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Jiang Y, MacNeil LT. Simple model systems reveal conserved mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease and related tauopathies. Mol Neurodegener 2023; 18:82. [PMID: 37950311 PMCID: PMC10638731 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-023-00664-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The lack of effective therapies that slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related tauopathies highlights the need for a more comprehensive understanding of the fundamental cellular mechanisms underlying these diseases. Model organisms, including yeast, worms, and flies, provide simple systems with which to investigate the mechanisms of disease. The evolutionary conservation of cellular pathways regulating proteostasis and stress response in these organisms facilitates the study of genetic factors that contribute to, or protect against, neurodegeneration. Here, we review genetic modifiers of neurodegeneration and related cellular pathways identified in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, and the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster, focusing on models of AD and related tauopathies. We further address the potential of simple model systems to better understand the fundamental mechanisms that lead to AD and other neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuwei Jiang
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Lesley T MacNeil
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.
- Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.
- Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research, McMaster University, 1280 Main St W, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada.
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2
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Rani N, Alam MM, Jamal A, Bin Ghaffar U, Parvez S. Caenorhabditis elegans: A transgenic model for studying age-associated neurodegenerative diseases. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 91:102036. [PMID: 37598759 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are a heterogeneous group of aging-associated ailments characterized by interrupting cellular proteostasic machinery and the misfolding of distinct proteins to form toxic aggregates in neurons. Neurodegenerative diseases, which include Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Huntington's disease (HD), and others, are becoming an increasing threat to human health worldwide. The degeneration and death of certain specific groups of neurons are the hallmarks of these diseases. Over the past decades, Caenorhabditis eleganshas beenwidely used as a transgenic model to investigate biological processes related to health and disease. The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) has developed as a powerful tool for studying disease mechanisms due to its ease of genetic handling and instant cultivation while providing a whole-animal system amendable to several molecular and biochemical techniques. In this review, we elucidate the potential of C. elegans as a versatile platform for systematic dissection of the molecular basis of human disease, focusing on neurodegenerative disorders, and may help better our understanding of the disease mechanisms and search for new therapeutics for these devastating diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha Rani
- Department of Toxicology, School of Chemical & Life Sciences, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Mohammad Mumtaz Alam
- Drug Design and Medicinal Chemistry Lab, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India
| | - Azfar Jamal
- Department of Biology, College of Science Al-Zulfi, Majmaah University, Al-Majmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia
| | - Usama Bin Ghaffar
- Department of Basic Science, College of Medicine, Majmaah University, Al-Majmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia
| | - Suhel Parvez
- Department of Toxicology, School of Chemical & Life Sciences, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India.
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3
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Jongsma E, Goyala A, Mateos JM, Ewald CY. Removal of extracellular human amyloid beta aggregates by extracellular proteases in C. elegans. eLife 2023; 12:e83465. [PMID: 37728486 PMCID: PMC10541181 DOI: 10.7554/elife.83465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques found in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients' brains contain collagens and are embedded extracellularly. Several collagens have been proposed to influence Aβ aggregate formation, yet their role in clearance is unknown. To investigate the potential role of collagens in forming and clearance of extracellular aggregates in vivo, we created a transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans strain that expresses and secretes human Aβ1-42. This secreted Aβ forms aggregates in two distinct places within the extracellular matrix. In a screen for extracellular human Aβ aggregation regulators, we identified different collagens to ameliorate or potentiate Aβ aggregation. We show that a disintegrin and metalloprotease a disintegrin and metalloprotease 2 (ADM-2), an ortholog of ADAM9, reduces the load of extracellular Aβ aggregates. ADM-2 is required and sufficient to remove the extracellular Aβ aggregates. Thus, we provide in vivo evidence of collagens essential for aggregate formation and metalloprotease participating in extracellular Aβ aggregate removal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Jongsma
- Laboratory of Extracellular Matrix Regeneration, Institute of Translational Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH ZürichSchwerzenbachSwitzerland
| | - Anita Goyala
- Laboratory of Extracellular Matrix Regeneration, Institute of Translational Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH ZürichSchwerzenbachSwitzerland
| | - José Maria Mateos
- Center for Microscopy and Image Analysis, University of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Collin Yvès Ewald
- Laboratory of Extracellular Matrix Regeneration, Institute of Translational Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH ZürichSchwerzenbachSwitzerland
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4
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Caenorhabditis elegans as a Model System to Study Human Neurodegenerative Disorders. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13030478. [PMID: 36979413 PMCID: PMC10046667 DOI: 10.3390/biom13030478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, advances in science and technology have improved our quality of life, enabling us to tackle diseases and increase human life expectancy. However, longevity is accompanied by an accretion in the frequency of age-related neurodegenerative diseases, creating a growing burden, with pervasive social impact for human societies. The cost of managing such chronic disorders and the lack of effective treatments highlight the need to decipher their molecular and genetic underpinnings, in order to discover new therapeutic targets. In this effort, the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans serves as a powerful tool to recapitulate several disease-related phenotypes and provides a highly malleable genetic model that allows the implementation of multidisciplinary approaches, in addition to large-scale genetic and pharmacological screens. Its anatomical transparency allows the use of co-expressed fluorescent proteins to track the progress of neurodegeneration. Moreover, the functional conservation of neuronal processes, along with the high homology between nematode and human genomes, render C. elegans extremely suitable for the study of human neurodegenerative disorders. This review describes nematode models used to study neurodegeneration and underscores their contribution in the effort to dissect the molecular basis of human diseases and identify novel gene targets with therapeutic potential.
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Li Y, Li P, Zhang W, Zheng X, Gu Q. New Wine in Old Bottle: Caenorhabditis Elegans in Food Science. FOOD REVIEWS INTERNATIONAL 2023. [DOI: 10.1080/87559129.2023.2172429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yonglu Li
- School of Food Science and Biotechnology, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ping Li
- School of Food Science and Biotechnology, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Weixi Zhang
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition; Zhejiang Key Laboratory for Agro-food Processing; Fuli Institute of Food Science; National Engineering Laboratory of Intelligent Food Technology and Equipment, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaodong Zheng
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition; Zhejiang Key Laboratory for Agro-food Processing; Fuli Institute of Food Science; National Engineering Laboratory of Intelligent Food Technology and Equipment, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qing Gu
- School of Food Science and Biotechnology, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
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Wang Y, Zhao J, Chen S, Li D, Yang J, Zhao X, Qin M, Guo M, Chen C, He Z, Zhou Y, Xu L. Let-7 as a Promising Target in Aging and Aging-Related Diseases: A Promise or a Pledge. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12081070. [PMID: 36008964 PMCID: PMC9406090 DOI: 10.3390/biom12081070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The abnormal regulation and expression of microRNA (miRNA) are closely related to the aging process and the occurrence and development of aging-related diseases. Lethal-7 (let-7) was discovered in Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) and plays an important role in development by regulating cell fate regulators. Accumulating evidence has shown that let-7 is elevated in aging tissues and participates in multiple pathways that regulate the aging process, including affecting tissue stem cell function, body metabolism, and various aging-related diseases (ARDs). Moreover, recent studies have found that let-7 plays an important role in the senescence of B cells, suggesting that let-7 may also participate in the aging process by regulating immune function. Therefore, these studies show the diversity and complexity of let-7 expression and regulatory functions during aging. In this review, we provide a detailed overview of let-7 expression regulation as well as its role in different tissue aging and aging-related diseases, which may provide new ideas for enriching the complex expression regulation mechanism and pathobiological function of let-7 in aging and related diseases and ultimately provide help for the development of new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya Wang
- Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection and Therapy & Base for Talents in Biotherapy of Guizhou Province, Zunyi 563000, China; (Y.W.); (J.Z.); (S.C.); (D.L.); (J.Y.); (X.Z.); (M.Q.); (M.G.); (C.C.)
