 0004 8339 0314Department of Neurology, Maoming People’s Hospital, Maoming, China
| | - Jinhai Duan
- grid.284723.80000 0000 8877 7471Eastern Department of Neurology, Guangdong Geriatrics Institute, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Renshi Xu
- grid.415002.20000 0004 1757 8108Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Clinical College of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Xiong Zhang
- grid.513391.c0000 0004 8339 0314Department of Neurology, Maoming People’s Hospital, Maoming, China
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26
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Megat S, Mora N, Sanogo J, Roman O, Catanese A, Alami NO, Freischmidt A, Mingaj X, De Calbiac H, Muratet F, Dirrig-Grosch S, Dieterle S, Van Bakel N, Müller K, Sieverding K, Weishaupt J, Andersen PM, Weber M, Neuwirth C, Margelisch M, Sommacal A, Van Eijk KR, Veldink JH, Lautrette G, Couratier P, Camuzat A, Le Ber I, Grassano M, Chio A, Boeckers T, Ludolph AC, Roselli F, Yilmazer-Hanke D, Millecamps S, Kabashi E, Storkebaum E, Sellier C, Dupuis L. Integrative genetic analysis illuminates ALS heritability and identifies risk genes. Nat Commun 2023; 14:342. [PMID: 36670122 PMCID: PMC9860017 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35724-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) has substantial heritability, in part shared with fronto-temporal dementia (FTD). We show that ALS heritability is enriched in splicing variants and in binding sites of 6 RNA-binding proteins including TDP-43 and FUS. A transcriptome wide association study (TWAS) identified 6 loci associated with ALS, including in NUP50 encoding for the nucleopore basket protein NUP50. Independently, rare variants in NUP50 were associated with ALS risk (P = 3.71.10-03; odds ratio = 3.29; 95%CI, 1.37 to 7.87) in a cohort of 9,390 ALS/FTD patients and 4,594 controls. Cells from one patient carrying a NUP50 frameshift mutation displayed a decreased level of NUP50. Loss of NUP50 leads to death of cultured neurons, and motor defects in Drosophila and zebrafish. Thus, our study identifies alterations in splicing in neurons as critical in ALS and provides genetic evidence linking nuclear pore defects to ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salim Megat
- Université de Strasbourg, Inserm, Mécanismes centraux et périphériques de la neurodégénérescence, UMR-S1118, Centre de Recherches en Biomédecine, Strasbourg, France.
| | - Natalia Mora
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour and Faculty of Science, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Jason Sanogo
- Université de Strasbourg, Inserm, Mécanismes centraux et périphériques de la neurodégénérescence, UMR-S1118, Centre de Recherches en Biomédecine, Strasbourg, France
| | - Olga Roman
- Université de Strasbourg, Inserm, Mécanismes centraux et périphériques de la neurodégénérescence, UMR-S1118, Centre de Recherches en Biomédecine, Strasbourg, France
| | - Alberto Catanese
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Najwa Ouali Alami
- Clinical Neuroanatomy, Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Axel Freischmidt
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Xhuljana Mingaj
- Laboratory of Translational Research for Neurological Disorders, Imagine Institute, Université de Paris, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Hortense De Calbiac
- Laboratory of Translational Research for Neurological Disorders, Imagine Institute, Université de Paris, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
| | - François Muratet
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau - Paris Brain Institute - ICM, Inserm, CNRS, APHP, Hôpital de la Pitié Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Sylvie Dirrig-Grosch
- Université de Strasbourg, Inserm, Mécanismes centraux et périphériques de la neurodégénérescence, UMR-S1118, Centre de Recherches en Biomédecine, Strasbourg, France
| | - Stéphane Dieterle
- Université de Strasbourg, Inserm, Mécanismes centraux et périphériques de la neurodégénérescence, UMR-S1118, Centre de Recherches en Biomédecine, Strasbourg, France
| | - Nick Van Bakel
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour and Faculty of Science, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Kathrin Müller
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Institute of Human Genetics, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Jochen Weishaupt
- Division for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Neurology Department, University Medicine Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | | | - Markus Weber
- Neuromuscular Disease Unit/ALS Clinic, Kantonsspital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Neuwirth
- Neuromuscular Disease Unit/ALS Clinic, Kantonsspital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Markus Margelisch
- Institute for Pathology, Kanstonsspital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Sommacal
- Institute for Pathology, Kanstonsspital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Kristel R Van Eijk
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Utrecht Brain Center, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jan H Veldink
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Utrecht Brain Center, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Géraldine Lautrette
- Service de Neurologie, Centre de Référence SLA et autres maladies du neurone moteur, CHU Dupuytren 1, Limoges, France
| | - Philippe Couratier
- Service de Neurologie, Centre de Référence SLA et autres maladies du neurone moteur, CHU Dupuytren 1, Limoges, France
| | - Agnès Camuzat
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau - Paris Brain Institute - ICM, Inserm, CNRS, APHP, Hôpital de la Pitié Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Isabelle Le Ber
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau - Paris Brain Institute - ICM, Inserm, CNRS, APHP, Hôpital de la Pitié Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Maurizio Grassano
- ALS Center "Rita Levi Montalcini" Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Adriano Chio
- ALS Center "Rita Levi Montalcini" Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Tobias Boeckers
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Albert C Ludolph
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Francesco Roselli
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Stéphanie Millecamps
- Sorbonne Université, Institut du Cerveau - Paris Brain Institute - ICM, Inserm, CNRS, APHP, Hôpital de la Pitié Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Edor Kabashi
- Laboratory of Translational Research for Neurological Disorders, Imagine Institute, Université de Paris, INSERM UMR 1163, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Erik Storkebaum
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour and Faculty of Science, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Chantal Sellier
- Université de Strasbourg, Inserm, Mécanismes centraux et périphériques de la neurodégénérescence, UMR-S1118, Centre de Recherches en Biomédecine, Strasbourg, France
| | - Luc Dupuis
- Université de Strasbourg, Inserm, Mécanismes centraux et périphériques de la neurodégénérescence, UMR-S1118, Centre de Recherches en Biomédecine, Strasbourg, France.
