1
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BDNF and Pro-BDNF in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A New Perspective for Biomarkers of Neurodegeneration. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12050617. [PMID: 35625004 PMCID: PMC9139087 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12050617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is characterized by the progressive degeneration of upper or lower motor neurons, leading to muscle wasting and paralysis, resulting in respiratory failure and death. The precise ALS aetiology is poorly understood, mainly due to clinical and genetic heterogeneity. Thus, the identification of reliable biomarkers of disease could be helpful in clinical practice. In this study, we investigated whether the levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its precursor Pro-BDNF in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) may reflect the pathological changes related to ALS. We found higher BDNF and lower Pro-BDNF levels in ALS sera compared to healthy controls. BDNF/Pro-BDNF ratio turned out to be accurate in distinguishing ALS patients from controls. Then, the correlations of these markers with several ALS clinical variables were evaluated. This analysis revealed three statistically significant associations: (1) Patients carrying the C9orf72 expansion significantly differed from non-carrier patients and showed serum BDNF levels comparable to control subjects; (2) BDNF levels in CSF were significantly higher in ALS patients with faster disease progression; (3) lower serum levels of Pro-BDNF were associated with a shorter survival. Therefore, we suggest that BDNF and Pro-BDNF, alone or in combination, might be used as ALS prognostic biomarkers.
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2
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Nam Y, Moon GJ, Kim SR. Therapeutic Potential of AAV1-Rheb(S16H) Transduction against Neurodegenerative Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22063064. [PMID: 33802760 PMCID: PMC8002454 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22063064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurotrophic factors (NTFs) are essential for cell growth, survival, synaptic plasticity, and maintenance of specific neuronal population in the central nervous system. Multiple studies have demonstrated that alterations in the levels and activities of NTFs are related to the pathology and symptoms of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease (PD), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and Huntington’s disease. Hence, the key molecule that can regulate the expression of NTFs is an important target for gene therapy coupling adeno-associated virus vector (AAV) gene. We have previously reported that the Ras homolog protein enriched in brain (Rheb)–mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) axis plays a vital role in preventing neuronal death in the brain of AD and PD patients. AAV transduction using a constitutively active form of Rheb exerts a neuroprotective effect through the upregulation of NTFs, thereby promoting the neurotrophic interaction between astrocytes and neurons in AD conditions. These findings suggest the role of Rheb as an important regulator of the regulatory system of NTFs to treat neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we present an overview of the role of Rheb in neurodegenerative diseases and summarize the therapeutic potential of AAV serotype 1 (AAV1)-Rheb(S16H) transduction in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, focusing on diseases, such as AD and PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngpyo Nam
- Brain Science and Engineering Institute, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944, Korea;
| | - Gyeong Joon Moon
- Center for Cell Therapy, Asan Institute for Life Science, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Korea;
- Department of Convergence Medicine, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea
| | - Sang Ryong Kim
- Brain Science and Engineering Institute, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944, Korea;
- School of Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
- BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-53-950-7362; Fax: +82-53-943-2762
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3
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Miranda-Lourenço C, Ribeiro-Rodrigues L, Fonseca-Gomes J, Tanqueiro SR, Belo RF, Ferreira CB, Rei N, Ferreira-Manso M, de Almeida-Borlido C, Costa-Coelho T, Freitas CF, Zavalko S, Mouro FM, Sebastião AM, Xapelli S, Rodrigues TM, Diógenes MJ. Challenges of BDNF-based therapies: From common to rare diseases. Pharmacol Res 2020; 162:105281. [PMID: 33161136 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Neurotrophins are a well-known family of neurotrophic factors that play an important role both in the central and peripheral nervous systems, where they modulate neuronal survival, development, function and plasticity. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) possesses diverse biological functions which are mediated by the activation of two main classes of receptors, the tropomyosin-related kinase (Trk) B and the p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR). The therapeutic potential of BDNF has drawn attention since dysregulation of its signalling cascades has been suggested to underlie the pathogenesis of both common and rare diseases. Multiple strategies targeting this neurotrophin have been tested; most have found obstacles that ultimately hampered their effectiveness. This review focuses on the involvement of BDNF and its receptors in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Rett Syndrome (RTT). We describe the known mechanisms leading to the impairment of BDNF/TrkB signalling in these disorders. Such mechanistic insight highlights how BDNF signalling compromise can take various shapes, nearly disease-specific. Therefore, BDNF-based therapeutic strategies must be specifically tailored and are more likely to succeed if a combination of resources is employed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Miranda-Lourenço
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Leonor Ribeiro-Rodrigues
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - João Fonseca-Gomes
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sara R Tanqueiro
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Rita F Belo
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Catarina B Ferreira
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Nádia Rei
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Mafalda Ferreira-Manso
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Carolina de Almeida-Borlido
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Tiago Costa-Coelho
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Céline Felicidade Freitas
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Svitlana Zavalko
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Francisco M Mouro
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana M Sebastião
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sara Xapelli
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Tiago M Rodrigues
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB), Mittlere Strasse 91, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Maria J Diógenes
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
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4
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Fernández-García S, Sancho-Balsells A, Longueville S, Hervé D, Gruart A, Delgado-García JM, Alberch J, Giralt A. Astrocytic BDNF and TrkB regulate severity and neuronal activity in mouse models of temporal lobe epilepsy. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:411. [PMID: 32483154 PMCID: PMC7264221 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-2615-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes have emerged as crucial regulators of neuronal network activity, synapse formation, and underlying behavioral and cognitive processes. Despite some pathways have been identified, the communication between astrocytes and neurons remains to be completely elucidated. Unraveling this communication is crucial to design potential treatments for neurological disorders like temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). The BDNF and TrkB molecules have emerged as very promising therapeutic targets. However, their modulation can be accompanied by several off-target effects such as excitotoxicity in case of uncontrolled upregulation or dementia, amnesia, and other memory disorders in case of downregulation. Here, we show that BDNF and TrkB from astrocytes modulate neuronal dysfunction in TLE models. First, conditional overexpression of BDNF from astrocytes worsened the phenotype in the lithium-pilocarpine mouse model. Our evidences pointed out to the astrocytic pro-BDNF isoform as a major player of this altered phenotype. Conversely, specific genetic deletion of BDNF in astrocytes prevented the increase in the number of firing neurons and the global firing rate in an in vitro model of TLE. Regarding to the TrkB, we generated mice with a genetic deletion of TrkB specifically in hippocampal neurons or astrocytes. Interestingly, both lines displayed neuroprotection in the lithium-pilocarpine model but only the mice with genetic deletion of TrkB in astrocytes showed significantly preserved spatial learning skills. These data identify the astrocytic BDNF and TrkB molecules as promising therapeutic targets for the treatment of TLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Fernández-García
- Departament de Biomedicina, Facultat de Medicina, Institut de Neurociències, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036, Barcelona, Spain.,Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), 28031, Madrid, Spain
| | - Anna Sancho-Balsells
- Departament de Biomedicina, Facultat de Medicina, Institut de Neurociències, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036, Barcelona, Spain.,Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), 28031, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sophie Longueville
- Inserm UMR-S 1270, 75005, Paris, France.,Sorbonne Université, Science and Engineering Faculty, 75005, Paris, France.,Institut du Fer a Moulin, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Denis Hervé
- Inserm UMR-S 1270, 75005, Paris, France.,Sorbonne Université, Science and Engineering Faculty, 75005, Paris, France.,Institut du Fer a Moulin, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Agnès Gruart
- Division of Neurosciences, Pablo de Olavide University, 41013, Seville, Spain
| | | | - Jordi Alberch
- Departament de Biomedicina, Facultat de Medicina, Institut de Neurociències, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036, Barcelona, Spain.,Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), 28031, Madrid, Spain.,Production and Validation Center of Advanced Therapies (Creatio), Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, University of Barcelona, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Albert Giralt
- Departament de Biomedicina, Facultat de Medicina, Institut de Neurociències, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036, Barcelona, Spain. .,Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036, Barcelona, Spain. .,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), 28031, Madrid, Spain. .,Production and Validation Center of Advanced Therapies (Creatio), Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, University of Barcelona, 08036, Barcelona, Spain.
