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van der Westhuizen ET. Single nucleotide variations encoding missense mutations in G protein-coupled receptors may contribute to autism. Br J Pharmacol 2024; 181:2158-2181. [PMID: 36787962 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16057] [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: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition with a range of symptoms that vary in intensity and severity from person to person. Genetic sequencing has identified thousands of genes containing mutations in autistic individuals, which may contribute to the development of autistic symptoms. Several of these genes encode G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), which are cell surface expressed proteins that transduce extracellular messages to the intracellular space. Mutations in GPCRs can impact their function, resulting in aberrant signalling within cells and across neurotransmitter systems in the brain. This review summarises the current knowledge on autism-associated single nucleotide variations encoding missense mutations in GPCRs and the impact of these genetic mutations on GPCR function. For some autism-associated mutations, changes in GPCR expression levels, ligand affinity, potency and efficacy have been observed. However, for many the functional consequences remain unknown. Thus, further work to characterise the functional impacts of the genetically identified mutations is required. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue Therapeutic Targeting of G Protein-Coupled Receptors: hot topics from the Australasian Society of Clinical and Experimental Pharmacologists and Toxicologists 2021 Virtual Annual Scientific Meeting. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v181.14/issuetoc.
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Nóbrega IDS, Teles e Silva AL, Yokota-Moreno BY, Sertié AL. The Importance of Large-Scale Genomic Studies to Unravel Genetic Risk Factors for Autism. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5816. [PMID: 38892002 PMCID: PMC11172008 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115816] [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: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a common and highly heritable neurodevelopmental disorder. During the last 15 years, advances in genomic technologies and the availability of increasingly large patient cohorts have greatly expanded our knowledge of the genetic architecture of ASD and its neurobiological mechanisms. Over two hundred risk regions and genes carrying rare de novo and transmitted high-impact variants have been identified. Additionally, common variants with small individual effect size are also important, and a number of loci are now being uncovered. At the same time, these new insights have highlighted ongoing challenges. In this perspective article, we summarize developments in ASD genetic research and address the enormous impact of large-scale genomic initiatives on ASD gene discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Andréa Laurato Sertié
- Faculdade Israelita de Ciências da Saúde Albert Einstein, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Rua Comendador Elias Jafet, 755. Morumbi, São Paulo 05653-000, Brazil; (I.d.S.N.); (A.L.T.e.S.); (B.Y.Y.-M.)
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3
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Glessner JT, Khan ME, Chang X, Liu Y, Otieno FG, Lemma M, Slaby I, Hain H, Mentch F, Li J, Kao C, Sleiman PMA, March ME, Connolly J, Hakonarson H. Rare recurrent copy number variations in metabotropic glutamate receptor interacting genes in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. J Neurodev Disord 2023; 15:14. [PMID: 37120522 PMCID: PMC10148449 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-023-09483-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), are examples of complex and partially overlapping phenotypes that often lack definitive corroborating genetic information. ADHD and ASD have complex genetic associations implicated by rare recurrent copy number variations (CNVs). Both of these NDDs have been shown to share similar biological etiologies as well as genetic pleiotropy. METHODS Platforms aimed at investigating genetic-based associations, such as high-density microarray technologies, have been groundbreaking techniques in the field of complex diseases, aimed at elucidating the underlying disease biology. Previous studies have uncovered CNVs associated with genes within shared candidate genomic networks, including glutamate receptor genes, across multiple different NDDs. To examine shared biological pathways across two of the most common NDDs, we investigated CNVs across 15,689 individuals with ADHD (n = 7920), ASD (n = 4318), or both (n = 3,416), as well as 19,993 controls. Cases and controls were matched by genotype array (i.e., Illumina array versions). Three case-control association studies each calculated and compared the observed vs. expected frequency of CNVs across individual genes, loci, pathways, and gene networks. Quality control measures of confidence in CNV-calling, prior to association analyses, included visual inspection of genotype and hybridization intensity. RESULTS Here, we report results from CNV analysis in search for individual genes, loci, pathways, and gene networks. To extend our previous observations implicating a key role of the metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR) network in both ADHD and autism, we exhaustively queried patients with ASD and/or ADHD for CNVs associated with the 273 genomic regions of interest within the mGluR gene network (genes with one or two degrees protein-protein interaction with mGluR 1-8 genes). Among CNVs in mGluR network genes, we uncovered CNTN4 deletions enriched in NDD cases (P = 3.22E - 26, OR = 2.49). Additionally, we uncovered PRLHR deletions in 40 ADHD cases and 12 controls (P = 5.26E - 13, OR = 8.45) as well as clinically diagnostic relevant 22q11.2 duplications and 16p11.2 duplications in 23 ADHD + ASD cases and 9 controls (P = 4.08E - 13, OR = 15.05) and 22q11.2 duplications in 34 ADHD + ASD cases and 51 controls (P = 9.21E - 9, OR = 3.93); those control samples were not with previous 22qDS diagnosis in their EHR records. CONCLUSION Together, these results suggest that disruption in neuronal cell-adhesion pathways confers significant risk to NDDs and showcase that rare recurrent CNVs in CNTN4, 22q11.2, and 16p11.2 are overrepresented in NDDs that constitute patients predominantly suffering from ADHD and ASD. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02286817 First Posted: 10 November 14, ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02777931 first posted: 19 May 2016, ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03006367 first posted: 30 December 2016, ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02895906 first posted: 12 September 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph T Glessner
- Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Munir E Khan
- Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Xiao Chang
- Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Yichuan Liu
- Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA
| | - F George Otieno
- Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Maria Lemma
- Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Isabella Slaby
- Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Heather Hain
- Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Frank Mentch
- Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Jin Li
- Department of Cell Biology, the Province and Ministry Co-Sponsored Collaborative Innovation Center for Medical Epigenetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Charlly Kao
- Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Patrick M A Sleiman
- Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Michael E March
- Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - John Connolly
- Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Hakon Hakonarson
- Center for Applied Genomics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA.