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27
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Seeing Neurodegeneration in a New Light Using Genetically Encoded Fluorescent Biosensors and iPSCs. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021766. [PMID: 36675282 PMCID: PMC9861453 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021766] [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: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases present a progressive loss of neuronal structure and function, leading to cell death and irrecoverable brain atrophy. Most have disease-modifying therapies, in part because the mechanisms of neurodegeneration are yet to be defined, preventing the development of targeted therapies. To overcome this, there is a need for tools that enable a quantitative assessment of how cellular mechanisms and diverse environmental conditions contribute to disease. One such tool is genetically encodable fluorescent biosensors (GEFBs), engineered constructs encoding proteins with novel functions capable of sensing spatiotemporal changes in specific pathways, enzyme functions, or metabolite levels. GEFB technology therefore presents a plethora of unique sensing capabilities that, when coupled with induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), present a powerful tool for exploring disease mechanisms and identifying novel therapeutics. In this review, we discuss different GEFBs relevant to neurodegenerative disease and how they can be used with iPSCs to illuminate unresolved questions about causes and risks for neurodegenerative disease.
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28
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Fragoso-Luna A, Askjaer P. The Nuclear Envelope in Ageing and Progeria. Subcell Biochem 2023; 102:53-75. [PMID: 36600129 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-21410-3_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Development from embryo to adult, organismal homeostasis and ageing are consecutive processes that rely on several functions of the nuclear envelope (NE). The NE compartmentalises the eukaryotic cells and provides physical stability to the genetic material in the nucleus. It provides spatiotemporal regulation of gene expression by controlling nuclear import and hence access of transcription factors to target genes as well as organisation of the genome into open and closed compartments. In addition, positioning of chromatin relative to the NE is important for DNA replication and repair and thereby also for genome stability. We discuss here the relevance of the NE in two classes of age-related human diseases. Firstly, we focus on the progeria syndromes Hutchinson-Gilford (HGPS) and Nestor-Guillermo (NGPS), which are caused by mutations in the LMNA and BANF1 genes, respectively. Both genes encode ubiquitously expressed components of the nuclear lamina that underlines the nuclear membranes. HGPS and NGPS patients manifest symptoms of accelerated ageing and cells from affected individuals show similar defects as cells from healthy old donors, including signs of increased DNA damage and epigenetic alternations. Secondly, we describe how several age-related neurodegenerative diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and Huntington's disease, are related with defects in nucleocytoplasmic transport. A common feature of this class of diseases is the accumulation of nuclear pore proteins and other transport factors in inclusions. Importantly, genetic manipulations of the nucleocytoplasmic transport machinery can alleviate disease-related phenotypes in cell and animal models, paving the way for potential therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrián Fragoso-Luna
- Andalusian Centre for Developmental Biology, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Pablo de Olavide, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Peter Askjaer
- Andalusian Centre for Developmental Biology, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Universidad Pablo de Olavide, Sevilla, Spain.
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29
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Huai Y, Mao W, Wang X, Lin X, Li Y, Chen Z, Qian A. How do RNA binding proteins trigger liquid-liquid phase separation in human health and diseases? Biosci Trends 2022; 16:389-404. [PMID: 36464283 DOI: 10.5582/bst.2022.01449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) lie at the center of post-transcriptional regulation and protein synthesis, adding complexity to RNA life cycle. RBPs also participate in the formation of membrane-less organelles (MLOs) via undergoing liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS), which underlies the formation of MLOs in eukaryotic cells. RBPs-triggered LLPS mainly relies on the interaction between their RNA recognition motifs (RRMs) and capped mRNA transcripts and the heterotypic multivalent interactions between their intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) or prion-like domains (PLDs). In turn, the aggregations of RBPs are also dependent on the process of LLPS. RBPs-driven LLPS is involved in many intracellular processes (regulation of translation, mRNA storage and stabilization and cell signaling) and serves as the heart of cellular physiology and pathology. Thus, it is essential to comprehend the potential roles and investigate the internal mechanism of RPBs-triggered LLPS. In this review, we primarily expound on our current understanding of RBPs and they-triggered LLPS and summarize their physiological and pathological functions. Furthermore, we also summarize the potential roles of RBPs-triggered LLPS as novel therapeutic mechanism for human diseases. This review will help understand the mechanisms underlying LLPS and downstream regulation of RBPs and provide insights into the pathogenesis and therapy of complex diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Huai
- Lab for Bone Metabolism, Xi'an Key Laboratory of Special Medicine and Health Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,Key Lab for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,Research Center for Special Medicine and Health Systems Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,NPU-UAB Joint Laboratory for Bone Metabolism, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wenjing Mao
- Lab for Bone Metabolism, Xi'an Key Laboratory of Special Medicine and Health Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,Key Lab for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,Research Center for Special Medicine and Health Systems Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,NPU-UAB Joint Laboratory for Bone Metabolism, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xuehao Wang
- Lab for Bone Metabolism, Xi'an Key Laboratory of Special Medicine and Health Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,Key Lab for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,Research Center for Special Medicine and Health Systems Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,NPU-UAB Joint Laboratory for Bone Metabolism, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiao Lin
- Lab for Bone Metabolism, Xi'an Key Laboratory of Special Medicine and Health Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,Key Lab for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,Research Center for Special Medicine and Health Systems Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,NPU-UAB Joint Laboratory for Bone Metabolism, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yu Li
- Lab for Bone Metabolism, Xi'an Key Laboratory of Special Medicine and Health Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,Key Lab for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,Research Center for Special Medicine and Health Systems Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,NPU-UAB Joint Laboratory for Bone Metabolism, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zhihao Chen
- Lab for Bone Metabolism, Xi'an Key Laboratory of Special Medicine and Health Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,Key Lab for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,Research Center for Special Medicine and Health Systems Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,NPU-UAB Joint Laboratory for Bone Metabolism, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Airong Qian
- Lab for Bone Metabolism, Xi'an Key Laboratory of Special Medicine and Health Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,Key Lab for Space Biosciences and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,Research Center for Special Medicine and Health Systems Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.,NPU-UAB Joint Laboratory for Bone Metabolism, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
