1
|
Zhang J, Luo WC, Zhang Y, Li X, Jiang M, Huang K, Yu X, Xu L. Red emissive fluorescent carbon dots based on ternary carbon source for imaging α-synuclein fibrils. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 670:576-584. [PMID: 38776692 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2024.05.129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
The misfolding and aggregation of α-synuclein monomers usually cause the occurrence and development of Parkinson's disease (PD). It is important to develop effective methods for detection of α-synuclein aggregates. Carbon dots (CDs) could be the potential fluorescence probe for this purpose owing to their appreciated optical properties. However, undefined structure of CDs and complicated three-dimensional structure of protein severely hindered the design of fluorescence probe towards protein aggregates. Herein, a red emissive fluorescent amphiphilic CD, named as CL-9, was designed with a high sensitivity to α-synuclein fibrils by a one-step heating process, using the ternary carbon source, including Congo red, l-tryptophan and urea. The CL-9 exhibited turn-on red emissive fluorescence towards α-synuclein fibril, but remained no change towards its monomer. Compared with the original Congo red dye, CL-9 exhibited stronger turn-on red fluorescence towards α-synuclein fibrils with better anti-photobleaching resistance, biocompatibility and signal-to-noise ratio. The CL-9 was successful as a fluorescent probe to image α-synuclein fibrils in NL-5901 C. elegans. The present study provided a feasible approach using the multiple carbon sources to construct the CDs based fluorescence probe targeting amyloid proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jintao Zhang
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Wan-Chun Luo
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Xi Li
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Ming Jiang
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Kun Huang
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
| | - Xu Yu
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
| | - Li Xu
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Bayati A, McPherson PS. alpha-synuclein, autophagy-lysosomal pathway, and Lewy bodies: mutations, propagation, aggregation, and the formation of inclusions. J Biol Chem 2024:107742. [PMID: 39233232 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 08/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Research into the pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease (PD) is a fast-paced pursuit, with new findings about PD and other synucleinopathies being made each year. The involvement of various lysosomal proteins, such as TFEB, TMEM175, GBA, and LAMP1/2, marks the rising awareness about the importance of lysosomes in PD and other neurodegenerative disorders. This, along with recent developments regarding the involvement of microglia and the immune system in neurogenerative diseases, has brought about a new era in neurodegeneration: the role of proinflammatory cytokines on the nervous system, and their downstream effects on mitochondria, lysosomal degradation, and autophagy. More effort is needed to understand the interplay between neuroimmunology and disease mechanisms, as many of the mechanisms remain enigmatic. α-synuclein, a key protein in PD and the main component of Lewy bodies, sits at the nexus between lysosomal degradation, autophagy, cellular stress, neuroimmunology, PD pathophysiology, and disease progression. This review revisits some fundamental knowledge about PD while capturing some of the latest trends in PD research, specifically as it relates to α-synuclein.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Armin Bayati
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill, University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
| | - Peter S McPherson
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill, University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Xu CK, Meisl G, Andrzejewska EA, Krainer G, Dear AJ, Castellana-Cruz M, Turi S, Edu IA, Vivacqua G, Jacquat RPB, Arter WE, Spillantini MG, Vendruscolo M, Linse S, Knowles TPJ. α-Synuclein oligomers form by secondary nucleation. Nat Commun 2024; 15:7083. [PMID: 39153989 PMCID: PMC11330488 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50692-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Oligomeric species arising during the aggregation of α-synuclein are implicated as a major source of toxicity in Parkinson's disease, and thus a major potential drug target. However, both their mechanism of formation and role in aggregation are largely unresolved. Here we show that, at physiological pH and in the absence of lipid membranes, α-synuclein aggregates form by secondary nucleation, rather than simple primary nucleation, and that this process is enhanced by agitation. Moreover, using a combination of single molecule and bulk level techniques, we identify secondary nucleation on the surfaces of existing fibrils, rather than formation directly from monomers, as the dominant source of oligomers. Our results highlight secondary nucleation as not only the key source of oligomers, but also the main mechanism of aggregate formation, and show that these processes take place under conditions which recapitulate the neutral pH and ionic strength of the cytosol.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine K Xu
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Georg Meisl
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ewa A Andrzejewska
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Georg Krainer