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4
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McAuley AB, Hughes DC, Tsaprouni LG, Varley I, Suraci B, Baker J, Herbert AJ, Kelly AL. Genetic associations with technical capabilities in English academy football players: a preliminary study. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2023; 63:230-240. [PMID: 35666584 DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.22.13945-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Technical capabilities have significant discriminative and prognostic power in youth football. Although, many factors influence technical performance, no research has explored the genetic contribution. As such, the purpose of this study was to examine the association of several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with technical assessments in youth football players. METHODS Fifty-three male under-13 to under-18 outfield football players from two Category 3 English academies were genotyped for eight SNPs. Objective and subjective technical performance scores in dribbling, passing, and shooting were collated. Simple linear regression was used to analyse individual SNP associations each variable, whereas both unweighted and weighted total genotype scores (TGSs; TWGSs) were computed to measure the combined influence of all SNPs. RESULTS In isolation, the ADBR2 (rs1042714) C allele, BDNF (rs6265) C/C genotype, DBH (rs1611115) C/C genotype, and DRD1 (rs4532) C allele were associated with superior (8-10%) objective dribbling and/or shooting performance. The TGSs and/or TWGSs were significantly correlated with each technical assessment (except subjective passing), explaining up to 36% and 40% of the variance in the objective and subjective assessments, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study suggest inter-individual genetic variation may influence the technical capabilities of youth football players and proposes several candidate SNPs that warrant further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander B McAuley
- Faculty of Health, Education and Life Sciences, Birmingham City University, Birmingham, UK -
| | - David C Hughes
- Faculty of Health, Education and Life Sciences, Birmingham City University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Loukia G Tsaprouni
- Faculty of Health, Education and Life Sciences, Birmingham City University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ian Varley
- Department of Sport Science, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Bruce Suraci
- Academy Coaching Department, AFC Bournemouth, Bournemouth, UK
| | - Joseph Baker
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Adam J Herbert
- Faculty of Health, Education and Life Sciences, Birmingham City University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Adam L Kelly
- Faculty of Health, Education and Life Sciences, Birmingham City University, Birmingham, UK
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Brew BK, Caffrey Osvald E, Gong T, Hedman AM, Holmberg K, Larsson H, Ludvigsson JF, Mubanga M, Smew AI, Almqvist C. Pediatric asthma and non-allergic comorbidities: a review of current risk and proposed mechanisms. Clin Exp Allergy 2022; 52:1035-1047. [PMID: 35861116 PMCID: PMC9541883 DOI: 10.1111/cea.14207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
It is increasingly recognized that children with asthma are at a higher risk of other non‐allergic concurrent diseases than the non‐asthma population. A plethora of recent research has reported on these comorbidities and progress has been made in understanding the mechanisms for comorbidity. The goal of this review was to assess the most recent evidence (2016–2021) on the extent of common comorbidities (obesity, depression and anxiety, neurodevelopmental disorders, sleep disorders and autoimmune diseases) and the latest mechanistic research, highlighting knowledge gaps requiring further investigation. We found that the majority of recent studies from around the world demonstrate that children with asthma are at an increased risk of having at least one of the studied comorbidities. A range of potential mechanisms were identified including common early life risk factors, common genetic factors, causal relationships, asthma medication and embryologic origins. Studies varied in their selection of population, asthma definition and outcome definitions. Next, steps in future studies should include using objective measures of asthma, such as lung function and immunological data, as well as investigating asthma phenotypes and endotypes. Larger complex genetic analyses are needed, including genome‐wide association studies, gene expression–functional as well as pathway analyses or Mendelian randomization techniques; and identification of gene–environment interactions, such as epi‐genetic studies or twin analyses, including omics and early life exposure data. Importantly, research should have relevance to clinical and public health translation including clinical practice, asthma management guidelines and intervention studies aimed at reducing comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bronwyn K Brew
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden.,National Perinatal Epidemiology and Statistics Unit, Centre for Big Data Research in Health and School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Australia
| | - Emma Caffrey Osvald
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden.,Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Sweden
| | - Tong Gong
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
| | - Anna M Hedman
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
| | - Kirsten Holmberg
- Child Health and Parenting (CHAP), Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Henrik Larsson
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden.,School of Medical Sciences, Örebro University, Sweden
| | - Jonas F Ludvigsson
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden.,Department of Pediatrics, Orebro University Hospital, Orebro, Sweden
| | - Mwenya Mubanga
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
| | - Awad I Smew
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
| | - Catarina Almqvist
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden.,Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Sweden
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Relationship of prenatal maternal obesity and diabetes to offspring neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders: a narrative review. Int J Obes (Lond) 2020; 44:1981-2000. [PMID: 32494038 PMCID: PMC7508672 DOI: 10.1038/s41366-020-0609-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Obesity and diabetes is a worldwide public health problem among women of reproductive age. This narrative review highlights recent epidemiological studies regarding associations of maternal obesity and diabetes with neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders in offspring, and provides an overview of plausible underlying mechanisms and challenges for future human studies. A comprehensive search strategy selected terms that corresponded to the domains of interest (maternal obesity, different types of diabetes, offspring cognitive functions and neuropsychiatric disorders). The databases searched for articles published between January 2010 and April 2019 were PubMed, Web of Science and CINAHL. Evidence from epidemiological studies strongly suggests that maternal pre-pregnancy obesity is associated with increased risks for autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and cognitive dysfunction with modest effect sizes, and that maternal diabetes is associated with the risk of the former two disorders. The influence of maternal obesity on other psychiatric disorders is less well studied, but there are reports of associations with increased risks for offspring depression, anxiety, schizophrenia and eating disorders, at modest effect sizes. It remains unclear whether these associations are due to intrauterine mechanisms or explained by confounding family-based sociodemographic, lifestyle and genetic factors. The plausible underlying mechanisms have been explored primarily in animal models, and are yet to be further investigated in human studies.
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7
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Dai YX, Tai YH, Chang YT, Chen TJ, Chen MH. Increased Risk of Atopic Diseases in the Siblings of Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Nationwide Population-Based Cohort Study. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 49:4626-4633. [PMID: 31435817 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-019-04184-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Several studies have shown a strong association between atopic diseases and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, the risk of atopic diseases in individuals having ASD-affected siblings has never been investigated. This nationwide population-based cohort study included 2762 individuals with ASD-affected siblings and 11,048 controls. Diagnoses of atopic diseases, including asthma, atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, and allergic conjunctivitis, were ascertained from 1996 or the birth data to the end of 2011. Individuals with ASD-affected siblings had a higher risk for asthma, atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, and multiple atopic diseases compared with controls. In conclusion, individuals with ASD-affected siblings were more likely than were the controls to develop atopic diseases, suggesting shared familial mechanisms underlying the two conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Xiu Dai
- Department of Dermatology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Hsuan Tai
- School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Anesthesiology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Ting Chang
- Department of Dermatology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tzeng-Ji Chen
- School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Mu-Hong Chen
- School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, No. 201, Sec. 2, Shipai Rd, Beitou District, Taipei, 11217, Taiwan, ROC.