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Dickson JR, Frosch MP, Hyman BT. Altered localization of nucleoporin 98 in primary tauopathies. Brain Commun 2022; 5:fcac334. [PMID: 36601621 PMCID: PMC9806717 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcac334] [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: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Nucleoporin 98 is a nuclear pore complex component that is mislocalized in Alzheimer's disease and the alteration in nucleoporin 98 has been attributed to tau. In order to determine if nucleoporin 98 mislocalization is a general feature of tauopathies, we assessed the localization of nucleoporin 98 in neurons in primary tauopathies, including frontotemporal lobar degeneration-tau, corticobasal degeneration and progressive supranuclear palsy. Immunofluorescence staining was performed on frontal cortex and occipital cortex tissue from cases of primary tauopathies and controls without neurodegenerative disease using antibodies to identify nucleoporin 98, phospho-tau (Ser202, Thr205) monoclonal antibody and neuronal marker microtubule-associated protein 2. The stained tissue was imaged by fluorescence microscopy and the number of neurons with mislocalized nucleoporin 98 and phospho-tau (Ser202, Thr205) monoclonal antibody staining was quantified. In frontal cortex tissue, all primary tauopathies examined demonstrated significantly increased numbers of neurons with abnormal localization of nucleoporin 98 along the nuclear envelope compared with control tissue. Additionally, frontotemporal lobar degeneration-tau and corticobasal degeneration in the frontal cortex demonstrated significantly increased numbers of neurons with a cytoplasmic mislocalization of nucleoporin 98 compared with control tissue. The number of neurons with mislocalized nucleoporin 98 was significantly correlated with the number of neurons with phospho-tau (Ser202, Thr205) monoclonal antibody-positive tau staining. In the occipital cortex, which is relatively spared from pathological tau accumulations in these primary tauopathies, the localization of nucleoporin 98 was not significantly altered. This study demonstrates that nucleoporin 98 mislocalization is a feature of primary tauopathies and is associated with pathological tau accumulation. In the context of prior research demonstrating nucleoporin 98 mislocalization in Alzheimer's disease and an interaction between tau and nucleoporin 98, these results further support the hypothesis that pathological tau may contribute to nucleoporin 98 mislocalization. Given the critical role of the nuclear pore complex in nucleocytoplasmic transport, the identification of nucleoporin 98 mislocalization in primary tauopathies highlights a potential pathophysiological disruption in these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- John R Dickson
- Department of Neurology, MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Matthew P Frosch
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Pathology and Neurology Service, C.S. Kubik Laboratory for Neuropathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Bradley T Hyman
- Correspondence to: Bradley T. Hyman Building 114, 114 16th Street Charlestown, MA 02129, USA E-mail:
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Kumar MS, Fowler-Magaw ME, Kulick D, Boopathy S, Gadd DH, Rotunno M, Douthwright C, Golebiowski D, Yusuf I, Xu Z, Brown RH, Sena-Esteves M, O’Neil AL, Bosco DA. Anti-SOD1 Nanobodies That Stabilize Misfolded SOD1 Proteins Also Promote Neurite Outgrowth in Mutant SOD1 Human Neurons. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232416013. [PMID: 36555655 PMCID: PMC9784173 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232416013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
ALS-linked mutations induce aberrant conformations within the SOD1 protein that are thought to underlie the pathogenic mechanism of SOD1-mediated ALS. Although clinical trials are underway for gene silencing of SOD1, these approaches reduce both wild-type and mutated forms of SOD1. Here, we sought to develop anti-SOD1 nanobodies with selectivity for mutant and misfolded forms of human SOD1 over wild-type SOD1. Characterization of two anti-SOD1 nanobodies revealed that these biologics stabilize mutant SOD1 in vitro. Further, SOD1 expression levels were enhanced and the physiological subcellular localization of mutant SOD1 was restored upon co-expression of anti-SOD1 nanobodies in immortalized cells. In human motor neurons harboring the SOD1 A4V mutation, anti-SOD1 nanobody expression promoted neurite outgrowth, demonstrating a protective effect of anti-SOD1 nanobodies in otherwise unhealthy cells. In vitro assays revealed that an anti-SOD1 nanobody exhibited selectivity for human mutant SOD1 over endogenous murine SOD1, thus supporting the preclinical utility of anti-SOD1 nanobodies for testing in animal models of ALS. In sum, the anti-SOD1 nanobodies developed and presented herein represent viable biologics for further preclinical testing in human and mouse models of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meenakshi Sundaram Kumar
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology Program, Morningside Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Megan E. Fowler-Magaw
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
- Neuroscience Program, Morningside Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Daniel Kulick
- Department of Biology, Neuroscience and Behavior Program, Wesleyan University, Middletown, CT 06459, USA
| | - Sivakumar Boopathy
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology Program, Morningside Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Del Hayden Gadd
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Melissa Rotunno
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology Program, Morningside Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Catherine Douthwright
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology Program, Morningside Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Diane Golebiowski
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Issa Yusuf
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Zuoshang Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Robert H. Brown
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Miguel Sena-Esteves
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Alison L. O’Neil
- Department of Chemistry, Neuroscience and Behavior Program, Wesleyan University, Middletown, CT 06459, USA
| | - Daryl A. Bosco
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(774)-445-3745; Fax: +1-(508)-856-6750
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Khalil B, Chhangani D, Wren MC, Smith CL, Lee JH, Li X, Puttinger C, Tsai CW, Fortin G, Morderer D, Gao J, Liu F, Lim CK, Chen J, Chou CC, Croft CL, Gleixner AM, Donnelly CJ, Golde TE, Petrucelli L, Oskarsson B, Dickson DW, Zhang K, Shorter J, Yoshimura SH, Barmada SJ, Rincon-Limas DE, Rossoll W. Nuclear import receptors are recruited by FG-nucleoporins to rescue hallmarks of TDP-43 proteinopathy. Mol Neurodegener 2022; 17:80. [PMID: 36482422 PMCID: PMC9733332 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-022-00585-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cytoplasmic mislocalization and aggregation of TAR DNA-binding protein-43 (TDP-43) is a hallmark of the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia (ALS/FTD) disease spectrum, causing both nuclear loss-of-function and cytoplasmic toxic gain-of-function phenotypes. While TDP-43 proteinopathy has been associated with defects in nucleocytoplasmic transport, this process is still poorly understood. Here we study the role of karyopherin-β1 (KPNB1) and other nuclear import receptors in regulating TDP-43 pathology. METHODS We used immunostaining, immunoprecipitation, biochemical and toxicity assays in cell lines, primary neuron and organotypic mouse brain slice cultures, to determine the impact of KPNB1 on the solubility, localization, and toxicity of pathological TDP-43 constructs. Postmortem patient brain and spinal cord tissue was stained to assess KPNB1 colocalization with TDP-43 inclusions. Turbidity assays were employed to study the dissolution and prevention of aggregation of recombinant TDP-43 fibrils in vitro. Fly models of TDP-43 proteinopathy were used to determine the effect of KPNB1 on their neurodegenerative phenotype in vivo. RESULTS We discovered that several members of the nuclear import receptor protein family can reduce the formation of pathological TDP-43 aggregates. Using KPNB1 as a model, we found that its activity depends on the prion-like C-terminal region of TDP-43, which mediates the co-aggregation with phenylalanine and glycine-rich nucleoporins (FG-Nups) such as Nup62. KPNB1 is recruited into these co-aggregates where it acts as a molecular chaperone that reverses aberrant phase transition of Nup62 and TDP-43. These findings are supported by the discovery that Nup62 and KPNB1 are also sequestered into pathological TDP-43 aggregates in ALS/FTD postmortem CNS tissue, and by the identification of the fly ortholog of KPNB1 as a strong protective modifier in Drosophila models of TDP-43 proteinopathy. Our results show that KPNB1 can rescue all hallmarks of TDP-43 pathology, by restoring its solubility and nuclear localization, and reducing neurodegeneration in cellular and animal models of ALS/FTD. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest a novel NLS-independent mechanism where, analogous to its canonical role in dissolving the diffusion barrier formed by FG-Nups in the nuclear pore, KPNB1 is recruited into TDP-43/FG-Nup co-aggregates present in TDP-43 proteinopathies and therapeutically reverses their deleterious phase transition and mislocalization, mitigating neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilal Khalil
