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Pei Z, Guo X, Zheng F, Yang Z, Li T, Yu Z, Li X, Guo X, Chen Q, Fu C, Tang T, Feng D, Wang Y. Xuefu Zhuyu decoction promotes synaptic plasticity by targeting miR-191a-5p/BDNF-TrkB axis in severe traumatic brain injury. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 129:155566. [PMID: 38565001 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Xuefu Zhuyu decoction (XFZYD) is a traditional Chinese herbal formula known for its ability to eliminate blood stasis and improve blood circulation, providing neuroprotection against severe traumatic brain injury (sTBI). However, the underlying mechanism is still unclear. PURPOSE We aim to investigate the neuroprotective effects of XFZYD in sTBI from a novel mechanistic perspective of miRNA-mRNA. Additionally, we sought to elucidate a potential specific mechanism by integrating transcriptomics, bioinformatics, and conducting both in vitro and in vivo experiments. METHODS The sTBI rat model was established, and the rats were treated with XFZYD for 14 days. The neuroprotective effects of XFZYD were evaluated using a modified neurological severity score, hematoxylin and eosin staining, as well as Nissl staining. The anti-inflammatory effects of XFZYD were explored using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), Western blot analysis, and immunofluorescence. Next, miRNA sequencing of the hippocampus was performed to determine which miRNAs were differentially expressed. Subsequently, qRT-PCR was used to validate the differentially expressed miRNAs. Target core mRNAs were determined using various methods, including miRNA prediction targets, mRNA sequencing, miRNA-mRNA network, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis. The miRNA/mRNA regulatory axis were verified through qRT-PCR or Western blot analysis. Finally, morphological changes in the neural synapses were observed using transmission electron microscopy and immunofluorescence. RESULTS XFZYD exhibited significant neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects on subacute sTBI rats' hippocampus. The analyses of miRNA/mRNA sequences combined with the PPI network revealed that the therapeutic effects of XFZYD on sTBI were associated with the regulation of the rno-miR-191a-5p/BDNF axis. Subsequently, qRT-PCR and Western blot analysis confirmed XFZYD reversed the decrease of BDNF and TrkB in the hippocampus caused by sTBI. Additionally, XFZYD treatment potentially increased the number of synaptic connections, and the expression of the synapse-related protein PSD95, axon-related protein GAP43 and neuron-specific protein TUBB3. CONCLUSIONS XFZYD exerts neuroprotective effects by promoting hippocampal synaptic remodeling and improving cognition during the subacute phase of sTBI through downregulating of rno-miR-191a-5p/BDNF axis, further activating BDNF-TrkB signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuan Pei
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China; NATCM Key Laboratory of TCM Gan, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China
| | - Xiaohang Guo
- School of Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, PR China
| | - Fei Zheng
- The College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, PR China
| | - Zhaoyu Yang
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China; NATCM Key Laboratory of TCM Gan, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China; Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Jiangxi, Nanchang 330004, PR China
| | - Teng Li
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China; NATCM Key Laboratory of TCM Gan, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China; Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Jiangxi, Nanchang 330004, PR China
| | - Zhe Yu
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China; NATCM Key Laboratory of TCM Gan, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China
| | - Xuexuan Li
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China; NATCM Key Laboratory of TCM Gan, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China
| | - Xin Guo
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Child Healthcare, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, PR China
| | - Quan Chen
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China; NATCM Key Laboratory of TCM Gan, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China
| | - Chunyan Fu
- College of Pharmacy, Shaoyang University, Shaoyang 422100, PR China
| | - Tao Tang
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China; NATCM Key Laboratory of TCM Gan, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China; Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Jiangxi, Nanchang 330004, PR China
| | - Dandan Feng
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China; NATCM Key Laboratory of TCM Gan, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China; Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Jiangxi, Nanchang 330004, PR China.
| | - Yang Wang
- Institute of Integrative Medicine, Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China; NATCM Key Laboratory of TCM Gan, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, PR China; Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Jiangxi, Nanchang 330004, PR China.
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Zuccaro MV, LeDuc CA, Thaker VV. Updates on Rare Genetic Variants, Genetic Testing, and Gene Therapy in Individuals With Obesity. Curr Obes Rep 2024:10.1007/s13679-024-00567-y. [PMID: 38822963 DOI: 10.1007/s13679-024-00567-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The goal of this paper is to aggregate information on monogenic contributions to obesity in the past five years and to provide guidance for genetic testing in clinical care. RECENT FINDINGS Advances in sequencing technologies, increasing awareness, access to testing, and new treatments have increased the utilization of genetics in clinical care. There is increasing recognition of the prevalence of rare genetic obesity from variants with mean allele frequency < 5% -new variants in known genes as well as identification of novel genes- causing monogenic obesity. While most of these genes are in the leptin melanocortin pathway, those in adipocytes may also contribute. Common variants may contribute either to higher lifetime tendency for weight gain or provide protection from monogenic obesity. While specific genetic mutations are rare, these segregate in individuals with early-onset severe obesity; thus, collectively genetic etiologies are not as rare. Some genetic conditions are amenable to targeted treatment. Research into the discovery of novel genetic causes as well as targeted treatment is growing over time. The utility of therapeutic strategies based on the genetic risk of obesity is an advancing frontier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael V Zuccaro
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
| | - Charles A LeDuc
- Division of Molecular Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 1150, St. Nicholas Avenue, NY 10032, United States
- Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, United States
| | - Vidhu V Thaker
- Division of Molecular Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 1150, St. Nicholas Avenue, NY 10032, United States.
- Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, United States.
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, 10032, United States.
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Bogard AT, Hembree TG, Pollet AK, Smith AC, Ryder SC, Marzloff G, Tan AQ. Intermittent Hypoxia-Induced Enhancements in Corticospinal Excitability Predict Gains in Motor Learning and Metabolic Efficiency. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-4259378. [PMID: 38746438 PMCID: PMC11092812 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4259378/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH) enhances human motor function after incomplete spinal cord injury. Although the underlying mechanisms in humans are unknown, emerging evidence indicates that AIH facilitates corticospinal excitability to the upper limb. However, the functional relevance of this plasticity remains unexplored, and it is unclear whether similar plasticity can be induced for lower limb motor areas. We recently demonstrated that AIH improves motor learning and metabolic efficiency during split-belt walking. Thus, we hypothesized that AIH increases lower limb excitability and that these enhancements would predict the magnitude of motor learning and the corresponding reductions in net metabolic power. We assessed tibialis anterior (TA) excitability using transcranial magnetic stimulation and quantified changes in spatiotemporal asymmetries and net metabolic power in response to split-belt speed perturbations. We show that AIH enhances TA excitability, and that the magnitude of this facilitation positively correlates with greater spatiotemporal adaptation. Notably, we demonstrate a novel association between increased excitability and reduced net metabolic power during motor learning and savings. Together, our results suggest that AIH-induced gains in excitability predict both the magnitude of motor learning and the associated metabolic efficiency. Determining indices of AIH-induced improvements in motor performance is critical for optimizing its therapeutic reach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alysha T. Bogard
- Sensorimotor Recovery and Neuroplasticity Lab at the University of Colorado, Boulder, Dept. of Integrative Physiology, 80309, USA
| | - Thomas G. Hembree
- Sensorimotor Recovery and Neuroplasticity Lab at the University of Colorado, Boulder, Dept. of Integrative Physiology, 80309, USA
| | - Aviva K. Pollet
- Sensorimotor Recovery and Neuroplasticity Lab at the University of Colorado, Boulder, Dept. of Integrative Physiology, 80309, USA
| | - Andrew C. Smith
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Dept. of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Aurora, 80045, USA
| | | | - George Marzloff
- Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, 80045, USA
| | - Andrew Q. Tan
- Sensorimotor Recovery and Neuroplasticity Lab at the University of Colorado, Boulder, Dept. of Integrative Physiology, 80309, USA
- Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, 80045, USA
- Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado, Boulder, 80309, USA
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Sun MK, Alkon DL. Alzheimer's therapeutic development: shifting neurodegeneration to neuroregeneration. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2024; 45:197-209. [PMID: 38360510 PMCID: PMC10939773 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2024.01.012] [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: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), similar to AD-related dementias, is characterized by impaired/lost neuronal structures and functions due to a long progression of neurodegeneration. Derailed endogenous signal pathways and disease processes have critical roles in neurodegeneration and are pharmacological targets in inducing neuroregeneration. Pharmacologically switching/shifting the brain status from neurodegeneration to neuroregeneration is emerging as a new therapeutic concept, one that is not only achievable, but also essential for effective therapy for AD. The results of the pharmacological-induced shift from neurodegeneration to neuroregeneration are twofold: arresting cognitive deterioration (and directing the brain toward cognitive recovery) in established AD, and preventing neurodegeneration through building up cognitive resilience in patients with preclinical or probable AD. In this review, we discuss these new developments in AD pharmacology and relevant clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao-Kun Sun
- Synaptogenix, Inc., 1185 Avenue of the Americas, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10036, USA.