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences (IMB), University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Alexander J Dear
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Biochemistry and Structural Biology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Marta Castellana-Cruz
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Soma Turi
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Irina A Edu
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Giorgio Vivacqua
- Integrated Research Center (PRAAB), Campus Biomedico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Raphaël P B Jacquat
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - William E Arter
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Michele Vendruscolo
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Sara Linse
- Biochemistry and Structural Biology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Tuomas P J Knowles
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zampar S, Di Gregorio SE, Grimmer G, Watts JC, Ingelsson M. "Prion-like" seeding and propagation of oligomeric protein assemblies in neurodegenerative disorders. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1436262. [PMID: 39161653 PMCID: PMC11330897 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1436262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Intra- or extracellular aggregates of proteins are central pathogenic features in most neurodegenerative disorders. The accumulation of such proteins in diseased brains is believed to be the end-stage of a stepwise aggregation of misfolded monomers to insoluble cross-β fibrils via a series of differently sized soluble oligomers/protofibrils. Several studies have shown how α-synuclein, amyloid-β, tau and other amyloidogenic proteins can act as nucleating particles and thereby share properties with misfolded forms, or strains, of the prion protein. Although the roles of different protein assemblies in the respective aggregation cascades remain unclear, oligomers/protofibrils are considered key pathogenic species. Numerous observations have demonstrated their neurotoxic effects and a growing number of studies have indicated that they also possess seeding properties, enabling their propagation within cellular networks in the nervous system. The seeding behavior of oligomers differs between the proteins and is also affected by various factors, such as size, shape and epitope presentation. Here, we are providing an overview of the current state of knowledge with respect to the "prion-like" behavior of soluble oligomers for several of the amyloidogenic proteins involved in neurodegenerative diseases. In addition to providing new insight into pathogenic mechanisms, research in this field is leading to novel diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities for neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Zampar
- Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sonja E. Di Gregorio
- Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gustavo Grimmer
- Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Joel C. Watts
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Martin Ingelsson
- Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Public Health/Geriatrics, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Khursandov J, Mashalov R, Makhkamov M, Turgunboev F, Sharipov A, Razzokov J. Exploring α-synuclein stability under the external electrostatic fields: Effect of repeat unit. J Struct Biol 2024; 216:108109. [PMID: 38964522 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsb.2024.108109] [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: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a category of neurodegenerative disorders (ND) that currently lack comprehensive and definitive treatment strategies. The etiology of PD can be attributed to the presence and aggregation of a protein known as α-synuclein. Researchers have observed that the application of an external electrostatic field holds the potential to induce the separation of the fibrous structures into peptides. To comprehend this phenomenon, our investigation involved simulations conducted on the α-synuclein peptides through the application of Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulation techniques under the influence of a 0.1 V/nm electric field. The results obtained from the MD simulations revealed that in the presence of external electric field, the monomer and oligomeric forms of α-synuclein are experienced significant conformational changes which could prevent them from further aggregation. However, as the number of peptide units in the model system increases, forming trimers and tetramers, the stability against the electric field also increases. This enhanced stability in larger aggregates indicates a critical threshold in α-synuclein assembly where the electric field's effectiveness in disrupting the aggregation diminishes. Therefore, our findings suggest that early diagnosis and intervention could be crucial in preventing PD progression. When α-synuclein predominantly exists in its monomeric or dimeric form, applying even a lower electric field could effectively disrupt the initial aggregation process. Inhibition of α-synuclein fibril formation at early stages might serve as a viable solution to combat PD by halting the formation of more stable and pathogenic α-synuclein fibrils.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Javokhir Khursandov
- Department of Physics, National University of Uzbekistan, Universitet 4, Tashkent 100174, Uzbekistan; Laboratory of Experimental Biophysics, Centre for Advanced Technologies, Universitet 7, Tashkent 100174, Uzbekistan
| | - Rasulbek Mashalov