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - Deepak Chhangani
- Department of Neurology, McKnight Brain Institute, Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Melissa C Wren
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - Courtney L Smith
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
- Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Neuroscience Track, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Jannifer H Lee
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
- Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Neuroscience Track, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Xingli Li
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | | | - Chih-Wei Tsai
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - Gael Fortin
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - Dmytro Morderer
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - Junli Gao
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - Feilin Liu
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - Chun Kim Lim
- Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Yoshida-konoe, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Jingjiao Chen
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
- Geriatric Department, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Ching-Chieh Chou
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Cara L Croft
- Department of Neuroscience, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
- UK Dementia Research Institute at University College London, London, UK
| | - Amanda M Gleixner
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
- LiveLikeLou Center for ALS Research, University of Pittsburgh Brain Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Christopher J Donnelly
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
- LiveLikeLou Center for ALS Research, University of Pittsburgh Brain Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Todd E Golde
- Department of Neurology, McKnight Brain Institute, Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | | | | | - Dennis W Dickson
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - Ke Zhang
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - James Shorter
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Shige H Yoshimura
- Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Yoshida-konoe, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Sami J Barmada
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Diego E Rincon-Limas
- Department of Neurology, McKnight Brain Institute, Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
- Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Wilfried Rossoll
- Department of Neuroscience, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA.
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Feldman EL, Goutman SA, Petri S, Mazzini L, Savelieff MG, Shaw PJ, Sobue G. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Lancet 2022; 400:1363-1380. [PMID: 36116464 PMCID: PMC10089700 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(22)01272-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 225] [Impact Index Per Article: 112.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a fatal CNS neurodegenerative disease. Despite intensive research, current management of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis remains suboptimal from diagnosis to prognosis. Recognition of the phenotypic heterogeneity of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, global CNS dysfunction, genetic architecture, and development of novel diagnostic criteria is clarifying the spectrum of clinical presentation and facilitating diagnosis. Insights into the pathophysiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, identification of disease biomarkers and modifiable risks, along with new predictive models, scales, and scoring systems, and a clinical trial pipeline of mechanism-based therapies, are changing the prognostic landscape. Although most recent advances have yet to translate into patient benefit, the idea of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis as a complex syndrome is already having tangible effects in the clinic. This Seminar will outline these insights and discuss the status of the management of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis for the general neurologist, along with future prospects that could improve care and outcomes for patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva L Feldman
- Department of Neurology, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Stephen A Goutman
- Department of Neurology, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Susanne Petri
- Department of Neurology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Letizia Mazzini
- ALS Centre, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy; Department of Neurology, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Masha G Savelieff
- Department of Neurology, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Pamela J Shaw
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Gen Sobue
- Department of Neurology, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Aichi, Japan
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Dubey SK, Maulding K, Sung H, Lloyd TE. Nucleoporins are degraded via upregulation of ESCRT-III/Vps4 complex in Drosophila models of C9-ALS/FTD. Cell Rep 2022; 40:111379. [PMID: 36130523 PMCID: PMC10099287 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111379] [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: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Disruption of the nuclear pore complex (NPC) and nucleocytoplasmic transport (NCT) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. A GGGGCC hexanucleotide repeat expansion (HRE) in an intron of the C9orf72 gene is the most common genetic cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia, but the mechanism by which the HRE disrupts NCT is incompletely understood. We find that expression of GGGGCC repeats in Drosophila neurons induces proteasome-mediated degradation of select nucleoporins of the NPC. This process requires the Vps4 ATPase and the endosomal-sorting complex required for transport complex-III (ESCRT-III), as knockdown of ESCRT-III/Vps4 genes rescues nucleoporin levels, normalizes NCT, and suppresses GGGGCC-mediated neurodegeneration. GGGGCC expression upregulates nuclear ESCRT-III/Vps4 expression, and expansion microscopy demonstrates that the nucleoporins are translocated into the cytoplasm before undergoing proteasome-mediated degradation. These findings demonstrate a mechanism for nucleoporin degradation and NPC dysfunction in neurodegenerative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep Kumar Dubey
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Kirstin Maulding
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Cellular and Molecular Medicine Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Hyun Sung
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Thomas E Lloyd
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Cellular and Molecular Medicine Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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Drosophila melanogaster as a Tool for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Research. J Dev Biol 2022; 10:jdb10030036. [PMID: 36135369 PMCID: PMC9505035 DOI: 10.3390/jdb10030036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Reliable animal model systems are an integral part of biological research. Ever since Thomas Hunt Morgan won a Nobel Prize for genetic work done using the fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster) as a model organism, it has played a larger and more important role in genetic research. Drosophila models have long been used to study neurodegenerative diseases and have aided in identifying key disease progression biological pathways. Due to the availability of a vast array of genetic manipulation tools, its relatively short lifespan, and its ability to produce many progenies, D. melanogaster has provided the ability to conduct large-scale genetic screens to elucidate possible genetic and molecular interactions in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s Disease, and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). With regards to ALS, many of the gene mutations that have been discovered to be linked to the disease have been modeled in Drosophila to provide a look into a detailed model of pathogenesis. The aim of this review is to summarize key and newer developments in ALS research that have utilized Drosophila and to provide insight into the profound use of Drosophila as a tool for modeling this disease.
