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Wu J, Wang YY, Yang XW, Zhang XT, Tang JY. Biochemical Features and Physiological Roles of hNP22 in the Central Nervous System. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:634710. [PMID: 33748120 PMCID: PMC7969789 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.634710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
hNP22, a novel neuron-specific protein that interacts with both actin filaments and microtubules, was found to be highly homologous to the smooth muscle cell cytoskeleton-associated proteins human SM22α and rat acidic calponin. In recent years, functions of hNP22 such as the promotion of neural differentiation and enhancement of neural plasticity, have been described, as well as potential roles of hNP22 in schizophrenia and alcohol-related brain damage (ARBD). Because of the potential roles of hNP22 in neuronal processes and its potential implications in diseases, hNP22 has emerged as a research target. In this paper, we review the gene structure, possible modifications, and functions of the hNP22 protein, as well as its potential clinical significance. Based on its physical structure and previous studies, we speculate that hNP22 has potential biological functions in neurological disorders, such as schizophrenia and ARBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Wu
- Shanghai Changning Tianshan Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Yun-Yi Wang
- University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Xi-Wen Yang
- Shanghai Literature Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao-Tian Zhang
- Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia-Yi Tang
- Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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2
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Germany CE, Reker AN, Hinton DJ, Oliveros A, Shen X, Andres-Beck LG, Wininger KM, Trutschl M, Cvek U, Choi DS, Nam HW. Pharmacoproteomics Profile in Response to Acamprosate Treatment of an Alcoholism Animal Model. Proteomics 2019; 18:e1700417. [PMID: 29437267 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.201700417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2017] [Revised: 01/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Acamprosate is an FDA-approved medication for the treatment of alcoholism that is unfortunately only effective in certain patients. Although acamprosate is known to stabilize the hyper-glutamatergic state in alcoholism, pharmacological mechanisms of action in brain tissue remains unknown. To investigate the mechanism of acamprosate efficacy, the authors employ a pharmacoproteomics approach using an animal model of alcoholism, type 1 equilibrative nucleoside transporter (ENT1) null mice. The results demonstrate that acamprosate treatment significantly decreased both ethanol drinking and preference in ENT1 null mice compared to that of wild-type mice. Then, to elucidate acamprosate efficacy mechanism in ENT1 null mice, the authors utilize label-free quantification proteomics comparing both genotype and acamprosate treatment effects in the nucleus accumbens (NAc). A total of 1040 protein expression changes are identified in the NAc among 3634 total proteins detected. The proteomics and Western blot result demonstrate that acamprosate treatment decreased EAAT expression implicating stabilization of the hyper-glutamatergic condition in ENT1 null mice. Pathway analysis suggests that acamprosate treatment in ENT1 null mice seems to rescue glutamate toxicity through restoring of RTN4 and NF-κB medicated neuroimmune signaling compared to wild-type mice. Overall, pharmacoproteomics approaches suggest that neuroimmune restoration is a potential efficacy mechanism in the acamprosate treatment of certain sub-populations of alcohol dependent subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline E Germany
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Neuroscience, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Ashlie N Reker
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Neuroscience, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - David J Hinton
- Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Alfredo Oliveros
- Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Xinggui Shen
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Neuroscience, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Lindsey G Andres-Beck
- Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Katheryn M Wininger
- Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Marjan Trutschl
- Department of Computer Science, Louisiana State University-Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Urska Cvek
- Department of Computer Science, Louisiana State University-Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Doo-Sup Choi
- Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Hyung W Nam
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Neuroscience, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA, USA
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3
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Tan Q, Li S, Frost M, Nygaard M, Soerensen M, Larsen M, Christensen K, Christiansen L. Epigenetic signature of preterm birth in adult twins. Clin Epigenetics 2018; 10:87. [PMID: 29983834 PMCID: PMC6020425 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-018-0518-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Preterm birth is a leading cause of perinatal mortality and long-term health consequences. Epigenetic mechanisms may have been at play in preterm birth survivors, and these could be persistent and detrimental to health later in life. Methods We performed a genome-wide DNA methylation profiling in adult twins of premature birth to identify genomic regions under differential epigenetic regulation in 144 twins with a median age of 33 years (age range 30-36). Results Association analysis detected three genomic regions annotated to the SDHAP3, TAGLN3 and GSTT1 genes on chromosomes 5, 3 and 22 (FWER: 0.01, 0.02 and 0.04) respectively. These genes display strong involvement in neurodevelopmental disorders, cancer susceptibility and premature delivery. The three identified significant regions were successfully replicated in an independent sample of twins of even older age (median age 66, range 56-80) with similar regulatory patterns and nominal p values < 5.05e-04. Biological pathway analysis detected five significantly enriched pathways all explicitly involved in immune responses. Conclusion We have found novel evidence associating premature delivery with epigenetic modification of important genes/pathways and revealed that preterm birth, as an early life event, could be related to differential methylation regulation patterns observable in adults and even at high ages which could potentially mediate susceptibility to age-related diseases and adult health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qihua Tan
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Science, University of Southern Denmark, J. B. Winsløws Vej 9B, DK-5000 Odense, Denmark
- Unit of Human Genetics, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Shuxia Li
- Unit of Human Genetics, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Morten Frost
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Marianne Nygaard
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Science, University of Southern Denmark, J. B. Winsløws Vej 9B, DK-5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Mette Soerensen