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5
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Pradhan J, Noakes PG, Bellingham MC. The Role of Altered BDNF/TrkB Signaling in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:368. [PMID: 31456666 PMCID: PMC6700252 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is well recognized for its neuroprotective functions, via activation of its high affinity receptor, tropomysin related kinase B (TrkB). In addition, BDNF/TrkB neuroprotective functions can also be elicited indirectly via activation of adenosine 2A receptors (A2aRs), which in turn transactivates TrkB. Evidence suggests that alterations in BDNF/TrkB, including TrkB transactivation by A2aRs, can occur in several neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Although enhancing BDNF has been a major goal for protection of dying motor neurons (MNs), this has not been successful. Indeed, there is emerging in vitro and in vivo evidence suggesting that an upregulation of BDNF/TrkB can cause detrimental effects on MNs, making them more vulnerable to pathophysiological insults. For example, in ALS, early synaptic hyper-excitability of MNs is thought to enhance BDNF-mediated signaling, thereby causing glutamate excitotoxicity, and ultimately MN death. Moreover, direct inhibition of TrkB and A2aRs has been shown to protect MNs from these pathophysiological insults, suggesting that modulation of BDNF/TrkB and/or A2aRs receptors may be important in early disease pathogenesis in ALS. This review highlights the relevance of pathophysiological actions of BDNF/TrkB under certain circumstances, so that manipulation of BDNF/TrkB and A2aRs may give rise to alternate neuroprotective therapeutic strategies in the treatment of neural diseases such as ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonu Pradhan
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Peter G Noakes
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Mark C Bellingham
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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6
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Oliveira-Giacomelli Á, Naaldijk Y, Sardá-Arroyo L, Gonçalves MCB, Corrêa-Velloso J, Pillat MM, de Souza HDN, Ulrich H. Purinergic Receptors in Neurological Diseases With Motor Symptoms: Targets for Therapy. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:325. [PMID: 29692728 PMCID: PMC5902708 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Since proving adenosine triphosphate (ATP) functions as a neurotransmitter in neuron/glia interactions, the purinergic system has been more intensely studied within the scope of the central nervous system. In neurological disorders with associated motor symptoms, including Parkinson's disease (PD), motor neuron diseases (MND), multiple sclerosis (MS), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Huntington's Disease (HD), restless leg syndrome (RLS), and ataxias, alterations in purinergic receptor expression and activity have been noted, indicating a potential role for this system in disease etiology and progression. In neurodegenerative conditions, neural cell death provokes extensive ATP release and alters calcium signaling through purinergic receptor modulation. Consequently, neuroinflammatory responses, excitotoxicity and apoptosis are directly or indirectly induced. This review analyzes currently available data, which suggests involvement of the purinergic system in neuro-associated motor dysfunctions and underlying mechanisms. Possible targets for pharmacological interventions are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yahaira Naaldijk
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Laura Sardá-Arroyo
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria C. B. Gonçalves
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience, Medical School, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Juliana Corrêa-Velloso
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Micheli M. Pillat
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Héllio D. N. de Souza
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Henning Ulrich
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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7
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Vejux A, Namsi A, Nury T, Moreau T, Lizard G. Biomarkers of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Current Status and Interest of Oxysterols and Phytosterols. Front Mol Neurosci 2018; 11:12. [PMID: 29445325 PMCID: PMC5797798 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2018.00012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a non-demyelinating neurodegenerative disease in adults with motor disorders. Two forms exist: a sporadic form (90% of cases) and a family form due to mutations in more than 20 genes including the Superoxide dismutase 1, TAR DNA Binding Protein, Fused in Sarcoma, chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 and VAPB genes. The mechanisms associated with this pathology are beginning to be known: oxidative stress, glutamate excitotoxicity, protein aggregation, reticulum endoplasmic stress, neuroinflammation, alteration of RNA metabolism. In various neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease or multiple sclerosis, the involvement of lipids is increasingly suggested based on lipid metabolism modifications. With regard to ALS, research has also focused on the possible involvement of lipids. Lipid involvement was suggested for clinical arguments where changes in cholesterol and LDL/HDL levels were reported with, however, differences in positivity between studies. Since lipids are involved in the membrane structure and certain signaling pathways, it may be considered to look for oxysterols, mainly 25-hydroxycholesterol and its metabolites involved in immune response, or phytosterols to find suitable biomarkers for this pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Vejux
- Team Biochemistry of the Peroxisome, Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism EA 7270, INSERM, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Dijon, France
| | - Amira Namsi
- Team Biochemistry of the Peroxisome, Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism EA 7270, INSERM, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Dijon, France.,Laboratoire de Neurophysiologie Fonctionnelle et Pathologies, UR11ES/09, Faculté des Sciences Mathématiques, Physiques et Naturelles de Tunis, Université de Tunis El Manar - Bienvenue, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Thomas Nury
- Team Biochemistry of the Peroxisome, Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism EA 7270, INSERM, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Dijon, France
| | - Thibault Moreau
- Team Biochemistry of the Peroxisome, Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism EA 7270, INSERM, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Dijon, France.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital/University Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Dijon, France
| | - Gérard Lizard
- Team Biochemistry of the Peroxisome, Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism EA 7270, INSERM, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Dijon, France
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8
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Saeedi Saravi SS, Saeedi Saravi SS, Arefidoust A, Dehpour AR. The beneficial effects of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors in the processes of neurodegeneration. Metab Brain Dis 2017; 32:949-965. [PMID: 28578514 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-017-0021-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2016] [Accepted: 04/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Statins, cholesterol lowering drugs, have been demonstrated to exert beneficial effects in other conditions such as primary and progressing neurodegenerative diseases beyond their original role. Observation that statins ameliorate the neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease (PD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), multiple sclerosis (MS) and cerebral ischemic stroke, the neuroprotective effects of these drugs are thought to be linked to their anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and anti-excitotoxic properties. Despite the voluminous literature on the clinical advantages of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl Co-enzyme A reductase (HMGCR) inhibitors (statins) in cardiovascular system, the neuroprotective effects and the underlying mechanisms are little understood. Hence, the present review tries to provide a critical overview on the statin-induced neuroprotection, which are presumed to be associated with the ability to reduce cholesterol, Amyloid-β and apolipoprotein E (ApoE) levels, decrease reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS and RNS) formation, inhibit excitotoxicity, modulate matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), stimulate endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), and increase cerebral blood perfusion. This review is also aimed to illustrate that statins protect neurons against the neuro-inflammatory processes through balancing pro-inflammatory/anti-inflammatory cytokines. Ultimately, the beneficial role of statins in ameliorating the development of PD, AD, MS and cerebral ischemic stroke has been separately reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Soheil Saeedi Saravi
- Department of Toxicology-Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Experimental Medicine Research Center, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Sobhan Saeedi Saravi
- Department of Toxicology-Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Alireza Arefidoust
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Experimental Medicine Research Center, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad Reza Dehpour
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Experimental Medicine Research Center, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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9
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Glat MJ, Benninger F, Barhum Y, Ben-Zur T, Kogan E, Steiner I, Yaffe D, Offen D. Ectopic Muscle Expression of Neurotrophic Factors Improves Recovery After Nerve Injury. J Mol Neurosci 2015; 58:39-45. [PMID: 26385386 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-015-0648-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2015] [Accepted: 08/26/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Sciatic nerve damage is a common medical problem. The main causes include direct trauma, prolonged external nerve compression, and pressure from disk herniation. Possible complications include leg numbness and the loss of motor control. In mild cases, conservative treatment is feasible. However, following severe injury, recovery may not be possible. Neuronal regeneration, survival, and maintenance can be achieved by neurotrophic factors (NTFs). In this study, we examined the potency of combining brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) on the recovery of motor neuron function after crush injury of the sciatic nerve. We show that combined NTF application increases the survival of motor neurons exposed to a hypoxic environment. The ectopic expression of NTFs in the injured muscle improves the recovery of the sciatic nerve after crush injury. A significantly faster recovery of compound muscle action potential (CMAP) amplitude and conduction velocity is observed after muscle injections of viral vectors expressing a mixture of the four NTF genes. Our findings suggest a rationale for using genetic treatment with a combination of NTF-expressing vectors, as a potential therapeutic approach for severe peripheral nerve injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micaela Johanna Glat
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel.,Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Felix Benninger
- Department of Neurology, Rabin Medical Center, Petach Tikva, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Yael Barhum
- Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Tali Ben-Zur
- Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Elena Kogan
- Department of Neurology, Rabin Medical Center, Petach Tikva, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Israel Steiner
- Department of Neurology, Rabin Medical Center, Petach Tikva, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - David Yaffe
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Daniel Offen
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel. .,Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel. .,The Neuroscience Laboratory, Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Rabin Medical Center, 49100, Petah Tikva, Israel.