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Spead O, Zaepfel BL, Rothstein JD. Nuclear Pore Dysfunction in Neurodegeneration. Neurotherapeutics 2022; 19:1050-1060. [PMID: 36070178 PMCID: PMC9587172 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-022-01293-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The nuclear pore complex (NPC) is a large multimeric structure that is interspersed throughout the membrane of the nucleus and consists of at least 33 protein components. Individual components cooperate within the nuclear pore to facilitate selective passage of materials between the nucleus and cytoplasm while simultaneously performing pore-independent roles throughout the cell. NPC dysfunction is a hallmark of neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). NPC components can become mislocalized or altered in expression in neurodegeneration. These alterations in NPC structure are often detrimental to the neuronal function and ultimately lead to neuronal loss. This review highlights the importance of nucleocytoplasmic transport and NPC integrity and how dysfunction of such may contribute to neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Spead
- Brain Science Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Benjamin L Zaepfel
- Brain Science Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Jeffrey D Rothstein
- Brain Science Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
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37
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Nickerson JA. The ribonucleoprotein network of the nucleus: a historical perspective. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2022; 75:101940. [PMID: 35777349 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2022.101940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
There is a long experimental history supporting the principle that RNA is essential for normal nuclear and chromatin architecture. Most of the genome is transcribed into RNA but only 2% of the sequence codes for proteins. In the nucleus, most non-coding RNA, packaged in proteins, is bound into structures including chromatin and a non-chromatin scaffolding, the nuclear matrix, which was first observed by electron microscopy. Removing nuclear RNA or inhibiting its transcription causes the condensation of chromatin, showing the importance of RNA in spatially and functionally organizing the genome. Today, powerful techniques for the molecular characterization of RNA and for mapping its spatial organization in the nucleus have provided molecular detail to these principles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey A Nickerson
- Division of Genes & Development, Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Avenue North, Worcester, MA 01655, USA.
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38
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Gleixner AM, Verdone BM, Otte CG, Anderson EN, Ramesh N, Shapiro OR, Gale JR, Mauna JC, Mann JR, Copley KE, Daley EL, Ortega JA, Cicardi ME, Kiskinis E, Kofler J, Pandey UB, Trotti D, Donnelly CJ. NUP62 localizes to ALS/FTLD pathological assemblies and contributes to TDP-43 insolubility. Nat Commun 2022; 13:3380. [PMID: 35697676 PMCID: PMC9192689 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-31098-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
A G4C2 hexanucleotide repeat expansion in the C9orf72 gene is the most common genetic cause of ALS and FTLD (C9-ALS/FTLD) with cytoplasmic TDP-43 inclusions observed in regions of neurodegeneration. The accumulation of repetitive RNAs and dipeptide repeat protein (DPR) are two proposed mechanisms of toxicity in C9-ALS/FTLD and linked to impaired nucleocytoplasmic transport. Nucleocytoplasmic transport is regulated by the phenylalanine-glycine nucleoporins (FG nups) that comprise the nuclear pore complex (NPC) permeability barrier. However, the relationship between FG nups and TDP-43 pathology remains elusive. Our studies show that nuclear depletion and cytoplasmic mislocalization of one FG nup, NUP62, is linked to TDP-43 mislocalization in C9-ALS/FTLD iPSC neurons. Poly-glycine arginine (GR) DPR accumulation initiates the formation of cytoplasmic RNA granules that recruit NUP62 and TDP-43. Cytoplasmic NUP62 and TDP-43 interactions promotes their insolubility and NUP62:TDP-43 inclusions are frequently found in C9orf72 ALS/FTLD as well as sporadic ALS/FTLD postmortem CNS tissue. Our findings indicate NUP62 cytoplasmic mislocalization contributes to TDP-43 proteinopathy in ALS/FTLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda M Gleixner
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- LiveLikeLou Center for ALS Research, University of Pittsburgh Brain Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Brandie Morris Verdone
- Department of Neuroscience, Jefferson Weinberg ALS Center, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Charlton G Otte
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- LiveLikeLou Center for ALS Research, University of Pittsburgh Brain Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Physician Scientist Training Program, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Eric N Anderson
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Nandini Ramesh
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Olivia R Shapiro
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- LiveLikeLou Center for ALS Research, University of Pittsburgh Brain Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jenna R Gale
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- LiveLikeLou Center for ALS Research, University of Pittsburgh Brain Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jocelyn C Mauna
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- LiveLikeLou Center for ALS Research, University of Pittsburgh Brain Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jacob R Mann
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- LiveLikeLou Center for ALS Research, University of Pittsburgh Brain Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Katie E Copley
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- LiveLikeLou Center for ALS Research, University of Pittsburgh Brain Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Elizabeth L Daley
- The Ken & Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Northwestern University of Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Juan A Ortega
- The Ken & Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Northwestern University of Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Maria Elena Cicardi
- Department of Neuroscience, Jefferson Weinberg ALS Center, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Evangelos Kiskinis
- The Ken & Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Northwestern University of Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Julia Kofler
- LiveLikeLou Center for ALS Research, University of Pittsburgh Brain Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Udai B Pandey
- LiveLikeLou Center for ALS Research, University of Pittsburgh Brain Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Davide Trotti
- Department of Neuroscience, Jefferson Weinberg ALS Center, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Christopher J Donnelly
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
- LiveLikeLou Center for ALS Research, University of Pittsburgh Brain Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
- Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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39