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Science, University of Southern Denmark, J. B. Winsløws Vej 9B, DK-5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Martin Larsen
- Unit of Human Genetics, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Kaare Christensen
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Science, University of Southern Denmark, J. B. Winsløws Vej 9B, DK-5000 Odense, Denmark
- Unit of Human Genetics, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Lene Christiansen
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Science, University of Southern Denmark, J. B. Winsløws Vej 9B, DK-5000 Odense, Denmark
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Jo S, Kim HR, Mun Y, Jun CD. Transgelin-2 in immunity: Its implication in cell therapy. J Leukoc Biol 2018; 104:903-910. [PMID: 29749649 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.mr1117-470r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2018] [Revised: 04/02/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Transgelin-2 is a small 22-kDa actin-binding protein implicated in actin dynamics, which stabilizes actin structures and participates in actin-associated signaling pathways. Much curiosity regarding transgelin-2 has centered around its dysregulation in tumor development and associated diseases. However, recent studies have shed new light on the functions of transgelin-2, the only transgelin family member present in leukocytes, in the context of various immune responses. In this review, we outlined the biochemical properties of transgelin-2 and its physiological functions in T cells, B cells, and macrophages. Transgelin-2 regulates T cell activation by stabilizing the actin cytoskeleton at the immunological synapse. Transgelin-2 in B cells also participates in the stabilization of T cell-B cell conjugates. While transgelin-2 is expressed at trace levels in macrophages, its expression is highly upregulated upon lipopolysaccharide stimulation and plays an essential role in macrophage phagocytosis. Since transgelin-2 increases T cell adhesion to target cells via boosting the "inside-out" costimulatory activation of leukocyte function-associated antigen 1, transgelin-2 could be a suitable candidate to potentiate the antitumor response of cytotoxic T cells by compensating for the lack of costimulation in tumor microenvironment. We discussed the feasibility of using native or engineered transgelin-2 as a synergistic molecule in cell-based immunotherapies, without inducing off-target disturbance in actin dynamics in other cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suin Jo
- School of Life Sciences, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju, Korea.,Immune Synapse and Cell Therapy Research Center, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Hye-Ran Kim
- School of Life Sciences, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju, Korea.,Immune Synapse and Cell Therapy Research Center, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju, Korea
| | - YeVin Mun
- School of Life Sciences, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju, Korea.,Immune Synapse and Cell Therapy Research Center, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Chang-Duk Jun
- School of Life Sciences, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju, Korea.,Immune Synapse and Cell Therapy Research Center, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju, Korea
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5
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Abstract
SM22α, also named transgelin, is an actin filament-associated protein in smooth muscle and fibroblasts. Three decades after its discovery, the biological function of SM22α remains under investigation. Here we report a novel finding that the expression and degradation of SM22α/transgelin are regulated by mechanical tension. Following a mass spectrometry identification of SM22α degradation in isolated and tension-unloaded mouse aorta, we developed specific monoclonal antibodies to study the regulation of SM22α in human fetal lung myofibroblast line MRC-5 and primary cultures of neonatal mouse skin fibroblasts. The level of SM22α is positively related to the mechanical tension in the cytoskeleton produced by the myosin II motor in response to the stiffness of the culture matrix. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction demonstrated that the expression of SM22α is regulated at the transcriptional level. This mechanical regulation resembles that of calponin 2, another actin filament-associated protein. Immunofluorescent staining co-localized SM22α with F-actin, myosin, and calponin 2 in mouse skin fibroblasts. The close phylogenetic relationship between SM22α and the calponin family supports that SM22α is a calponin-like regulatory protein. The level of SM22α is decreased in skin fibroblasts isolated from calponin 2 knockout mice, suggesting interrelated regulation and function of the two proteins. On the other hand, SM22α expression was maximized at a matrix stiffness higher than that for calponin 2 in the same cell type, indicating differentiated regulation and tension responsiveness. The novel mechanoregulation of SM22α/transgelin lays the groundwork for understanding its cellular functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Liu
- Department of Physiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine , Detroit, Michigan 48201, United States
| | - M Moazzem Hossain
- Department of Physiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine , Detroit, Michigan 48201, United States
| | - Xuequn Chen
- Department of Physiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine , Detroit, Michigan 48201, United States
| | - Jian-Ping Jin
- Department of Physiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine , Detroit, Michigan 48201, United States
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6
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Dvorakova M, Nenutil R, Bouchal P. Transgelins, cytoskeletal proteins implicated in different aspects of cancer development. Expert Rev Proteomics 2014; 11:149-65. [PMID: 24476357 DOI: 10.1586/14789450.2014.860358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Transgelin is an abundant protein of smooth muscle cells, where its role has been primarily studied. As a protein affecting dynamics of the actin cytoskeleton via stabilization of actin filaments, transgelin is both directly and indirectly involved in many cancer-related processes such as migration, proliferation, differentiation or apoptosis. Transgelin was previously reviewed as a tumor suppressor; however, recent data based on a number of proteomics studies indicate its pro-tumorigenic role, for example, in colorectal or hepatocellular cancer. We summarize these contradictory observations in both clinical and functional proteomics projects and analyze the role of transgelin in tumors in detail. Generally, the expression and biological role of transgelin seem to differ among various types of tumor cells and stroma, and possibly change during tumor progression. We also overview the recent data on transgelin-2, a sequence homolog of transgelin, whose role in the tumor development might be contradictory to the role of transgelin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Dvorakova
- Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute, Regional Centre for Applied Molecular Oncology, Brno, Czech Republic
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7