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Gong T, Lundholm C, Rejnö G, Bölte S, Larsson H, D'Onofrio BM, Lichtenstein P, Almqvist C. Parental asthma and risk of autism spectrum disorder in offspring: A population and family-based case-control study. Clin Exp Allergy 2019; 49:883-891. [PMID: 30742718 PMCID: PMC6849600 DOI: 10.1111/cea.13353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Revised: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Associations between parental asthma and prenatal exposure to asthma medications with offspring autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have been reported. However, the associations might be confounded by unmeasured (genetic and shared environmental) familial factors. OBJECTIVE We investigated the association between (a) maternal/paternal asthma and offspring ASD, and (b) prenatal exposures to β2-agonists, other asthma medications and offspring ASD using cases and controls selected from the population as well as biological relatives with different degrees of relatedness. METHODS We included all children (N = 1 579 263) born in Sweden 1992-2007. A nested case-control design was used to compare 22 894 ASD cases identified from the National Patient Register to (a) 228 940 age-, county- and sex-matched controls randomly selected from the population, (b) their eligible full-siblings (n = 1267), (c) half-siblings (n = 1323), (d) full-cousins (n = 11 477) and (e) half-cousins (n = 3337). Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for ASD in children differentially exposed to parental asthma or prenatal asthma medications. RESULTS Maternal asthma was associated with increased risk of offspring ASD (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.38-1.49); there was a weaker association for paternal asthma (OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.11-1.23). The risk of offspring ASD in mothers with asthma showed similar estimates when adjusting for shared familial factors among paternal half-siblings (OR 1.20, 95% CI 0.80-1.81), full-cousins (OR 1.28, 95% CI 1.16-1.41) and half-cousins (OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.10-1.54), albeit with wider confidence intervals. Prenatal exposure to asthma medications among subjects whose mothers had asthma was not associated with subsequent ASD. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE In this large observational study, parental asthma was associated with slightly elevated risk of ASD in offspring. More specifically, the increased risk by maternal asthma did not seem to be confounded by familial factors. There was no evidence of an association between asthma medications during pregnancy and offspring ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Gong
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Woolcock Insitute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Cecilia Lundholm
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gustaf Rejnö
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit, Södersjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sven Bölte
- Center of Neurodevelopmental Disorders at Karolinska Institutet (KIND), Center for Psychiatric Research, Department of Women's & Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet & Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm County Council, Stockholm, Sweden.,Curtin Autism Research Group, School of Occupational Therapy, Social Work and Speech Pathology, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Henrik Larsson
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,School of Medical Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Brian M D'Onofrio
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Paul Lichtenstein
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Catarina Almqvist
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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Reilly J, Gallagher L, Chen JL, Leader G, Shen S. Bio-collections in autism research. Mol Autism 2017; 8:34. [PMID: 28702161 PMCID: PMC5504648 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-017-0154-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of complex neurodevelopmental disorders with diverse clinical manifestations and symptoms. In the last 10 years, there have been significant advances in understanding the genetic basis for ASD, critically supported through the establishment of ASD bio-collections and application in research. Here, we summarise a selection of major ASD bio-collections and their associated findings. Collectively, these include mapping ASD candidate genes, assessing the nature and frequency of gene mutations and their association with ASD clinical subgroups, insights into related molecular pathways such as the synapses, chromatin remodelling, transcription and ASD-related brain regions. We also briefly review emerging studies on the use of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to potentially model ASD in culture. These provide deeper insight into ASD progression during development and could generate human cell models for drug screening. Finally, we provide perspectives concerning the utilities of ASD bio-collections and limitations, and highlight considerations in setting up a new bio-collection for ASD research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Reilly
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, School of Medicine, BioMedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland (NUI), Galway, Ireland
| | - Louise Gallagher
- Trinity Translational Medicine Institute and Department of Psychiatry, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St. James Hospital Street, Dublin 8, Ireland
| | - June L Chen
- Department of Special Education, Faculty of Education, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062 China
| | - Geraldine Leader
- Irish Centre for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Research (ICAN), Department of Psychology, National University of Ireland Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - Sanbing Shen
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, School of Medicine, BioMedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland (NUI), Galway, Ireland
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10
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Zhang X, Norton J, Carrière I, Ritchie K, Chaudieu I, Ryan J, Ancelin ML. Preliminary evidence for a role of the adrenergic nervous system in generalized anxiety disorder. Sci Rep 2017; 7:42676. [PMID: 28198454 PMCID: PMC5309880 DOI: 10.1038/srep42676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2015] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a common chronic condition that is understudied compared to other psychiatric disorders. An altered adrenergic function has been reported in GAD, however direct evidence for genetic susceptibility is missing. This study evaluated the associations of gene variants in adrenergic receptors (ADRs) with GAD, with the involvement of stressful events. Data were obtained from 844 French community-dwelling elderly aged 65 or over. Anxiety disorders were assessed using the Mini-International Neuropsychiatry Interview, according to DSM-IV criteria. Eight single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) involved with adrenergic function were genotyped; adrenergic receptors alpha(1A) (ADRA1A), alpha(2A) (ADRA2A), and beta2 (ADRB2) and transcription factor TCF7L2. Questionnaires evaluated recent stressful life events as well as early environment during childhood and adolescence. Using multivariate logistic regression analyses four SNPs were significantly associated with GAD. A 4-fold modified risk was found with ADRA1A rs17426222 and rs573514, and ADRB2 rs1042713 which remained significant after Bonferroni correction. Certain variants may moderate the effect of adverse life events on the risk of GAD. Replication in larger samples is needed due to the small case number. This is the first study showing that ADR variants are susceptibility factors for GAD, further highlighting the critical role of the adrenergic nervous system in this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobin Zhang
- Inserm, U1061, Montpellier, France.,Univ Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Tianjin Mental Health Center, Tianjin, China
| | - Joanna Norton
- Inserm, U1061, Montpellier, France.,Univ Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Isabelle Carrière
- Inserm, U1061, Montpellier, France.,Univ Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Karen Ritchie
- Inserm, U1061, Montpellier, France.,Univ Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Isabelle Chaudieu
- Inserm, U1061, Montpellier, France.,Univ Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Joanne Ryan