| | - Daniel L Alkon
- Synaptogenix, Inc., 1185 Avenue of the Americas, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10036, USA
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Altarifi AA, Sawali K, Alzoubi KH, Saleh T, Abu Al-Rub M, Khabour O. Effect of vitamin E on doxorubicin and paclitaxel-induced memory impairments in male rats. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2024; 93:215-224. [PMID: 37926754 DOI: 10.1007/s00280-023-04602-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: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE In addition to peripheral neuronal dysfunction, conventional chemotherapy can be associated with other neurological treatment-limiting adverse effects, including cognitive dysfunction, memory impairment, and anxiety, which are referred to as "chemobrain". This study aimed to investigate the effects of doxorubicin (DOX) and paclitaxel (PAC) on learning and memory in rats using radial arm water maze (RAWM) and investigated a potential beneficial effect of vitamin E (Vit. E). METHODS Adult male rats were injected with four doses of 2 mg/kg/week DOX, or 2 mg/kg PAC every other day intraperitoneally. Vit. E was co-administered with these drugs in other groups to study its antioxidative effects. Using the RAWM, each rat was assessed for learning and memory performance through two sets of six trials separated by a 5-min rest period evaluating both short- and long-term effects on memory. RESULTS There was no deficit in learning or long-term memory in both drug groups compared to control. However, rats in both drug groups made significantly more errors in all short-term memory trials. This effect was mitigated when Vit. E was co-administered with either drug. Moreover, PAC (but not DOX) induced hippocampal lipid peroxidation by increasing the levels of standard biomarker thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). Interestingly, Vit. E prevented PAC-induced hippocampal oxidative stress. Furthermore, both DOX and PAC were correlated with reduction in Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) expression levels in the hippocampus, which was overcome by the co-administration of Vit. E. CONCLUSION There is a potential role of Vit. E in alleviating short-term memory impairment in rats exposed to chemotherapy, possibly by reducing hippocampal oxidative stress and neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad A Altarifi
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 3030, Irbid, 22110, Jordan.
| | - Kareem Sawali
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 3030, Irbid, 22110, Jordan
| | - Karem H Alzoubi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Tareq Saleh
- Department of Pharmacology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Malik Abu Al-Rub
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 3030, Irbid, 22110, Jordan
| | - Omar Khabour
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
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Ishimoto T, Yamashita R, Matsumoto R, Matsumoto S, Matsuo Y, Nakao S, Masuo Y, Suzuki M, Kato Y. TrkB phosphorylation in serum extracellular vesicles correlates with cognitive function enhanced by ergothioneine in humans. NPJ Sci Food 2024; 8:11. [PMID: 38321007 PMCID: PMC10847428 DOI: 10.1038/s41538-024-00250-5] [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: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Oral administration of the food-derived antioxidant amino acid ergothioneine (ERGO) results in its efficient distribution in the brain and enhances cognitive function. However, effect of ERGO deficiency on cognitive impairment and the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. We revealed that cognitive function and hippocampal neurogenesis were lower in mice fed an ERGO-free diet than in those fed the control diet. Furthermore, ERGO supplementation to achieve the control diet ERGO levels reversed these effects and restored ERGO concentrations in the plasma and hippocampus. The ERGO-induced recovery of cognitive function and hippocampal neurogenesis was blocked by inhibiting the neurotrophic factor receptor tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB), with a concomitant reduction in hippocampal phosphorylated TrkB, suggesting the involvement of TrkB in these events in mice. Phosphorylated TrkB was also detected in extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from serum of volunteers who had been orally administered placebo or ERGO-containing tablets. Importantly, the ratio of serum EV-derived phosphorylated TrkB was significantly higher in the ERGO-treated group than in the placebo-treated group and was positively correlated with both serum ERGO concentrations and several cognitive domain scores from Cognitrax. Altogether, TrkB phosphorylation is involved in ERGO-induced cognitive enhancement in mice, and TrkB phosphorylation levels in serum EVs may quantitatively represent ERGO-induced cognitive enhancement in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Ishimoto
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-1192, Japan
| | - Reiya Yamashita
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-1192, Japan
| | - Ruri Matsumoto
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-1192, Japan
| | - Satoshi Matsumoto
- L·S Corporation Co. Ltd., 3-10-1 Ningyocho-Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 103-0013, Japan
| | - Yusuke Matsuo
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-1192, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Nakao
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-1192, Japan
| | - Yusuke Masuo
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-1192, Japan
| | - Makoto Suzuki
- L·S Corporation Co. Ltd., 3-10-1 Ningyocho-Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 103-0013, Japan
| | - Yukio Kato
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-1192, Japan.
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Shan MA, Khan MU, Ishtiaq W, Rehman R, Khan S, Javed MA, Ali Q. In silico analysis of the Val66Met mutation in BDNF protein: implications for psychological stress. AMB Express 2024; 14:11. [PMID: 38252222 PMCID: PMC10803716 DOI: 10.1186/s13568-024-01664-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) involves stress regulation and psychiatric disorders. The Val66Met polymorphism in the BDNF gene has been linked to altered protein function and susceptibility to stress-related conditions. This in silico analysis aimed to predict and analyze the consequences of the Val66Met mutation in the BDNF gene of stressed individuals. Computational techniques, including ab initio, comparative, and I-TASSER modeling, were used to evaluate the functional and stability effects of the Val66Met mutation in BDNF. The accuracy and reliability of the models were validated. Sequence alignment and secondary structure analysis compared amino acid residues and structural components. The phylogenetic analysis assessed the conservation of the mutation site. Functional and stability prediction analyses provided mixed results, suggesting potential effects on protein function and stability. Structural models revealed the importance of BDNF in key biological processes. Sequence alignment analysis showed the conservation of amino acid residues across species. Secondary structure analysis indicated minor differences between the wild-type and mutant forms. Phylogenetic analysis supported the evolutionary conservation of the mutation site. This computational study suggests that the Val66Met mutation in BDNF may have implications for protein stability, structural conformation, and function. Further experimental validation is needed to confirm these findings and elucidate the precise effects of this mutation on stress-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Adnan Shan
- Center for Applied Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Umer Khan
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan.
| | - Warda Ishtiaq
- Center for Applied Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Raima Rehman
- Center for Applied Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Samiullah Khan
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Arshad Javed
- Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of the Punjab Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Qurban Ali
- Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of the Punjab Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan.
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Wan M, Sun S, Di X, Zhao M, Lu F, Zhang Z, Li Y. Icariin improves learning and memory function in Aβ 1-42-induced AD mice through regulation of the BDNF-TrκB signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 318:117029. [PMID: 37579923 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Epimedium brevicornu Maxim. is a traditional medicinal Chinese herb that is enriched with flavonoids, which have remarkably high medicinal value. Icariin (ICA) is a marker compound isolated from the total flavonoids of Epimedium brevicornu Maxim. It has been shown to improve Neurodegenerative disease, therefore, ICA is probably a potential drug for treating AD. MATERIALS AND METHODS The 6-8-week-old SPF-class male ICR mice were randomly divided into 8 groups for modeling, and then the mice were administered orally with ICA for 21 days. The behavioral experiments were conducted to evaluate if learning and memory behavior were absent in mice, confirming that infusion of Amyloid β-protein (Aβ)1-42 caused significant memory impairment. The morphological changes and damage of neurons in the mice's brains were observed by HE and Nissl staining. The spinous protrusions (dendritic spines) on neuronal dendrites were investigated by Golgi-Cox staining. The molecular mechanism of ICA was examined by Western Blot. The protein docking of ICA and Donepezil with BDNF were analyzed to determine their interaction. RESULTS The behavioral experimental results showed that in Aβ1-42-induced AD mice, the learning and memory abilities were improved after using ICA. At the same time, the low, medium, and high doses of ICA could reduce the content of Aβ1-42 in the hippocampus of AD mice, repair neuronal damage, enhance synaptic plasticity, as well as increase the expression of BDNF, TrκB, CREB, Akt, GAP43, PSD95, and SYN proteins in the hippocampus of mice. However, the effect with high doses of ICA is more pronounced. The high-dose administration of ICA has the best therapeutic effect on AD mice. After administering the inhibitor k252a, the therapeutic effect of ICA was reversed. The macromolecular docking results of ICA and BDNF protein demonstrated a strong interaction of -7.8 kcal/mol, which indicates that ICA plays a therapeutic role in AD mice by regulating the BDNF-TrκB signaling pathway. CONCLUSIONS The results confirm that ICA can repair neuronal damage, enhance synaptic plasticity, as well as ultimately improve learning and memory impairment through the regulation of the BDNF-TrκB signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiyu Wan
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Shengqi Sun
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoke Di
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Minghui Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Fengjuan Lu
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhifei Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Li
- School of Pharmacy, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, 063210, People's Republic of China.