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10
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Li H, Gong Y, Qian H, Chen T, Liu Z, Jiang Z, Wei S. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor is a novel target gene of the has-miR-183/96/182 cluster in retinal pigment epithelial cells following visible light exposure. Mol Med Rep 2015; 12:2793-9. [PMID: 25955435 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2015.3736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2014] [Accepted: 12/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Light-induced retinal injury is clinically and experimentally well-documented. It may be categorized into three types: Photothermal, photomechanical and photochemical injuries. To date, the variation in the hsa-miR-183/96/182 cluster and its potential target genes in human primary retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells, following visible light exposure, has not been reported. In the present study, RPE cells were exposed to 4 h of constant visible light. The expression of the hsa-miR-183/96/182 cluster was determined using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and its potential target genes were investigated. Additionally, hsa-miR-183, hsa-miR-96, hsa-miR-182 and has-miR-183/96/182 mimics were designed and synthesized in vitro, and transfected into the RPE cells. Subsequently, the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) mRNA and protein was measured, using RT-qPCR and western blotting, respectively. The regulation of miRNAs to the BDNF gene were then validated using a dual luciferase reporter gene assay system. The expression of hsa-miR-183, hsa-miR-96 and hsa-miR-182 significantly increased in RPE cells following 4 h of visible light exposure, compared with RPE cells that had been exposed to dark conditions (P<0.01). Following RPE cell transfection with mimics, BDNF mRNA and protein expression in the RPE cells was significantly downregulated compared with control RPE cells (P<0.05, P<0.01, respectively). Similarly, the ratio of Renilla luciferase/firefly luciferase significantly decreased in the RPE cells of the mimic + wild type (WT) group compared with cells of the psiCHECK(TM)-2 (a vector lacking the sequence of the BDNF gene), wild type and mimic + mutation groups (P<0.05, P<0.01). The present study suggests that BDNF is a target gene of the has-miR-183-96-182 cluster in RPE cells. The present study suggests an underlying protective mechanism against retinal light injury and may provide a novel target for the prevention and treatment of light-induced retinal injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyang Li
- Department of Opthalmology, The Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing 100000, P.R. China
| | - Yan Gong
- Department of Opthalmology, The Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing 100000, P.R. China
| | - Haiyan Qian
- Department of Opthalmology, The Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing 100000, P.R. China
| | - Tingjun Chen
- Department of Opthalmology, The Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing 100000, P.R. China
| | - Zihao Liu
- Department of Opthalmology, The Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing 100000, P.R. China
| | - Zhaocai Jiang
- Department of Opthalmology, The Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing 100000, P.R. China
| | - Shihui Wei
- Department of Opthalmology, The Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing 100000, P.R. China
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11
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Tovar-Y-Romo LB, Ramírez-Jarquín UN, Lazo-Gómez R, Tapia R. Trophic factors as modulators of motor neuron physiology and survival: implications for ALS therapy. Front Cell Neurosci 2014; 8:61. [PMID: 24616665 PMCID: PMC3937589 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2014.00061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2013] [Accepted: 02/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Motor neuron physiology and development depend on a continuous and tightly regulated trophic support from a variety of cellular sources. Trophic factors guide the generation and positioning of motor neurons during every stage of the developmental process. As well, they are involved in axon guidance and synapse formation. Even in the adult spinal cord an uninterrupted trophic input is required to maintain neuronal functioning and protection from noxious stimuli. Among the trophic factors that have been demonstrated to participate in motor neuron physiology are vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). Upon binding to membrane receptors expressed in motor neurons or neighboring glia, these trophic factors activate intracellular signaling pathways that promote cell survival and have protective action on motor neurons, in both in vivo and in vitro models of neuronal degeneration. For these reasons these factors have been considered a promising therapeutic method for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other neurodegenerative diseases, although their efficacy in human clinical trials have not yet shown the expected protection. In this minireview we summarize experimental data on the role of these trophic factors in motor neuron function and survival, as well as their mechanisms of action. We also briefly discuss the potential therapeutic use of the trophic factors and why these therapies may have not been yet successful in the clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis B Tovar-Y-Romo
- División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Uri Nimrod Ramírez-Jarquín
- División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rafael Lazo-Gómez
- División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ricardo Tapia
- División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Mexico City, Mexico
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12
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Verhovshek T, Rudolph LM, Sengelaub DR. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor and androgen interactions in spinal neuromuscular systems. Neuroscience 2012; 239:103-14. [PMID: 23103213 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2012.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2012] [Revised: 08/20/2012] [Accepted: 10/13/2012] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Neurotrophic factors and steroid hormones interact to regulate a variety of neuronal processes such as neurite outgrowth, differentiation, and neuroprotection. The coexpression of steroid hormone and neurotrophin receptor mRNAs and proteins, as well as their reciprocal regulation provides the necessary substrates for such interactions to occur. This review will focus on androgen brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) interactions in the spinal cord, describing androgen regulation of BDNF in neuromuscular systems following castration, androgen manipulation, and injury. Androgens interact with BDNF during development to regulate normally-occurring motoneuron death, and in adulthood, androgen-BDNF interactions are involved in the maintenance of several features of neuromuscular systems. Androgens regulate BDNF and trkB expression in spinal motoneurons. Androgens also regulate BDNF levels in the target musculature, and androgenic action at the muscle regulates BDNF levels in motoneurons. These interactions have important implications for the maintenance of motoneuron morphology. Finally, androgens interact with BDNF after injury, influencing soma size, dendritic morphology, and axon regeneration. Together, these findings provide further insight into the development and maintenance of neuromuscular systems and have implications for the neurotherapeutic/neuroprotective roles of androgens and trophic factors in the treatment of motoneuron disease and recovery from injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Verhovshek
- Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Group, Stark Neurosciences Research Institute and Department of Neurological Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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13
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Dadon-Nachum M, Ben-Zur T, Srugo I, Shamir HM, Melamed E, Yaffe D, Offen D. Therapeutic effect of myogenic cells modified to express neurotrophic factors in a rat model of sciatic nerve injury. J Stem Cells Regen Med 2012. [PMID: 24693189 PMCID: PMC3908299 DOI: 10.46582/jsrm.0801004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Sciatic nerve injury may cause neurological deficits, particularly muscle weakness. Previous studies have shown that administration of neurotrophic factors (NTFs), naturally occurring proteins that support the development and survival of neurons, partially protected the damaged motor neuron in the injured sciatic nerve. In the current study, we have examined whether the administration of various combinations of transfected muscle progenitor cells (MPCs) populations, each expressing a single NTF (BDNF, GDNF, IGF-1 or VEGF) or conditioned media of such culture are capable of rescuing motor neurons in culture or in vivo. We have found that the mixture of conditioned media collected from cultured myogenic cells (MPCs- MIX+) alleviated the toxic effect of exposure of the motor neuron cell line NSC34 to hypoxic environment. Furthermore, NTFs secreting cells transplantation, protected motor neurons in a unilateral rat sciatic nerve injury model: One day after the crush, rats underwent transplantation at the lesion site with rat myogenic cells expressing one of the four NTFs; a mixture of cells expressing all four NTFs (MPCs- MIX+), MPCs-GFP or PBS. We found that in rats injected with MPCs- MIX+ the motor function was markedly preserved, compared to groups injected with cells secreting a single NTF, GFP or PBS. Transplantation of the MPCs- MIX+ significantly inhibited the degeneration of the neuromuscular junctions and enhanced the survival of the myelinated motor axons. The injection of MPCs- MIX+ preserved the compound muscle action potential (CMAP) as was demonstrated by motor nerve conduction studies. Our findings suggest that MPCs induced to secrete several NTFs can synergistically alleviate symptoms of sciatic nerve injury and perhaps other motor neuron disorders..
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Affiliation(s)
- M Dadon-Nachum
- Felsenstein Medical Research Center and Sackler School of Medicine , Tel-Aviv University
| | - T Ben-Zur
- Felsenstein Medical Research Center and Sackler School of Medicine , Tel-Aviv University
| | - I Srugo
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem , Rehovot
| | - H M Shamir
- Koret School of Veterinary Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem , Rehovot
| | - E Melamed
- Felsenstein Medical Research Center and Sackler School of Medicine , Tel-Aviv University
| | - D Yaffe
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science , Rehovot, Israel
| | - D Offen
- Felsenstein Medical Research Center and Sackler School of Medicine , Tel-Aviv University
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14
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Ehrlich ME. Huntington's disease and the striatal medium spiny neuron: cell-autonomous and non-cell-autonomous mechanisms of disease. Neurotherapeutics 2012; 9:270-84. [PMID: 22441874 PMCID: PMC3337013 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-012-0112-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease is an autosomal dominant disorder caused by a mutation in the gene encoding the protein huntingtin on chromosome 4. The mutation is an expanded CAG repeat in the first exon, encoding a polyglutamine tract. If the polyglutamine tract is > 40, penetrance is 100% and death is inevitable. Despite the widespread expression of huntingtin, HD has long been considered primarily as a disease of the striatum. It is characterized by selective vulnerability with dysfunction followed by death of the medium size spiny neuron. Considerable effort is being expended to determine whether striatal damage is cell-autonomous, non-cell-autonomous, requiring cell-cell and region to region communication, or both. We review data supporting both mechanisms. We also attempt to organize the data into common mechanisms that may arise outside the medium, spiny neuron, but ultimately have their greatest impact in the striatum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle E Ehrlich
- Department of Pediatrics, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Annenberg 14-44, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10019, USA.