- Inserm, U1061, Montpellier, France.,Univ Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Disease Epigenetics Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, and Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
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11
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Billeci L, Tonacci A, Tartarisco G, Ruta L, Pioggia G, Gangemi S. Association Between Atopic Dermatitis and Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Systematic Review. Am J Clin Dermatol 2015; 16:371-88. [PMID: 26254000 DOI: 10.1007/s40257-015-0145-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atopic dermatitis (AD) is an allergic disorder caused by both immunological dysregulation and epidermal barrier defect. Several studies have investigated the association between AD and mental health disorders. Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a heterogeneous group of neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by impairments in social communication and restricted, stereotyped interests and behaviors. The concurrent increased prevalence of AD and ASD in the last decades has led many scientists to investigate the relationship between the two diseases. OBJECTIVE The aim of this systematic review was to examine the association between AD and ASD. METHODS A systematic review was performed according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. PubMed and ScienceDirect were searched up to March 2015 for all reports examining the association between ASD and AD. Descriptive statistics of the studies are reported. RESULTS The review included 18 studies assessing the association between ASD and AD. Of these studies, two focused on ASD in relation to AD alone, 14 discussed ASD in relation to both AD and other atopic disorders, and two evaluated AD in parents of children with ASD. Most of these studies found a positive association between the two disorders, although there were some studies going in the opposite direction. The entity of the association is somewhat inconsistent among the different studies given that the frequencies of AD in ASD compared with a control group ranged from 7 to 64.2%. In addition, odds ratios (ORs) or hazard ratios (HRs) gave different results as three studies found a weak association with an OR below 2 and a nonsignificant p value, and three other studies found a moderate or strong association with an OR ranging from 1.52 to 7.17 and a significant p value. When all atopic disorders were considered when evaluating the risk of ASD, the association was strong with an HR of 3.4 or an OR of 1.24 and p < 0.001. CONCLUSIONS Overall, the results of this systematic review seem to reveal an association between ASD and AD, suggesting that subjects with ASD have an increased risk of presenting with AD compared with typically developing controls, and vice versa. This association is supported by clinical/epidemiological aspects, shared genetic background and common immunological and autoimmune processes. However, the variability in study population and design, and the presence of other risk factors acting as confounding factors, sometimes contribute to inconsistent results. Further studies are needed to clarify the underlying pathophysiologic mechanism explaining the association between ASD and AD and to explore the causal association between the two conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Billeci
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Clinical Physiology, IFC-CNR, Pisa Unit, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessandro Tonacci
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Clinical Physiology, IFC-CNR, Pisa Unit, Pisa, Italy
| | - Gennaro Tartarisco
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Clinical Physiology, IFC-CNR, Messina Unit, Via C. Valeria, SNC, 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Liliana Ruta
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Clinical Physiology, IFC-CNR, Messina Unit, Via C. Valeria, SNC, 98125, Messina, Italy
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Stella Maris Scientific Institute, Calambrone, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giovanni Pioggia
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Clinical Physiology, IFC-CNR, Messina Unit, Via C. Valeria, SNC, 98125, Messina, Italy.
| | - Sebastiano Gangemi
- School and Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University Hospital "G. Martino", Messina, Italy
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Slotkin TA, Skavicus S, Seidler FJ. Prenatal drug exposures sensitize noradrenergic circuits to subsequent disruption by chlorpyrifos. Toxicology 2015; 338:8-16. [PMID: 26419632 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2015.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2015] [Revised: 09/11/2015] [Accepted: 09/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
We examined whether nicotine or dexamethasone, common prenatal drug exposures, sensitize the developing brain to chlorpyrifos. We gave nicotine to pregnant rats throughout gestation at a dose (3mg/kg/day) producing plasma levels typical of smokers; offspring were then given chlorpyrifos on postnatal days 1-4, at a dose (1mg/kg) that produces minimally-detectable inhibition of brain cholinesterase activity. In a parallel study, we administered dexamethasone to pregnant rats on gestational days 17-19 at a standard therapeutic dose (0.2mg/kg) used in the management of preterm labor, followed by postnatal chlorpyrifos. We evaluated cerebellar noradrenergic projections, a known target for each agent, and contrasted the effects with those in the cerebral cortex. Either drug augmented the effect of chlorpyrifos, evidenced by deficits in cerebellar β-adrenergic receptors; the receptor effects were not due to increased systemic toxicity or cholinesterase inhibition, nor to altered chlorpyrifos pharmacokinetics. Further, the deficits were not secondary adaptations to presynaptic hyperinnervation/hyperactivity, as there were significant deficits in presynaptic norepinephrine levels that would serve to augment the functional consequence of receptor deficits. The pretreatments also altered development of cerebrocortical noradrenergic circuits, but with a different overall pattern, reflecting the dissimilar developmental stages of the regions at the time of exposure. However, in each case the net effects represented a change in the developmental trajectory of noradrenergic circuits, rather than simply a continuation of an initial injury. Our results point to the ability of prenatal drug exposure to create a subpopulation with heightened vulnerability to environmental neurotoxicants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodore A Slotkin
- Department of Pharmacology & Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
| | - Samantha Skavicus
- Department of Pharmacology & Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Frederic J Seidler
- Department of Pharmacology & Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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Dhawan N, Emerson B, Popara R, Lin C, Rawji A, Zeiden R, Rashid L, Phyu P, Bahl J, Gupta V. Are Attributes of Pregnancy and the Delivery Room Experience Related to Development of Autism? A Review of the Perinatal and Labor Risk Factors and Autism. INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARLY RESEARCH NOTICES 2014; 2014:290837. [PMID: 27355027 PMCID: PMC4897523 DOI: 10.1155/2014/290837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2014] [Accepted: 07/09/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder marked by severe deficits in social communication and interactions. It is a complex condition that lacks an established preventive method, warranting a need for research to identify possible environmental triggers. The identification of external factors particularly perinatal risk factors forms the initial critical step in preventing and alleviating risks. We conducted a literature review to assess evidence suggested in the worldwide literature. Perinatal risk factors that have a suggested association include β2 adrenergic receptor agonists, labor induction and augmentation, maternal infection and disease (i.e., antiphospholipid syndrome), antiepileptic drugs, cocaine use, and oral supplements. Smoking has not been found to have a direct association. Pollutants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, artificial insemination, and fertility medications may have a link, but results are often conflicted. Factors related to the delivery room experience may be associated with meconium aspiration syndrome, birth weight, and labor time. Several risk factors during the pregnancy and labor periods have been associated with autism; yet further studies with large populations are needed to establish definitive associations. The fact that several risk factors during the prenatal and labor periods are implicated in autism should prompt the medical community to focus on the pregnancy and labor periods as preventive measures to curb the incidence of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naveen Dhawan