- Department of Immunology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China
| | - Juanjuan Zhao
- Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection and Therapy & Base for Talents in Biotherapy of Guizhou Province, Zunyi 563000, China; (Y.W.); (J.Z.); (S.C.); (D.L.); (J.Y.); (X.Z.); (M.Q.); (M.G.); (C.C.)
- Department of Immunology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China
| | - Shipeng Chen
- Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection and Therapy & Base for Talents in Biotherapy of Guizhou Province, Zunyi 563000, China; (Y.W.); (J.Z.); (S.C.); (D.L.); (J.Y.); (X.Z.); (M.Q.); (M.G.); (C.C.)
- Department of Immunology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China
| | - Dongmei Li
- Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection and Therapy & Base for Talents in Biotherapy of Guizhou Province, Zunyi 563000, China; (Y.W.); (J.Z.); (S.C.); (D.L.); (J.Y.); (X.Z.); (M.Q.); (M.G.); (C.C.)
- Department of Immunology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection and Therapy & Base for Talents in Biotherapy of Guizhou Province, Zunyi 563000, China; (Y.W.); (J.Z.); (S.C.); (D.L.); (J.Y.); (X.Z.); (M.Q.); (M.G.); (C.C.)
- Department of Immunology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China
| | - Xu Zhao
- Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection and Therapy & Base for Talents in Biotherapy of Guizhou Province, Zunyi 563000, China; (Y.W.); (J.Z.); (S.C.); (D.L.); (J.Y.); (X.Z.); (M.Q.); (M.G.); (C.C.)
- Department of Immunology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China
| | - Ming Qin
- Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection and Therapy & Base for Talents in Biotherapy of Guizhou Province, Zunyi 563000, China; (Y.W.); (J.Z.); (S.C.); (D.L.); (J.Y.); (X.Z.); (M.Q.); (M.G.); (C.C.)
- Department of Immunology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China
| | - Mengmeng Guo
- Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection and Therapy & Base for Talents in Biotherapy of Guizhou Province, Zunyi 563000, China; (Y.W.); (J.Z.); (S.C.); (D.L.); (J.Y.); (X.Z.); (M.Q.); (M.G.); (C.C.)
- Department of Immunology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China
| | - Chao Chen
- Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection and Therapy & Base for Talents in Biotherapy of Guizhou Province, Zunyi 563000, China; (Y.W.); (J.Z.); (S.C.); (D.L.); (J.Y.); (X.Z.); (M.Q.); (M.G.); (C.C.)
- Department of Immunology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China
| | - Zhixu He
- The Collaborative Innovation Center of Tissue Damage Repair and Regeneration Medicine of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China;
| | - Ya Zhou
- Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection and Therapy & Base for Talents in Biotherapy of Guizhou Province, Zunyi 563000, China; (Y.W.); (J.Z.); (S.C.); (D.L.); (J.Y.); (X.Z.); (M.Q.); (M.G.); (C.C.)
- Department of Medical Physics, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China
- Correspondence: (Y.Z.); (L.X.)
| | - Lin Xu
- Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection and Therapy & Base for Talents in Biotherapy of Guizhou Province, Zunyi 563000, China; (Y.W.); (J.Z.); (S.C.); (D.L.); (J.Y.); (X.Z.); (M.Q.); (M.G.); (C.C.)
- Department of Immunology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China
- Correspondence: (Y.Z.); (L.X.)
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Cho Y, Bae HG, Okun E, Arumugam TV, Jo DG. Physiology and pharmacology of amyloid precursor protein. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 235:108122. [PMID: 35114285 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Amyloid precursor protein (APP) is an evolutionarily conserved transmembrane protein and a well-characterized precursor protein of amyloid-beta (Aβ) peptides, which accumulate in the brains of individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD)-related pathologies. Aβ has been extensively investigated since the amyloid hypothesis in AD was proposed. Besides Aβ, previous studies on APP and its proteolytic cleavage products have suggested their diverse pathological and physiological functions. However, their roles still have not been thoroughly understood. In this review, we extensively discuss the evolutionarily-conserved biology of APP, including its structure and processing pathway, as well as recent findings on the physiological roles of APP and its fragments in the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system. We have also elaborated upon the current status of APP-targeted therapeutic approaches for AD treatment by discussing inhibitors of several proteases participating in APP processing, including α-, β-, and γ-secretases. Finally, we have highlighted the future perspectives pertaining to further research and the potential clinical role of APP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoonsuk Cho
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, South Korea
| | - Han-Gyu Bae
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, South Korea
| | - Eitan Okun
- The Leslie and Susan Gonda Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel; The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel; The Pauld Feder Laboratory on Alzheimer's Disease Research, Israel
| | - Thiruma V Arumugam
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, South Korea; School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Dong-Gyu Jo
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, South Korea; Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences and Technology, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul 06351, South Korea; Biomedical Institute for Convergence, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, South Korea.
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Differential regulation of degradation and immune pathways underlies adaptation of the ectosymbiotic nematode Laxus oneistus to oxic-anoxic interfaces. Sci Rep 2022; 12:9725. [PMID: 35697683 PMCID: PMC9192688 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-13235-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Eukaryotes may experience oxygen deprivation under both physiological and pathological conditions. Because oxygen shortage leads to a reduction in cellular energy production, all eukaryotes studied so far conserve energy by suppressing their metabolism. However, the molecular physiology of animals that naturally and repeatedly experience anoxia is underexplored. One such animal is the marine nematode Laxus oneistus. It thrives, invariably coated by its sulfur-oxidizing symbiont Candidatus Thiosymbion oneisti, in anoxic sulfidic or hypoxic sand. Here, transcriptomics and proteomics showed that, whether in anoxia or not, L. oneistus mostly expressed genes involved in ubiquitination, energy generation, oxidative stress response, immune response, development, and translation. Importantly, ubiquitination genes were also highly expressed when the nematode was subjected to anoxic sulfidic conditions, together with genes involved in autophagy, detoxification and ribosome biogenesis. We hypothesize that these degradation pathways were induced to recycle damaged cellular components (mitochondria) and misfolded proteins into nutrients. Remarkably, when L. oneistus was subjected to anoxic sulfidic conditions, lectin and mucin genes were also upregulated, potentially to promote the attachment of its thiotrophic symbiont. Furthermore, the nematode appeared to survive oxygen deprivation by using an alternative electron carrier (rhodoquinone) and acceptor (fumarate), to rewire the electron transfer chain. On the other hand, under hypoxia, genes involved in costly processes (e.g., amino acid biosynthesis, development, feeding, mating) were upregulated, together with the worm's Toll-like innate immunity pathway and several immune effectors (e.g., bactericidal/permeability-increasing proteins, fungicides). In conclusion, we hypothesize that, in anoxic sulfidic sand, L. oneistus upregulates degradation processes, rewires the oxidative phosphorylation and reinforces its coat of bacterial sulfur-oxidizers. In upper sand layers, instead, it appears to produce broad-range antimicrobials and to exploit oxygen for biosynthesis and development.