- Department of Physics, National University of Uzbekistan, Universitet 4, Tashkent 100174, Uzbekistan; Laboratory of Experimental Biophysics, Centre for Advanced Technologies, Universitet 7, Tashkent 100174, Uzbekistan
| | - Mukhriddin Makhkamov
- Department of Chemistry, National University of Uzbekistan, Universitet 4, 100174 Tashkent, Uzbekistan; Department of Information Technologies, Tashkent International University of Education, Imom Bukhoriy 6, Tashkent 100207, Uzbekistan
| | - Farkhad Turgunboev
- Department of Physics, National University of Uzbekistan, Universitet 4, Tashkent 100174, Uzbekistan
| | - Avez Sharipov
- Depatment of Inorganic, Physical and Colloidal Chemistry, Tashkent Pharmaceutical Institute, Oybek Street 45, Tashkent 100015, Uzbekistan
| | - Jamoliddin Razzokov
- Institute of Fundamental and Applied Research, National Research University TIIAME, Kori Niyoziy 39, Tashkent 100000, Uzbekistan; Department of Natural Sciences, Shakhrisabz State Pedagogical Institute, Shakhrisabz Street 10, Kashkadarya 181301, Uzbekistan; Department of Biotechnology, Tashkent State Technical University, Universitet 2, Tashkent 100095, Uzbekistan
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Maltseva S, Kerr D, Turke M, Adams EJ, Lee KYC. Parkinson's disease-associated mutations in α-synuclein alters its lipid-bound state. Biophys J 2024; 123:1610-1619. [PMID: 38702883 PMCID: PMC11213968 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2024.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Lipid-binding properties of α-synuclein play a central role in protein aggregation and progression of Parkinson's disease (PD). α-Synuclein, an intrinsically disordered protein, binds to lipid membranes through the formation of two amphipathic helices that insert into the lipid bilayer. All disease-associated single point mutations have been identified to be within these helical regions of α-synuclein: V15A, A30P, E46K, H50Q, G51D, A53T, and A53V. However, the effects of these mutations on the bound states of the two α helices of the protein have yet to be fully characterized. In this report, we use a tryptophan fluorescence assay to measure the binding of the α helices of these PD-associated mutants to lipid membranes within the lipid-depletion regime. We characterize the binding behavior of each helix, revealing that, generally, the PD-associated mutants shift the equilibrium bound state away from the N-terminal helix of the protein toward helix 2 at lower lipid concentrations. Altogether, our results indicate that disruption to the equilibrium binding of the two α helices of α-synuclein could play a role in PD progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sofiya Maltseva
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; James Franck Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Daniel Kerr
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; James Franck Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Miah Turke
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; James Franck Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Erin J Adams
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Ka Yee C Lee
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; James Franck Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Prosad Banik S, Kumar P, Bagchi D, Paul S, Goel A, Bagchi M, Chakraborty S. Fenfuro®-mediated arrest in the formation of protein-methyl glyoxal adducts: a new dimension in the anti-hyperglycemic potential of a novel fenugreek seed extract. Toxicol Mech Methods 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38832450 DOI: 10.1080/15376516.2024.2358520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
The fenugreek plant (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is traditionally known for its anti-diabetic properties owing to its high content of furostanolic saponins, which can synergistically treat many human ailments. Non-enzymatic protein glycation leading to the formation of Advanced Glycation End products (AGE) is a common pathophysiology observed in diabetic or prediabetic individuals, which can initiate the development of neurodegenerative disorders. A potent cellular source of glycation is Methyl Glyoxal, a highly reactive dicarbonyl formed as a glycolytic byproduct. We demonstrate the in vitro glycation arresting potential of Fenfuro®, a novel patented formulation of Fenugreek seed extract with clinically proven anti-diabetic properties, in Methyl-Glyoxal (MGO) adducts of three abundant amyloidogenic cellular proteins, alpha-synuclein, Serum albumin, and Lysozyme. A 0.25% w/v Fenfuro® was able to effectively arrest glycation by more than 50% in all three proteins, as evidenced by AGE fluorescence. Glycation-induced amyloid formation was also arrested by more than 36%, 14% and 15% for BSA, Alpha-synuclein and Lysozyme respectively. An increase in MW by attachment of MGO was also partially prevented by Fenfuro® as confirmed by SDS-PAGE analysis. Glycation resulted in enhanced aggregation of the three proteins as revealed by Native PAGE and Dynamic Light Scattering. However, in the presence of Fenfuro®, aggregation was arrested substantially, and the normal size distribution was restored. The results cumulatively indicated the lesser explored potential of direct inhibition of glycation by fenugreek seed in addition to its proven role in alleviating insulin resistance. Fenfuro® boosts its therapeutic potential as an effective phytotherapeutic to arrest Type 2 diabetes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Pawan Kumar
- R&D Department, Chemical Resources (CHERESO), Panchkula, India
| | - Debasis Bagchi