- Nova Southeastern University, Health Sciences Division, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, USA
| | - Blaze Emerson
- Nova Southeastern University, Health Sciences Division, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, USA
| | - Romana Popara
- Nova Southeastern University, Health Sciences Division, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, USA
| | - Catherine Lin
- Nova Southeastern University, Health Sciences Division, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, USA
| | - Adam Rawji
- Nova Southeastern University, Health Sciences Division, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, USA
| | - Rita Zeiden
- Nova Southeastern University, Health Sciences Division, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, USA
| | | | - Pwint Phyu
- Nova Southeastern University, Health Sciences Division, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, USA
| | - Jaya Bahl
- Nova Southeastern University, Health Sciences Division, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, USA
| | - Vineet Gupta
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego (UCSD), 200 West Arbor Drive, MC 8485, San Diego, CA 92103, USA
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Danielewicz H. What the Genetic Background of Individuals with Asthma and Obesity Can Reveal: Is β2-Adrenergic Receptor Gene Polymorphism Important? PEDIATRIC ALLERGY IMMUNOLOGY AND PULMONOLOGY 2014; 27:104-110. [PMID: 25276484 DOI: 10.1089/ped.2014.0360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2014] [Accepted: 05/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The goal of this review was to evaluate the association of β2-adrenergic receptor (ADRB2) gene polymorphisms with asthma and obesity. Asthma is the most common pediatric inflammatory disorder. The prevalence, severity, and hospitalization index for asthma have increased markedly in the last several decades. Interestingly, asthma is often diagnosed along with obesity. Genetic factors are essential for both conditions, and some of the candidate pleiotropic genes thought to be involved in the development of these diseases are ADRB2, vitamin D receptor (VDR), leptin (LEP), protein kinase C alpha (PRKCA), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα). The ADRB2 has been studied in multiple populations and more than 80 polymorphisms, mainly single-nucleotide polymorphisms, have been identified. For nonsynonymous Arg16Gly, Gln27Glu, and Thr164Ile, functional effects have been shown. In vivo, these polymorphisms have been evaluated to determine their association with both obesity and asthma, but the results are inconsistent and depend on the population studied or how the disease was defined. Currently, there are only few reports describing the genetic background for the comorbidity of asthma and obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Danielewicz
- 1st Department of Pediatrics, Allergy and Cardiology, Wroclaw Medical University , Wrocław, Poland
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15
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Banerjee S, Riordan M, Bhat MA. Genetic aspects of autism spectrum disorders: insights from animal models. Front Cell Neurosci 2014; 8:58. [PMID: 24605088 PMCID: PMC3932417 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2014.00058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2014] [Accepted: 02/07/2014] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that display a triad of core behavioral deficits including restricted interests, often accompanied by repetitive behavior, deficits in language and communication, and an inability to engage in reciprocal social interactions. ASD is among the most heritable disorders but is not a simple disorder with a singular pathology and has a rather complex etiology. It is interesting to note that perturbations in synaptic growth, development, and stability underlie a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders, including ASD, schizophrenia, epilepsy, and intellectual disability. Biological characterization of an increasing repertoire of synaptic mutants in various model organisms indicates synaptic dysfunction as causal in the pathophysiology of ASD. Our understanding of the genes and genetic pathways that contribute toward the formation, stabilization, and maintenance of functional synapses coupled with an in-depth phenotypic analysis of the cellular and behavioral characteristics is therefore essential to unraveling the pathogenesis of these disorders. In this review, we discuss the genetic aspects of ASD emphasizing on the well conserved set of genes and genetic pathways implicated in this disorder, many of which contribute to synapse assembly and maintenance across species. We also review how fundamental research using animal models is providing key insights into the various facets of human ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Banerjee
- Department of Physiology, Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Maeveen Riordan
- Department of Physiology, Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Manzoor A Bhat
- Department of Physiology, Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, TX, USA
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Zeng Y, Cheng L, Zhao L, Tan Q, Feng Q, Chen H, Shen K, Li J, Zhang F, Cao H, Gregory SG, Yang Z, Gu J, Tao W, Tian XL, Hauser ER. Interactions between social/ behavioral factors and ADRB2 genotypes may be associated with health at advanced ages in China. BMC Geriatr 2013; 13:91. [PMID: 24016068 PMCID: PMC3846634 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2318-13-91] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2013] [Accepted: 08/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Existing literature indicates that ADRB2 gene is associated with health and longevity, but none of previous studies investigated associations of carrying the ADRB2 minor alleles and interactions between ADRB2 genotypes and social/behavioral factors(GxE) with health outcomes at advanced ages. This study intends to fill in this research gap. METHOD We conducted an exploratory analysis, using longitudinal survey phenotype/genotype data from 877 oldest-old aged 90+. To estimate association of GxE interactions with health outcome, adjusted for the potential correlation between genotypes and social/behavioral factors and various other potentially confounding factors, we develop and test an innovative three-step procedure which combines logistic regression and structural equation methods. RESULTS Interaction between regular exercise and carrying rs1042718 minor allele is significantly and positively associated with good cognitive function; interaction between regular exercise and carrying rs1042718 or rs1042719 minor allele is significantly and positively associated with self-reported good health; and interaction between social-leisure activities and carrying rs1042719 minor allele is significantly and positively associated with self-reported good health. Carrying rs1042718 or rs1042719 minor alleles is significantly and negatively associated with negative emotion, but the ADRB2 SNPs are not significantly associated with cognitive function and self-reported health. Our structural equation analysis found that, adjusted for the confounding effects of correlation of the ADRB2 SNPs with negative emotion, interaction between negative emotion and carrying rs1042718 or rs1042719 minor allele is significantly and negatively associated with cognitive function. The positive association of regular exercise and social-leisure activities with cognitive function and self-reported health, and negative association of negative emotion with cognitive function, were much stronger among carriers of rs1042718 or rs1042719 alleles, compared to the non-carriers. CONCLUSIONS The results indicate significant positive associations of interactions between social/behavioral factors and the ADRB2 genotypes with health outcomes of cognitive function and self-reported health, and negative associations of carrying rs1042718 or rs1042719 minor alleles with negative emotion, at advanced ages in China. Our findings are exploratory rather than causal conclusions. This study implies that near-future health promotion programs considering individuals' genetic profiles, with appropriate protection of privacy/confidentiality, would yield increased benefits and reduced costs to the programs and their participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zeng
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Geriatrics Division of School of Medicine, Duke University, Box 3003 Durham, NC 27710, USA.