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15
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Delayed administration of VEGF rescues spinal motor neurons from death with a short effective time frame in excitotoxic experimental models in vivo. ASN Neuro 2012; 4:AN20110057. [PMID: 22369757 PMCID: PMC3314302 DOI: 10.1042/an20110057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) prevents neuronal death in different models of ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), but few studies have addressed the efficacy of VEGF to protect motor neurons after the onset of symptoms, a critical point when considering VEGF as a potential therapeutic target for ALS. We studied the capability of VEGF to protect motor neurons after an excitotoxic challenge in two models of spinal neurodegeneration in rats induced by AMPA (α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionic acid) administered either chronically with osmotic minipumps or acutely by microdialysis. VEGF was administered through osmotic minipumps in the chronic model or injected intracerebroventricularly in the acute model, and its effects were assessed by immunohistochemical and histological analyses and motor performance tests. In the chronic model, VEGF stopped the progression of the paralysis and protected motor neurons when administered after AMPA before the onset of the motor symptoms, whereas no protection was observed when administered after the onset. VEGF was also protective in the acute model, but with a short time window, since the protection was effective when administered 1 h but not 2 h after AMPA. Our results indicate that while VEGF has an indubitable neuroprotective effect, its therapeutic potential for halting or delaying the progression of motor neuron loss in ALS would likely have a short effective time frame.
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16
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Dadon-Nachum M, Sadan O, Srugo I, Melamed E, Offen D. Differentiated mesenchymal stem cells for sciatic nerve injury. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2011; 7:664-71. [PMID: 21327572 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-010-9227-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Sciatic nerve injury is common and may cause neurological deficits. Previous studies showed that administration of neurotrophic factors (NTFs), naturally occurring proteins that support the development and survival of neurons, preserved and protected damaged motor neuron in the injured sciatic nerve. We have been successful in converting bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells into astrocyte-like cells that produce and secrete NTFs (NTF(+) cells). These cells demonstrate typical astrocyte morphology, express characteristic astrocyte markers and secrete high levels of NTFs. We have already shown that these cells and their conditioned media can protect neurons in culture and in animal models of neurodegenerative diseases. In the current study we examined whether NTF(+) cells are capable of rescuing motor neurons in a rat sciatic nerve injury model, where the right hind limb sciatic nerve was crushed. Rats were transplanted with NTF(+) cells, MSCs or PBS into the lesion site. In rats injected with the NTF(+) cells motor function was markedly preserved. Moreover, NTF(+) cells significantly inhibited the degeneration of the neuromuscular junctions and preserved the myelinated motor axons. Our findings suggest that autologous therapeutic approach can alleviate signs of sciatic nerve injury and probably other neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Dadon-Nachum
- Laboratory of Neurosciences, Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Beilinson Campus and Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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17
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Zhai J, Zhou W, Li J, Hayworth CR, Zhang L, Misawa H, Klein R, Scherer SS, Balice-Gordon RJ, Kalb RG. The in vivo contribution of motor neuron TrkB receptors to mutant SOD1 motor neuron disease. Hum Mol Genet 2011; 20:4116-31. [PMID: 21816949 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddr335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its receptor tropomyosin-related kinase B (TrkB) are widely expressed in the vertebrate nervous system and play a central role in mature neuronal function. In vitro BDNF/TrkB signaling promotes neuronal survival and can help neurons resist toxic insults. Paradoxically, BDNF/TrkB signaling has also been shown, under certain in vitro circumstances, to render neurons vulnerable to insults. We show here that in vivo conditional deletion of TrkB from mature motor neurons attenuates mutant superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) toxicity. Mutant SOD1 mice lacking motor neuron TrkB live a month longer than controls and retain motor function for a longer period, particularly in the early phase of the disease. These effects are subserved by slowed motor neuron loss, persistence of neuromuscular junction integrity and reduced astrocytic and microglial reactivity within the spinal cord. These results suggest that manipulation of BDNF/TrkB signaling might have therapeutic efficacy in motor neuron diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinbin Zhai
- Division of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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18
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Gould TW, Oppenheim RW. Motor neuron trophic factors: therapeutic use in ALS? BRAIN RESEARCH REVIEWS 2011; 67:1-39. [PMID: 20971133 PMCID: PMC3109102 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresrev.2010.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2010] [Revised: 10/12/2010] [Accepted: 10/18/2010] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The modest effects of neurotrophic factor (NTF) treatment on lifespan in both animal models and clinical studies of Amyotropic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) may result from any one or combination of the four following explanations: 1.) NTFs block cell death in some physiological contexts but not in ALS; 2.) NTFs do not rescue motoneurons (MNs) from death in any physiological context; 3.) NTFs block cell death in ALS but to no avail; and 4.) NTFs are physiologically effective but limited by pharmacokinetic constraints. The object of this review is to critically evaluate the role of both NTFs and the intracellular cell death pathway itself in regulating the survival of spinal and cranial (lower) MNs during development, after injury and in response to disease. Because the role of molecules mediating MN survival has been most clearly resolved by the in vivo analysis of genetically engineered mice, this review will focus on studies of such mice expressing reporter, null or other mutant alleles of NTFs, NTF receptors, cell death or ALS-associated genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas W Gould
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157-1010, USA.
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19
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D'Antoni S, Berretta A, Seminara G, Longone P, Giuffrida-Stella AM, Battaglia G, Sortino MA, Nicoletti F, Catania MV. A prolonged pharmacological blockade of type-5 metabotropic glutamate receptors protects cultured spinal cord motor neurons against excitotoxic death. Neurobiol Dis 2011; 42:252-64. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2011.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2010] [Revised: 12/24/2010] [Accepted: 01/03/2011] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
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20
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Signaling events in axons and/or dendrites render motor neurons vulnerable to mutant superoxide dismutase toxicity. J Neurosci 2011; 31:295-9. [PMID: 21209215 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.4824-10.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The survival of dorsal root ganglion and sympathetic neurons is promoted whether nerve growth factor (NGF) activates TrkA receptors on the cell body or the axon. Yet other aspects of neurotrophic factor actions (i.e., ability to promote axon growth, selection of neurochemical phenotype and engagement of signaling modules) differ as a function of the location of the ligand-receptor interaction. The extent to which these observations are relevant to CNS neurons is unknown. This may be particularly relevant to neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, where beneficial axon-target interactions are disturbed early in the disease process. Here we characterize the growth of pure motor neurons in compartment cultures and show that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) stimulation of the cell body or axons/dendrites promotes survival. Expression of G37R mutant superoxide dismutase (SOD) in motor neurons will lead to death and this depends on BDNF activation of TrkB on axons and/or dendrites. BDNF action depends upon endocytosis of the BDNF-TrkB complex and de novo protein synthesis. These results highlight the importance of signaling events occurring in axons/dendrites in mutant SOD toxicity.