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Invited review: Unearthing the mechanisms of age-related neurodegenerative disease using Caenorhabditis elegans. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2022; 267:111166. [PMID: 35176489 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2022.111166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
As human life expectancy increases, neurodegenerative diseases present a growing public health threat, for which there are currently few effective treatments. There is an urgent need to understand the molecular and genetic underpinnings of these disorders so new therapeutic targets can be identified. Here we present the argument that the simple nematode worm Caenorhabditis elegans is a powerful tool to rapidly study neurodegenerative disorders due to their short lifespan and vast array of genetic tools, which can be combined with characterization of conserved neuronal processes and behavior orthologous to those disrupted in human disease. We review how pre-existing C. elegans models provide insight into human neurological disease as well as an overview of current tools available to study neurodegenerative diseases in the worm, with an emphasis on genetics and behavior. We also discuss open questions that C. elegans may be particularly well suited for in future studies and how worms will be a valuable preclinical model to better understand these devastating neurological disorders.
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Gabriele RMC, Abel E, Fox NC, Wray S, Arber C. Knockdown of Amyloid Precursor Protein: Biological Consequences and Clinical Opportunities. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:835645. [PMID: 35360155 PMCID: PMC8964081 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.835645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyloid precursor protein (APP) and its cleavage fragment Amyloid-β (Aβ) have fundamental roles in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Genetic alterations that either increase the overall dosage of APP or alter its processing to favour the generation of longer, more aggregation prone Aβ species, are directly causative of the disease. People living with one copy of APP are asymptomatic and reducing APP has been shown to lower the relative production of aggregation-prone Aβ species in vitro. For these reasons, reducing APP expression is an attractive approach for AD treatment and prevention. In this review, we will describe the structure and the known functions of APP and go on to discuss the biological consequences of APP knockdown and knockout in model systems. We highlight progress in therapeutic strategies to reverse AD pathology via reducing APP expression. We conclude that new technologies that reduce the dosage of APP expression may allow disease modification and slow clinical progression, delaying or even preventing onset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca M. C. Gabriele
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emily Abel
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom,UK Dementia Research Institute at University College London (UCL), Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nick C. Fox
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom,UK Dementia Research Institute at University College London (UCL), Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Selina Wray
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Charles Arber
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Charles Arber,
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Banerjee R, Rai A, Iyer SM, Narwal S, Tare M. Animal models in the study of Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease: A historical perspective. Animal Model Exp Med 2022; 5:27-37. [PMID: 35229999 PMCID: PMC8879627 DOI: 10.1002/ame2.12209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease are two of the most prevalent and disabling neurodegenerative diseases globally. Both are proteinopathic conditions and while occasionally inherited, are largely sporadic in nature. Although the advances in our understanding of the two have been significant, they are far from complete and neither diagnosis nor the current practices in treatment and rehabilitation is adequately helpful. Animal models have historically found application as testing beds for novel therapeutics and continue to be valuable aids in pharmacological research. This review chronicles the development of those models in the context of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, and highlights the shifting paradigms in studying two human-specific conditions in non-human organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajashree Banerjee
- Department of Biological SciencesBirla Institute of Technology and SciencePilaniIndia
| | - Arushi Rai
- Department of Biological SciencesBirla Institute of Technology and SciencePilaniIndia
| | - Shreyas M. Iyer
- Department of Biological SciencesBirla Institute of Technology and SciencePilaniIndia
| | - Sonia Narwal
- Department of Biological SciencesBirla Institute of Technology and SciencePilaniIndia
| | - Meghana Tare
- Department of Biological SciencesBirla Institute of Technology and SciencePilaniIndia
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12
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Modeling Alzheimer's Disease in Caenorhabditis elegans. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10020288. [PMID: 35203497 PMCID: PMC8869312 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most frequent cause of dementia. After decades of research, we know the importance of the accumulation of protein aggregates such as β-amyloid peptide and phosphorylated tau. We also know that mutations in certain proteins generate early-onset Alzheimer’s disease (EOAD), and many other genes modulate the disease in its sporadic form. However, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying AD pathology are still unclear. Because of ethical limitations, we need to use animal models to investigate these processes. The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has received considerable attention in the last 25 years, since the first AD models overexpressing Aβ peptide were described. We review here the main results obtained using this model to study AD. We include works studying the basic molecular mechanisms of the disease, as well as those searching for new therapeutic targets. Although this model also has important limitations, the ability of this nematode to generate knock-out or overexpression models of any gene, single or combined, and to carry out toxicity, recovery or survival studies in short timeframes with many individuals and at low cost is difficult to overcome. We can predict that its use as a model for various diseases will certainly continue to increase.
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Exploring the conservation of Alzheimer-related pathways between H. sapiens and C. elegans: a network alignment approach. Sci Rep 2021; 11:4572. [PMID: 33633188 PMCID: PMC7907373 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-83892-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder with an –as of yet– unclear etiology and pathogenesis. Research to unveil disease processes underlying AD often relies on the use of neurodegenerative disease model organisms, such as Caenorhabditis elegans. This study sought to identify biological pathways implicated in AD that are conserved in Homo sapiens and C. elegans. Protein–protein interaction networks were assembled for amyloid precursor protein (APP) and Tau in H. sapiens—two proteins whose aggregation is a hallmark in AD—and their orthologs APL-1 and PTL-1 for C. elegans. Global network alignment was used to compare these networks and determine similar, likely conserved, network regions. This comparison revealed that two prominent pathways, the APP-processing and the Tau-phosphorylation pathways, are highly conserved in both organisms. While the majority of interactions between proteins in those pathways are known to be associated with AD in human, they remain unexamined in C. elegans, signifying the need for their further investigation. In this work, we have highlighted conserved interactions related to AD in humans and have identified specific proteins that can act as targets for experimental studies in C. elegans, aiming to uncover the underlying mechanisms of AD.