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Qian L, Huang S, Liu X, Jiang Y, Jiang Y, Hu Y, Yang Z. Morroniside improves the symptoms of post-stroke depression in mice through the BDNF signaling pathway mediated by MiR-409-3p. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 123:155224. [PMID: 38006805 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Post-stroke depression (PSD) is a common psychiatric symptom after a stroke. Morroniside, an iridoid glycoside found in Cornus officinalis, has garnered significant attention for its potential to alleviate symptoms associated with depression. PURPOSE This study aims to highlight the potential use of morroniside in the treatment of PSD and elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms. METHODS To establish a reliable PSD model, male C57BL/6 mice were subjected to brief MCAO in conjunction with CUMS. Post-morroniside administration, neuronal viability, and hippocampal cell apoptosis were evaluated by Nissl staining and TUNEL detection, respectively. Depression-like behaviors were evaluated using SPT, TST, and FST. The Longa score and cylinder test were used to evaluate the effect of morroniside on motor function. Furthermore, to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms, bioinformatic analysis and the dual luciferase assay were performed to investigate the MiR-409-3p-BDNF interaction. In addition, subsequent to MiR-409-3p overexpression via AAV virus, we assessed mRNA expression and protein levels of key components within the BDNF/TrkB signaling pathway using RT-qPCR, immunohistochemistry, and western blot analysis. RESULTS The observed decrease in apoptosis and amelioration of depression-like behaviors strongly indicate the potential of morroniside as a therapeutic agent for PSD. Furthermore, the upregulation of key proteins within the BDNF/TrkB signaling pathway in the cortex suggests that morroniside activates this pathway. Through bioinformatics analysis, MiR-409-3p was identified and found to bind to the BDNF gene, resulting in the inhibition of BDNF expression. Importantly, we demonstrate that morroniside mitigates this inhibitory effect of MiR-409-3p on BDNF, thereby facilitating the activation of the BDNF/TrkB signaling pathway. CONCLUSION The findings suggest that morroniside demonstrates the ability to improve PSD symptoms through the BDNF/TrkB signaling pathway mediated by MiR-409-3p. These results emphasize the importance of the BDNF signaling pathway in improving PSD symptoms and provide a possible mechanism for morroniside to treat PSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihui Qian
- Lianyungang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lianyungang Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 222004, Lianyungang, Jiangsu, China; School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 210023, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Sirui Huang
- School of Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 210023, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoli Liu
- Lianyungang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lianyungang Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 222004, Lianyungang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yongxia Jiang
- Lianyungang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lianyungang Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 222004, Lianyungang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yongqu Jiang
- Lianyungang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lianyungang Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 222004, Lianyungang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yue Hu
- School of Chinese Medicine, School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 210023, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China; Shen Chun-ti Nation-Famous Experts Studio for Traditional Chinese Medicine Inheritance, Changzhou TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 213003, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Zhou Yang
- Lianyungang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lianyungang Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 222004, Lianyungang, Jiangsu, China.
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10
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Yılmaz E, Baltaci SB, Mogulkoc R, Baltaci AK. The impact of flavonoids and BDNF on neurogenic process in various physiological/pathological conditions including ischemic insults: a narrative review. Nutr Neurosci 2023:1-17. [PMID: 38151886 DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2023.2296165] [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: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Ischemic stroke is the leading cause of mortality and disability worldwide with more than half of survivors living with serious neurological sequelae thus, it has recently attracted considerable attention in the field of medical research. Neurogenesis is the process of formation of new neurons in the brain, including the human brain, from neural stem/progenitor cells [NS/PCs] which reside in neurogenic niches that contain the necessary substances for NS/PC proliferation, differentiation, migration, and maturation into functioning neurons which can integrate into a pre-existing neural network.Neurogenesis can be modulated by many exogenous and endogenous factors, pathological conditions. Both brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and flavonoids can modulate the neurogenic process in physiological conditions and after various pathological conditions including ischemic insults. AIMS This review aims to discuss neurogenesis after ischemic insults and to determine the role of flavonoids and BDNF on neurogenesis under physiological and pathological conditions with a concentration on ischemic insults to the brain in particular. METHOD Relevant articles assessing the impact of flavonoids and BDNF on neurogenic processes in various physiological/pathological conditions including ischemic insults within the timeline of 1965 until 2023 were searched using the PubMed database. CONCLUSIONS The selected studies have shown that ischemic insults to the brain induce NS/PC proliferation, differentiation, migration, and maturation into functioning neurons integrating into a pre-existing neural network. Flavonoids and BDNF can modulate neurogenesis in the brain in various physiological/pathological conditions including ischemic insults. In conclusion, flavonoids and BDNF may be involved in post-ischemic brain repair processes through enhancing endogenous neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esen Yılmaz
- Selcuk University, Medical Faculty, Department of Physiology, Konya, Turkey
| | | | - Rasim Mogulkoc
- Selcuk University, Medical Faculty, Department of Physiology, Konya, Turkey
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11
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Paolini M, Fortaner-Uyà L, Lorenzi C, Spadini S, Maccario M, Zanardi R, Colombo C, Poletti S, Benedetti F. Association between NTRK2 Polymorphisms, Hippocampal Volumes and Treatment Resistance in Major Depressive Disorder. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:2037. [PMID: 38002980 PMCID: PMC10671548 DOI: 10.3390/genes14112037] [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: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the increasing availability of antidepressant drugs, a high rate of patients with major depression (MDD) does not respond to pharmacological treatments. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)-tyrosine receptor kinase B (TrkB) signaling is thought to influence antidepressant efficacy and hippocampal volumes, robust predictors of treatment resistance. We therefore hypothesized the possible role of BDNF and neurotrophic receptor tyrosine kinase 2 (NTRK2)-related polymorphisms in affecting both hippocampal volumes and treatment resistance in MDD. A total of 121 MDD inpatients underwent 3T structural MRI scanning and blood sampling to obtain genotype information. General linear models and binary logistic regressions were employed to test the effect of genetic variations related to BDNF and NTRK2 on bilateral hippocampal volumes and treatment resistance, respectively. Finally, the possible mediating role of hippocampal volumes on the relationship between genetic markers and treatment response was investigated. A significant association between one NTRK2 polymorphism with hippocampal volumes and antidepressant response was found, with significant indirect effects. Our results highlight a possible mechanistic explanation of antidepressant action, possibly contributing to the understanding of MDD pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Paolini
- Psychiatry and Clinical Psychobiology Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Lidia Fortaner-Uyà
- Psychiatry and Clinical Psychobiology Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Lorenzi
- Psychiatry and Clinical Psychobiology Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Spadini
- Psychiatry and Clinical Psychobiology Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Melania Maccario
- Mood Disorders Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
- Faculty of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Zanardi
- Mood Disorders Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Colombo
- Mood Disorders Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
- Faculty of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Poletti
- Psychiatry and Clinical Psychobiology Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
- Faculty of Psychology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Benedetti
- Psychiatry and Clinical Psychobiology Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
- Faculty of Psychology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy
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12
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Fang S, Wu Z, Guo Y, Zhu W, Wan C, Yuan N, Chen J, Hao W, Mo X, Guo X, Fan L, Li X, Chen J. Roles of microglia in adult hippocampal neurogenesis in depression and their therapeutics. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1193053. [PMID: 37881439 PMCID: PMC10597707 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1193053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Adult hippocampal neurogenesis generates functional neurons from neural progenitor cells in the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) to complement and repair neurons and neural circuits, thus benefiting the treatment of depression. Increasing evidence has shown that aberrant microglial activity can disrupt the appropriate formation and development of functional properties of neurogenesis, which will play a crucial role in the occurrence and development of depression. However, the mechanisms of the crosstalk between microglia and adult hippocampal neurogenesis in depression are not yet fully understood. Therefore, in this review, we first introduce recent discoveries regarding the roles of microglia and adult hippocampal neurogenesis in the etiology of depression. Then, we systematically discuss the possible mechanisms of how microglia regulate adult hippocampal neurogenesis in depression according to recent studies, which involve toll-like receptors, microglial polarization, fractalkine-C-X3-C motif chemokine receptor 1, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, cytokines, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and the microbiota-gut-brain axis, etc. In addition, we summarize the promising drugs that could improve the adult hippocampal neurogenesis by regulating the microglia. These findings will help us understand the complicated pathological mechanisms of depression and shed light on the development of new treatment strategies for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoyi Fang
- Formula-Pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhibin Wu
- Formula-Pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yali Guo
- Formula-Pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenjun Zhu
- Formula-Pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chunmiao Wan
- Formula-Pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Naijun Yuan
- Formula-Pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Shenzhen People’s Hospital, 2Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jianbei Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Wenzhi Hao