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Coyne AN, Rothstein JD. Nuclear pore complexes - a doorway to neural injury in neurodegeneration. Nat Rev Neurol 2022; 18:348-362. [PMID: 35488039 PMCID: PMC10015220 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-022-00653-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The genetic underpinnings and end-stage pathological hallmarks of neurodegenerative diseases are increasingly well defined, but the cellular pathophysiology of disease initiation and propagation remains poorly understood, especially in sporadic forms of these diseases. Altered nucleocytoplasmic transport is emerging as a prominent pathomechanism of multiple neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Alzheimer disease, frontotemporal dementia and Huntington disease. The nuclear pore complex (NPC) and interactions between its individual nucleoporin components and nuclear transport receptors regulate nucleocytoplasmic transport, as well as genome organization and gene expression. Specific nucleoporin abnormalities have been identified in sporadic and familial forms of neurodegenerative disease, and these alterations are thought to contribute to disrupted nucleocytoplasmic transport. The specific nucleoporins and nucleocytoplasmic transport proteins that have been linked to different neurodegenerative diseases are partially distinct, suggesting that NPC injury contributes to the cellular specificity of neurodegenerative disease and could be an early initiator of the pathophysiological cascades that underlie neurodegenerative disease. This concept is consistent with the fact that rare genetic mutations in some nucleoporins cause cell-type-specific neurological disease. In this Review, we discuss nucleoporin and NPC disruptions and consider their impact on cellular function and the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa N Coyne
- Brain Science Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA. .,Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Jeffrey D Rothstein
- Brain Science Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA. .,Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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40
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Goutman SA, Hardiman O, Al-Chalabi A, Chió A, Savelieff MG, Kiernan MC, Feldman EL. Emerging insights into the complex genetics and pathophysiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Lancet Neurol 2022; 21:465-479. [PMID: 35334234 PMCID: PMC9513754 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(21)00414-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 63.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a fatal neurodegenerative disease. The discovery of genes associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, commencing with SOD1 in 1993, started fairly gradually. Recent advances in genetic technology have led to the rapid identification of multiple new genes associated with the disease, and to a new understanding of oligogenic and polygenic disease risk. The overlap of genes associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis with those of other neurodegenerative diseases is shedding light on the phenotypic spectrum of neurodegeneration, leading to a better understanding of genotype-phenotype correlations. A deepening knowledge of the genetic architecture is allowing the characterisation of the molecular steps caused by various mutations that converge on recurrent dysregulated pathways. Of crucial relevance, mutations associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis are amenable to novel gene-based therapeutic options, an approach in use for other neurological illnesses. Lastly, the exposome-the summation of lifetime environmental exposures-has emerged as an influential component for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis through the gene-time-environment hypothesis. Our improved understanding of all these aspects will lead to long-awaited therapies and the identification of modifiable risks factors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Orla Hardiman
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ammar Al-Chalabi
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, and Department of Neurology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Adriano Chió
- Rita Levi Montalcini Department of Neurosciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Matthew C Kiernan
- Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Neurology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Eva L Feldman
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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41
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The Nuclear Pore Complex: Birth, Life, and Death of a Cellular Behemoth. Cells 2022; 11:cells11091456. [PMID: 35563762 PMCID: PMC9100368 DOI: 10.3390/cells11091456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) are the only transport channels that cross the nuclear envelope. Constructed from ~500–1000 nucleoporin proteins each, they are among the largest macromolecular assemblies in eukaryotic cells. Thanks to advances in structural analysis approaches, the construction principles and architecture of the NPC have recently been revealed at submolecular resolution. Although the overall structure and inventory of nucleoporins are conserved, NPCs exhibit significant compositional and functional plasticity even within single cells and surprising variability in their assembly pathways. Once assembled, NPCs remain seemingly unexchangeable in post-mitotic cells. There are a number of as yet unresolved questions about how the versatility of NPC assembly and composition is established, how cells monitor the functional state of NPCs or how they could be renewed. Here, we review current progress in our understanding of the key aspects of NPC architecture and lifecycle.
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42
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Function of the Nuclear Transport Machinery in Maintaining the Distinctive Compositions of the Nucleus and Cytoplasm. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052578. [PMID: 35269721 PMCID: PMC8910404 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the separation of transcription and translation, mediated by the nuclear envelope, is the defining characteristic of Eukaryotes, the barrier between the nuclear and cytoplasmic compartments needs to be semipermeable to enable material to be moved between them. Moreover, each compartment needs to have a distinctive complement of macromolecules to mediate specific functions and so movement between them needs to be controlled. This is achieved through the selective active transport of macromolecules through the nuclear pores that stud the nuclear envelope, and which serve as a conduit between these compartments. Nuclear pores are huge cylindrical macromolecular assemblies and are constructed from the order of 30 different proteins called nucleoporins. Nuclear pores have a central transport channel that is filled with a dense network of natively unfolded portions of many different nuclear pore proteins (nucleoporins or nups). This network generates a barrier that impedes, but does not entirely prevent, the diffusion of many macromolecules through the pores. The rapid movement of a range of proteins and RNAs through the pores is mediated by a range of transport factors that bind their cargo in one compartment and release it in the other. However, although as their size increases the diffusion of macromolecules through nuclear pores is progressively impaired, additional mechanisms, including the binding of some macromolecules to immobile components of each compartment and also the active removal of macromolecules from the inappropriate compartment, are needed to fully maintain the distinctive compositions of each compartment.