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17
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Lyall DM, Lopez LM, Bastin ME, Maniega SM, Penke L, Valdés Hernández MDC, Royle NA, Starr JM, Porteous DJ, Wardlaw JM, Deary IJ. ADRB2, brain white matter integrity and cognitive ageing in the Lothian Birth Cohort 1936. Behav Genet 2012; 43:13-23. [PMID: 23229623 DOI: 10.1007/s10519-012-9570-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2012] [Accepted: 11/29/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The non-synonymous mutations arg16gly (rs1042713) and gln27glu (rs1042714) in the adrenergic β-2 receptor gene (ADRB2) have been associated with cognitive function and brain white matter integrity. The current study aimed to replicate these findings and expand them to a broader range of cognitive and brain phenotypes. The sample used is a community-dwelling group of older people, the Lothian Birth Cohort 1936. They had been assessed cognitively at age 11 years, and undertook further cognitive assessments and brain diffusion MRI tractography in older age. The sample size range for cognitive function variables was N = 686-765, and for neuroimaging variables was N = 488-587. Previously-reported findings with these genetic variants did not replicate in this cohort. Novel, nominally significant associations were observed; notably, the integrity of the left arcuate fasciculus mediated the association between rs1042714 and the Digit Symbol Coding test of information processing speed. No significant associations of cognitive and brain phenotypes with ADRB2 variants survived correction for false discovery rate. Previous findings may therefore have been subject to type 1 error. Further study into links between ADRB2, cognitive function and brain white matter integrity is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald M Lyall
- Centre for Cognitive Ageing and Cognitive Epidemiology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9JZ, UK.
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Terbutaline impairs the development of peripheral noradrenergic projections: potential implications for autism spectrum disorders and pharmacotherapy of preterm labor. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2012; 36:91-6. [PMID: 22813780 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2012.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2012] [Revised: 07/03/2012] [Accepted: 07/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Terbutaline, a β2-adrenoceptor agonist, is used off-label for long-term management of preterm labor; such use is associated with increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorders. We explored the mechanisms underlying terbutaline's effects on development of peripheral sympathetic projections in developing rats. Terbutaline administration on postnatal days 2-5 led to immediate and persistent deficiencies in cardiac norepinephrine levels, with greater effects in males than in females. The liver showed a lesser effect; we reasoned that the tissue differences could represent participation of retrograde trophic signaling from the postsynaptic site to the developing neuronal projection, since hepatic β2-adrenoceptors decline in the perinatal period. Accordingly, when we gave terbutaline earlier, on gestational days 17-20, we saw the same deficiencies in hepatic norepinephrine that had been seen in the heart with the later administration paradigm. Administration of isoproterenol, which stimulates both β1- and β2-subtypes, also had trophic effects that differed in direction and critical period from those elicited by terbutaline; methoxamine, which stimulates α1-adrenoceptors, was without effect. Thus, terbutaline, operating through trophic interactions with β2-adrenoceptors, impairs development of noradrenergic projections in a manner similar to that previously reported for its effects on the same neurotransmitter systems in the immature cerebellum. Our results point to the likelihood of autonomic dysfunction in individuals exposed prenatally to terbutaline; in light of the connection between terbutaline and autism, these results could also contribute to autonomic dysregulation seen in children with this disorder.
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Prenatal exposure to β2-adrenergic receptor agonists and risk of autism spectrum disorders. J Neurodev Disord 2011; 3:307-15. [PMID: 21874331 PMCID: PMC3261266 DOI: 10.1007/s11689-011-9093-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2011] [Accepted: 08/09/2011] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aims to investigate the association between prenatal exposure to terbutaline and other β2 adrenergic receptor (B2AR) agonists and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). The methodology used is a case–control study among children born from 1995 to 1999 at Kaiser Permanente Northern California hospitals. Cases (n = 291) were children with an ASD diagnosis; controls (n = 284) were children without ASDs, randomly sampled and frequency-matched to cases on sex, birth year, and delivery hospital. Exposure to B2AR agonists during 30 days prior to conception and each trimester of pregnancy was ascertained from prenatal medical records and health plan databases. The frequency of exposure to any B2AR agonist during pregnancy was similar for mothers of children with ASD and mothers of controls (18.9% vs. 14.8%, P = 0.19). Exposure to B2AR agonists other than terbutaline was not associated with an increased risk for ASDs. However, terbutaline exposure for >2 days during the third trimester was associated with more than a fourfold increased risk for ASDs independent of indication although the limited sample size resulted in an imprecise and nonsignificant effect estimate (ORadj = 4.4; 95% confidence interval, 0.8–24.6). This analysis does not offer evidence linking B2AR exposure in pregnancy with autism risk. However, exposure to terbutaline during the third trimester for >2 days may be associated with an increased risk of autism. Should this result be confirmed in larger samples, it would point to late pregnancy as an etiologic window of interest in autism risk factor research.
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Witter FR. Does treatment of premature labor with terbutaline increase the risk of autism spectrum disorders? Am J Obstet Gynecol 2011; 205:e12; discussion e12-4. [PMID: 21684516 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2011.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2011] [Accepted: 05/10/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Slotkin T. Concerning "Absence of neurotoxicity with medicinal grade terbutaline in the rat model," by M.Y. Owens, K.L. Wallace, N. Mamoon, J. Wyatt-Ashmead and W.A. Bennett. Reprod Toxicol 2011; 32:368-9; author reply 370-1. [PMID: 21708245 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2011.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2011] [Accepted: 05/20/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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23
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Jones KL, Smith RM, Edwards KS, Givens B, Tilley MR, Beversdorf DQ. Combined effect of maternal serotonin transporter genotype and prenatal stress in modulating offspring social interaction in mice. Int J Dev Neurosci 2010; 28:529-36. [PMID: 20470877 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2010.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2009] [Revised: 05/05/2010] [Accepted: 05/06/2010] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies suggest that prenatal stress is a possible risk factor in the development of autism spectrum disorders. However, many children exposed to stress prenatally are born healthy and develop typically, suggesting that other factors must contribute to autism. Genes that contribute to stress reactivity may, therefore, exacerbate prenatal stress-mediated behavioral changes in the adult offspring. One candidate gene linked to increased stress reactivity encodes the serotonin transporter. Specifically, an insertion/deletion (long/short allele) polymorphism upstream of the serotonin transporter gene correlates with differential expression and function of the serotonin transporter and a heightened response to stressors. Heterozygous serotonin transporter knockout mice show reductions in serotonin transporter expression similar to the human short polymorphism. In this study, the role of prenatal stress and maternal serotonin transporter genotype were assessed in mice to determine whether their combined effect produces reductions in social behavior in the adult offspring. Pregnant serotonin transporter heterozygous knockout and wild-type dams were placed in either a control condition or subjected to chronic variable stress. The adult offspring were subsequently assessed for social interaction and anxiety using a three-chamber social approach task, ultrasonic vocalization detection, elevated-plus maze and an open field task. Results indicated that prenatal stress and reduced serotonin transporter expression of the dam may have the combined effect of producing changes in social interaction and social interest in the offspring consistent with those observed in autism spectrum disorder. This data indicates a possible combined effect of maternal serotonin transporter genotype and prenatal stress contributing to the production of autistic-like behaviors in offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen L Jones
- Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
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24
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White matter integrity in the splenium of the corpus callosum is related to successful cognitive aging and partly mediates the protective effect of an ancestral polymorphism in ADRB2. Behav Genet 2010; 40:146-56. [PMID: 20087642 DOI: 10.1007/s10519-009-9318-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2009] [Accepted: 11/21/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
It has recently been reported that the evolutionarily ancestral alleles of two functional polymorphisms in the beta(2)-adrenergic receptor gene (ADRB2) were related to higher cognitive ability in the 70 year old participants of the Lothian Birth Cohort 1936 (LBC1936). One emerging important factor in cognitive aging is the integrity of white matter tracts in the brain. Here, we used diffusion tensor MRI-based tractography to assess the integrity of eight white matter tracts in a subsample of the LBC1936. Higher integrity of the splenium of the corpus callosum predicted better cognitive ability in old age, even after controlling for IQ at age 11. Also, the ancestral allele of one ADRB2 SNP was associated with both splenium integrity and better cognitive aging. While the effects of the SNP and splenium integrity on cognitive aging were largely independent, there was some evidence for a partial mediation effect of ADRB2 status via splenium integrity.