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Prieto DA, Ye X, Veenstra TD. Proteomic analysis of traumatic brain injury: the search for biomarkers. Expert Rev Proteomics 2014; 5:283-91. [DOI: 10.1586/14789450.5.2.283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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8
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Matsumoto I, Alexander-Kaufman K, Iwazaki T, Kashem MA, Matsuda-Matsumoto H. CNS proteomes in alcohol and drug abuse and dependence. Expert Rev Proteomics 2014; 4:539-52. [PMID: 17705711 DOI: 10.1586/14789450.4.4.539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Drugs of abuse, including alcohol, can induce dependency formation and/or brain damage in brain regions important for cognition. 'High-throughput' approaches, such as cDNA microarray and proteomics, allow the analysis of global expression profiles of genes and proteins. These technologies have recently been applied to human brain tissue from patients with psychiatric illnesses, including substance abuse/dependence and appropriate animal models to help understand the causes and secondary effects of these complex disorders. Although these types of studies have been limited in number and by proteomics techniques that are still in their infancy, several interesting hypotheses have been proposed. Focusing on CNS proteomics, we aim to review and update current knowledge in this rapidly advancing area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izuru Matsumoto
- University of Sydney, Discipline of Pathology, NSW, Australia.
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9
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Kryger R, Fan L, Wilce PA, Jaquet V. MALAT-1, a non protein-coding RNA is upregulated in the cerebellum, hippocampus and brain stem of human alcoholics. Alcohol 2012; 46:629-34. [PMID: 22560368 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2012.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2011] [Revised: 04/02/2012] [Accepted: 04/02/2012] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Chronic alcohol intake induces neurochemical adaptative changes in the brain characterised by altered gene expression. A role for non-coding RNAs in alcoholism is beginning to emerge. PCR-differential display using total RNA extracted from brain material of human alcoholics and control cases identified a cDNA fragment corresponding to a section of a known non protein-coding RNA (ncRNA), MALAT-1, (also known as NEAT2). Comparison of mRNA levels of MALAT-1 was performed by northern and dot blot experiments using different regions of brain from human alcoholics and rats chronically treated with ethanol vapours and following withdrawal. A massive increase of MALAT-1 transcripts was detected in cerebellum of human alcoholics and increases were also noted in hippocampus and brain stem, while no significant increase of MALAT-1 expression was noted in frontal or motor cortices. In the rat no significant difference of MALAT-1 ortholog mRNA could be detected in cerebellum. In addition, similarly to humans, no significant increase of MALAT-1 expression was detected in cortex of alcohol-treated rats, however, after 24 h alcohol withdrawal, a significant upregulation of MALAT-1 expression was observed in rat cortex. MALAT-1 is upregulated in specific regions of the human alcoholic brain and following alcohol withdrawal in the rat. As MALAT-1 regulates RNA processing, this suggests that alcohol-induced upregulation of MALAT-1 represents an important novel mechanism for alcohol actions in the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosemarie Kryger
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Chemistry & Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia.
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10
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Strat YL, Ramoz N, Schumann G, Gorwood P. Molecular genetics of alcohol dependence and related endophenotypes. Curr Genomics 2011; 9:444-51. [PMID: 19506733 PMCID: PMC2691669 DOI: 10.2174/138920208786241252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2008] [Revised: 06/11/2008] [Accepted: 06/12/2008] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Alcohol dependence is a worldwide public health problem, and involves both environmental and genetic vulnerability factors. The heritability of alcohol dependence is rather high, ranging between 50% and 60%, although alcohol dependence is a polygenic, complex disorder. Genome-wide scans on large cohorts of multiplex families, including the collaborative study on genetics of alcoholism (COGA), emphasized the role of many chromosome regions and some candidate genes. The genes encoding the alcohol-metabolizing enzymes, or those involved in brain reward pathways, have been involved. Since dopamine is the main neurotransmitter in the reward circuit, genes involved in the dopaminergic pathway represent candidates of interest. Furthermore, gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter mediates the acute actions of alcohol and is involved in withdrawal symptomatology. Numerous studies showed an association between variants within GABA receptors genes and the risk of alcohol dependence. In accordance with the complexity of the “alcohol dependence” phenotype, another field of research, related to the concept of endophenotypes, received more recent attention. The role of vulnerability genes in alcohol dependence is therefore re-assessed focusing on different phenotypes and endophenotypes. The latter include brain oscillations, EEG alpha and beta variants and alpha power, and amplitude of P300 amplitude elicited from a visual oddball task. Recent enhancement on global characterizations of the genome by high-throughput approach for genotyping of polymorphisms and studies of transcriptomics and proteomics in alcohol dependence is also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yann L Strat
- INSERM U675, IFR02, Université Paris 7, 16 Rue Henri Huchard, 75018 Paris, France
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11
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Evrard SG, Brusco A. Ethanol Effects on the Cytoskeleton of Nerve Tissue Cells. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2011. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4419-6787-9_29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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12
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Abstract
Excessive alcohol use can cause structural and functional abnormalities of the brain and this has significant health, social and economic implications for most countries in the world. Even heavy social drinkers who have no specific neurological or hepatic problems show signs of regional brain damage and cognitive dysfunction. Changes are more severe and other brain regions are damaged in patients who have additional vitamin B1 (thiamine) deficiency (Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome). Quantitative studies and improvements in neuroimaging have contributed significantly to the documentation of these changes but mechanisms underlying the damage are not understood. A human brain bank targeting alcohol cases has been established in Sydney, Australia, and tissues can be used for structural and molecular studies and to test hypotheses developed from animal models and in vivo studies. The recognition of potentially reversible changes and preventative medical approaches are important public health issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clive Harper
- Department of Pathology, University of Sydney and Sydney South West Area Health Service, Sydney, Australia.