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21
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The “Dying-Back” Phenomenon of Motor Neurons in ALS. J Mol Neurosci 2010; 43:470-7. [DOI: 10.1007/s12031-010-9467-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 260] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2010] [Accepted: 10/20/2010] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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22
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Verhovshek T, Sengelaub DR. Trophic effects of brain-derived neurotrophic factor blockade in an androgen-sensitive neuromuscular system. Endocrinology 2010; 151:5337-48. [PMID: 20861229 PMCID: PMC2954719 DOI: 10.1210/en.2010-0799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In adult male rats, androgens are necessary for the maintenance of the motoneurons and their target muscles of the sexually dimorphic, steroid-sensitive spinal nucleus of the bulbocavernosus (SNB) neuromuscular system, regulating motoneuron and muscle morphology, function, and expression of trophic factors. Castration of males results in somal, dendritic, and muscle atrophy as well as increases in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the target musculature. Because BDNF can have either facilitative or inhibitory effects in other systems, we examined SNB neuromuscular morphology after BDNF blockade using a fusion protein (tyrosine kinase receptor type B IgG). Blockade of BDNF in gonadally intact males resulted in hypertrophy of SNB motoneuron dendrites and target musculature, suggesting that normal levels of BDNF are inhibitory in SNB neuromuscular system. BDNF blockade in castrated males prevented SNB motoneuron atrophy and attenuated target muscle weight loss. This is the first demonstration that the highly androgen-sensitive SNB motoneuron dendrites and target muscles can be maintained in the absence of gonadal hormones and, furthermore, that blocking BDNF can have trophic effects on skeletal muscle. These results suggest that whereas BDNF is involved in the signaling cascade mediating the androgenic support of SNB neuromuscular morphology, its action can be inhibitory. Furthermore, the elevations in BDNF after castration may be responsible for the castration-induced atrophy in SNB motoneurons and target muscles, and the trophic effects of androgens may be mediated in part through a suppression of BDNF. These results may have relevance to therapeutic approaches to the treatment of neurodegenerative disease or myopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Verhovshek
- Program in Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, USA
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23
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Samadi P, Morissette M, Lévesque D, Di Paolo T. BDNF levels are not related with levodopa-induced dyskinesias in MPTP monkeys. Mov Disord 2010; 25:116-21. [PMID: 20014115 DOI: 10.1002/mds.22885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Levodopa-induced dyskinesias (LIDs) are frequent in parkinsonian patients and may result from an aberrant plasticity. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) represents a likely candidate to subserve neuroadaptive processes encountered in LIDs. We compared striatal BDNF levels measured by ELISA in levodopa-treated 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) monkeys having developed LIDs compared with animals where LIDs were prevented by the addition of CI-1041 (NR1A/2B NMDA receptor antagonist) or low doses of cabergoline (dopamine D2 receptor agonist). We observed reduced striatal BDNF concentrations in levodopa-treated MPTP monkeys with or without LIDs, suggesting that levodopa treatment is associated with reduced striatal BDNF levels and is independent of dyskinesias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pershia Samadi
- Molecular Endocrinology and Genomic Research Centre, Laval University Medical Centre, Quebec, Canada G1V 4G2
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24
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Schengrund CL. Lipid rafts: Keys to neurodegeneration. Brain Res Bull 2010; 82:7-17. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2010.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2009] [Revised: 02/16/2010] [Accepted: 02/23/2010] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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25
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Eibl JK, Chapelsky SA, Ross GM. Multipotent Neurotrophin Antagonist Targets Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Nerve Growth Factor. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2009; 332:446-54. [DOI: 10.1124/jpet.109.159079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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26
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FOXO3a is broadly neuroprotective in vitro and in vivo against insults implicated in motor neuron diseases. J Neurosci 2009; 29:8236-47. [PMID: 19553463 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1805-09.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging is a risk factor for the development of adult-onset neurodegenerative diseases. Although some of the molecular pathways regulating longevity and stress resistance in lower organisms are defined (i.e., those activating the transcriptional regulators DAF-16 and HSF-1 in Caenorhabditis elegans), their relevance to mammals and disease susceptibility are unknown. We studied the signaling controlled by the mammalian homolog of DAF-16, FOXO3a, in model systems of motor neuron disease. Neuron death elicited in vitro by excitotoxic insult or the expression of mutant SOD1, mutant p150(glued), or polyQ-expanded androgen receptor was abrogated by expression of nuclear-targeted FOXO3a. We identify a compound [Psammaplysene A (PA)] that increases nuclear localization of FOXO3a in vitro and in vivo and show that PA also protects against these insults in vitro. Administration of PA to invertebrate model systems of neurodegeneration similarly blocked neuron death in a DAF-16/FOXO3a-dependent manner. These results indicate that activation of the DAF-16/FOXO3a pathway, genetically or pharmacologically, confers protection against the known causes of motor neuron diseases.
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27
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Hackam AS. Regulation of neurotrophin expression and activity in the retina. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2008; 613:343-9. [PMID: 18188963 DOI: 10.1007/978-0-387-74904-4_40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
MESH Headings
- Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing/metabolism
- Animals
- Enzyme Activation
- Extracellular Signal-Regulated MAP Kinases/metabolism
- Gene Expression Regulation
- Guanosine Triphosphate/metabolism
- Humans
- Ligands
- Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases/metabolism
- Models, Biological
- Nerve Growth Factors/genetics
- Nerve Growth Factors/metabolism
- Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases/metabolism
- Phosphorylation
- Protein Binding
- Protein Kinase C/metabolism
- Protein Structure, Tertiary
- Receptor, trkA/chemistry
- Receptor, trkA/metabolism
- Receptor, trkB/chemistry
- Receptor, trkB/metabolism
- Receptor, trkC/chemistry
- Receptor, trkC/metabolism
- Receptors, Nerve Growth Factor/metabolism
- Retina/metabolism
- Signal Transduction
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail S Hackam
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1638 NW10th Ave., Miami, FL 33136, USA.
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28
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Yoshida H, Tomita H, Sugano E, Isago H, Ishiguro SI, Tamai M. BDNF Increases the Phagocytic Activity in Cultured Iris Pigment Epithelial Cells. Cell Struct Funct 2008; 33:21-6. [DOI: 10.1247/csf.07025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hikari Yoshida
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University School of Medicine
| | - Hiroshi Tomita
- Department of Biofunctional Science, Tohoku University Biomedical Engineering Research Organization
| | - Eriko Sugano
- Department of Biofunctional Science, Tohoku University Biomedical Engineering Research Organization
- Department of Biofunctional Science, Tohoku University International Advanced Research and Education Organization
| | - Hitomi Isago
- Department of Biofunctional Science, Tohoku University Biomedical Engineering Research Organization
| | | | - Makoto Tamai
- Department of Biofunctional Science, Tohoku University Biomedical Engineering Research Organization
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Knox RJ, Keen KL, Luchansky L, Terasawa E, Freyer H, Barbee SJ, Kaczmarek LK. Comparative effects of sodium pyrithione evoked intracellular calcium elevation in rodent and primate ventral horn motor neurons. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2007; 366:48-53. [PMID: 18053804 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2007.11.083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2007] [Accepted: 11/14/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Oral administration of sodium pyrithione (NaP) causes hindlimb weakness in rodents, but not in primates. Previous work using Aplysia neurons has demonstrated that NaP produces a persistent influx of Ca(2+) ions across the plasma membrane. To determine whether this also occurs in mammalian neurons and whether this could underlie the inter-species difference between rodents and primates, we have tested the effects of NaP on intracellular Ca(2+) levels ([Ca(2+)](i)) in rat and monkey motor neurons in vitro. Motor neurons present in spinal cord slices from rhesus monkey embryos (E37 and 56) and from rat E16 were dissected and cultured on glass coverslips. Following 2 weeks (rhesus) or 2-3 days (rat) in culture, neurons were loaded with fura-PE3/AM, and examined for [Ca(2+)](i) changes in response to NaP. Rhesus motor neurons were identified by immunostaining for Islet-1 (MN specific antigen) and neuron specific enolase (NSE). Motor neurons from both species exhibited dose-dependent NaP-evoked increases in [Ca(2+)](i) However, the dose-response curve for the Rhesus motor neurons was significantly shifted to the right of the rat dose-response curve, whereas the overall amplitude of the Ca(2+) rise was similar in both species. As shown previously for the Aplysia neurons, the action of NaP is attenuated by SKF 96365, an inhibitor of store-operated calcium entry. In contrast the action of NaP is unaffected by nifedipine and tetrodotoxin, blockers of voltage-dependent Ca(2+) and Na(+) channels, respectively, or by ouabain, an inhibitor of the plasma membrane Na(+)/K(+) ATPase. Our results indicate that the NaP-induced increase in [Ca(2+)](i) is conserved across species and suggest that the toxicological sensitivity of rodent over primate to pyrithione could be due to the enhanced sensitivity of rodent motor neurons to NaP-evoked intracellular Ca(2+) elevation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald J Knox
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06520-8066, USA