- Formula-Pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaowei Mo
- Formula-Pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaofang Guo
- Formula-Pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lili Fan
- Formula-Pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaojuan Li
- Formula-Pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaxu Chen
- Formula-Pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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13
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Chen CM, Gung PY, Ho YC, Hamdin CD, Yet SF. Probucol treatment after traumatic brain injury activates BDNF/TrkB pathway, promotes neuroregeneration and ameliorates functional deficits in mice. Br J Pharmacol 2023; 180:2605-2622. [PMID: 37263748 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide, yet pharmacotherapies for TBI are currently lacking. Neuroregeneration is important in brain repair and functional recovery. In this study, probucol, a cholesterol-lowering drug with established safety profiles, was examined for its therapeutic effects and neuroregenerative actions in TBI. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Male mice were subjected to the controlled cortical impact model of TBI, followed by daily administration of probucol. Neurological and cognitive functions were evaluated. Histological analyses of the neocortex and hippocampus were performed to detect the lesion, dendritic degeneration (microtubule-associated protein 2), synaptic density (synaptophysin), neurogenesis (doublecortin), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) activation. Involvement of BDNF/TrkB pathway in probucol-mediated effects was examined in primary cultures of cortical neurons. KEY RESULTS Probucol reduced brain lesion volume, enhanced the recovery of body symmetry, improved motor function and attenuated memory dysfunction after TBI. Meanwhile, probucol promoted post-injury dendritic growth and synaptogenesis and increased hippocampal proliferating neuronal progenitor cells, along with the formation as well as the survival of newborn neurons. Moreover, probucol enhances BDNF expression and TrkB activation. In vitro, probucol promoted neurite outgrowth, which was inhibited by a selective TrkB antagonist ANA-12. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Probucol enhanced functional restoration and ameliorated cognitive impairment after TBI by promoting post-injury neuronal remodelling and neurogenesis. Increased activation of BDNF/TrkB pathway by probucol, at least in part, contributed to the neuroregenerative effects of probucol. Together, it may be promising to repurpose probucol for TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Mei Chen
- Institute of Cellular and System Medicine, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Yu Gung
- Institute of Cellular and System Medicine, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Chun Ho
- Institute of Cellular and System Medicine, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Taiwan
- Cardiovascular Biology Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Candra D Hamdin
- Institute of Cellular and System Medicine, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Taiwan
- National Health Research Institutes & Department of Life Sciences, National Central University Joint Ph.D. Program in Biomedicine, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
| | - Shaw-Fang Yet
- Institute of Cellular and System Medicine, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
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14
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Hanssen R, Auwerx C, Jõeloo M, Sadler MC, Henning E, Keogh J, Bounds R, Smith M, Firth HV, Kutalik Z, Farooqi IS, Reymond A, Lawler K. Chromosomal deletions on 16p11.2 encompassing SH2B1 are associated with accelerated metabolic disease. Cell Rep Med 2023; 4:101155. [PMID: 37586323 PMCID: PMC10439272 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.101155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
New approaches are needed to treat people whose obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are driven by specific mechanisms. We investigate a deletion on chromosome 16p11.2 (breakpoint 2-3 [BP2-3]) encompassing SH2B1, a mediator of leptin and insulin signaling. Phenome-wide association scans in the UK (N = 502,399) and Estonian (N = 208,360) biobanks show that deletion carriers have increased body mass index (BMI; p = 1.3 × 10-10) and increased rates of T2D. Compared with BMI-matched controls, deletion carriers have an earlier onset of T2D, with poorer glycemic control despite higher medication usage. Cystatin C, a biomarker of kidney function, is significantly elevated in deletion carriers, suggesting increased risk of renal impairment. In a Mendelian randomization study, decreased SH2B1 expression increases T2D risk (p = 8.1 × 10-6). We conclude that people with 16p11.2 BP2-3 deletions have early, complex obesity and T2D and may benefit from therapies that enhance leptin and insulin signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Hanssen
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories, Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Chiara Auwerx
- Center for Integrative Genomics, University of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Computational Biology, University of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; University Center for Primary Care and Public Health, 1010 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Maarja Jõeloo
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, 51010 Tartu, Estonia; Estonian Genome Centre, Institute of Genomics, University of Tartu, 51010 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Marie C Sadler
- Department of Computational Biology, University of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; University Center for Primary Care and Public Health, 1010 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Elana Henning
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories, Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Julia Keogh
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories, Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Rebecca Bounds
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories, Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Miriam Smith
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories, Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Helen V Firth
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust & Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | - Zoltán Kutalik
- Department of Computational Biology, University of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; University Center for Primary Care and Public Health, 1010 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - I Sadaf Farooqi
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories, Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK.
| | - Alexandre Reymond
- Center for Integrative Genomics, University of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Katherine Lawler
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories, Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK.
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15
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Ateaque S, Merkouris S, Barde YA. Neurotrophin signalling in the human nervous system. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1225373. [PMID: 37470055 PMCID: PMC10352796 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1225373] [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: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
This review focuses on neurotrophins and their tyrosine kinase receptors, with an emphasis on their relevance to the function and dysfunction in the human nervous system. It also deals with measurements of BDNF levels and highlights recent findings from our laboratory on TrkB and TrkC signalling in human neurons. These include ligand selectivity and Trk activation by neurotrophins and non-neurotrophin ligands. The ligand-induced down-regulation and re-activation of Trk receptors is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Ateaque
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Spyros Merkouris
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Yves-Alain Barde
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
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16
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Ge X, Zheng M, Hu M, Fang X, Geng D, Liu S, Wang L, Zhang J, Guan L, Zheng P, Xie Y, Pan W, Zhou M, Zhou L, Tang R, Zheng K, Yu Y, Huang XF. Butyrate ameliorates quinolinic acid-induced cognitive decline in obesity models. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:154612. [PMID: 36787221 PMCID: PMC9927952 DOI: 10.1172/jci154612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a risk factor for neurodegenerative disease associated with cognitive dysfunction, including Alzheimer's disease. Low-grade inflammation is common in obesity, but the mechanism between inflammation and cognitive impairment in obesity is unclear. Accumulative evidence shows that quinolinic acid (QA), a neuroinflammatory neurotoxin, is involved in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative processes. We investigated the role of QA in obesity-induced cognitive impairment and the beneficial effect of butyrate in counteracting impairments of cognition, neural morphology, and signaling. We show that in human obesity, there was a negative relationship between serum QA levels and cognitive function and decreased cortical gray matter. Diet-induced obese mice had increased QA levels in the cortex associated with cognitive impairment. At single-cell resolution, we confirmed that QA impaired neurons, altered the dendritic spine's intracellular signal, and reduced brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels. Using Caenorhabditis elegans models, QA induced dopaminergic and glutamatergic neuron lesions. Importantly, the gut microbiota metabolite butyrate was able to counteract those alterations, including cognitive impairment, neuronal spine loss, and BDNF reduction in both in vivo and in vitro studies. Finally, we show that butyrate prevented QA-induced BDNF reductions by epigenetic enhancement of H3K18ac at BDNF promoters. These findings suggest that increased QA is associated with cognitive decline in obesity and that butyrate alleviates neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Ge
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mingxuan Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Minmin Hu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoli Fang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Deqin Geng
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Sha Liu
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li Wang
- Affiliated Hospital of Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Affiliated Hospital of Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Li Guan
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Peng Zheng
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI) and School of Medical, Indigenous, and Health, University of Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Yuanyi Xie
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI) and School of Medical, Indigenous, and Health, University of Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Wei Pan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Menglu Zhou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Limian Zhou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Renxian Tang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Kuiyang Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yinghua Yu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xu-Feng Huang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Jiangsu, China.,Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute (IHMRI) and School of Medical, Indigenous, and Health, University of Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
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17