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13
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Pape M, Doxakis E, Reiff T, Duong CV, Davies A, Geissen M, Rohrer H. A function for the calponin family member NP25 in neurite outgrowth. Dev Biol 2008; 321:434-43. [PMID: 18652818 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2008.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2007] [Revised: 06/30/2008] [Accepted: 07/01/2008] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The neuronal protein 25 (NP25), a member of the calponin (CaP) protein family, has previously been identified as neuron-specific protein in the adult rat brain. Here, we show an early onset of NP25 expression in the chick embryo neural tube. NP25 represents, together with NeuroM, one of the earliest markers for postmitotic neurons. To elucidate its function in the developing nervous system, NP25 was overexpressed in E5 and E9 sensory neurons, E7 sympathetic neurons and PC12 cells that show different endogenous NP25 expression levels. Whereas E5 and E9 sensory neurons and PC12 cells, which express low endogenous levels of NP25, responded by enhanced neurite outgrowth, a reduction of neurite length was observed in sympathetic neurons, which already express high endogenous levels of NP25. Knockdown of NP25 in sensory neurons using NP25 siRNA resulted in shorter neurites, whereas reduction of NP25 expression in sympathetic neurons led to increased neurite length. These results suggest a dynamic function for NP25 in the regulation of neurite growth, with an optimal level of NP25 required for maximal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Pape
- Max-Planck-Institute for Brain Research, Deutschordenstr. 46, 60528 Frankfurt/M, Germany
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14
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Neuropathology of alcohol-related cognitive alterations. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2008. [PMID: 18631801 DOI: 10.1016/s0072-9752(07)01275-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
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15
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Abstract
Patterns of drinking are changing throughout the world and in many countries this will be detrimental to the health and welfare of the local population. Even uncomplicated alcoholics who have no specific neurological or hepatic problems show signs of regional brain damage and cognitive dysfunction. Many of these changes are exaggerated and other brain regions damaged in patients who have additional vitamin B1 (thiamine) deficiency (Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome). Quantitative neuropathology techniques and improvements in neuroimaging have contributed significantly to the documentation of these changes but mechanisms underlying the damage are not understood. A human brain bank targeting alcohol cases has been established in Sydney, Australia and provides fresh and frozen tissue for alcohol researchers. The tissues can be used to test hypotheses developed from structural neuropathological studies or from animal models and in vitro studies. Identification of reversible pathological changes and preventative medical approaches in alcoholism should enhance rehabilitation and treatment efforts, thereby mitigating debilitating morbidities and reducing mortality associated with this universal public health problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clive Harper
- Department of Pathology, Blackburn Building, D06, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.
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16
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de las Heras R, Depaz I, Jaquet V, Kroon P, Wilce PA. Neuronal protein 22 colocalises with both the microtubule and microfilament cytoskeleton in neurite-like processes. Brain Res 2006; 1128:12-20. [PMID: 17123483 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2006.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2006] [Revised: 09/27/2006] [Accepted: 10/07/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The expression of human neuronal protein 22 (hNP22) is up-regulated in the superior frontal cortex of chronic alcoholics. hNP22 shares significant homology with a number of proteins implicated in bundling of actin filaments. In addition, it contains domains similar to those found in microtubule-associated proteins. We investigated the ability of hNP22 to induce cytoskeletal changes by overexpression in Chinese hamster ovary cells. Overexpression of hNP22 resulted in process formation in these cells that increased upon treatment with cytochalasin D, an actin depolymerising agent. Transfection of mutant hNP22 containing either a deletion of the putative actin-binding domain or deletion of a consensus protein kinase C (PKC) phosphorylation site (Ser-180) failed to induce process formation. In contrast, a mutation to mimic persistent PKC phosphorylation resulted in a cellular morphology similar to that seen in wild-type hNP22 transfections. This observation suggests that hNP22 requires phosphorylation at Ser-180 by PKC to induce cytoskeletal rearrangements. hNP22 was also observed to colocalise with actin and tubulin in processes of transfected cells. An hNP22-specific antibody specifically immunoprecipitated a complex including tubulin from human brain indicating that hNP22 binds directly to microtubules. Taken together, this data suggests that NP22 is part of a signaling complex that associates with cytoskeletal elements to regulate neuronal morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel de las Heras
- Alcohol Research Unit, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Molecular and Microbial Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
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17