- Dept of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, and Dept of Psychology, Gordon F. Derner School of Psychology, Adelphi University, Garden City, NY, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Texas Southern University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Souradip Paul
- Protein Folding & Dynamics Group, Structural Biology and Bioinformatics Division, CSIR- Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, India
| | - Apurva Goel
- Regulatory Dept, Chemical Resources (CHERESO), Panchkula, India
| | | | - Sanjoy Chakraborty
- Dept of Biological Sciences, New York City College of Technology/CUNY, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Gima S, Oe K, Nishimura K, Ohgita T, Ito H, Kimura H, Saito H, Takata K. Host-to-graft propagation of inoculated α-synuclein into transplanted human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived midbrain dopaminergic neurons. Regen Ther 2024; 25:229-237. [PMID: 38283940 PMCID: PMC10818157 DOI: 10.1016/j.reth.2023.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Cell therapeutic clinical trials using fetal mesencephalic tissue provided a proof-of-concept for regenerative therapy in patients with Parkinson's disease. Postmortem studies of patients with fetal grafts revealed that α-synuclein+ Lewy body (LB)-like inclusions emerged in long-term transplantation and might worsen clinical outcomes even if the grafts survived and innervated in the recipients. Various studies aimed at addressing whether host-derived α-synuclein could be transferred to the grafted neurons to assess α-synuclein+ inclusion appearance in the grafts. However, determining whether α-synuclein in the grafted neurons has been propagated from the host is difficult due to the intrinsic α-synuclein expression. Methods We induced midbrain dopaminergic (mDA) neurons from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) and transplanted them into the striatum of immunodeficient rats. The recombinant human α-synuclein preformed fibrils (PFFs) were inoculated into the cerebral cortex after transplantation of SNCA-/- hiPSC-derived mDA neural progenitors into the striatum of immunodeficient rats to evaluate the host-to-graft propagation of human α-synuclein PFFs. Additionally, we examined the incorporation of human α-synuclein PFFs into SNCA-/- hiPSC-derived mDA neurons using in vitro culture system. Results We detected human α-synuclein-immunoreactivity in SNCA-/- hiPSC-derived mDA neurons that lacked endogenous α-synuclein expression in vitro. Additionally, we observed host-to-graft α-synuclein propagation into the grafted SNCA-/- hiPSC-derived mDA neurons. Conclusion We have successfully proven that intracerebral inoculated α-synuclein PFFs are propagated and incorporated from the host into grafted SNCA-/- hiPSC-derived mDA neurons. Our results contribute toward the basic understanding of the molecular mechanisms related to LB-like α-synuclein deposit formation in grafted mDA neurons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Serina Gima
- Joint Research Laboratory, Division of Integrated Pharmaceutical Science, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto 607-8414, Japan
| | - Kazuya Oe
- Joint Research Laboratory, Division of Integrated Pharmaceutical Science, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto 607-8414, Japan
| | - Kaneyasu Nishimura
- Joint Research Laboratory, Division of Integrated Pharmaceutical Science, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto 607-8414, Japan
- Laboratory of Functional Brain Circuit Construction, Graduate School of Brain Science, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe 610-0394, Japan
| | - Takashi Ohgita
- Center for Instrumental Analysis, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto 607-8414, Japan
| | - Haruka Ito
- Joint Research Laboratory, Division of Integrated Pharmaceutical Science, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto 607-8414, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Kimura
- Department of Analytical and Bioinorganic Chemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto 607-8414, Japan
- Division of Probe Chemistry for Disease Analysis/Central Institute for Radioisotope Science, Research Center for Experimental Modeling of Human Disease, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-8640, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Saito
- Laboratory of Biophysical Chemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto 607-8414, Japan
| | - Kazuyuki Takata
- Joint Research Laboratory, Division of Integrated Pharmaceutical Science, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto 607-8414, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ohgita T, Kono H, Namba N, Saito H. Physicochemical mechanisms of aggregation and fibril formation of α-synuclein and apolipoprotein A-I. Biophys Physicobiol 2023; 21:e210005. [PMID: 38803339 PMCID: PMC11128303 DOI: 10.2142/biophysico.bppb-v21.0005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Deposition and accumulation of amyloid fibrils is a hallmark of a group of diseases called amyloidosis and neurodegenerative disorders. Although polypeptides potentially have a fibril-forming propensity, native proteins have evolved into proper functional conformations to avoid aggregation and fibril formation. Understanding the mechanism for regulation of fibril formation of native proteins provides clues for the rational design of molecules for inhibiting fibril formation. Although fibril formation is a complex multistep reaction, experimentally obtained fibril formation curves can be fitted with the Finke-Watzky (F-W) two-step model for homogeneous nucleation followed by autocatalytic fibril growth. The resultant F-W rate