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Xu J, Zhang QG, Li C, Zhang GY. Subtoxic N-methyl-D-aspartate delayed neuronal death in ischemic brain injury through TrkB receptor- and calmodulin-mediated PI-3K/Akt pathway activation. Hippocampus 2007; 17:525-37. [PMID: 17492691 DOI: 10.1002/hipo.20289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that subtoxic NMDA moderated the neuronal survival in vitro and vivo. We performed this experiment to clarify the precise mechanism underlie subtoxic NMDA delayed neuronal death in ischemic brain injury. We found that pretreatment of NMDA (100 mg/kg) increased the number of the surviving CA1 pyramidal cells of hippocampus at 5 days of reperfusion. This dose of NMDA could also enhance Akt activation after ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). Here, we examined the possible mechanism that NMDA induced Akt activation. On the one hand, we found NMDA receptor-mediated Akt activation was associated with increased expression of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and activation of its high-affinity receptor TrkB after I/R in the hippocampus CA1 region, which could be held down by TrkB receptor antagonist K252a. On the other hand, we found that NMDA enhanced the binding of Ca2+-dependent calmodulin (CaM) to p85 (the regulation subunit of PI-3K), which led to the activation of Akt. W-13, an active CaM inhibitor, prevented the combination of CaM and p85 and subsequent Akt activation. Furthermore, NMDA receptor-mediated Akt activation was reversed by combined treatment with LY294002, the specific blockade of PI-3K. Taken together, our results suggested that subtoxic NMDA exerts the neuroprotective effect via activation of prosurvival PI-3K/Akt pathway against ischemic brain injury, and BDNF-TrkB signaling and Ca2+-dependent CaM cascade might contribute to NMDA induced activation of PI-3K/Akt pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Xu
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Brain Disease Bioinformation, Xuzhou Medical College, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
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31
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Bogush A, Pedrini S, Pelta-Heller J, Chan T, Yang Q, Mao Z, Sluzas E, Gieringer T, Ehrlich ME. AKT and CDK5/p35 Mediate Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor Induction of DARPP-32 in Medium Size Spiny Neurons in Vitro. J Biol Chem 2007; 282:7352-9. [PMID: 17209049 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m606508200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Mature striatal medium size spiny neurons express the dopamine and cyclic AMP-regulated phosphoprotein, 32 kDa (DARPP-32), but little is known about the mechanisms regulating its levels or the specification of fully differentiated neuronal subtypes. Cell extrinsic molecules that increase DARPP-32 mRNA and/or protein levels include brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), retinoic acid, and estrogen. DARPP-32 induction by BDNF in vitro requires phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), but inhibition of phosphorylation of protein kinase B/Akt does not entirely abolish expression of DARPP-32. Moreover, the requirement for Akt has not been established. Using pharmacologic inhibitors of PI3K, Akt, and cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (cdk5) and constitutively active and dominant negative PI3K, Akt, cdk5, and p35 viruses in cultured striatal neurons, we measured BDNF-induced levels of DARPP-32 protein and/or mRNA. We demonstrated that both the PI3K/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin and the cdk5/p35 signal transduction pathways contribute to the induction of DARPP-32 protein levels by BDNF and that the effects are on both the transcriptional and translational levels. It also appears that PI3K is upstream of cdk5/p35, and its activation can lead to an increase in p35 protein levels. These data support the presence of multiple signal transduction pathways mediating expression of DARPP-32 in vitro, including a novel, important pathway via by which PI3K regulates the contribution of cdk5/p35.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexey Bogush
- Farber Institute for Neurosciences and Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107, USA
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32
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Mojsilovic-Petrovic J, Arneja A, Kalb RG. Enprofylline protects motor neurons from in vitro excitotoxic challenge. NEURODEGENER DIS 2006; 2:160-5. [PMID: 16909021 DOI: 10.1159/000089621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The death of motor neurons in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is believed to result, in part, from unrestrained activation of glutamate receptors (excitotoxicity). In some in vitro models, excitotoxic death only occurs if motor neurons develop in the presence of the growth factor, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). OBJECTIVE Since the increased vulnerability of motor neurons evoked by BDNF is mediated by activation of TrkB, we sought to identify pharmacological agents that can block this pathway. Adenosine receptors are known to transactivate Trk receptors, leading us to examine the effects of manipulating of adenosine receptor signaling on Trk signaling and excitotoxic sensitivity. METHODS Spinal cord cultures were treated with adenosine receptor agonists and antagonists. The biochemical effects on Trk signaling and excitotoxic motor neuron death were examined. RESULTS We show here that adenosine A(2a) antagonists can reduce activation of Trk receptors and are neuroprotective. Conversely, activating adenosine A(2a) receptors in the absence of BDNF signaling makes motor neurons vulnerable to excitotoxic challenge. CONCLUSION Selective, high-affinity adenosine A(2a) antagonists merit consideration as therapeutic agents for the treatment of ALS.
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Mojsilovic-Petrovic J, Jeong GB, Crocker A, Arneja A, David S, Russell D, Kalb RG. Protecting motor neurons from toxic insult by antagonism of adenosine A2a and Trk receptors. J Neurosci 2006; 26:9250-63. [PMID: 16957081 PMCID: PMC6674510 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1856-06.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The death of motor neurons in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is thought to result from the interaction of a variety of factors including excitotoxicity, accumulation of toxic proteins, and abnormal axonal transport. Previously, we found that the susceptibility of motor neurons to excitotoxic insults can be limited by inhibiting signals evoked by brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) activation of the receptor tyrosine kinase B (TrkB). Here we show that this can be achieved by direct kinase inhibition or by blockade of a transactivation pathway that uses adenosine A2a receptors and src-family kinases (SFKs). Downstream signaling cascades (such as mitogen-activated protein kinase and phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase) are inhibited by these blockers. In addition to protecting motor neurons from excitotoxic insult, these agents also prevent toxicity that follows from the expression of mutant proteins (G85R superoxide dismutase 1; G59S p150(glued)) that cause familial motor neuron disease. TrkB, adenosine A2a receptors, and SFKs associate into complexes in lipid raft and nonlipid raft membranes and the signaling from lipids rafts may be particularly important because their disruption by cholesterol depletion blocks the ability of BDNF to render motor neurons vulnerable to insult. The neuroprotective versatility of Trk antagonism suggests that it may have broad utility in the treatment of ALS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Mojsilovic-Petrovic
- Department of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Joseph Stokes Jr. Research Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
| | - Goo-Bo Jeong
- Department of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Joseph Stokes Jr. Research Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheong-ju 361-763, Republic of Korea, and
| | - Amanda Crocker
- Department of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Joseph Stokes Jr. Research Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
| | - Amrita Arneja
- Department of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Joseph Stokes Jr. Research Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
| | - Samuel David
- Department of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Joseph Stokes Jr. Research Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
| | - David Russell
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06519
| | - Robert G. Kalb
- Department of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Joseph Stokes Jr. Research Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
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Jeong GB, Werner M, Gazula VR, Itoh T, Roberts M, David S, Pfister B, Cohen A, Neve RL, Hollmann M, Kalb R. Bi-directional control of motor neuron dendrite remodeling by the calcium permeability of AMPA receptors. Mol Cell Neurosci 2006; 32:299-314. [PMID: 16790357 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2006.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2006] [Revised: 03/20/2006] [Accepted: 04/14/2006] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Motor neurons express particularly high levels of the AMPA receptor subunit GluR1(Q)flip (GluR1(Q)i) during the period in early postnatal life when their dendritic tree grows and becomes more branched. To investigate how GluR1-containing AMPA receptors contribute to dendrite morphogenesis, we characterized a mutant form of GluR1 (containing a histidine in the Q/R editing site) with unique electrophysiological properties. Most notably, AMPA receptors assembled from GluR1(H)i display less calcium permeability than AMPA receptors assembled from GluR1(Q)i. Expression of GluR1(Q)i in vivo or in vitro led to an increase in dendrite branching with no net change in the overall tree size while GluR1(H)i led to a loss of branches and a net reduction in overall tree size. GluR1(H)i-dependent dendrite atrophy is mediated by protein phosphatase 2B. The results suggest that the electrophysiological properties of cell surface AMPA receptors, specifically their permeability to calcium, can be a central determinant of whether the dendrites undergo activity-dependent branching or atrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goo-Bo Jeong
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheong-ju 361-763, Republic of Korea
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35
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Legrand JC, Darbon P, Streit J. Effects of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) on activity mediated by NMDA receptors in rat spinal cord cultures. Neurosci Lett 2005; 390:145-9. [PMID: 16125841 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2005.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2005] [Revised: 08/02/2005] [Accepted: 08/05/2005] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is involved in the differentiation and the survival of neurons. It has also been shown to be associated with the regrowth of neurons of damaged spinal cord and the modulation of ionic currents by acting on sodium channels and NMDA receptors through tyrosine kinase B (TrkB) receptors. We investigated the effects of BDNF on rhythm generation induced by disinhibition in dissociated cultures from embryonic rat spinal cord (E14), with extracellular multisite recordings (MultiElectrode Arrays, MEAs) or intracellular patch-clamp recordings. Exogenous BDNF had only minor effects on the bursting by increasing the activity during the burst. This increase of activity is suggested to be mediated by a potentiation of the postsynaptic NMDA receptors because it has been found that BDNF potentiates the NMDA-evoked depolarization in cultures incubated with BDNF for 10 min. Possible direct effects of BDNF on sodium channels were also investigated by local application of BDNF to the soma of patched neurons but no depolarization was observed. Long-term application of BDNF strongly decreased the activity during the burst and also the number of active electrodes, possibly due to a decrease in network density.