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Caldwell KA, Willicott CW, Caldwell GA. Modeling neurodegeneration in Caenorhabditis elegans. Dis Model Mech 2020; 13:13/10/dmm046110. [PMID: 33106318 PMCID: PMC7648605 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.046110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The global burden of neurodegenerative diseases underscores the urgent need for innovative strategies to define new drug targets and disease-modifying factors. The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has served as the experimental subject for multiple transformative discoveries that have redefined our understanding of biology for ∼60 years. More recently, the considerable attributes of C. elegans have been applied to neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and Huntington's disease. Transgenic nematodes with genes encoding normal and disease variants of proteins at the single- or multi-copy level under neuronal-specific promoters limits expression to select neuronal subtypes. The anatomical transparency of C. elegans affords the use of co-expressed fluorescent proteins to follow the progression of neurodegeneration as the animals age. Significantly, a completely defined connectome facilitates detailed understanding of the impact of neurodegeneration on organismal health and offers a unique capacity to accurately link cell death with behavioral dysfunction or phenotypic variation in vivo. Moreover, chemical treatments, as well as forward and reverse genetic screening, hasten the identification of modifiers that alter neurodegeneration. When combined, these chemical-genetic analyses establish critical threshold states to enhance or reduce cellular stress for dissecting associated pathways. Furthermore, C. elegans can rapidly reveal whether lifespan or healthspan factor into neurodegenerative processes. Here, we outline the methodologies employed to investigate neurodegeneration in C. elegans and highlight numerous studies that exemplify its utility as a pre-clinical intermediary to expedite and inform mammalian translational research. Summary: While unsurpassed as an experimental system for fundamental biology, Caenorhabditis elegans remains undervalued for its translational potential. Here, we highlight significant outcomes from, and resources available for, C. elegans-based research into neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim A Caldwell
- Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487, USA .,Departments of Neurobiology, Neurology, Center for Neurodegeneration and Experimental Therapeutics, and Nathan Shock Center of Excellence in the Basic Biology of Aging, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Corey W Willicott
- Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487, USA
| | - Guy A Caldwell
- Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487, USA.,Departments of Neurobiology, Neurology, Center for Neurodegeneration and Experimental Therapeutics, and Nathan Shock Center of Excellence in the Basic Biology of Aging, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
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15
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Liang JJH, McKinnon IA, Rankin CH. The contribution of C. elegans neurogenetics to understanding neurodegenerative diseases. J Neurogenet 2020; 34:527-548. [DOI: 10.1080/01677063.2020.1803302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph J. H. Liang
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Issa A. McKinnon
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Catharine H. Rankin
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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16
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Sae-Lee W, Scott LL, Brose L, Encarnacion AJ, Shi T, Kore P, Oyibo LO, Ye C, Rozmiarek SK, Pierce JT. APP-Induced Patterned Neurodegeneration Is Exacerbated by APOE4 in Caenorhabditis elegans. G3 (BETHESDA, MD.) 2020; 10:2851-2861. [PMID: 32580938 PMCID: PMC7407474 DOI: 10.1534/g3.120.401486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Genetic and epidemiological studies have found that variations in the amyloid precursor protein (APP) and the apoliopoprotein E (APOE) genes represent major modifiers of the progressive neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease (AD). An extra copy of or gain-of-function mutations in APP correlate with early onset AD. Compared to the other variants (APOE2 and APOE3), the ε4 allele of APOE (APOE4) hastens and exacerbates early and late onset forms of AD. Convenient in vivo models to study how APP and APOE4 interact at the cellular and molecular level to influence neurodegeneration are lacking. Here, we show that the nematode C. elegans can model important aspects of AD including age-related, patterned neurodegeneration that is exacerbated by APOE4 Specifically, we found that APOE4, but not APOE3, acts with APP to hasten and expand the pattern of cholinergic neurodegeneration caused by APP Molecular mechanisms underlying how APP and APOE4 synergize to kill some neurons while leaving others unaffected may be uncovered using this convenient worm model of neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wisath Sae-Lee
- Center for Learning and Memory; Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research; Cell and Molecular Biology; Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, TX, 78712
| | - Luisa L Scott
- Center for Learning and Memory; Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research; Cell and Molecular Biology; Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, TX, 78712
| | - Lotti Brose
- Center for Learning and Memory; Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research; Cell and Molecular Biology; Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, TX, 78712
| | - Aliyah J Encarnacion
- Center for Learning and Memory; Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research; Cell and Molecular Biology; Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, TX, 78712
| | - Ted Shi
- Center for Learning and Memory; Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research; Cell and Molecular Biology; Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, TX, 78712
| | - Pragati Kore
- Center for Learning and Memory; Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research; Cell and Molecular Biology; Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, TX, 78712
| | - Lashaun O Oyibo
- Center for Learning and Memory; Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research; Cell and Molecular Biology; Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, TX, 78712
| | - Congxi Ye
- Center for Learning and Memory; Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research; Cell and Molecular Biology; Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, TX, 78712
| | - Susan K Rozmiarek
- Center for Learning and Memory; Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research; Cell and Molecular Biology; Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, TX, 78712
| | - Jonathan T Pierce
- Center for Learning and Memory; Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research; Cell and Molecular Biology; Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, TX, 78712
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17
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Dar NJ, Glazner GW. Deciphering the neuroprotective and neurogenic potential of soluble amyloid precursor protein alpha (sAPPα). Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 77:2315-2330. [PMID: 31960113 PMCID: PMC11105086 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03404-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Amyloid precursor protein (APP) is a transmembrane protein expressed largely within the central nervous system. Upon cleavage, it does not produce the toxic amyloid peptide (Aβ) only, which is involved in neurodegenerative progressions but via a non-amyloidogenic pathway it is metabolized to produce a soluble fragment (sAPPα) through α-secretase. While a lot of studies are focusing on the role played by APP in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease, sAPPα is reported to have numerous neuroprotective effects and it is being suggested as a candidate with possible therapeutic potential against Alzheimer's disease. However, the mechanisms through which sAPPα precisely works remain elusive. We have presented a comprehensive review of how sAPPα is regulating the neuroprotective effects in different biological models. Moreover, we have focused on the role of sAPPα during different developmental stages of the brain, neurogenic microenvironment in the brain and how this metabolite of APP is regulating the neurogenesis which is regarded as a compelling approach to ameliorate the impaired learning and memory deficits in dementia and diseases like Alzheimer's disease. sAPPα exerts beneficial physiological, biochemical and behavioral effects mitigating the detrimental effects of neurotoxic compounds. It has shown to increase the proliferation rate of numerous cell types and promised the synaptogenesis, neurite outgrowth, cell survival and cell adhesion. Taken together, we believe that further studies are warranted to investigate the exact mechanism of action so that sAPPα could be developed as a novel therapeutic target against neuronal deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nawab John Dar
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre, Winnipeg, MB, R2H 2A6, Canada
| | - Gordon W Glazner
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.
- St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre, Winnipeg, MB, R2H 2A6, Canada.