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43
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Aizawa H, Teramoto S, Hideyama T, Kato H, Terashi H, Suzuki Y, Kimura T, Kwak S. Nuclear pore destruction and loss of nuclear TDP-43 in FUS mutation-related amyotrophic lateral sclerosis motor neurons. J Neurol Sci 2022; 436:120187. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2022.120187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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44
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Emerging Connections between Nuclear Pore Complex Homeostasis and ALS. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031329. [PMID: 35163252 PMCID: PMC8835831 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Developing effective treatments for neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) requires understanding of the underlying pathomechanisms that contribute to the motor neuron loss that defines the disease. As it causes the largest fraction of familial ALS cases, considerable effort has focused on hexanucleotide repeat expansions in the C9ORF72 gene, which encode toxic repeat RNA and dipeptide repeat (DPR) proteins. Both the repeat RNA and DPRs interact with and perturb multiple elements of the nuclear transport machinery, including shuttling nuclear transport receptors, the Ran GTPase and the nucleoporin proteins (nups) that build the nuclear pore complex (NPC). Here, we consider recent work that describes changes to the molecular composition of the NPC in C9ORF72 model and patient neurons in the context of quality control mechanisms that function at the nuclear envelope (NE). For example, changes to NPC structure may be caused by the dysregulation of a conserved NE surveillance pathway mediated by the endosomal sorting complexes required for the transport protein, CHMP7. Thus, these studies are introducing NE and NPC quality control pathways as key elements in a pathological cascade that leads to C9ORF72 ALS, opening entirely new experimental avenues and possibilities for targeted therapeutic intervention.
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45
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Wang H, Kodavati M, Britz GW, Hegde ML. DNA Damage and Repair Deficiency in ALS/FTD-Associated Neurodegeneration: From Molecular Mechanisms to Therapeutic Implication. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:784361. [PMID: 34975400 PMCID: PMC8716463 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.784361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging studies reveal that neurodegenerative disorders, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD), are commonly linked to DNA damage accumulation and repair deficiency. Neurons are particularly vulnerable to DNA damage due to their high metabolic activity, relying primarily on oxidative phosphorylation, which leads to increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and subsequent DNA damage. Efficient and timely repair of such damage is critical for guarding the integrity of genomic DNA and for cell survival. Several genes predominantly associated with RNA/DNA metabolism have been implicated in both ALS and FTD, suggesting that the two diseases share a common underlying pathology with varied clinical manifestations. Recent studies reveal that many of the gene products, including RNA/DNA binding proteins (RBPs) TDP-43 and FUS are involved in diverse DNA repair pathways. A key question in the etiology of the ALS/FTD spectrum of neurodegeneration is the mechanisms and pathways involved in genome instability caused by dysfunctions/mutations of those RBP genes and their consequences in the central nervous system. The understanding of such converging molecular mechanisms provides insights into the underlying etiology of the rapidly progressing neurodegeneration in ALS/FTD, while also revealing novel DNA repair target avenues for therapeutic development. In this review, we summarize the common mechanisms of neurodegeneration in ALS and FTD, with a particular emphasis on the DNA repair defects induced by ALS/FTD causative genes. We also highlight the consequences of DNA repair defects in ALS/FTD and the therapeutic potential of DNA damage repair-targeted amelioration of neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haibo Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Neuroregeneration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Neuroscience Research at Neurological Surgery, Weill Medical College, New York, NY, United States
| | - Manohar Kodavati
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Neuroregeneration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Gavin W. Britz
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Neuroregeneration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Neuroscience Research at Neurological Surgery, Weill Medical College, New York, NY, United States
| | - Muralidhar L. Hegde
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Neuroregeneration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Neuroscience Research at Neurological Surgery, Weill Medical College, New York, NY, United States
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46
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Bennett SA, Cobos SN, Mirzakandova M, Fallah M, Son E, Angelakakis G, Rana N, Hugais M, Torrente MP. Trichostatin A Relieves Growth Suppression and Restores Histone Acetylation at Specific Sites in a FUS ALS/FTD Yeast Model. Biochemistry 2021; 60:3671-3675. [PMID: 34788013 PMCID: PMC10041660 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.1c00455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an incurable neurodegenerative disease that often occurs concurrently with frontotemporal dementia (FTD), another disorder involving progressive neuronal loss. ALS and FTD form a neurodegenerative continuum and share pathological and genetic features. Mutations in a multitude of genes have been linked to ALS/FTD, including FUS. The FUS protein aggregates and forms inclusions within affected neurons. However, the precise mechanisms connecting protein aggregation to neurotoxicity remain under intense investigation. Recent evidence points to the contribution of epigenetics to ALS/FTD. A main epigenetic mechanism involves the post-translational modification (PTM) of histone proteins. We have previously characterized the histone PTM landscape in a FUS ALS/FTD yeast model, finding a decreased level of acetylation on lysine residues 14 and 56 of histone H3. Here, we describe the first report of amelioration of disease phenotypes by controlling histone acetylation on specific modification sites. We show that inhibiting histone deacetylases, via treatment with trichostatin A, suppresses the toxicity associated with FUS overexpression in yeast by preserving the levels of H3K56ac and H3K14ac without affecting the expression or aggregation of FUS. Our data raise the novel hypothesis that the toxic effect of protein aggregation in neurodegeneration is related to its association with altered histone marks. Altogether, we demonstrate the ability to counter the repercussions of protein aggregation on cell survival by preventing specific histone modification changes. Our findings launch a novel mechanistic framework that will enable alternative therapeutic approaches for ALS/FTD and other neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth A Bennett
- Department of Chemistry, Brooklyn College, Brooklyn, New York 11210, United States.,Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, New York 10016, United States
| | - Samantha N Cobos
- Department of Chemistry, Brooklyn College, Brooklyn, New York 11210, United States.,Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, New York 10016, United States
| | | | - Michel Fallah
- Department of Chemistry, Brooklyn College, Brooklyn, New York 11210, United States
| | - Elizaveta Son
- Department of Chemistry, Brooklyn College, Brooklyn, New York 11210, United States
| | - George Angelakakis
- Department of Chemistry, Brooklyn College, Brooklyn, New York 11210, United States
| | - Navin Rana
- Department of Chemistry, Brooklyn College, Brooklyn, New York 11210, United States
| | - Muna Hugais
- Department of Chemistry, Brooklyn College, Brooklyn, New York 11210, United States
| | - Mariana P Torrente
- Department of Chemistry, Brooklyn College, Brooklyn, New York 11210, United States.,Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, New York 10016, United States.,Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, New York 10016, United States
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47
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Nuclear pore complex maintenance and implications for age-related diseases. Trends Cell Biol 2021; 32:216-227. [PMID: 34782239 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2021.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) bridge the nucleus and the cytoplasm and are indispensable for crucial cellular activities, such as bidirectional molecular trafficking and gene transcription regulation. The discovery of long-lived proteins (LLPs) in NPCs from postmitotic cells raises the exciting possibility that the maintenance of NPC integrity might play an inherent role in lifelong cell function. Age-dependent deterioration of NPCs and loss of nuclear integrity have been linked to age-related decline in postmitotic cell function and degenerative diseases. In this review, we discuss our current understanding of NPC maintenance in proliferating and postmitotic cells, and how malfunction of nucleoporins (Nups) might contribute to the pathogenesis of various neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases.