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Bell RL, Kimpel MW, Rodd ZA, Strother WN, Bai F, Peper CL, Mayfield RD, Lumeng L, Crabb DW, McBride WJ, Witzmann FA. Protein expression changes in the nucleus accumbens and amygdala of inbred alcohol-preferring rats given either continuous or scheduled access to ethanol. Alcohol 2006; 40:3-17. [PMID: 17157716 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2006.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2006] [Revised: 10/04/2006] [Accepted: 10/04/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Chronic ethanol (EtOH) drinking produces neuronal alterations within the limbic system. To investigate changes in protein expression levels associated with EtOH drinking, inbred alcohol-preferring (iP) rats were given one of three EtOH access conditions in their home-cages: continuous ethanol (CE: 24h/day, 7days/week access to EtOH), multiple scheduled access (MSA: four 1-h sessions during the dark cycle/day, 5 days/week) to EtOH, or remained EtOH-naïve. Both MSA and CE groups consumed between 6 and 6.5g of EtOH/kg/day after the 3rd week of access. On the first day of EtOH access for the seventh week, access was terminated at the end of the fourth MSA session for MSA rats and the corresponding time point (2300h) for CE rats. Ten h later, the rats were decapitated, brains extracted, the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) and amygdala (AMYG) microdissected, and protein isolated for 2-dimensional gel electrophoretic analyses. In the NAcc, MSA altered expression levels for 12 of the 14 identified proteins, compared with controls, with six of these proteins altered by CE access, as well. In the AMYG, CE access changed expression levels for 22 of the 27 identified proteins, compared with controls, with 8 of these proteins altered by MSA, as well. The proteins could be grouped into functional categories of chaperones, cytoskeleton, intracellular communication, membrane transport, metabolism, energy production, or neurotransmission. Overall, it appears that EtOH drinking and the conditions under which EtOH is consumed, differentially affect protein expression levels between the NAcc and AMYG. This may reflect differences in neuroanatomical and/or functional characteristics associated with EtOH self-administration and possibly withdrawal, between these two brain structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- R L Bell
- Institute of Psychiatric Research and Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
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18
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Kobeissy FH, Ottens AK, Zhang Z, Liu MC, Denslow ND, Dave JR, Tortella FC, Hayes RL, Wang KKW. Novel differential neuroproteomics analysis of traumatic brain injury in rats. Mol Cell Proteomics 2006; 5:1887-98. [PMID: 16801361 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.m600157-mcp200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately two million traumatic brain injury (TBI) incidents occur annually in the United States, yet there are no specific therapeutic treatments. The absence of brain injury diagnostic endpoints was identified as a significant roadblock to TBI therapeutic development. To this end, our laboratory has studied mechanisms of cellular injury for biomarker discovery and possible therapeutic strategies. In this study, pooled naïve and injured cortical samples (48 h postinjury; rat controlled cortical impact model) were processed and analyzed using a differential neuroproteomics platform. Protein separation was performed using combined cation/anion exchange chromatography-PAGE. Differential proteins were then trypsinized and analyzed with reversed-phase LC-MSMS for protein identification and quantitative confirmation. The results included 59 differential protein components of which 21 decreased and 38 increased in abundance after TBI. Proteins with decreased abundance included collapsin response mediator protein 2 (CRMP-2), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, microtubule-associated proteins MAP2A/2B, and hexokinase. Conversely C-reactive protein, transferrin, and breakdown products of CRMP-2, synaptotagmin, and alphaII-spectrin were found to be elevated after TBI. Differential changes in the above mentioned proteins were confirmed by quantitative immunoblotting. Results from this work provide insight into mechanisms of traumatic brain injury and yield putative biochemical markers to potentially facilitate patient management by monitoring the severity, progression, and treatment of injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firas H Kobeissy
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Neuroproteomics and Biomarkers Research, McKnight Brain Institute of the University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
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19
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Depaz IM, Wilce PA. The novel cytoskeleton-associated protein Neuronal protein 22: Elevated expression in the developing rat brain. Brain Res 2006; 1081:59-64. [PMID: 16542643 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2006.01.126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2005] [Revised: 01/16/2006] [Accepted: 01/17/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Neuronal development and process targeting is mediated by proteins of the cytoskeleton. However, the signaling pathways underlying these mechanisms are complex and have not yet been fully elucidated. Neuronal protein 22 (NP22) has been identified as a cytoskeleton-associated protein. It colocalizes with microtubules and actin, the two major components of the cytoskeleton. It contains numerous signaling motifs and induces process formation in non-neuronal cells. Expression of rat NP22 (rNP22) rises incrementally at specific time points during brain development, with the greatest elevation occurring during synaptogenesis in the rat brain. Its neuronal localization is primarily at the plasma membrane of the soma in the embryonic brain and progresses into homogeneous expression in the postnatal rat brain. Data suggest that NP22 may play a role in mediating the molecular events governing development of the neuronal architecture. Furthermore, its sustained expression in postnatal brain implies a function in the maintenance of neuronal morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris M Depaz
- Alcohol Research Unit, Department of Biochemistry, School of Molecular and Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Biological and Medical Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia Campus, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia.