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Powers RM, Hevner RF, Halpain S. The Neuron Navigators: Structure, function, and evolutionary history. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 15:1099554. [PMID: 36710926 PMCID: PMC9877351 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1099554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuron navigators (Navigators) are cytoskeletal-associated proteins important for neuron migration, neurite growth, and axon guidance, but they also function more widely in other tissues. Recent studies have revealed novel cellular functions of Navigators such as macropinocytosis, and have implicated Navigators in human disorders of axon growth. Navigators are present in most or all bilaterian animals: vertebrates have three Navigators (NAV1-3), Drosophila has one (Sickie), and Caenorhabditis elegans has one (Unc-53). Structurally, Navigators have conserved N- and C-terminal regions each containing specific domains. The N-terminal region contains a calponin homology (CH) domain and one or more SxIP motifs, thought to interact with the actin cytoskeleton and mediate localization to microtubule plus-end binding proteins, respectively. The C-terminal region contains two coiled-coil domains, followed by a AAA+ family nucleoside triphosphatase domain of unknown activity. The Navigators appear to have evolved by fusion of N- and C-terminal region homologs present in simpler organisms. Overall, Navigators participate in the cytoskeletal response to extracellular cues via microtubules and actin filaments, in conjunction with membrane trafficking. We propose that uptake of fluid-phase cues and nutrients and/or downregulation of cell surface receptors could represent general mechanisms that explain Navigator functions. Future studies developing new models, such as conditional knockout mice or human cerebral organoids may reveal new insights into Navigator function. Importantly, further biochemical studies are needed to define the activities of the Navigator AAA+ domain, and to study potential interactions among different Navigators and their binding partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina M. Powers
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States,Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Robert F. Hevner
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, United States,Department of Pathology, UC San Diego School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Shelley Halpain
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States,Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, La Jolla, CA, United States,*Correspondence: Shelley Halpain, ✉
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18
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The Association between Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) Protein Level and Body Mass Index. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2022; 59:medicina59010099. [PMID: 36676721 PMCID: PMC9865735 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59010099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Obesity is a major health concern worldwide. Many studies emphasize the important role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in regulating appetite and body weight. We aimed to investigate the association between BDNF protein serum levels and body mass index (BMI). Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study among 108 healthy adult participants divided into six categories depending on their body mass index (BMI). The ages of the participants ranged between 21 to 45 years. The BDNF serum level was measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. Results: A Kruskal−Wallis test showed a significant difference in BDNF between the different BMI categories, χ2(2) = 24.201, p < 0.001. Our data also showed that BDNF levels were significantly lower in people with obesity classes II and III than those of normal weight (p < 0.05). The Spearman rank correlation test was statistically significant with negative correlations between the BMI and BDNF (r) = −0.478, (p < 0.01). Moreover, we observed a negative dose-dependent relationship pattern between BMI categories and the levels of circulating BDNF protein. Conclusions: In this study, our data support the hypothesis that low serum levels of BDNF are associated with high BMI and obesity in Saudi adults.
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Ramírez V, González-Palacios P, Baca MA, González-Domenech PJ, Fernández-Cabezas M, Álvarez-Cubero MJ, Rodrigo L, Rivas A. Effect of exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals in obesity and neurodevelopment: The genetic and microbiota link. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 852:158219. [PMID: 36007653 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Current evidence highlights the importance of the genetic component in obesity and neurodevelopmental disorders (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual disability (ID)), given that these diseases have reported an elevated heritability. Additionally, environmental stressors, such as endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) have been classified as obesogens, neuroendocrine disruptors, and microbiota disrupting chemicals (MDCs). For this reason, the importance of this work lies in examining two possible biological mechanistic pathways linking obesity and neurodevelopmental/behavioural disorders: EDCs - gene and EDCs - microbiota interactions. First, we summarise the shared mechanisms of action of EDCs and the common genetic profile in the bidirectional link between obesity and neurodevelopment. In relation to interaction models, evidence from the reviewed studies reveals significant interactions between pesticides/heavy metals and gene polymorphisms of detoxifying and neurotransmission systems and metal homeostasis on cognitive development, ASD and ADHD symptomatology. Nonetheless, available literature about obesity is quite limited. Importantly, EDCs have been found to induce gut microbiota changes through gut-brain-microbiota axis conferring susceptibility to obesity and neurodevelopmental disorders. In view of the lack of studies assessing the impact of EDCs - gene interactions and EDCs - mediated dysbiosis jointly in obesity and neurodevelopment, we support considering genetics, EDCs exposure, and microbiota as interactive factors rather than individual contributors to the risk for developing obesity and neurodevelopmental disabilities at the same time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviana Ramírez
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain; GENYO. Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research: Pfizer / University of Granada / Andalusian Regional Government PTS Granada - Avenida de la Ilustración, 114, 18016 Granada, Spain; "José Mataix Verdú" Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology (INYTA), Biomedical Research Centre (CIBM), University of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain
| | - Patricia González-Palacios
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain.
| | | | | | - María Fernández-Cabezas
- Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, Faculty of Educational Sciences, University of Granada, 18011 Granada, Spain
| | - María Jesús Álvarez-Cubero
- GENYO. Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research: Pfizer / University of Granada / Andalusian Regional Government PTS Granada - Avenida de la Ilustración, 114, 18016 Granada, Spain; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology III, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, 18014 Granada, Spain
| | - Lourdes Rodrigo
- Department of Legal Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Ana Rivas
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain; "José Mataix Verdú" Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology (INYTA), Biomedical Research Centre (CIBM), University of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, 18014 Granada, Spain
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Chan HH, Hogue O, Mathews ND, Hunter JG, Kundalia R, Hermann JK, Floden DP, Machado AG, Baker KB. Deep cerebellar stimulation enhances cognitive recovery after prefrontal traumatic brain injury in rodent. Exp Neurol 2022; 355:114136. [PMID: 35667396 PMCID: PMC10203848 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2022.114136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Functional outcome following traumatic brain injury (TBI) varies greatly, with approximately half of those who survive suffering long-term motor and cognitive deficits despite contemporary rehabilitation efforts. We have previously shown that deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the lateral cerebellar nucleus (LCN) enhances rehabilitation of motor deficits that result from brain injury. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of LCN DBS on recovery from rodent TBI that uniquely models the injury location, chronicity and resultant cognitive symptoms observed in most human TBI patients. We used controlled cortical impact (CCI) to produce an injury that targeted the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC-CCI) bilaterally, resulting in cognitive deficits. Unilateral LCN DBS electrode implantation was performed 6 weeks post-injury. Electrical stimulation started at week eight post-injury and continued for an additional 4 weeks. Cognition was evaluated using baited Y-maze, novel object recognition task and Barnes maze. Post-mortem analyses, including Western Blot and immunohistochemistry, were conducted to elucidate the cellular and molecular mechanisms of recovery. We found that mPFC-CCI produced significant cognitive deficits compared to pre-injury and naïve animals. Moreover, LCN DBS treatment significantly enhanced the long-term memory process and executive functions of applying strategy. Analyses of post-mortem tissues showed significantly greater expression of CaMKIIα, BDNF and p75NTR across perilesional cortex and higher expression of postsynaptic formations in LCN DBS-treated animals compared to untreated. Overall, these data suggest that LCN DBS is an effective treatment of cognitive deficits that result from TBI, possibly by activation of ascending, glutamatergic projections to thalamus and subsequent upregulation of thalamocortical activity that engages neuroplastic mechanisms for facilitation of functional re-organization. These results support a role for cerebellar output neuromodulation as a novel therapeutic approach to enhance rehabilitation for patients with chronic, post-TBI cognitive deficits that are unresponsive to traditional rehabilitative efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugh H Chan
- Department of Neurosciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Olivia Hogue
- Department of Quantitative Heath Sciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Nicole D Mathews
- Department of Neurosciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Joshua G Hunter
- Department of Neurosciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Ronak Kundalia
- Department of Neurosciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - John K Hermann
- Department of Neurosciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Darlene P Floden
- Center for Neurological Restoration, Cleveland Clinic Neurological Institute, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Andre G Machado
- Department of Neurosciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; Cleveland Clinic Neurological Institute, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Kenneth B Baker
- Department of Neurosciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; Cleveland Clinic Neurological Institute, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
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21