constants for nucleation and fibril formation provide information on the chemical kinetics of fibril formation. Using the F-W two-step model analysis, we investigated the physicochemical mechanisms of fibril formation of a Parkinson's disease protein α-synuclein (αS) and a systemic amyloidosis protein apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I). The results indicate that the C-terminal region of αS enthalpically and entropically suppresses nucleation through the intramolecular interaction with the N-terminal region and the intermolecular interaction with existing fibrils. In contrast, the nucleation of the N-terminal fragment of apoA-I is entropically driven likely due to dehydration of large hydrophobic segments in the molecule. Based on our recent findings, we discuss the similarity and difference of the fibril formation mechanisms of αS and the N-terminal fragment of apoA-I from the physicochemical viewpoints.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Ohgita
- Laboratory of Biophysical Chemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto 607-8414, Japan
- Center for Instrumental Analysis, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto 607-8412, Japan
| | - Hiroki Kono
- Laboratory of Biophysical Chemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto 607-8414, Japan
| | - Norihiro Namba
- Laboratory of Biophysical Chemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto 607-8414, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Saito
- Laboratory of Biophysical Chemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, Kyoto 607-8414, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Savva L, Platts JA. Exploring the impact of mutation and post-translational modification on α-Synuclein: Insights from molecular dynamics simulations with and without copper. J Inorg Biochem 2023; 249:112395. [PMID: 37820444 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2023.112395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
We report molecular dynamics simulations of two modifications to α-Synuclein, namely A53T mutation and phosphorylation at Ser129, which have been observed in Parkinson's disease patients. Both modifications are close to known metal binding sites, so as well as each modified peptide we also study Cu(II) bound to N-terminal and C-terminal residues. We show that A53T is predicted to cause increased β-sheet content of the peptide, with a persistent β-hairpin between residues 35-55 particularly notable. Phosphorylation has less effect on secondary structure but is predicted to significantly increase the size of the peptide, especially when bound to Cu(II), which is ascribed to reduced interaction of C-terminal sequence with central non-amyloid component. In addition, estimate of binding free energy to Cu(II) indicates A53T has little effect on metal-ion affinity, whereas phosphorylation markedly enhances the strength of binding. We suggest that the predicted changes in spatial extent and secondary structure of α-Synuclein may have implications for aggregation into Lewy bodies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Loizos Savva
- School of Chemistry, Cardiff University, Park Place, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK
| | - James A Platts
- School of Chemistry, Cardiff University, Park Place, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Namba N, Ohgita T, Tamagaki-Asahina H, Nishitsuji K, Shimanouchi T, Sato T, Saito H. Amyloidogenic 60-71 deletion/ValThr insertion mutation of apolipoprotein A-I generates a new aggregation-prone segment that promotes nucleation through entropic effects. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18514. [PMID: 37898709 PMCID: PMC10613298 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-45803-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: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The N-terminal fragment of apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I), comprising residues 1-83, contains three segments prone to aggregation: residues 14-22, 53-58, and 67-72. We previously demonstrated that residues 14-22 are critical in apoA-I fibril formation while residues 53-58 entropically drove the nucleation process. Here, we investigated the impact of amyloidogenic mutations (Δ60-71/VT, Δ70-72, and F71Y) located around residues 67-72 on fibril formation by the apoA-I 1-83 fragment. Thioflavin T fluorescence assay demonstrated that the Δ60-71/VT mutation significantly enhances both nucleation and fibril elongation rates, whereas the Δ70-72 and F71Y mutations had minimal effects. Circular dichroism measurements and microscopic observations revealed that all variant fragments formed straight fibrils, transitioning from random coils to β-sheet structures. Kinetic analysis demonstrated that primary nucleation is the dominant step in fibril formation, with fibril elongation reaching saturation at high protein concentrations. Thermodynamically, both nucleation and fibril elongation were enthalpically and entropically unfavorable in all apoA-I 1-83 variants, in which the entropic barrier of nucleation was almost eliminated for the Δ60-71/VT variant. Taken together, our results suggest the presence of new aggregation-prone segment in the Δ60-71/VT variant that promotes nucleation through entropic effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Norihiro Namba
- Laboratory of Biophysical Chemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, 5 Misasagi-Nakauchi-cho, Yamashina-ku, Kyoto, 607-8414, Japan
| | - Takashi Ohgita
- Laboratory of Biophysical Chemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, 5 Misasagi-Nakauchi-cho, Yamashina-ku, Kyoto, 607-8414, Japan