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20
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Alexander-Kaufman K, James G, Sheedy D, Harper C, Matsumoto I. Differential protein expression in the prefrontal white matter of human alcoholics: a proteomics study. Mol Psychiatry 2006; 11:56-65. [PMID: 16172612 DOI: 10.1038/sj.mp.4001741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Neuroimaging and post-mortem studies indicate that chronic alcohol use induces global changes in brain morphology, such as cortical and subcortical atrophy. Recent studies have shown that frontal lobe structures are specifically susceptible to alcohol-related brain damage and shrinkage in this area is largely due to a loss of white matter. This may explain the high incidence of cognitive dysfunction observed in alcoholics. Using a proteomics-based approach, changes in protein expression in the dorsolateral prefrontal region (BA9) white matter were identified in human alcoholic brains. Protein extracts from the BA9 white matter of 25 human brains (10 controls; eight uncomplicated alcoholics; six alcoholics complicated with hepatic cirrhosis; one reformed alcoholic) were separated using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. Overall, changes in the relative expression of 60 proteins were identified (P<0.05, ANOVA) in the alcoholic BA9 white matter. In total, 18 protein spots have been identified using MALDI-TOF; including hNP22, alpha-internexin, transketolase, creatine kinase chain B, ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase L1 and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase. Several of these proteins have been previously implicated in alcohol-related disorders and brain damage. By identifying changes in protein expression in this region from alcoholics, hypotheses may draw upon more mechanistic explanations as to how chronic ethanol consumption causes white matter damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Alexander-Kaufman
- Department of Pathology, Blackburn Building D06, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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21
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Depaz IM, de Las Heras R, Kroon PA, Wilce PA. Changes in neuronal protein 22 expression and cytoskeletal association in the alcohol-dependent and withdrawn rat brain. J Neurosci Res 2005; 81:253-60. [PMID: 15948156 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.20563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The action of alcohol on neuronal pathways has been an issue of increasing research focus, with numerous findings contradicting the previously accepted idea that its effect is nonspecific. The human NP22 (hNP22) gene was revealed by its elevated expression in the frontal cortex of the human alcoholic. The sequences of hNP22 and the rat orthologue rNP22 contain a number of domains consistent with those of cytoskeletal-interacting proteins. Localization of rNP22 is restricted to the cytoplasm and processes of neurons and it colocalizes with elements of the microfilament and microtubule matrices including filamentous actin (F-actin), alpha-tubulin, tau, and microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2). Withdrawal of Wistar rats after alcohol dependence induced by alcohol vapor produced elevated levels of rNP22 mRNA and protein in the cortex, CA2, and dentate gyrus regions of the hippocampus. In contrast, there was decreased rNP22 expression in the striatum after chronic ethanol exposure. Chronic ethanol exposure did not markedly alter rNP22 colocalization with F-actin, alpha-tubulin, or MAP2, although colocalization at the periphery of the neuronal soma with F-actin was observed only after chronic ethanol exposure and withdrawal. Rat NP22 colocalization with MAP2 was reduced during withdrawal, whereas association with alpha-tubulin and actin was maintained. These findings suggest that the effect of chronic ethanol exposure and withdrawal on rNP22 expression is region selective. Rat NP22 may affect microtubule or microfilament function, thereby regulating the neuroplastic changes associated with the development of alcohol dependence and physical withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris M Depaz
- Alcohol Research Unit, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biosciences, School of Molecular and Microbial Sciences, University of Queensland, Australia
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22
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Ito M, Depaz I, Wilce P, Suzuki T, Niwa SI, Matsumoto I. Expression of human neuronal protein 22, a novel cytoskeleton-associated protein, was decreased in the anterior cingulate cortex of schizophrenia. Neurosci Lett 2005; 378:125-30. [PMID: 15781144 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2004.12.079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2004] [Revised: 12/06/2004] [Accepted: 12/08/2004] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Human neuronal protein 22 (hNP22) is a novel neuron-specific protein featuring numerous motifs previously described in cytoskeleton-associating and signaling proteins. Because previous studies have supported abnormalities in neuronal cytoarchitecture and/or development in the schizophrenia brain, we examined the expression of hNP22 in the anterior cingulate cortex, the hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex of schizophrenic and normal control postmortem brains using high-sensitive immunohistochemistry. Seven schizophrenic and seven age- and sex-matched control brains were examined. The ratio of hNP22-immunopositive cells/total cells was significantly reduced in layer V (p=.020) and layer VI (p=.022) of the anterior cingulate cortex of schizophrenic brain compared with controls. In contrast, there were no significant changes observed in the hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex. These results suggest that altered expression of hNP22 may be associated with modifications in neuronal cytoarchitecture leading to dysregulation of neural signal transduction in the anterior cingulate cortex of the schizophrenia brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masayuki Ito
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Hikarigaoka 1 960-1295, Japan
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23
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Abstract
AIMS To describe recent research focusing on the analysis of gene and protein expression relevant to understanding ethanol consumption, dependence and effects, in order to identify common themes. METHODS A selective literature search was used to collate the relevant data. RESULTS Over 160 genes have been individually assessed before or after ethanol administration, as well as in genetically selected lines. Techniques for studying gene expression include northern blots, differential display, real time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and in situ hybridization. More recently, high throughput functional genomic technology, such as DNA microarrays, has been used to examine gene expression. Recent gene expression analyses have dramatically increased the number of candidate genes (nine array papers have illuminated 600 novel gene transcripts that may contribute to alcohol abuse and alcoholism). CONCLUSIONS Although functional genomic experiments (transcriptome analysis) have failed to identify a single alcoholism gene, they have illuminated important pathways and gene products that may contribute to the risk of alcohol abuse and alcoholism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Travis J Worst
- Center for the Neurobehavioral Study of Alcohol, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
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24