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18
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Markaki M, Tavernarakis N. Caenorhabditis elegans as a model system for human diseases. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2020; 63:118-125. [PMID: 31951916 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2019.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Revised: 12/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans offers unique advantages that enable a comprehensive delineation of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying devastating human pathologies such as stroke, ischemia and age-associated neurodegenerative disorders. Genetic models of human diseases that closely simulate several disease-related phenotypes have been established in the worm. These models allow the implementation of multidisciplinary approaches, in addition to large-scale genetic and pharmacological screenings, designed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms mediating pathogenesis and to identify targets and drugs for emergent therapeutic interventions. Such strategies have already provided valuable insights, highly relevant to human health and quality of life. This article considers the potential of C. elegans as a versatile platform for systematic dissection of the molecular basis of human disease, focusing on neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Markaki
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Heraklion 70013, Crete, Greece
| | - Nektarios Tavernarakis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Heraklion 70013, Crete, Greece; Department of Basic Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion 70013, Crete, Greece.
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19
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Alvarez J, Alvarez-Illera P, García-Casas P, Fonteriz RI, Montero M. The Role of Ca 2+ Signaling in Aging and Neurodegeneration: Insights from Caenorhabditis elegans Models. Cells 2020; 9:cells9010204. [PMID: 31947609 PMCID: PMC7016793 DOI: 10.3390/cells9010204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ca2+ is a ubiquitous second messenger that plays an essential role in physiological processes such as muscle contraction, neuronal secretion, and cell proliferation or differentiation. There is ample evidence that the dysregulation of Ca2+ signaling is one of the key events in the development of neurodegenerative processes, an idea called the "calcium hypothesis" of neurodegeneration. Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) is a very good model for the study of aging and neurodegeneration. In fact, many of the signaling pathways involved in longevity were first discovered in this nematode, and many models of neurodegenerative diseases have also been developed therein, either through mutations in the worm genome or by expressing human proteins involved in neurodegeneration (β-amyloid, α-synuclein, polyglutamine, or others) in defined worm tissues. The worm is completely transparent throughout its whole life, which makes it possible to carry out Ca2+ dynamics studies in vivo at any time, by expressing Ca2+ fluorescent probes in defined worm tissues, and even in specific organelles such as mitochondria. This review will summarize the evidence obtained using this model organism to understand the role of Ca2+ signaling in aging and neurodegeneration.
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20
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Nomoto Y, Kubota Y, Ohnishi Y, Kasahara K, Tomita A, Oshime T, Yamashita H, Fahmi M, Ito M. Gene Cascade Finder: A tool for identification of gene cascades and its application in Caenorhabditis elegans. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0215187. [PMID: 31504044 PMCID: PMC6736238 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0215187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Obtaining a comprehensive understanding of the gene regulatory networks, or gene cascades, involved in cell fate determination and cell lineage segregation in Caenorhabditis elegans is a long-standing challenge. Although RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) is a promising technique to resolve these questions, the bioinformatics tools to identify associated gene cascades from RNA-Seq data remain inadequate. To overcome these limitations, we developed Gene Cascade Finder (GCF) as a novel tool for building gene cascades by comparison of mutant and wild-type RNA-Seq data along with integrated information of protein-protein interactions, expression timing, and domains. Application of GCF to RNA-Seq data confirmed that SPN-4 and MEX-3 regulate the canonical Wnt pathway during embryonic development. Moreover, lin-35, hsp-3, and gpa-12 were found to be involved in MEX-1-dependent neurogenesis, and MEX-3 was found to control the gene cascade promoting neurogenesis through lin-35 and apl-1. Thus, GCF could be a useful tool for building gene cascades from RNA-Seq data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Nomoto
- Advanced Life Sciences Program, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan
| | - Yukihiro Kubota
- Department of Bioinformatics, College of Life Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan
| | - Yuto Ohnishi
- Advanced Life Sciences Program, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan
| | - Kota Kasahara
- Department of Bioinformatics, College of Life Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan
| | - Aimi Tomita
- Advanced Life Sciences Program, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan
| | - Takehiro Oshime
- Advanced Life Sciences Program, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan
| | - Hiroki Yamashita
- Advanced Life Sciences Program, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan
| | - Muhamad Fahmi
- Department of Bioinformatics, College of Life Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan
| | - Masahiro Ito
- Advanced Life Sciences Program, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan
- Department of Bioinformatics, College of Life Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan
- * E-mail:
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21
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Peng X, Williams J, Smallwood PM, Nathans J. Defining the binding interface of Amyloid Precursor Protein (APP) and Contactin3 (CNTN3) by site-directed mutagenesis. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0219384. [PMID: 31318883 PMCID: PMC6638891 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0219384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2019] [Accepted: 06/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The Amyloid Precursor Protein (APP) and Contactin (CNTN) families of cell-surface proteins have been intensively studied in the context of neural development and neuropsychiatric diseases. Earlier studies demonstrated both genetic and biochemical interactions between the extracellular domains of APP and CNTN3, but their precise binding interfaces were not defined. In the present study, we have used binding assays between APP-alkaline phosphatase (AP) fusion proteins and CNTN-Fc fusion proteins, together with alanine substitution mutagenesis, to show that: (i) the second Fibronectin domain (Fn(2)) in CNTN3 mediates APP binding; (ii) the copper binding domain (CuBD) in APP mediates CNTN3 binding; and (iii) the most important amino acids for APP-CNTN3 binding reside on one face of CNTN3-Fn(2) and on one face of APP-CuBD. These experiments define the regions of direct contact that mediate the binding interaction between APP and CNTN3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Peng
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - John Williams
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Philip M. Smallwood
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Jeremy Nathans
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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22
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Haghani A, Dalton HM, Safi N, Shirmohammadi F, Sioutas C, Morgan TE, Finch CE, Curran SP. Air Pollution Alters Caenorhabditis elegans Development and Lifespan: Responses to Traffic-Related Nanoparticulate Matter. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2019; 74:1189-1197. [PMID: 30828708 PMCID: PMC6625599 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glz063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Air pollution is a heterogeneous environmental toxicant that impacts humans throughout their life. We introduce Caenorhabditis elegans as a valuable air pollution model with its short lifespan, medium-throughput capabilities, and highly conserved biological pathways that impact healthspan. We exposed developmental and adult life stages of C. elegans to airborne nano-sized particulate matter (nPM) produced by traffic emissions and measured biological and molecular endpoints that changed in response. Acute nPM did not cause lethality in C. elegans, but short-term exposure during larval stage 1 caused delayed development. Gene expression responses to nPM exposure overlapped with responses of mouse and cell culture models of nPM exposure in previous studies. We showed further that the skn-1/Nrf2 antioxidant response has a role in the development and hormetic effects of nPM. This study introduces the worm as a new resource and complementary model for mouse and cultured cell systems to study air pollution toxicity across the lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin Haghani