| | - Hiroko Tamagaki-Asahina
- Division of Liberal Arts Sciences, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, 5 Misasagi-Nakauchi-cho, Yamashina-ku, Kyoto, 607-8414, Japan
| | - Kazuchika Nishitsuji
- Department of Biochemistry, Wakayama Medical University, 811-1 Kimiidera, Wakayama, 641-8509, Japan
| | - Toshinori Shimanouchi
- Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University, Okayama, 700-8530, Japan
| | - Takeshi Sato
- Division of Liberal Arts Sciences, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, 5 Misasagi-Nakauchi-cho, Yamashina-ku, Kyoto, 607-8414, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Saito
- Laboratory of Biophysical Chemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, 5 Misasagi-Nakauchi-cho, Yamashina-ku, Kyoto, 607-8414, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Suthar SK, Lee SY. Truncation or proteolysis of α-synuclein in Parkinsonism. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 90:101978. [PMID: 37286088 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.101978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Posttranslational modifications of α-synuclein, such as truncation or abnormal proteolysis, are implicated in Parkinson's disease (PD), dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), and multiple system atrophy (MSA). A key focus of this article includes the proteases responsible for inducing truncation, the specific sites susceptible to truncation, and the resultant influence of these truncated species on the seeding and aggregation of endogenous α-synuclein. We also shed light on the unique structural attributes of these truncated species, and how these modifications can lead to distinctive forms of synucleinopathies. In addition, we explore the comparative toxic potentials of various α-synuclein species. An extensive analysis of available evidence of truncated α-synuclein species in human-synucleinopathy brains is also provided. Lastly, we delve into the detrimental impact of truncated species on key cellular structures such as the mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum. Our article discusses enzymes involved in α-synuclein truncation, including 20 S proteasome, cathepsins, asparagine endopeptidase, caspase-1, calpain-1, neurosin/kallikrein-6, matrix metalloproteinase-1/-3, and plasmin. Truncation patterns impact α-synuclein aggregation - C-terminal truncation accelerates aggregation with larger truncations correlated with shortened aggregation lag times. N-terminal truncation affects aggregation differently based on the truncation location. C-terminally truncated α-synuclein forms compact, shorter fibrils compared to the full-length (FL) protein. N-terminally truncated monomers form fibrils similar in length to FL α-synuclein. Truncated forms show distinct fibril morphologies, increased β-sheet structures, and greater protease resistance. Misfolded α-synuclein can adopt various conformations, leading to unique aggregates and distinct synucleinopathies. Fibrils, with prion-like transmission, are potentially more toxic than oligomers, though this is still debated. Different α-synuclein variants with N- and C-terminal truncations, namely 5-140, 39-140, 65-140, 66-140, 68-140, 71-140, 1-139, 1-135, 1-133, 1-122, 1-119, 1-115, 1-110, and 1-103 have been found in PD, DLB, and MSA patients' brains. In Parkinsonism, excess misfolded α-synuclein overwhelms the proteasome degradation system, resulting in truncated protein production and accumulation in the mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sang-Yoon Lee
- Neuroscience Research Institute, Gachon University, Incheon, South Korea; Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Siwecka N, Saramowicz K, Galita G, Rozpędek-Kamińska W, Majsterek I. Inhibition of Protein Aggregation and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress as a Targeted Therapy for α-Synucleinopathy. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2051. [PMID: 37631265 PMCID: PMC10459316 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15082051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
α-synuclein (α-syn) is an intrinsically disordered protein abundant in the central nervous system. Physiologically, the protein regulates vesicle trafficking and neurotransmitter release in the presynaptic terminals. Pathologies related to misfolding and aggregation of α-syn are referred to as α-synucleinopathies, and they constitute a frequent cause of neurodegeneration. The most common α-synucleinopathy, Parkinson's disease (PD), is caused by abnormal accumulation of α-syn in the dopaminergic neurons of the midbrain. This results in protein overload, activation of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and, ultimately, neural cell apoptosis and neurodegeneration. To date, the available treatment options for PD are only symptomatic and rely on dopamine replacement therapy or palliative surgery. As the prevalence of PD has skyrocketed in recent years, there is a pending issue for development of new disease-modifying strategies. These include anti-aggregative agents that target α-syn directly (gene therapy, small molecules and immunization), indirectly (modulators of ER stress, oxidative stress and clearance pathways) or combine both actions (natural compounds). Herein, we provide an overview on the characteristic features of the structure and pathogenic mechanisms of α-syn that could be targeted with novel molecular-based therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Ireneusz Majsterek
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Biochemistry, Medical University of Lodz, 92-215 Lodz, Poland; (N.S.); (K.S.); (G.G.); (W.R.-K.)