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Zhao F, Wang K, Wen Y, Chen X, Liu H, Qi F, Fu Y, Zhu J, Guan S, Liu Z. Contribution of hippocampal BDNF/CREB signaling pathway and gut microbiota to emotional behavior impairment induced by chronic unpredictable mild stress during pregnancy in rats offspring. PeerJ 2022; 10:e13605. [PMID: 35769142 PMCID: PMC9235812 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.13605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Numerous studies have shown that exposure to prenatal maternal stress (PMS) is associated with various psychopathological outcomes of offspring. The accumulating evidence linking bacteria in the gut and neurons in the brain (the microbiota-gut-brain axis) has been aconsensus; however, there is a lack of research on the involvement mechanism of gut microbiota in the regulation of the BDNF/CREB signaling pathway in the hippocampus of prenatally stressed offspring. Methods Pregnant rats were subjected to chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) to establish the prenatal maternal stress model. The body weight was measured and the behavioral changes were recorded. Offspring were tested to determine emotional state using sucrose preference test (SPT), open-field test (OFT) and suspended tail test (STT). Gut microbiota was evaluated by sequencing the microbial 16S rRNA V3-V4 region, and the interactive analysis of bacterial community structure and diversity was carried out. The expression of hippocampal BDNF, TrkB and CREB mRNA and proteins were respectively measured using RT-PCR and Western blotting. Results Prenatal maternal stress increased maternal plasma corticosterone levels, slowed maternal weight gain and caused depression-like behaviors (all P < 0.05). In offspring, prenatal maternal stress increased plasma corticosterone levels (P < 0.05) and emotional behavior changes (depression-like state) were observed (P < 0.05). The species abundance, diversity and composition of the offspring's gut microbiota changed after the maternal stress during pregnancy (P < 0.05). Compared with the control group's offspring, the species abundance of Lactobacillaceae was dropped, while the abundance of the Muribaculaceae species abundance was risen. Concurrent, changes in the hippocampal structure of the offspring and decreases in expression of BDNF/CREB signaling were noted (P < 0.05). Conclusions Prenatal maternal stress leads to high corticosterone status and abnormal emotion behavior of offspring, which may be associated with the abnormal BDNF/CREB signaling in hippocampus of offspring caused by the change of gut microbiota composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Zhao
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Cerebrocranial Disease, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Chronic Disease Control, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- School of Public Health and Management, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Kai Wang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Chronic Disease Control, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- School of Public Health and Management, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Yujun Wen
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Cerebrocranial Disease, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Xiaohui Chen
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Chronic Disease Control, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- School of Public Health and Management, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Hongya Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Chronic Disease Control, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- School of Public Health and Management, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Faqiu Qi
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Chronic Disease Control, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- School of Public Health and Management, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Youjuan Fu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Chronic Disease Control, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- School of Public Health and Management, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Jiashu Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Chronic Disease Control, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- School of Public Health and Management, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Suzhen Guan
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Cerebrocranial Disease, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Chronic Disease Control, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- School of Public Health and Management, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Zhihong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Chronic Disease Control, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
- School of Public Health and Management, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
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22
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Farooqi IS. Monogenic Obesity Syndromes Provide Insights Into the Hypothalamic Regulation of Appetite and Associated Behaviors. Biol Psychiatry 2022; 91:856-859. [PMID: 35369984 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2022.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Neuronal circuits within the hypothalamus play a critical role in the homeostatic regulation of body weight. By disrupting the development or function of these circuits, human monogenic disorders cause hyperphagia (increased food intake), neuroendocrine abnormalities, impaired sympathetic nervous system activation, and obesity. Some genetic disorders also cause maladaptive behaviors such as anxiety, autism, emotional lability, and aggression, highlighting the role of the specific molecules expressed by these hypothalamic neurons in the regulation of innate behaviors that are essential to survival. These findings inform understanding of a wide range of clinical disorders and highlight the challenges associated with targeting these hypothalamic pathways for weight loss therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Sadaf Farooqi
- Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
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23
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Long A, Crouse A, Kesterson RA, Might M, Wallis D. Functional characterization and potential therapeutic avenues for variants in the NTRK2 gene causing developmental and epileptic encephalopathies. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 2022; 189:37-47. [PMID: 34889524 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.32882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Variants within the Neurotrophic Tyrosine Kinase Receptor Type 2 (NTRK2) gene have been discovered to play a role in developmental and epileptic encephalopathies, a group of debilitating conditions for which little is known about cause or treatment. Here, we determine the functional consequences of two variants: p.Tyr434Cys (Y434C) (located in the transmembrane domain) and p.Thr720Ile (T720I) (located in the catalytic domain). Wild-type and variant cDNAs were constructed and transfected into HEK293 cells. In cell culture, variant Y434C exhibited ligand-independent activation of tropomyosin-related kinase B (TRKB) signaling with an associated abnormal response to brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) stimulation and increased levels of phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and ETS like-1 protein (ELK1) activity. Expression of variant T720I resulted in decreased TRKB signaling with reduced mTor activity as determined by decreased levels of phosphorylated S6. With the deleterious mechanisms characterized, we utilized mediKanren (a novel artificial intelligence tool) to identify therapeutics to compensate for the pathological effects. Downregulation of TRKB through inhibition with mediKanren-predicted compound 1NM-PP1 led to decreased MEK activity. Upregulation of TRKB signaling by mediKanren-predicted valproic acid led to subsequent increase of mTor activity. Overall, our results provide further characterization of the pathogenicity of these two variants in the NTRK2 gene. Indeed, Y434C is the first patient-specific NTRK2 variant with demonstrated hypermorphic activity. Furthermore, we observed that variants Y434C and T720I result in distinct functional consequences that require distinct therapeutic strategies. These data suggest the possibility that unique mutations within different regions of the NTRK2 gene results in separate clinical presentations, representing distinct genetic disorders requiring unique therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashlee Long
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Andrew Crouse
- Personalized Medicine Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Robert A Kesterson
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Matthew Might
- Personalized Medicine Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Deeann Wallis
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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BDNF blood serum linkage with BDNF gene polymorphism (rs6265) in thyroid pathology patients in the West-Ukrainian population. Endocr Regul 2021; 55:193-203. [PMID: 34879183 DOI: 10.2478/enr-2021-0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is identified as an important growth factor involved in learning and memory. Patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis can suffer from cognitive dysfunction, whereas BDNF is directly regulated by thyroid hormones. It seems reasonable to propose that changes in BDNF expression underlie some of the persistent neurological impairments associated with hypothyroidism. Methods. The study involved a total of 153 patients with various forms of thyroid pathology. BDNF levels in the sera of the patients and healthy individuals were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay with highly sensitive Human BDNF ELISA Kit. Genotyping of the BDNF (rs6265) gene polymorphism using TaqMan probes and TaqMan Genotyping Master Mix (4371355) on CFX96™Real-Time PCR Detection System. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for TaqMan genotyping was carried out according to the kit instructions. Results. Distribution rs6265 variants in the patients depending on the different types of thyroid pathology showed no significant difference in the relative frequency of BDNF polymorphic variants. Presence of hypothyroidism, regardless of its cause (autoimmune or postoperative), there was a decrease in the serum BDNF levels in all genotypes carriers compared with the control group. The analysis of the correlation between BDNF levels and the levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroxine (T4), anti-thyroglobulin (anti-Tg), and anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) antibodies showed a significant inverse relationship between BDNF and TSH levels (p<0.001), a direct correlation between BDNF and T4 levels in the blood (p<0.001), and a weak direct relationship between anti-Tg and BDNF levels (p=0.0157). Conclusion. The C allele presence is protective and associates with the lowest chances for reduced serum BDNF levels in thyroid pathology patients in the West-Ukrainian population. However, the T-allele increases the risk of low BDNF levels almost 10 times in observed subjects.
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Scala M, Nishikawa M, Nagata KI, Striano P. Pathophysiological Mechanisms in Neurodevelopmental Disorders Caused by Rac GTPases Dysregulation: What's behind Neuro-RACopathies. Cells 2021; 10:3395. [PMID: 34943902 PMCID: PMC8699292 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Rho family guanosine triphosphatases (GTPases) regulate cellular signaling and cytoskeletal dynamics, playing a pivotal role in cell adhesion, migration, and cell cycle progression. The Rac subfamily of Rho GTPases consists of three highly homologous proteins, Rac 1-3. The proper function of Rac1 and Rac3, and their correct interaction with guanine nucleotide-exchange factors (GEFs) and GTPase-activating proteins (GAPs) are crucial for neural development. Pathogenic variants affecting these delicate biological processes are implicated in different medical conditions in humans, primarily neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). In addition to a direct deleterious effect produced by genetic variants in the RAC genes, a dysregulated GTPase activity resulting from an abnormal function of GEFs and GAPs has been involved in the pathogenesis of distinctive emerging conditions. In this study, we reviewed the current pertinent literature on Rac-related disorders with a primary neurological involvement, providing an overview of the current knowledge on the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in the neuro-RACopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcello Scala
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
- Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy
| | - Masashi Nishikawa
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Institute for Developmental Research, Aichi Developmental Disability Center, 713-8 Kamiya, Kasugai 480-0392, Japan; (M.N.); (K.-i.N.)
| | - Koh-ichi Nagata
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Institute for Developmental Research, Aichi Developmental Disability Center, 713-8 Kamiya, Kasugai 480-0392, Japan; (M.N.); (K.-i.N.)