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36
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Kalb R. The protean actions of neurotrophins and their receptors on the life and death of neurons. Trends Neurosci 2005; 28:5-11. [PMID: 15626491 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2004.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
At vanishingly low concentrations, factors of the neurotrophin family (NGF, BDNF, NT3 and NT4/5) can promote neuronal survival or death. Many investigations indicate that the survival-promoting signals of neurotrophins are generated by activation of Trk tyrosine kinase receptors and that their death-promoting signals are generated by activation of p75 neurotrophin receptors (p75(NTR)). Despite this, a body of work indicates that p75(NTR) can promote cell survival and Trk receptors can adversely affect neuron health. The potential mechanisms by which these receptors could have such diverse and antipodal effects are considered here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Kalb
- Joseph Stokes, Jr Research Institute, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, and Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, 3615 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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37
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David S, Kalb RG. Serum/glucocorticoid-inducible kinase can phosphorylate the cyclic AMP response element binding protein, CREB. FEBS Lett 2005; 579:1534-8. [PMID: 15733869 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2005.01.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2004] [Revised: 12/01/2004] [Accepted: 01/19/2005] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
To maintain homeostasis, cells often respond to stressful extra-cellular stimuli by new gene expression. Serum/glucocorticoid-induced kinase (SGK) is an immediate early gene whose expression is induced by a variety of extra-cellular stimuli. Here, we examine the possibility that SGK can directly phosphorylate the transcription factor cyclic AMP response element binding protein (CREB). In a cell-free context, SGK physically associates with CREB and SGK phosphorylates it on serine 133. Phospho-serine 133 is essential for stimulating the transcriptional activity of CREB. Further, we show that in a variety of cellular contexts, SGK phosphorylates CREB. Activation of receptor tyrosine kinase pathways or the phosphoinositide-dependent kinase 1 (PDK1) lead to SGK-dependent CREB phosphorylation. Hormonal stimulation of epithelial cells leads to the induction of endogenous SGK and CREB phosphorylation. A dominant-negative form of SGK blocks dexamethasone-induced CREB phosphorylation. Our studies indicate that stimulation of SGK can lead to CREB phosphorylation, suggesting that CREB-dependent gene transcription is an important link between stressful extra-cellular signals and cellular responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel David
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Joseph Stokes Jr. Research Institute, ARC 814, 3615 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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38
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Metzger F, Klapproth N, Kulik A, Sendtner M, Ballanyi K. Optical assessment of motoneuron function in a “twenty-four-hour” acute spinal cord slice model from fetal rats. J Neurosci Methods 2005; 141:309-20. [PMID: 15661313 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2004.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2003] [Revised: 06/02/2004] [Accepted: 07/13/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
In acute slice preparations of most brain regions, neuronal functions are preserved for only few hours. Since the effects of growth factors or neurotoxic agents are often manifested beyond this time scale, corresponding studies are typically performed on cultured cells. However, cell cultures are generated and maintained under vastly different conditions that can grossly alter neuronal properties. For example, glutamate application to motoneuronal cultures has been reported to modulate neurite formation in some studies while in others it has been reported to kill cells. Here, we have examined whether acute spinal cord slices from rat fetuses can be used within a time window of 24 h for assessment of long-term effects of neuromodulators. In these slices, we have studied the action of glutamate on lumbar motoneurons loaded with fura-2 and rhodamine-123 to monitor intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) and mitochondrial potential (Deltapsi), respectively. Further, loading with fura-2 or propidium iodide allowed for morphological assessment of cell viability and death, respectively. Pulses (15 s) or 1 h application of glutamate (300 microM) evoked a moderate (approximately 500 nM) [Ca2+]i rise, but no change of Deltapsi. Even after 24 h, no glutamate-induced cell death was observed and glutamate pulse-evoked [Ca2+]i transients were comparable to controls. The data demonstrate that glutamate does not deregulate [Ca2+]i homeostasis in fetal motoneurons in situ. We propose that acute spinal cord slices from perinatal rodents are a robust model that allows for analysis of neuronal properties and cell viability within a time window of at least 24 h.
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Affiliation(s)
- Friedrich Metzger
- Klinische Forschergruppe Neuroregeneration, Neurologische Klinik, Universität Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Strasse 11, D-97080 Würzburg, Germany
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Abstract
Neurotrophic factors have been proposed for the treatment of a variety of neurological diseases. However, to this point they have failed in clinical trials. One potential problem is that while neurotrophic factors attenuate apoptosis, they have the potential to enhance necrosis. In this study we show that neurotrophin-4 (NT-4) attenuated apoptotic neuronal death while potentiating necrotic neuronal death in cortical cultures. The protective effects of NT-4 were not blocked by the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitors PD098059 or U0126, while the injury potentiation by NT-4 was blocked by these inhibitors. NT-4 stimulated the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and this phosphorylation was attenuated by U0126 and PD098059. The results indicate a disassociation between the pathway by which NT-4 potentiates necrosis, and that by which it attenuates apoptosis, and suggest that addition of a MEK inhibitor may enhance the beneficial effects of NT-4 in treating complex injuries such as occur in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doug Lobner
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI 53233, USA.
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40
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Ramsden M, Berchtold NC, Patrick Kesslak J, Cotman CW, Pike CJ. Exercise increases the vulnerability of rat hippocampal neurons to kainate lesion. Brain Res 2003; 971:239-44. [PMID: 12706240 DOI: 10.1016/s0006-8993(03)02365-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Available evidence suggests that regular, moderate-intensity exercise has beneficial effects on neural health, perhaps including neuroprotection. To evaluate this idea further, we compared the severity of kainate-induced neuronal loss in exercised versus sedentary female rats. Stereological estimations of neuron number revealed that rats in the exercise condition exhibited significantly greater neuron loss in hippocampal region CA2/3, suggesting that high levels of physical activity may increase neuronal vulnerability to excitotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Ramsden
- Andrus Gerontology Center, University of Southern California, 3715 McClintock Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90089-0191, USA
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41
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Abstract
The survival promoting and neuroprotective actions of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are well known but under certain circumstances this growth factor can also exacerbate excitotoxic insults to neurons. Prior exploration of the receptor through which BDNF exerts this action on motor neurons deflects attention away from p75. Here we investigated the possibility that BDNF acts through the receptor tyrosine kinase, TrkB, to confer on motor neurons sensitivity to excitotoxic challenge. We blocked BDNF activation of TrkB using a dominant negative TrkB mutant or a TrkB function blocking antibody, and found that this protected motor neurons against excitotoxic insult in cultures of mixed spinal cord neurons. Addition of a function blocking antibody to BDNF to mixed spinal cord neuron cultures is also neuroprotective indicating that endogenously produced BDNF participates in vulnerability to excitotoxicity. We next examined the intracellular signaling cascades that are engaged upon TrkB activation. Previously we found that inhibition of the phosphatidylinositide-3'-kinase (PI3'K) pathway blocks BDNF-induced excitotoxic sensitivity. Here we show that expression of a constitutively active catalytic subunit of PI3'K, p110, confers excitotoxic sensitivity (ES) upon motor neurons not incubated with BDNF. Parallel studies with purified motor neurons confirm that these events are likely to be occuring specifically within motor neurons. The abrogation of BDNF's capacity to accentuate excitotoxic insults may make it a more attractive neuroprotective agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Hu
- Department of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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42
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Abstract
The effects of neurotrophic factors on necrotic neuronal death are controversial. In this study we found that both neurotrophin-4 (NT-4) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) potentiated necrotic neuronal death caused by exposure to oxygen-glucose deprivation or iron-citrate (Fe) in cortical cultures. However, there were significant differences in the actions of the two neurotrophic factors. Neurotrophin-4 protected against apoptotic neuronal death, while bFGF had no effect on apoptotic death in these cultures. Furthermore, potentiation of oxygen-glucose deprivation induced necrotic death by NT-4 required pretreatment (24 h), while pretreatment with bFGF had no effect. However, acute treatment with bFGF during oxygen-glucose deprivation did potentiate neuronal death. Both neurotrophic factors potentiated free radical mediated necrotic neuronal death induced by exposure to Fe. However, the RNA synthesis inhibitor, actinomycin-D, blocked the injury potentiation by NT-4, but not that caused by bFGF. Also, NT-4, but not bFGF, potentiated Fe induced necrotic death in pure neuronal cultures. Expression of mRNA for FGF receptors FGFR1 and FGFR2 was observed at high levels in astrocytes. The results indicate that the injury enhancing effects of bFGF are acute, while those of NT-4 require prolonged exposure and new protein synthesis. Furthermore, the effects of bFGF appear to be mediated through actions on astrocytes, while NT-4 appears to act directly on neurons. The fact that neurotrophic factors from two distinct families can potentiate neuronal death by two different mechanisms suggests that such injury potentiation may be a common concern regarding the use of neurotrophic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doug Lobner
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Integrative Neuroscience Research Center, Marquette University, 561 N. 15th Street, Rm 426, Milwaukee, WI 53233, USA.