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48
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Vanneste J, Van Den Bosch L. The Role of Nucleocytoplasmic Transport Defects in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12175. [PMID: 34830069 PMCID: PMC8620263 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
There is ample evidence that nucleocytoplasmic-transport deficits could play an important role in the pathology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, the currently available data are often circumstantial and do not fully clarify the exact causal and temporal role of nucleocytoplasmic transport deficits in ALS patients. Gaining this knowledge will be of great significance in order to be able to target therapeutically nucleocytoplasmic transport and/or the proteins involved in this process. The availability of good model systems to study the nucleocytoplasmic transport process in detail will be especially crucial in investigating the effect of different mutations, as well as of other forms of stress. In this review, we discuss the evidence for the involvement of nucleocytoplasmic transport defects in ALS and the methods used to obtain these data. In addition, we provide an overview of the therapeutic strategies which could potentially counteract these defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joni Vanneste
- Experimental Neurology, Department of Neurosciences and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven–University of Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium;
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Center for Brain & Disease Research, VIB, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- Experimental Neurology, Department of Neurosciences and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven–University of Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium;
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Center for Brain & Disease Research, VIB, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
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49
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Torres P, Cabral-Miranda F, Gonzalez-Teuber V, Hetz C. Proteostasis deregulation as a driver of C9ORF72 pathogenesis. J Neurochem 2021; 159:941-957. [PMID: 34679204 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Revised: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) are two related neurodegenerative disorders that display overlapping features. The hexanucleotide repeat expansion GGGGCC (G4 C2 ) in C9ORF72 gene has been causally linked to both ALS and FTD emergence, thus opening a novel potential therapeutic target for disease intervention. The main driver of C9ORF72 pathology is the disruption of distinct cellular processes involved in the function of the proteostasis network. Here we discuss main findings relating to the induction of neurodegeneration by C9ORF72 mutation and proteostasis deregulation, highlighting the role of the endoplasmic reticulum stress, nuclear transport, and autophagy in the disease process. We further discuss possible points of intervention to target proteostasis mediators to treat C9ORF72-linked ALS/FTD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Torres
- Biomedical Neuroscience Institute (BNI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile.,FONDAP Center for Geroscience, Brain Health, and Metabolism (GERO), Santiago, Chile.,Program of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biomedical Science, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Felipe Cabral-Miranda
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Vicente Gonzalez-Teuber
- Biomedical Neuroscience Institute (BNI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile.,FONDAP Center for Geroscience, Brain Health, and Metabolism (GERO), Santiago, Chile.,Program of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biomedical Science, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Claudio Hetz
- Biomedical Neuroscience Institute (BNI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile.,FONDAP Center for Geroscience, Brain Health, and Metabolism (GERO), Santiago, Chile.,Program of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biomedical Science, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, California, USA
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50
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Liguori F, Amadio S, Volonté C. Fly for ALS: Drosophila modeling on the route to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis modifiers. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:6143-6160. [PMID: 34322715 PMCID: PMC11072332 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03905-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rare, devastating disease, causing movement impairment, respiratory failure and ultimate death. A plethora of genetic, cellular and molecular mechanisms are involved in ALS signature, although the initiating causes and progressive pathological events are far from being understood. Drosophila research has produced seminal discoveries for more than a century and has been successfully used in the past 25 years to untangle the process of ALS pathogenesis, and recognize potential markers and novel strategies for therapeutic solutions. This review will provide an updated view of several ALS modifiers validated in C9ORF72, SOD1, FUS, TDP-43 and Ataxin-2 Drosophila models. We will discuss basic and preclinical findings, illustrating recent developments and novel breakthroughs, also depicting unsettled challenges and limitations in the Drosophila-ALS field. We intend to stimulate a renewed debate on Drosophila as a screening route to identify more successful disease modifiers and neuroprotective agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Liguori
- Preclinical Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 65, 00143, Rome, Italy
| | - Susanna Amadio
- Preclinical Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 65, 00143, Rome, Italy
| | - Cinzia Volonté
- Preclinical Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via del Fosso di Fiorano 65, 00143, Rome, Italy.
- Institute for Systems Analysis and Computer Science "A. Ruberti", National Research Council (IASI-CNR), Via dei Taurini 19, 00185, Rome, Italy.
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