- Department of Neurochemistry, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Pasquale Striano
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
- Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy
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Di Rosa MC, Zimbone S, Saab MW, Tomasello MF. The Pleiotropic Potential of BDNF beyond Neurons: Implication for a Healthy Mind in a Healthy Body. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11111256. [PMID: 34833132 PMCID: PMC8625665 DOI: 10.3390/life11111256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) represents one of the most widely studied neurotrophins because of the many mechanisms in which it is involved. Among these, a growing body of evidence indicates BDNF as a pleiotropic signaling molecule and unveils non-negligible implications in the regulation of energy balance. BDNF and its receptor are extensively expressed in the hypothalamus, regions where peripheral signals, associated with feeding control and metabolism activation, and are integrated to elaborate anorexigenic and orexigenic effects. Thus, BDNF coordinates adaptive responses to fluctuations in energy intake and expenditure, connecting the central nervous system with peripheral tissues, including muscle, liver, and the adipose tissue in a complex operational network. This review discusses the latest literature dealing with the involvement of BDNF in the maintenance of energy balance. We have focused on the physiological and molecular mechanisms by which BDNF: (I) controls the mitochondrial function and dynamics; (II) influences thermogenesis and tissue differentiation; (III) mediates the effects of exercise on cognitive functions; and (IV) modulates insulin sensitivity and glucose transport at the cellular level. Deepening the understanding of the mechanisms exploited to maintain energy homeostasis will lay the groundwork for the development of novel therapeutical approaches to help people to maintain a healthy mind in a healthy body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Carmela Di Rosa
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 64, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.C.D.R.); (M.W.S.)
- Institute of Crystallography, CNR, Via P. Gaifami 18, 95126 Catania, Italy;
| | - Stefania Zimbone
- Institute of Crystallography, CNR, Via P. Gaifami 18, 95126 Catania, Italy;
| | - Miriam Wissam Saab
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 64, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.C.D.R.); (M.W.S.)
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Kamyshna I, Pavlovych L, Kamyshnyi A. Association between Serum Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor and 25-OH Vitamin D Levels with Vitamin D Receptors Gene Polymorphism (rs2228570) in Patients with Autoimmune Thyroiditis and Hypothyroidism. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2021.6631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Different polymorphisms in Vitamin D receptors (VDRs) have an important role in autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT) risk. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT) is the most recurrent autoimmune thyroid disorder. Patients with HT may suffer from cognitive impairment brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) which has been identified as an important growth factor that is involved in learning and memory.
AIM: This study examined the linkage of VDR gene polymorphism (rs2228570) with blood serum levels of BDNF and 25-OH Vitamin D in thyroid pathology of patients in the West Ukrainian population.
METHODS: This research is a case–control study was performed in HSEEU “Bukovinian State Medical University,” Chernivtsi Regional Endocrinology Center, and I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, Ukraine, from September 2017 to December 2020. The study involved a total of 153 patients with post-operative hypothyroidism, hypothyroidism induced by AIT, and patients with both AIT and elevated serum antibodies anti-thyroglobulin (anti-Tg) and anti-thyroid peroxidase. BDNF levels in the sera of the patients and healthy individuals were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) with highly sensitive Human BDNF ELISA Kit. Genotyping of the VDR (rs2228570) gene polymorphism using TaqMan probes and TaqMan Genotyping Master Mix (4371355) on CFX96™ Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Detection System (Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc., USA). PCR for TaqMan genotyping was carried out according to the kit instructions (Applied Biosystems, USA).
RESULTS: Our study revealed a significant decrease in the BDNF level in the study group in carriers of the AA and AG genotypes by 1.58 and 2.39 times, corresponding, compared with carriers of the AA genotype in the control group. Concurrently, there was no significant difference in the BDNF level between different genotypes of VDR rs2228570 in the research group. In our study, analysis of the correlation between serum BDNF levels and 25-OH Vitamin D concentration shows a moderate direct relationship (r = 0.4) between BDNF and 25-OH Vitamin D (p = 0.006).
CONCLUSIONS: The rs2228570 VDR polymorphism is not a risk factor for decreased serum BDNF levels. At the same time, our study found a moderate direct relationship between serum BDNF levels and 25-OH Vitamin D.
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Carmichael J, Hicks AJ, Spitz G, Gould KR, Ponsford J. Moderators of gene-outcome associations following traumatic brain injury. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 130:107-124. [PMID: 34411558 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The field of genomics is the principal avenue in the ongoing development of precision/personalised medicine for a variety of health conditions. However, relating genes to outcomes is notoriously complex, especially when considering that other variables can change, or moderate, gene-outcome associations. Here, we comprehensively discuss moderation of gene-outcome associations in the context of traumatic brain injury (TBI), a common, chronically debilitating, and costly neurological condition that is under complex polygenic influence. We focus our narrative review on single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of three of the most studied genes (apolipoprotein E, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and catechol-O-methyltransferase) and on three demographic variables believed to moderate associations between these SNPs and TBI outcomes (age, biological sex, and ethnicity). We speculate on the mechanisms which may underlie these moderating effects, drawing widely from biomolecular and behavioural research (n = 175 scientific reports) within the TBI population (n = 72) and other neurological, healthy, ageing, and psychiatric populations (n = 103). We conclude with methodological recommendations for improved exploration of moderators in future genetics research in TBI and other populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jai Carmichael
- Monash-Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre, Epworth HealthCare, Melbourne, Australia; Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia.
| | - Amelia J Hicks
- Monash-Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre, Epworth HealthCare, Melbourne, Australia; Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Gershon Spitz
- Monash-Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre, Epworth HealthCare, Melbourne, Australia; Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Kate Rachel Gould
- Monash-Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre, Epworth HealthCare, Melbourne, Australia; Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Jennie Ponsford
- Monash-Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre, Epworth HealthCare, Melbourne, Australia; Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
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Podyma B, Parekh K, Güler AD, Deppmann CD. Metabolic homeostasis via BDNF and its receptors. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2021; 32:488-499. [PMID: 33958275 PMCID: PMC8192464 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2021.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Metabolic disorders result from dysregulation of central nervous system and peripheral metabolic energy homeostatic pathways. To maintain normal energy balance, neural circuits must integrate feedforward and feedback signals from the internal metabolic environment to orchestrate proper food intake and energy expenditure. These signals include conserved meal and adipocyte cues such as glucose and leptin, respectively, in addition to more novel players including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). In particular, BDNF's two receptors, tropomyosin related kinase B (TrkB) and p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR), are increasingly appreciated to be involved in whole body energy homeostasis. At times, these two receptors even seem to functionally oppose one another's actions, providing the framework for a potential neurotrophin mediated energy regulatory axis, which we explore further here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Podyma
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA; Medical Scientist Training Program, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908-0738, USA.