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Ohgita T, Kono H, Morita I, Oyama H, Shimanouchi T, Kobayashi N, Saito H. Intramolecular interaction kinetically regulates fibril formation by human and mouse α-synuclein. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10885. [PMID: 37407638 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38070-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulation of α-synuclein (αS) fibril formation is a potent therapeutic strategy for αS-related neurodegenerative disorders. αS, an intrinsically disordered 140-residue intraneural protein, comprises positively charged N-terminal, hydrophobic non-amyloid β component (NAC), and negatively charged C-terminal regions. Although mouse and human αS share 95% sequence identity, mouse αS forms amyloid fibrils faster than human αS. To evaluate the kinetic regulation of αS fibrillation, we examined the effects of mismatched residues in human and mouse αS on fibril formation and intramolecular interactions. Thioflavin T fluorescence assay using domain-swapped or C-terminal-truncated αS variants revealed that mouse αS exhibited higher nucleation and fibril elongation than human αS. In mouse αS, S87N substitution in the NAC region rather than A53T substitution is dominant for enhanced fibril formation. Fӧrester resonance energy transfer analysis demonstrated that the intramolecular interaction of the C-terminal region with the N-terminal and NAC regions observed in human αS is perturbed in mouse αS. In mouse αS, S87N substitution is responsible for the perturbed interaction. These results indicate that the interaction of the C-terminal region with the N-terminal and NAC regions suppresses αS fibril formation and that the human-to-mouse S87N substitution in the NAC region accelerates αS fibril formation by perturbing intramolecular interaction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Ohgita
- Laboratory of Biophysical Chemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, 5 Misasagi-Nakauchi-cho, Yamashina-ku, Kyoto, 607-8414, Japan.
| | - Hiroki Kono
- Laboratory of Biophysical Chemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, 5 Misasagi-Nakauchi-cho, Yamashina-ku, Kyoto, 607-8414, Japan
| | - Izumi Morita
- Department of Bioanalytical Chemistry, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, 4-19-1 Motoyama-Kitamachi, Higashinada-ku, Kobe, 658-8558, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Oyama
- Department of Bioanalytical Chemistry, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, 4-19-1 Motoyama-Kitamachi, Higashinada-ku, Kobe, 658-8558, Japan
| | - Toshinori Shimanouchi
- Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University, Okayama, 700-8530, Japan
| | - Norihiro Kobayashi
- Department of Bioanalytical Chemistry, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, 4-19-1 Motoyama-Kitamachi, Higashinada-ku, Kobe, 658-8558, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Saito
- Laboratory of Biophysical Chemistry, Kyoto Pharmaceutical University, 5 Misasagi-Nakauchi-cho, Yamashina-ku, Kyoto, 607-8414, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Canever JB, Soares ES, de Avelar NCP, Cimarosti HI. Targeting α-synuclein post-translational modifications in Parkinson's disease. Behav Brain Res 2023; 439:114204. [PMID: 36372243 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2022.114204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the nigrostriatal pathway. Although the exact mechanisms underlying PD are still not completely understood, it is well accepted that α-synuclein plays key pathophysiological roles as the main constituent of the cytoplasmic inclusions known as Lewy bodies. Several post-translational modifications (PTMs), such as the best-known phosphorylation, target α-synuclein and are thus implicated in its physiological and pathological functions. In this review, we present (1) an overview of the pathophysiological roles of α-synuclein, (2) a descriptive analysis of α-synuclein PTMs, including phosphorylation, ubiquitination, SUMOylation, acetylation, glycation, truncation, and O-GlcNAcylation, as well as (3) a brief summary on α-synuclein PTMs as potential biomarkers for PD. A better understanding of α-synuclein PTMs is of paramount importance for elucidating the mechanisms underlying PD and can thus be expected to improve early detection and monitoring disease progression, as well as identify promising new therapeutic targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaquelini B Canever
- Post-Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC), Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil; Laboratory of Aging, Resources and Rheumatology, UFSC, Araranguá, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Ericks Sousa Soares
- Post-Graduate Program in Pharmacology, UFSC, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Núbia C P de Avelar
- Laboratory of Aging, Resources and Rheumatology, UFSC, Araranguá, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Helena I Cimarosti
- Post-Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC), Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil; Post-Graduate Program in Pharmacology, UFSC, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Di Leva F, Filosi M, Oyston L, Silvestri E, Picard A, Lavdas AA, Lobbestael E, Baekelandt V, Neely GG, Pramstaller PP, Hicks AA, Corti C. Increased Levels of the Parkinson's Disease-Associated Gene ITPKB Correlate with Higher Expression Levels of α-Synuclein, Independent of Mutation Status. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24031984. [PMID: 36768321 PMCID: PMC9916293 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24031984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Autosomal dominant mutations in the gene encoding α-synuclein (SNCA) were the first to be linked with hereditary Parkinson's disease (PD). Duplication and triplication of SNCA has been observed in PD patients, together with mutations at the N-terminal of the protein, among which A30P and A53T influence the formation of fibrils. By overexpressing human α-synuclein in the neuronal system of Drosophila, we functionally validated the ability of IP3K2, an ortholog of the GWAS identified risk gene, Inositol-trisphosphate 3-kinase B (ITPKB), to modulate α-synuclein toxicity in vivo. ITPKB mRNA and protein levels were also increased in SK-N-SH cells overexpressing wild-type α-synuclein, A53T or A30P mutants. Kinase overexpression was detected in the cytoplasmatic and in the nuclear compartments in all α-synuclein cell types. By quantifying mRNAs in the cortex of PD patients, we observed higher levels of ITPKB mRNA when SNCA was expressed more (p < 0.05), compared to controls. A positive correlation was also observed between SNCA and ITPKB expression in the cortex of patients, which was not seen in the controls. We replicated this observation in a public dataset. Our data, generated in SK-N-SH cells and in cortex from PD patients, show that the expression of α-synuclein and ITPKB is correlated in pathological situations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Di Leva
- Institute for Biomedicine, Eurac Research, Affiliated Institute of the University of Lübeck, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
- Correspondence: (F.D.L.); (C.C.); Tel.: +39-0471-055-474 (F.D.L.); +39-0471-055-538 (C.C.)