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Paulson L, Martin P, Ljung E, Blennow K, Davidsson P. Effects on rat thalamic proteome by acute and subchronic MK-801-treatment. Eur J Pharmacol 2004; 505:103-9. [PMID: 15556142 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2004.10.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2004] [Accepted: 10/12/2004] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Since the symptoms of intoxication with non-competitive N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists closely mimic symptoms in patients with schizophrenia, [+]-5-methyl-10,11-dihydro-5H-dibenzo-[a,d]-cycloheptene-5,10-iminehydrogenmaleate (MK-801)-treated rodents are often used as a model for schizophrenia. In most studies, acute injections of MK-801 to rats have been used, but in some studies, longer periods of treatment have been performed. In our previous work, alterations in mRNA/protein expression were screened in the cerebral cortex of MK-801 treated rats. Different proteins were altered in different treatment courses of MK-801. The main objective of the present study was to evaluate different treatment periods of treatment with MK-801 in rats as a model for schizophrenia. Thalamus proteins from treated (acute, six and 12 days) and control rats were analyzed with two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry. Our results show that different treatment times of MK-801 to rats give different biochemical results. Therefore, it is important to use the same treatment time in studies that will be compared.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Paulson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, The Sahlgrenska Academy at Göteborg University, Sahlgrenska University Hospital/Mölndal SE-431 80 Mölndal, Sweden.
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25
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Mori K, Muto Y, Kokuzawa J, Yoshioka T, Yoshimura S, Iwama T, Okano Y, Sakai N. Neuronal protein NP25 interacts with F-actin. Neurosci Res 2004; 48:439-46. [PMID: 15041197 DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2003.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2003] [Accepted: 12/24/2003] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Neuronal protein NP25 is a neuron-specific protein present in highly differentiated neural cells, but its functional properties have not been well characterized. NP25 shows high amino acid sequence homology with the smooth muscle cell cytoskeleton-associated proteins, SM22, mp20, and calponin. To gain an insight into the biological functions of NP25, we first examined its subcellular localization in the human neuroblastoma cell line, SK-N-SH. NP25 diffusely distributed in the cytoplasm and fiber-like staining was also observed. It showed that NP25 co-localized with F-actin on stress fibers. A co-sedimentation assay demonstrated that NP25 bound to filamentous actin. Further investigations using fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) technique revealed intracellular binding of NP25 and actin. The significance of the interaction between NP25 and F-actin is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenji Mori
- Department of Neurosurgery, Gifu University School of Medicine, Tsukasa-machi, Gifu, Japan
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Yang XY, Yao JH, Cheng L, Wei DW, Xue JL, Lu DR. Molecular cloning and expression of a smooth muscle-specific gene SM22alpha in zebrafish. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2004; 312:741-6. [PMID: 14680827 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2003.10.185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2003] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
SM22alpha is a kind of 22-kDa protein which is exclusively expressed in smooth muscle containing tissues of the vertebrates. Here we report molecular cloning of a novel zebrafish SM22alpha gene. The full length of zebrafish SM22alpha cDNA is 1296bp and it encodes a polypeptide of 201 amino acids which shares 69.2%, 69.7%, 69.2%, 67.2%, and 61.2% overall identity with human, mouse, rat, chicken, and bovine SM22alpha, respectively. Characterization of zebrafish SM22alpha genomic sequence reveals that it spans 7.7kb and contains five exons and four introns. The expression pattern of SM22alpha in zebrafish embryonic development is studied by whole-mount in situ hybridization. Strong expression is observed in vascular, gut, swim bladder, branchial arches, and fin epidermis. Furthermore, we carry out gene knock-down by antisense morpholino oligonucleotide, which results in disappearance of yolk extension, caudal fin aberrance, and deficiency of circulation system in zebrafish embryo. Cross-section of SM22alpha-deficient embryo suggests that SM22alpha may play roles in smooth muscle cell morphology transform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-yan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Institute of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, PR China
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27
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Fan L, Bellinger F, Ge YL, Wilce P. Genetic study of alcoholism and novel gene expression in the alcoholic brain. Addict Biol 2004; 9:11-8. [PMID: 15203434 DOI: 10.1080/13556210410001674040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol dependence may result from neuroadaptation involving alteration of gene expression after long-term alcohol exposure. The systematic study of gene expression profiles of the human alcoholic brain was initiated using the method of polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-differential display and was followed by DNA microarray. To date, more than 100 alcohol-responsive genes have been identified from the frontal cortex, motor cortex and nucleus accumbens of the human brain. These genes have a wide range of functions in the brain and indicate diverse actions of alcohol on neuronal function. This review discusses the current information on the genetic basis of alcoholism and the induction and characterization of these alcohol-responsive genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Fan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
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28
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Depaz I, Ito M, Matsumoto I, Niwa SI, Kroon P, Wilce PA. Expression of hNP22 Is Altered in the Frontal Cortex and Hippocampus of the Alcoholic Human Brain. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2003; 27:1481-8. [PMID: 14506410 DOI: 10.1097/01.alc.0000086060.18032.59] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human neuronal protein (hNP22) is a gene with elevated messenger RNA expression in the prefrontal cortex of the human alcoholic brain. hNP22 has high homology with a rat protein (rNP22). These proteins also share homology with a number of cytoskeleton-interacting proteins. METHODS A rabbit polyclonal antibody to an 18-amino acid epitope was produced for use in Western and immunohistochemical analysis. Samples from the human frontal and motor cortices were used for Western blots (n = 10), whereas a different group of frontal cortex and hippocampal samples were obtained for immunohistochemistry (n = 12). RESULTS The hNP22 antibody detected a single protein in both rat and human brain. Western blots revealed a significant increase in hNP22 protein levels in the frontal cortex but not the motor cortex of alcoholic cases. Immunohistochemical studies confirmed the increased hNP22 protein expression in all cortical layers. This is consistent with results previously obtained using Northern analysis. Immunohistochemical analysis also revealed a significant increase of hNP22 immunoreactivity in the CA3 and CA4 but not other regions of the hippocampus. CONCLUSIONS It is possible that this protein may play a role in the morphological or plastic changes observed after chronic alcohol exposure and withdrawal, either as a cytoskeleton-interacting protein or as a signaling molecule.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Depaz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Molecular and Microbial Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Brisbane, Australia.