| | - Kavya Parekh
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Ali D Güler
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
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Li W, Ali T, Zheng C, Liu Z, He K, Shah FA, Ren Q, Rahman SU, Li N, Yu ZJ, Li S. Fluoxetine regulates eEF2 activity (phosphorylation) via HDAC1 inhibitory mechanism in an LPS-induced mouse model of depression. J Neuroinflammation 2021; 18:38. [PMID: 33526073 PMCID: PMC7852137 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-021-02091-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Selective serotonin reuptaker inhibitors, including fluoxetine, are widely studied and prescribed antidepressants, while their exact molecular and cellular mechanism are yet to be defined. We investigated the involvement of HDAC1 and eEF2 in the antidepressant mechanisms of fluoxetine using a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced depression-like behavior model. METHODS For in vivo analysis, mice were treated with LPS (2 mg/kg BW), fluoxetine (20 mg/kg BW), HDAC1 activator (Exifone: 54 mg/kg BW) and NH125 (1 mg/kg BW). Depressive-like behaviors were confirmed via behavior tests including OFT, FST, SPT, and TST. Cytokines were measured by ELISA while Iba-1 and GFAP expression were determined by immunofluorescence. Further, the desired gene expression was measured by immunoblotting. For in vitro analysis, BV2 cell lines were cultured; treated with LPS, exifone, and fluoxetine; collected; and analyzed. RESULTS Mice treated with LPS displayed depression-like behaviors, pronounced neuroinflammation, increased HDAC1 expression, and reduced eEF2 activity, as accompanied by altered synaptogenic factors including BDNF, SNAP25, and PSD95. Fluoxetine treatment exhibited antidepressant effects and ameliorated the molecular changes induced by LPS. Exifone, a selective HDAC1 activator, reversed the antidepressant and anti-inflammatory effects of fluoxetine both in vivo and in vitro, supporting a causing role of HDAC1 in neuroinflammation allied depression. Further molecular mechanisms underlying HDAC1 were explored with NH125, an eEF2K inhibitor, whose treatment reduced immobility time, altered pro-inflammatory cytokines, and NLRP3 expression. Moreover, NH125 treatment enhanced eEF2 and GSK3β activities, BDNF, SNAP25, and PSD95 expression, but had no effects on HDAC1. CONCLUSIONS Our results showed that the antidepressant effects of fluoxetine may involve HDAC1-eEF2 related neuroinflammation and synaptogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weifen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055 China
| | - Tahir Ali
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055 China
| | - Chengyou Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055 China
| | - Zizhen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055 China
| | - Kaiwu He
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055 China
| | - Fawad Ali Shah
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055 China
- Riphah Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Riphah International University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Qingguo Ren
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated ZhongDa Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shafiq Ur Rahman
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055 China
- Department of Pharmacy, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University, Sheringal, Dir, 18000, Pakistan
| | - Ningning Li
- Tomas Lindahl Nobel Laureate Laboratory, Precision Medicine Research Centre, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107 China
| | - Zhi-Jian Yu
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Endogenous Infections, The 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, No 89, Taoyuan Road, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, 518052 China
| | - Shupeng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055 China
- Campbell Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada
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Houtz J, Liao GY, An JJ, Xu B. Discrete TrkB-expressing neurons of the dorsomedial hypothalamus regulate feeding and thermogenesis. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:e2017218118. [PMID: 33468645 PMCID: PMC7848633 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2017218118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the TrkB neurotrophin receptor lead to profound obesity in humans, and expression of TrkB in the dorsomedial hypothalamus (DMH) is critical for maintaining energy homeostasis. However, the functional implications of TrkB-fexpressing neurons in the DMH (DMHTrkB) on energy expenditure are unclear. Additionally, the neurocircuitry underlying the effect of DMHTrkB neurons on energy homeostasis has not been explored. In this study, we show that activation of DMHTrkB neurons leads to a robust increase in adaptive thermogenesis and energy expenditure without altering heart rate or blood pressure, while silencing DMHTrkB neurons impairs thermogenesis. Furthermore, we reveal neuroanatomically and functionally distinct populations of DMHTrkB neurons that regulate food intake or thermogenesis. Activation of DMHTrkB neurons projecting to the raphe pallidus (RPa) stimulates thermogenesis and increased energy expenditure, whereas DMHTrkB neurons that send collaterals to the paraventricular hypothalamus (PVH) and preoptic area (POA) inhibit feeding. Together, our findings provide evidence that DMHTrkB neuronal activity plays an important role in regulating energy expenditure and delineate distinct neurocircuits that underly the separate effects of DMHTrkB neuronal activity on food intake and thermogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Houtz
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458
| | - Guey-Ying Liao
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458
| | - Juan Ji An
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458
| | - Baoji Xu
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458
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da Fonseca ACP, Abreu GDM, Palhinha L, Zembrzuski VM, Campos Junior M, Carneiro JRI, Nogueira Neto JF, Magno FCCM, Rosado EL, Maya-Monteiro CM, de Cabello GMK, Cabello PH, Bozza PT. A Rare Potential Pathogenic Variant in the BDNF Gene is Found in a Brazilian Patient with Severe Childhood-Onset Obesity. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes 2021; 14:11-22. [PMID: 33442278 PMCID: PMC7797284 DOI: 10.2147/dmso.s267202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a pro-survival factor in the brain that also regulates energy balance. BDNF loss-of-function point mutations are responsible for haploinsufficiency, causing severe early-onset obesity. Up to date, only a few studies have sequenced this gene to search for rare mutations related to obesity. In this study, we aimed to investigate the prevalence of BDNF variants in a cohort of adults with severe obesity from Brazil. MATERIAL AND METHODS This study comprised 201 adults with severe obesity (BMI ≥ 35.0 kg/m2) with onset during childhood- or adolescence/youth. As controls, 73 subjects with normal weight (18.5 ≤ BMI ≤ 24.9 kg/m2) were selected. The exclusion criteria were pregnancy, lactation, the use of medication to lose or gain weight, and the presence of symptoms suggestive of syndromic obesity (only for the case group). The coding region of the BDNF gene was screened by Sanger sequencing. Demographic, anthropometric, and blood pressure parameters were obtained from the participants as well as serum hormone and cytokines concentrations and biochemical values. RESULTS As a result, three missense variants [p.(Thr2Ile), p.(Val66Met), and p.(Arg209Gln)] and four synonymous variants (p.Leu107=, p.Thr149=, p.Ala150=, and p.Ser213=) were identified. The p.(Arg209Gln) was predicted as pathogenic by all in silico algorithms used and was not observed in the control group. The individuals carrying the p.(Val66Met) mutated allele had higher waist circumference, HDL-cholesterol and MCP1 levels, and reduced risk of developing metabolic syndrome. CONCLUSION We observed that the common BDNF p.(Val66Met) variant has influenced waist circumference, HDL-cholesterol, and MCP1 levels. This polymorphism has also a protective effect on metabolic syndrome susceptibility. Additionally, we described for the first time a rare potentially pathogenic BDNF variant in a Brazilian patient with severe obesity and childhood-onset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carolina Proença da Fonseca
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Human Genetics Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Correspondence: Ana Carolina Proença da Fonseca Human Genetics Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, 4365 Brasil Avenue, Leônidas Deane Building – Office 611/615, Rio de Janeiro, RJ21040-360, BrazilTel +552138658192Fax +552138658239 Email
| | | | - Lohanna Palhinha
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Mario Campos Junior
- Human Genetics Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - João Regis Ivar Carneiro
- Clementino Fraga Filho University Hospital, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | | | - Eliane Lopes Rosado
- Institute of Nutrition Josué de Castro, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | | | - Pedro Hernán Cabello
- Human Genetics Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Human Genetics Laboratory, Grande Rio University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Patricia Torres Bozza
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Abstract
Neural circuits in the hypothalamus play a key role in the regulation of human energy homeostasis. A critical circuit involves leptin-responsive neurons in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus (the infundibular nucleus in humans) expressing the appetite-suppressing neuropeptide proopiomelanocortin (POMC) and the appetite-stimulating Agouti-related peptide. In the fed state, the POMC-derived melanocortin peptide α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone stimulates melanocortin-4 receptors (MC4Rs) expressed on second-order neurons in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN). Agonism of MC4R leads to reduced food intake and increased energy expenditure. Disruption of this hypothalamic circuit by inherited mutations in the genes encoding leptin, the leptin receptor, POMC, and MC4R can lead to severe obesity in humans. The characterization of these and closely related genetic obesity syndromes has informed our understanding of the neural pathways by which leptin regulates energy balance, neuroendocrine function, and the autonomic nervous system. A broader understanding of these neural and molecular mechanisms has paved the way for effective mechanism-based therapies for patients whose severe obesity is driven by disruption of these pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Sadaf Farooqi
- Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
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Bochukova EG. Transcriptomics of the Prader-Willi syndrome hypothalamus. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2021; 181:369-379. [PMID: 34238471 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-820683-6.00027-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder, arising from a loss of paternity expressed genetic material on the imprinted chromosome locus 15q11-q13. Despite increasing clarity on the underlying genetic defects, the molecular basis of the condition remains poorly understood. Hypothalamic dysfunction is widely recognized as the basis of the core symptoms of PWS, which include a deficiency in growth hormone and reproductive hormones, circadian rhythm abnormalities, and a lack of satiety, leading to an extreme obesity, among others. Genome-wide gene expression analysis (transcriptomics) offers an unbiased interrogation of complex disease pathogenesis and a potential window into the dysregulated pathways involved in disease. In this chapter, we review the findings from recent work investigating the PWS hypothalamic transcriptome, discuss the significance of the findings in relation to the clinical presentation and molecular underpinnings of PWS, and highlight future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena G Bochukova
- Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom.
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