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43
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Sakuma K, Watanabe K, Sano M, Uramoto I, Nakano H, Li YJ, Kaneda S, Sorimachi Y, Yoshimoto K, Yasuhara M, Totsuka T. A possible role for BDNF, NT-4 and TrkB in the spinal cord and muscle of rat subjected to mechanical overload, bupivacaine injection and axotomy. Brain Res 2001; 907:1-19. [PMID: 11430880 DOI: 10.1016/s0006-8993(01)02288-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Neurotrophins play a crucial role in the regulation of survival and the maintenance of specific functions for various populations of neurons. Neurotrophin-4 (NT-4) is most abundant in skeletal muscle, and is thought to promote sciatic nerve sprouting, inhibit agrin-induced acetylcholine receptor (AChR) clustering, evoke postsynaptic potentiation and induce mitochondrial proliferation. Using Western blot analysis, immunoprecipitation and immunohistochemistry, we investigated the distribution of NT-4 in slow- and fast-type muscles. We also tested the adaptive response of this protein in the mechanically overloaded muscle, in the regenerating muscle following bupivacaine injection and in the denervated muscle. Additionally, we investigated whether TrkB phosphorylation in the spinal cord and in the sciatic nerve occurs through the interaction with BDNF or NT-4 when the innervating muscle is damaged. Markedly more NT-4 was expressed in fast-type muscles compared with the slow types. TrkB protein was more frequently observed around the edge of myofibers (neuromuscular junction) of the soleus muscle compared with the gastrocnemius muscle. TrkB tyrosine phosphorylation occurred in the spinal cord but not in the sciatic nerve 24 h after bupivacaine injection of the innervating muscle. At the same time, the amount of TrkB co-precipitating with BDNF was markedly increased in the spinal cord. A rapid activation of TrkB (1-8 h) was also observed in the spinal cord after axotomy,while the amount of TrkB co-precipitating with NT-4 was markedly lower after axotomy. These results indicate that NT-4 is preferentially distributed in fast-type muscles. Furthermore, by interacting with BDNF and NT-4, the TrkB in the spinal cord may be important for the survival of motoneurons and outgrowth of injured peripheral axons following muscle damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Sakuma
- Department of Legal Medicine, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465 Kajii-cho, Kawaramachi-hirokoji, Kamigyo-ku, 602-8566, Kyoto, Japan.
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44
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Ankeny DP, McTigue DM, Guan Z, Yan Q, Kinstler O, Stokes BT, Jakeman LB. Pegylated brain-derived neurotrophic factor shows improved distribution into the spinal cord and stimulates locomotor activity and morphological changes after injury. Exp Neurol 2001; 170:85-100. [PMID: 11421586 DOI: 10.1006/exnr.2001.7699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The neurotrophin brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) shows promise for the treatment of central nervous system (CNS) trauma and disease. Effective delivery methods are required, however, for BDNF to be useful as a therapeutic agent. To this end, we examined the penetration of intrathecally infused N-terminal pegylated BDNF (peg-BDNF) compared to similar infusion of native BDNF after spinal cord injury (SCI). Pegylation dramatically improved delivery of BDNF to the spinal cord and induced the expression of Fos in spinal cord neurons. To test whether enhanced delivery would improve the modest effects on behavioral recovery and axonal outgrowth observed with native BDNF infusion, we assessed the efficacy of 2-week 25 microg/day peg-BDNF treatment, beginning 12-24 h (early) or 15 days (delayed) after midthoracic spinal contusion. Similar to native BDNF, early treatment with peg-BDNF accelerated the recovery of stepping in the open-field and acutely stimulated locomotor central pattern generator activity, as seen by the activation of hindlimb airstepping during either period of administration. The infusion of peg-BDNF, regardless of the timing of delivery, was related to enhanced sprouting of putative cholinergic fibers, like that observed after high dose native BDNF treatment. Despite improved delivery, however, neither axonal responses nor the extent of locomotor recovery were enhanced compared to native BDNF treatment. This suggests that alternative strategies, such as neurotrophin treatment in conjunction with cell transplantation techniques, or treatment nearer the cell bodies of target neurons might be employed in an attempt to effect significant repair after SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- D P Ankeny
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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45
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Gressens P. Putting growth factors into context. Pediatr Res 2001; 49:733. [PMID: 11385128 DOI: 10.1203/00006450-200106000-00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- P Gressens
- INSERM E 9935, Service de Neurologie Pédiatrique, Hôpital Robert-Debré, Paris France
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Wagey R, Lurot S, Perrelet D, Pelech SL, Sagot Y, Krieger C. Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activity in murine motoneuron disease: the progressive motor neuropathy mouse. Neuroscience 2001; 103:257-66. [PMID: 11311806 DOI: 10.1016/s0306-4522(00)00551-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
A murine model of motoneuron disease, the pmn/pmn mouse, shows a reduction in the retrograde transport of fluorescent probes applied directly onto the cut end of sciatic nerve. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), when co-applied with fluorescent tracers, increases the number of retrograde labelled motoneurons. We demonstrate here that spinal cord tissue from pmn/pmn mice had significantly reduced phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activity and expression in the particulate fraction compared to controls, without changes in the activities or expression of the downstream kinases, protein kinase B/Akt or Erk1. Systemic administration of BDNF augmented phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase specific activity in spinal cord tissue from pmn/pmn and control mice, with a greater elevation in the particulate fractions of pmn/pmn mice than in controls. We examined the effect of inhibitors of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase on the retrograde labelling of motoneurons, 24h following the direct application of inhibitors and Fluorogold to the cut end of sciatic nerve in control and pmn/pmn mice (labelling index). The mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase inhibitor PD 98059 had no effect on the labelling index in control or pmn/pmn mice. In the absence of exogenous BDNF, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitors reduced the number of labelled motoneurons in control mice, without changing the labelling index in pmn/pmn. Co-application of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitors with BDNF to the cut end of sciatic nerve blocked the action of BDNF on retrograde labelling in pmn/pmn mice. These results indicate that the retrograde labelling of motoneurons is mediated by phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-dependent and -independent pathways. In pmn/pmn mice, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activity in spinal neurons is below the level required for optimal retrograde labelling of motoneurons and labelling can be augmented by the administration of growth factors stimulating phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activity. The data indicate that phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activity is important in the uptake and/or retrograde transport of substances by motoneurons and is altered in this model of motoneuron diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Wagey
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2211 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, B.C., Canada V6T 2B5
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47
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Ishikawa Y, Ikeuchi T, Hatanaka H. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor accelerates nitric oxide donor-induced apoptosis of cultured cortical neurons. J Neurochem 2000; 75:494-502. [PMID: 10899924 DOI: 10.1046/j.1471-4159.2000.0750494.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is known to have important functions in neuronal survival, differentiation, and plasticity. In addition to its role as a survival-promoting factor, BDNF reportedly can enhance neuronal cell death in some cases, for example, the death caused by excitotoxicity or glucose deprivation. The cellular mechanism of the death-enhancing effect of BDNF remains unknown, in contrast to that of its survival-promoting effect. In this work, we found that BDNF markedly accelerated the nitric oxide (NO) donor-induced death of cultured embryonic cortical neurons. BDNF increased the number of cells with nuclear condensation and DNA fragmentation 24 h after treatment with the NO donor, but it did not change the number of those cells 36 h after the treatment. The BDNF-accelerated death of cortical neurons was inhibited by the addition of actinomycin D or cycloheximide. These results suggest that BDNF can accelerate apoptotic cell death elicited by NO donor. TrkB-IgG and K252a blocked the BDNF-induced acceleration of the death, indicating that the death-accelerating effect by BDNF is mediated by TrkB. In addition, the BDNF-accelerated apoptosis was inhibited by the addition of SB202190 and SB203580, specific inhibitors of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and U0126, a specific inhibitor of MAPK/ERK kinase 1, indicating that the activation of both p38 MAPK and ERK is involved in the signaling cascade of the BDNF-accelerated, NO donor-induced apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Ishikawa
- Division of Protein Biosynthesis, Institute for Protein Research, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
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Papapetropoulos A, Fulton D, Mahboubi K, Kalb RG, O'Connor DS, Li F, Altieri DC, Sessa WC. Angiopoietin-1 inhibits endothelial cell apoptosis via the Akt/survivin pathway. J Biol Chem 2000; 275:9102-5. [PMID: 10734041 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.275.13.9102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 475] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A productive angiogenic response must couple to the survival machinery of endothelial cells to preserve the integrity of newly formed vessels. Angiopoietin-1 (Ang-1) is an endothelium-specific ligand essential for embryonic vascular stabilization, branching morphogenesis, and post-natal angiogenesis, but its contribution to endothelial cell survival has not been completely elucidated. Here we show that Ang-1 acting via the Tie 2 receptor induces phosphorylation of the survival serine-threonine kinase, Akt (or protein kinase B). This is associated with up-regulation of the apoptosis inhibitor, survivin, in endothelial cells and protection of endothelium from death-inducing stimuli. Moreover, dominant negative survivin negates the ability of Ang-1 to protect cells from undergoing apoptosis. The activation of anti-apoptotic pathways mediated by Akt and survivin in endothelial cells may contribute to Ang-1 stabilization of vascular structures during angiogenesis, in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Papapetropoulos
- Department of Pharmacology, Boyer Center for Molecular Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06536, USA
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