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Becker KG, Schultz ST. Similarities in features of autism and asthma and a possible link to acetaminophen use. Med Hypotheses 2010; 74:7-11. [PMID: 19748189 PMCID: PMC3261751 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2009.08.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2009] [Accepted: 08/15/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Autism and autism spectrum disorders are enigmatic conditions that have their origins in the interaction of genes and environmental factors. In this hypothesis, genes statistically associated with autism are emphasized to be important in inflammation and in innate immune pathways, including pathways for susceptibility to asthma. The role of acetaminophen (paracetamol) in an increased risk for asthma is described and a possible similar link to an increased risk for autism is suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin G. Becker
- Gene Expression and Genomics Unit, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224
| | - Stephen T. Schultz
- The Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, Illinois
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26
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Witter FR, Zimmerman AW, Reichmann JP, Connors SL. In utero beta 2 adrenergic agonist exposure and adverse neurophysiologic and behavioral outcomes. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2009; 201:553-9. [PMID: 19961985 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2009.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2009] [Revised: 06/18/2009] [Accepted: 07/06/2009] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Beta 2 adrenergic receptor overstimulation during critical periods of prenatal development can induce a permanent shift in the balance of sympathetic-to-parasympathetic tone. This is a biologically plausible mechanism whereby beta 2 adrenergic agonists can induce functional and behavioral teratogenesis, which explains their association with increases in autism spectrum disorders, psychiatric disorders, poor cognitive, motor function and school performance, and changes in blood pressure in the offspring. The use of beta 2 adrenergic agonists should be limited to proven indications when alternate drugs are ineffective or unavailable; the risks of untreated disease to the mother and fetus are greater than the risk of the beta 2 adrenergic agonist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank R Witter
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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27
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Vincent JB, Noor A, Windpassinger C, Gianakopoulos PJ, Schwarzbraun T, Alfred SE, Stachowiak B, Scherer SW, Roberts W, Wagner K, Kroisel PM, Petek E. Characterization of a de novo translocation t(5;18)(q33.1;q12.1) in an autistic boy identifies a breakpoint close to SH3TC2, ADRB2, and HTR4 on 5q, and within the desmocollin gene cluster on 18q. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 2009; 150B:817-26. [PMID: 19086034 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.30903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
We have recently reported the identification of a de novo balanced translocation t(5;18)(q33.1;q12.1) in a boy with autism. Here we discuss the identification of the breakpoints on chromosomes 5 and 18, and subsequent genomic and candidate gene analyses. The 18q breakpoint lies between desmocollin genes DSC1 and DSC2. The chromosome 5 breakpoint lies at the 3' end of the SH3TC2 gene and distal to beta-adrenergic receptor gene ADRB2 and serotonin receptor gene HTR4. We hypothesized that the transcription of one (or more) of these genes is affected by the translocation by position effect. Looking at allele-specific gene expression for the genes at the 5q locus, we were able to determine that ADRB2 is expressed from both the normal and derivative alleles. Due to the lack of expression in available tissues or lack of available informative transcribed SNPs, we were unable to exclude the involvement of SH3TC2 and HTR4 due to position effect. However, we determined that both DSC1 and DSC2 are only transcribed from the normal chromosome 18 in lymphocytes from the proband. This monoallelic expression of DSC2 may put the patient at risk for arrythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy. Desmocollin genes encode cell-adhesion molecules, and are also highly expressed in brain regions, and thus may also be important for normal neuronal functioning. While a role for SH3TC2, ADRB2, and HTR4 as putative candidate genes for autism cannot be discounted, a role for the desmocollin genes at the 18q breakpoint should also be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- John B Vincent
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Cagliani R, Fumagalli M, Pozzoli U, Riva S, Comi GP, Torri F, Macciardi F, Bresolin N, Sironi M. Diverse evolutionary histories for beta-adrenoreceptor genes in humans. Am J Hum Genet 2009; 85:64-75. [PMID: 19576569 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2009.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2009] [Revised: 06/11/2009] [Accepted: 06/12/2009] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In humans, three genes--ADRB1, ADRB2 and ADRB3--encode beta-adrenoreceptors (ADRB); these molecules mediate the action of catecholamines in multiple tissues and play pivotal roles in cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic, and immunological functions. Genetic variants in ADRB genes have been associated with widespread diseases and conditions, but inconsistent results have often been obtained. Here, we addressed the recent evolutionary history of ADRB genes in human populations. Although ADRB1 is neutrally evolving, most tests rejected neutral evolution for ADRB2 in European, African, and Asian population samples. Analysis of inferred haplotypes for ADRB2 revealed three major clades with a coalescence time of 1-1.5 million years, suggesting that the gene is either subjected to balancing selection or undergoing a selective sweep. Haplotype analysis also revealed ethnicity-specific differences. Additionally, we observed significant deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) for ADRB2 genotypes in distinct European cohorts; HWE deviation depends on sex (only females are in disequilibrium), and genotypes displaying maximum and minimum relative fitness differ across population samples, suggesting a complex situation possibly involving epistasis or maternal selection. Overall, our data indicate that future association studies involving ADRB2 will benefit from taking into account ethnicity-specific haplotype distributions and sex-based effects. With respect to ADRB3, our data indicate that the gene has been subjected to a selective sweep in African populations, the Trp64 variant possibly representing the selection target. Given the previous association of the ancestral ADRB3 Arg64 allele with obesity and type 2 diabetes, dietary adaptations might represent the underlying selective force.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachele Cagliani
- Bioinformatic Lab, Scientific Institute IRCCS E. Medea, Via don L. Monza 20, 23842 Bosisio Parini, LC, Italy
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29
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Frederick AL, Stanwood GD. Drugs, biogenic amine targets and the developing brain. Dev Neurosci 2009; 31:7-22. [PMID: 19372683 DOI: 10.1159/000207490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2008] [Accepted: 09/08/2008] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Defects in the development of the brain have a profound impact on mature brain functions and underlying psychopathology. Classical neurotransmitters and neuromodulators, such as dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine, acetylcholine, glutamate and GABA, have pleiotropic effects during brain development. In other words, these molecules produce multiple diverse effects to serve as regulators of distinct cellular functions at different times in neurodevelopment. These systems are impacted upon by abuse of a variety of illicit drugs, neurotherapeutics and environmental contaminants. In this review, we describe the impact of drugs and chemicals on brain formation and function in animal models and in human populations, highlighting sensitive periods and effects that may not emerge until later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aliya L Frederick