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles
| | - Hans M Dalton
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles
| | - Nikoo Safi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Center for Bioinformatics and Genomics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | | | | | - Todd E Morgan
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles
| | - Caleb E Finch
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles
| | - Sean P Curran
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles,Address correspondence to: Sean P. Curran, PhD, Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, 3715 McClintock Avenue, Suite 350, Los Angeles, CA 90089. E-mail:
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23
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Ben-Yakar A. High-Content and High-Throughput In Vivo Drug Screening Platforms Using Microfluidics. Assay Drug Dev Technol 2019; 17:8-13. [DOI: 10.1089/adt.2018.908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Adela Ben-Yakar
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
- Adela Ben-Yakar from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin was awarded The President's Innovation award at the annual Society of Biomolecular Imaging and Informatics (SBI2) meeting held in Boston, September 2018
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24
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Griffin EF, Caldwell KA, Caldwell GA. Genetic and Pharmacological Discovery for Alzheimer's Disease Using Caenorhabditis elegans. ACS Chem Neurosci 2017; 8:2596-2606. [PMID: 29022701 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.7b00361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The societal burden presented by Alzheimer's disease warrants both innovative and expedient means by which its underlying molecular causes can be both identified and mechanistically exploited to discern novel therapeutic targets and strategies. The conserved characteristics, defined neuroanatomy, and advanced technological application of Caenorhabditis elegans render this metazoan an unmatched tool for probing neurotoxic factors. In addition, its short lifespan and importance in the field of aging make it an ideal organism for modeling age-related neurodegenerative disease. As such, this nematode system has demonstrated its value in predicting functional modifiers of human neurodegenerative disorders. Here, we review how C. elegans has been utilized to model Alzheimer's disease. Specifically, we present how the causative neurotoxic peptides, amyloid-β and tau, contribute to disease-like neurodegeneration in C. elegans and how they translate to human disease. Furthermore, we describe how a variety of transgenic animal strains, each with distinct utility, have been used to identify both genetic and pharmacological modifiers of toxicity in C. elegans. As technological advances improve the prospects for intervention, the rapidity, unparalleled accuracy, and scale that C. elegans offers researchers for defining functional modifiers of neurodegeneration should speed the discovery of improved therapies for Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward F. Griffin
- Department
of Biological Sciences, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487, United States
| | - Kim A. Caldwell
- Department
of Biological Sciences, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487, United States
| | - Guy A. Caldwell
- Department
of Biological Sciences, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487, United States
- Departments
of Neurology and Neurobiology, Center for Neurodegeneration and Experimental
Therapeutics, The University of Alabama School of Medicine at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama 35294, United States
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25
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Metheetrairut C, Ahuja Y, Slack FJ. acn-1, a C. elegans homologue of ACE, genetically interacts with the let-7 microRNA and other heterochronic genes. Cell Cycle 2017; 16:1800-1809. [PMID: 28933985 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2017.1344798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The heterochronic pathway in C. elegans controls the relative timing of cell fate decisions during post-embryonic development. It includes a network of microRNAs (miRNAs), such as let-7, and protein-coding genes, such as the stemness factors, LIN-28 and LIN-41. Here we identified the acn-1 gene, a homologue of mammalian angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), as a new suppressor of the stem cell developmental defects of let-7 mutants. Since acn-1 null mutants die during early larval development, we used RNAi to characterize the role of acn-1 in C. elegans seam cell development, and determined its interaction with heterochronic factors, including let-7 and its downstream interactors - lin-41, hbl-1, and apl-1. We demonstrate that although RNAi knockdown of acn-1 is insufficient to cause heterochronic defects on its own, loss of acn-1 suppresses the retarded phenotypes of let-7 mutants and enhances the precocious phenotypes of hbl-1, though not lin-41, mutants. Conversely, the pattern of acn-1 expression, which oscillates during larval development, is disrupted by lin-41 mutants but not by hbl-1 mutants. Finally, we show that acn-1(RNAi) enhances the let-7-suppressing phenotypes caused by loss of apl-1, a homologue of the Alzheimer's disease-causing amyloid precursor protein (APP), while significantly disrupting the expression of apl-1 during the L4 larval stage. In conclusion, acn-1 interacts with heterochronic genes and appears to function downstream of let-7 and its target genes, including lin-41 and apl-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chanatip Metheetrairut
- a Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology , Yale University , New Haven , CT , USA
| | - Yuri Ahuja
- a Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology , Yale University , New Haven , CT , USA
| | - Frank J Slack
- a Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology , Yale University , New Haven , CT , USA
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26
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Pawlowski M, Meuth SG, Duning T. Cerebrospinal Fluid Biomarkers in Alzheimer's Disease-From Brain Starch to Bench and Bedside. Diagnostics (Basel) 2017; 7:diagnostics7030042. [PMID: 28703785 PMCID: PMC5617942 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics7030042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2017] [Revised: 06/21/2017] [Accepted: 07/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. Over the last three decades, research has advanced dramatically and provided a detailed understanding of the molecular events underlying the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease. In parallel, assays for the detection of biomarkers that reflect the typical Alzheimer’s disease-associated pathology have been developed and validated in myriads of clinical studies. Such biomarkers complement clinical diagnosis and improve diagnostic accuracy. The use of biomarkers will become even more important with the advent of disease-modifying therapies. Such therapies will likely be most beneficial when administered early in the disease course. Here, we summarise the development of the core Alzheimer’s disease cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers: amyloid-β and tau. We provide an overview of their role in cellular physiology and Alzheimer’s disease pathology, and embed their development as cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers into the historical context of Alzheimer’s disease research. Finally, we summarise recommendations for their use in clinical practice, and outline perspectives for novel cerebrospinal fluid candidate biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Pawlowski
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Building A1, Münster 48149, Germany.
| | - Sven G Meuth
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Building A1, Münster 48149, Germany.
| | - Thomas Duning
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Building A1, Münster 48149, Germany.