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29
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Harper C, Dixon G, Sheedy D, Garrick T. Neuropathological alterations in alcoholic brains. Studies arising from the New South Wales Tissue Resource Centre. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2003; 27:951-61. [PMID: 14499312 DOI: 10.1016/s0278-5846(03)00155-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol dependence and abuse are among the most costly health problems in the world from both social and economic points of view. Patterns of drinking appear to be changing throughout the world with more women and young people drinking heavily. Excessive drinking can lead to impairment of cognitive function and structural brain changes--some permanent, some reversible. Patterns of damage appear to relate to lifetime alcohol consumption but, more importantly, to associated medical complications. The most significant of these is the alcohol-related vitamin deficient state, the Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome (WKS), which is caused by thiamin deficiency but is seen most commonly in alcoholics. Careful selection and classification of alcoholic cases into those with and without these complications, together with detailed quantitative neuropathological analyses has provided data that gives clues to the most vulnerable regions and cells in the brain. Brain shrinkage is largely accounted for by loss of white matter. Some of this damage appears to be reversible. Alcohol-related neuronal loss has been documented in specific regions of the cerebral cortex (superior frontal association cortex), hypothalamus and cerebellum. No change is found in basal ganglia, nucleus basalis, or serotonergic raphe nuclei. Many of these regions which are normal in uncomplicated alcoholics are damaged in those with the WKS. Dendritic and synaptic changes have been documented in alcoholics and these, together with receptor and transmitter changes, may explain functional changes and cognitive deficits, which precede more severe structural neuronal changes. A resource to provide human brain tissues for these types of studies has been developed at the University of Sydney--the New South Wales Tissue Resource Centre. The aim of this facility is to provide research groups throughout the world with fresh and/or frozen tissues from well-characterized cases of alcohol-related brain damage and matched controls. The development of new technologies in pathology and molecular biology means that many more questions can be addressed using appropriately stored human brain tissues. Examples of the application of some of these techniques, involving neurochemical, neuropharmacological, neuroimaging and gene expression studies are included in this paper. Important public health outcomes have arisen from some of these studies including the enrichment of bread flour with thiamin for the whole of Australia. Researchers with an interest in alcohol studies can access tissues from this brain bank.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clive Harper
- Department of Neuropathology, Institute for Clinical Neurosciences, Central Sydney Area Health Service, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.
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Sarris M, Garrick TM, Sheedy D, Harper CG. Banking for the future: an Australian experience in brain banking. Pathology 2002; 34:225-9. [PMID: 12109781 DOI: 10.1080/00313020220131260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The New South Wales (NSW) Tissue Resource Centre (TRC) has been set up to provide Australian and international researchers with fixed and frozen brain tissue from cases that are well characterised, both clinically and pathologically, for projects related to neuropsychiatric and alcohol-related disorders. A daily review of the Department of Forensic Medicine provides initial information regarding a potential collection. If the case adheres to the strict inclusion criteria, the pathologist performing the postmortem examination is approached regarding retention of the brain tissue. The next of kin of the deceased is then contacted requesting permission to retain the brain for medical research. Cases are also obtained through donor programmes, where donors are assessed and consent to donate their brain during life. Once the brain is removed at autopsy, the brain is photographed, weighed and the volume determined, the brainstem and cerebellum are removed. The two hemispheres are divided, one hemisphere is fresh frozen and one fixed (randomised). Prior to freezing, the hemisphere is sliced into 1-cm coronal slices and a set of critical area blocks is taken. All frozen tissues are kept bagged at -80 degrees C. The other hemisphere is fixed in 15% buffered formalin for 2 weeks, embedded in agar and sliced at 3-mm intervals in the coronal plane. Tissue blocks from these slices are used for neuropathological analysis to exclude any other pathology. The TRC currently has 230 cases of both fixed and frozen material that has proven useful in a range of techniques in many research projects. These techniques include quantitative analyses of brain regions using neuropathological, neurochemical, neuropharmacological and gene expression assays.
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