| | - Michele Filosi
- Institute for Biomedicine, Eurac Research, Affiliated Institute of the University of Lübeck, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
| | - Lisa Oyston
- Charles Perkins Centre and School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Erica Silvestri
- Institute for Biomedicine, Eurac Research, Affiliated Institute of the University of Lübeck, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
| | - Anne Picard
- Institute for Biomedicine, Eurac Research, Affiliated Institute of the University of Lübeck, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
| | - Alexandros A. Lavdas
- Institute for Biomedicine, Eurac Research, Affiliated Institute of the University of Lübeck, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
| | - Evy Lobbestael
- Laboratory for Neurobiology and Gene Therapy, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Veerle Baekelandt
- Laboratory for Neurobiology and Gene Therapy, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - G. Gregory Neely
- Charles Perkins Centre and School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Peter P. Pramstaller
- Institute for Biomedicine, Eurac Research, Affiliated Institute of the University of Lübeck, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
| | - Andrew A. Hicks
- Institute for Biomedicine, Eurac Research, Affiliated Institute of the University of Lübeck, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
| | - Corrado Corti
- Institute for Biomedicine, Eurac Research, Affiliated Institute of the University of Lübeck, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
- Correspondence: (F.D.L.); (C.C.); Tel.: +39-0471-055-474 (F.D.L.); +39-0471-055-538 (C.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Li J, Luo H, Zheng H, Duan S, Zhao T, Yuan Y, Liu Y, Zhang X, Wang Y, Yang J, Xu Y. Clinical application of prion-like seeding in α-synucleinopathies: Early and non-invasive diagnosis and therapeutic development. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:975619. [PMID: 36299857 PMCID: PMC9588983 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.975619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The accumulation and deposition of misfolded α-synuclein (α-Syn) aggregates in the brain is the central event in the pathogenesis of α-synucleinopathies, including Parkinson’s disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, and multiple-system atrophy. Currently, the diagnosis of these diseases mainly relies on the recognition of advanced clinical manifestations. Differential diagnosis among the various α-synucleinopathies subtypes remains challenging. Misfolded α-Syn can template its native counterpart into the same misfolded one within or between cells, behaving as a prion-like seeding. Protein-misfolding cyclic amplification and real-time quaking-induced conversion are ultrasensitive protein amplification assays initially used for the detection of prion diseases. Both assays showed high sensitivity and specificity in detection of α-synucleinopathies even in the pre-clinical stage recently. Herein, we collectively reviewed the prion-like properties of α-Syn and critically assessed the detection techniques of α-Syn-seeding activity. The progress of test tissues, which tend to be less invasive, is presented, particularly nasal swab, which is now widely known owing to the global fight against coronavirus disease 2019. We highlight the clinical application of α-Syn seeding in early and non-invasive diagnosis. Moreover, some promising therapeutic perspectives and clinical trials targeting α-Syn-seeding mechanisms are presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Haiyang Luo
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Honglin Zheng
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- The Academy of Medical Sciences of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Suying Duan
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Taiqi Zhao
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yanpeng Yuan
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yutao Liu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Xiaoyun Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yangyang Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- *Correspondence: Jing Yang,
| | - Yuming Xu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Yuming Xu,
| |
Collapse
|