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27
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Yi B, Sahn JJ, Ardestani PM, Evans AK, Scott LL, Chan JZ, Iyer S, Crisp A, Zuniga G, Pierce JT, Martin SF, Shamloo M. Small molecule modulator of sigma 2 receptor is neuroprotective and reduces cognitive deficits and neuroinflammation in experimental models of Alzheimer's disease. J Neurochem 2017; 140:561-575. [PMID: 27926996 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.13917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2016] [Revised: 11/23/2016] [Accepted: 12/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that modulating the sigma 2 receptor (Sig2R) can provide beneficial effects for neurodegenerative diseases. Herein, we report the identification of a novel class of Sig2R ligands and their cellular and in vivo activity in experimental models of Alzheimer's disease (AD). We report that SAS-0132 and DKR-1051, selective ligands of Sig2R, modulate intracellular Ca2+ levels in human SK-N-SH neuroblastoma cells. The Sig2R ligands SAS-0132 and JVW-1009 are neuroprotective in a C. elegans model of amyloid precursor protein-mediated neurodegeneration. Since this neuroprotective effect is replicated by genetic knockdown and knockout of vem-1, the ortholog of progesterone receptor membrane component-1 (PGRMC1), these results suggest that Sig2R ligands modulate a PGRMC1-related pathway. Last, we demonstrate that SAS-0132 improves cognitive performance both in the Thy-1 hAPPLond/Swe+ transgenic mouse model of AD and in healthy wild-type mice. These results demonstrate that Sig2R is a promising therapeutic target for neurocognitive disorders including AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bitna Yi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - James J Sahn
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Pooneh Memar Ardestani
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Andrew K Evans
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Luisa L Scott
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, Institute of Neuroscience, Center for Learning and Memory, Center for Brain, Behavior and Evolution and Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Jessica Z Chan
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Sangeetha Iyer
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, Institute of Neuroscience, Center for Learning and Memory, Center for Brain, Behavior and Evolution and Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Ashley Crisp
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, Institute of Neuroscience, Center for Learning and Memory, Center for Brain, Behavior and Evolution and Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Gabriella Zuniga
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, Institute of Neuroscience, Center for Learning and Memory, Center for Brain, Behavior and Evolution and Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Jonathan T Pierce
- Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, Institute of Neuroscience, Center for Learning and Memory, Center for Brain, Behavior and Evolution and Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Stephen F Martin
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Mehrdad Shamloo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California, USA
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28
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Wang B, Li H, Mutlu SA, Bowser DA, Moore MJ, Wang MC, Zheng H. The Amyloid Precursor Protein Is a Conserved Receptor for Slit to Mediate Axon Guidance. eNeuro 2017; 4:ENEURO.0185-17.2017. [PMID: 28785723 PMCID: PMC5534435 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0185-17.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/29/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The amyloid precursor protein (APP) is a receptor-like membrane protein. Although APP processing and β-amyloid production play a central role in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis, the physiological function of APP remains elusive. Here, we identify APP as a novel receptor for Slit that mediates axon guidance and neural circuit formation. APP deficiency abolishes the Slit repulsive effect in a 3D olfactory explant culture, consistent with its callosal projection deficit in vivo and reminiscent of Slit loss. Inactivation of APP ortholog APL-1 in Caenorhabditis elegans results in pioneer axon mistargeting and genetic analysis places APL-1 in the SLT-1 (Slit)/SAX-3 (Robo) repulsive pathway. Slit binds to APP through the E1 domain, which triggers APP ectodomain shedding and recruitment of the intracellular FE65 and Pak1 complex and associated Rac1 GTPase activation. Our study establishes APP as a novel receptor for Slit ligand mediating axon guidance and neural circuit formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baiping Wang
- Huffington Center on Aging and Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Hongmei Li
- Huffington Center on Aging and Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Sena A. Mutlu
- Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Devon A. Bowser
- Interdisciplinary Bioinnovation PhD Program, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70118
| | - Michael J. Moore
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70118
| | - Meng C. Wang
- Huffington Center on Aging and Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Hui Zheng
- Huffington Center on Aging and Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
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Hefter D, Draguhn A. APP as a Protective Factor in Acute Neuronal Insults. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:22. [PMID: 28210211 PMCID: PMC5288400 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2016] [Accepted: 01/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite its key role in the molecular pathology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the physiological function of amyloid precursor protein (APP) is unknown. Increasing evidence, however, points towards a neuroprotective role of this membrane protein in situations of metabolic stress. A key observation is the up-regulation of APP following acute (stroke, cardiac arrest) or chronic (cerebrovascular disease) hypoxic-ischemic conditions. While this mechanism may increase the risk or severity of AD, APP by itself or its soluble extracellular fragment APPsα can promote neuronal survival. Indeed, different animal models of acute hypoxia-ischemia, traumatic brain injury (TBI) and excitotoxicity have revealed protective effects of APP or APPsα. The underlying mechanisms involve APP-mediated regulation of calcium homeostasis via NMDA receptors (NMDAR), voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCC) or internal calcium stores. In addition, APP affects the expression of survival- or apoptosis-related genes as well as neurotrophic factors. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the neuroprotective role of APP and APPsα and possible implications for future research and new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitri Hefter
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Heidelberg UniversityHeidelberg, Germany; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg UniversityMannheim, Germany
| | - Andreas Draguhn
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Heidelberg University Heidelberg, Germany
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30
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Copenhaver PF, Kögel D. Role of APP Interactions with Heterotrimeric G Proteins: Physiological Functions and Pathological Consequences. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:3. [PMID: 28197070 PMCID: PMC5281615 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Following the discovery that the amyloid precursor protein (APP) is the source of β-amyloid peptides (Aβ) that accumulate in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), structural analyses suggested that the holoprotein resembles a transmembrane receptor. Initial studies using reconstituted membranes demonstrated that APP can directly interact with the heterotrimeric G protein Gαo (but not other G proteins) via an evolutionarily G protein-binding motif in its cytoplasmic domain. Subsequent investigations in cell culture showed that antibodies against the extracellular domain of APP could stimulate Gαo activity, presumably mimicking endogenous APP ligands. In addition, chronically activating wild type APP or overexpressing mutant APP isoforms linked with familial AD could provoke Go-dependent neurotoxic responses, while biochemical assays using human brain samples suggested that the endogenous APP-Go interactions are perturbed in AD patients. More recently, several G protein-dependent pathways have been implicated in the physiological roles of APP, coupled with evidence that APP interacts both physically and functionally with Gαo in a variety of contexts. Work in insect models has demonstrated that the APP ortholog APPL directly interacts with Gαo in motile neurons, whereby APPL-Gαo signaling regulates the response of migratory neurons to ligands encountered in the developing nervous system. Concurrent studies using cultured mammalian neurons and organotypic hippocampal slice preparations have shown that APP signaling transduces the neuroprotective effects of soluble sAPPα fragments via modulation of the PI3K/Akt pathway, providing a mechanism for integrating the stress and survival responses regulated by APP. Notably, this effect was also inhibited by pertussis toxin, indicating an essential role for Gαo/i proteins. Unexpectedly, C-terminal fragments (CTFs) derived from APP have also been found to interact with Gαs, whereby CTF-Gαs signaling can promote neurite outgrowth via adenylyl cyclase/PKA-dependent pathways. These reports offer the intriguing perspective that G protein switching might modulate APP-dependent responses in a context-dependent manner. In this review, we provide an up-to-date perspective on the model that APP plays a variety of roles as an atypical G protein-coupled receptor in both the developing and adult nervous system, and we discuss the hypothesis that disruption of these normal functions might contribute to the progressive neuropathologies that typify AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip F Copenhaver
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Cancer Biology, Oregon Health & Sciences University, Portland OR, USA
| | - Donat Kögel
- Experimental Neurosurgery, Goethe University Frankfurt Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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31
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Ewald CY, Marfil V, Li C. Alzheimer-related protein APL-1 modulates lifespan through heterochronic gene regulation in Caenorhabditis elegans. Aging Cell 2016; 15:1051-1062. [PMID: 27557896 PMCID: PMC5114704 DOI: 10.1111/acel.12509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an age‐associated disease. Mutations in the amyloid precursor protein (APP) may be causative or protective of AD. The presence of two functionally redundant APP‐like genes (APLP1/2) has made it difficult to unravel the biological function of APP during aging. The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans contains a single APP family member, apl‐1. Here, we assessed the function of APL‐1 on C. elegans’ lifespan and found tissue‐specific effects on lifespan by overexpression of APL‐1. Overexpression of APL‐1 in neurons causes lifespan reduction, whereas overexpression of APL‐1 in the hypodermis causes lifespan extension by repressing the function of the heterochronic transcription factor LIN‐14 to preserve youthfulness. APL‐1 lifespan extension also requires signaling through the FOXO transcription factor DAF‐16, heat‐shock factor HSF‐1, and vitamin D‐like nuclear hormone receptor DAF‐12. We propose that reinforcing APL‐1 expression in the hypodermis preserves the regulation of heterochronic lin‐14 gene network to improve maintenance of somatic tissues via DAF‐16/FOXO and HSF‐1 to promote healthy aging. Our work reveals a mechanistic link of how a conserved APP‐related protein modulates aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Collin Y. Ewald
- Graduate Center City University of New York New York NY USA
- Department of Biology City College of New York New York NY USA
| | - Vanessa Marfil
- Department of Biology City College of New York New York NY USA
| | - Chris Li
- Graduate Center City University of New York New York NY USA
- Department of Biology City College of New York New York NY USA
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32
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Large-scale microfluidics providing high-resolution and high-throughput screening of Caenorhabditis elegans poly-glutamine aggregation model. Nat Commun 2016; 7:13023. [PMID: 27725672 PMCID: PMC5062571 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms13023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2016] [Accepted: 08/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Next generation drug screening could benefit greatly from in vivo studies, using small animal models such as Caenorhabditis elegans for hit identification and lead optimization. Current in vivo assays can operate either at low throughput with high resolution or with low resolution at high throughput. To enable both high-throughput and high-resolution imaging of C. elegans, we developed an automated microfluidic platform. This platform can image 15 z-stacks of ∼4,000 C. elegans from 96 different populations using a large-scale chip with a micron resolution in 16 min. Using this platform, we screened ∼100,000 animals of the poly-glutamine aggregation model on 25 chips. We tested the efficacy of ∼1,000 FDA-approved drugs in improving the aggregation phenotype of the model and identified four confirmed hits. This robust platform now enables high-content screening of various C. elegans disease models at the speed and cost of in vitro cell-based assays.