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232-6600, USA
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30
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Mehler MF, Purpura DP. Autism, fever, epigenetics and the locus coeruleus. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 59:388-92. [PMID: 19059284 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresrev.2008.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2008] [Revised: 11/13/2008] [Accepted: 11/18/2008] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Some children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) exhibit improved behaviors and enhanced communication during febrile episodes. We hypothesize that febrigenesis and the behavioral-state changes associated with fever in autism depend upon selective normalization of key components of a functionally impaired locus coeruleus-noradrenergic (LC-NA) system. We posit that autistic behaviors result from developmental dysregulation of LC-NA system specification and neural network deployment and modulation linked to the core behavioral features of autism. Fever transiently restores the modulatory functions of the LC-NA system and ameliorates autistic behaviors. Fever-induced reversibility of autism suggests preserved functional integrity of widespread neural networks subserving the LC-NA system and specifically the subsystems involved in mediating the cognitive and behavioral repertoires compromised in ASD. Alterations of complex gene-environmental interactions and associated epigenetic mechanisms during seminal developmental critical periods are viewed as instrumental in LC-NA dysregulation as emphasized by the timing and severity of prenatal maternal stressors on autism prevalence. Our hypothesis has implications for a rational approach to further interrogate the interdisciplinary etiology of ASD and for designing novel biological detection systems and therapeutic agents that target the LC-NA system's diverse network of pre- and postsynaptic receptors, intracellular signaling pathways and dynamic epigenetic remodeling processes involved in their regulation and functional plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark F Mehler
- Institute for Brain Disorders and Neural Regeneration, The Saul R. Korey Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York 10461, USA.
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31
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Thompson BL, Stanwood GD. Pleiotropic effects of neurotransmission during development: modulators of modularity. J Autism Dev Disord 2008; 39:260-8. [PMID: 18648918 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-008-0624-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2008] [Accepted: 07/04/2008] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The formation and function of the mammalian cerebral cortex relies on the complex interplay of a variety of genetic and environmental factors through protracted periods of gestational and postnatal development. Biogenic amine systems are important neuromodulators, both in the adult nervous system, and during critical epochs of brain development. Abnormalities in developmental programming likely contribute to developmental delays and multiple neurological and psychiatric disorders, often with symptom onset much later than the actual induction of pathology. We review several genetic and pharmacological models of dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin modulation during development, each of which produces permanent changes in cerebral cortical structure and function. These models clearly illustrate the ability of these neurotransmitters to function beyond their classic roles and show their involvement in the development and modulation of fine brain circuitry that is sensitive to numerous effectors. Furthermore, these studies demonstrate the need to consider not only gene by environment interactions, but also gene by environment by developmental time interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara L Thompson
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA.
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32
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Connors SL, Levitt P, Matthews SG, Slotkin TA, Johnston MV, Kinney HC, Johnson WG, Dailey RM, Zimmerman AW. Fetal mechanisms in neurodevelopmental disorders. Pediatr Neurol 2008; 38:163-76. [PMID: 18279750 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2007.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2007] [Revised: 09/20/2007] [Accepted: 10/29/2007] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Normal development of the central nervous system depends on complex, dynamic mechanisms with multiple spatial and temporal components during gestation. Neurodevelopmental disorders may originate during fetal life from genetic as well as intrauterine and extrauterine factors that affect the fetal-maternal environment. Fetal neurodevelopment depends on cell programs, developmental trajectories, synaptic plasticity, and oligodendrocyte maturation, which are variously modifiable by factors such as stress and endocrine disruption, exposure to pesticides such as chlorpyrifos and to drugs such as terbutaline, maternal teratogenic alleles, and premature birth. Current research illustrates how altered fetal mechanisms may affect long-term physiological and behavioral functions of the central nervous system more significantly than they affect its form, and these effects may be transgenerational. This research emphasizes the diversity of such prenatal mechanisms and the need to expand our understanding of how, when altered, they may lead to disordered development, the signs of which may not appear until long after birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan L Connors
- Department of Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Kennedy Krieger Institute, 707 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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33
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Becker KG. Autism, asthma, inflammation, and the hygiene hypothesis. Med Hypotheses 2007; 69:731-40. [PMID: 17412520 PMCID: PMC2048743 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2007.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2007] [Accepted: 02/07/2007] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Inflammation and the genes, molecules, and biological pathways that lead to inflammatory processes influence many important and disparate biological processes and disease states that are quite often not generally considered classical inflammatory or autoimmune disorders. These include development, reproduction, aging, tumor development and tumor rejection, cardiovascular pathologies, metabolic disorders, as well as neurological and psychiatric disorders. This paper compares parallel aspects of autism and inflammatory disorders with an emphasis on asthma. These comparisons include epidemiological, morphometric, molecular, and genetic aspects of both disease types, contributing to a hypothesis of autism in the context of the immune based hygiene hypothesis. This hypothesis is meant to address the apparent rise in the prevalence of autism in the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin G Becker
- Gene Expression and Genomics Unit, RRB, TRIAD Technology Center, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
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