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33
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The APP Intracellular Domain Is Required for Normal Synaptic Morphology, Synaptic Plasticity, and Hippocampus-Dependent Behavior. J Neurosci 2016; 35:16018-33. [PMID: 26658856 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2009-15.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED The amyloid precursor protein family (APP/APLPs) has essential roles for neuromuscular synapse development and for the formation and plasticity of synapses within the CNS. Despite this, it has remained unclear whether APP mediates its functions primarily as a cell surface adhesion and signaling molecule or via its numerous proteolytic cleavage products. To address these questions, we followed a genetic approach and used APPΔCT15 knockin mice lacking the last 15 amino acids of APP, including the highly conserved YENPTY protein interaction motif. To circumvent functional compensation by the closely related APLP2, these mice were bred to an APLP2-KO background to generate APPΔCT15-DM double mutants. These APPΔCT15-DM mice were partially viable and displayed defects in neuromuscular synapse morphology and function with impairments in the ability to sustain transmitter release that resulted in muscular weakness. In the CNS, we demonstrate pronounced synaptic deficits including impairments in LTP that were associated with deficits in spatial learning and memory. Thus, the APP-CT15 domain provides essential physiological functions, likely via recruitment of specific interactors. Together with the well-established role of APPsα for synaptic plasticity, this shows that multiple domains of APP, including the conserved C-terminus, mediate signals required for normal PNS and CNS physiology. In addition, we demonstrate that lack of the APP-CT15 domain strongly impairs Aβ generation in vivo, establishing the APP C-terminus as a target for Aβ-lowering strategies. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Synaptic dysfunction and cognitive decline are early hallmark features of Alzheimer's disease. Thus, it is essential to elucidate the in vivo function(s) of APP at the synapse. At present, it is unknown whether APP family proteins function as cell surface receptors, or mainly via shedding of their secreted ectodomains, such as neurotrophic APPsα. Here, to dissect APP functional domains, we used APP mutant mice lacking the last 15 amino acids that were crossed onto an APLP2-KO background. These APPΔCT15-DM mice showed defects in neuromuscular morphology and function. Synaptic deficits in the CNS included impairments of synaptic plasticity, spatial learning, and memory. Collectively, this indicates that multiple APP domains, including the C-terminus, are required for normal nervous system function.
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Neural stem/progenitor cells in Alzheimer's disease. THE YALE JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2016; 89:23-35. [PMID: 27505014 PMCID: PMC4797833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent neurodegenerative disease and a worldwide health challenge. Different therapeutic approaches are being developed to reverse or slow the loss of affected neurons. Another plausible therapeutic way that may complement the studies is to increase the survival of existing neurons by mobilizing the existing neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs) - i.e. "induce their plasticity" - to regenerate lost neurons despite the existing pathology and unfavorable environment. However, there is controversy about how NSPCs are affected by the unfavorable toxic environment during AD. In this review, we will discuss the use of stem cells in neurodegenerative diseases and in particular how NSPCs affect the AD pathology and how neurodegeneration affects NSPCs. In the end of this review, we will discuss how zebrafish as a useful model organism with extensive regenerative ability in the brain might help to address the molecular programs needed for NSPCs to respond to neurodegeneration by enhanced neurogenesis.
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35
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Chen X, Barclay JW, Burgoyne RD, Morgan A. Using C. elegans to discover therapeutic compounds for ageing-associated neurodegenerative diseases. Chem Cent J 2015; 9:65. [PMID: 26617668 PMCID: PMC4661952 DOI: 10.1186/s13065-015-0143-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2015] [Accepted: 11/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-associated neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease are a major public health challenge, due to the demographic increase in the proportion of older individuals in society. However, the relatively few currently approved drugs for these conditions provide only symptomatic relief. A major goal of neurodegeneration research is therefore to identify potential new therapeutic compounds that can slow or even reverse disease progression, either by impacting directly on the neurodegenerative process or by activating endogenous physiological neuroprotective mechanisms that decline with ageing. This requires model systems that can recapitulate key features of human neurodegenerative diseases that are also amenable to compound screening approaches. Mammalian models are very powerful, but are prohibitively expensive for high-throughput drug screens. Given the highly conserved neurological pathways between mammals and invertebrates, Caenorhabditis elegans has emerged as a powerful tool for neuroprotective compound screening. Here we describe how C. elegans has been used to model various human ageing-associated neurodegenerative diseases and provide an extensive list of compounds that have therapeutic activity in these worm models and so may have translational potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Chen
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Crown St, Liverpool, L69 3BX UK ; Centre for Neurodegenerative Science, Van Andel Research Institute, 333 Bostwick Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, Michigan, MI 49503 USA
| | - Jeff W Barclay
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Crown St, Liverpool, L69 3BX UK
| | - Robert D Burgoyne
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Crown St, Liverpool, L69 3BX UK
| | - Alan Morgan
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Crown St, Liverpool, L69 3BX UK
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36
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Balklava Z, Niehage C, Currinn H, Mellor L, Guscott B, Poulin G, Hoflack B, Wassmer T. The Amyloid Precursor Protein Controls PIKfyve Function. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0130485. [PMID: 26125944 PMCID: PMC4488396 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0130485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2014] [Accepted: 05/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
While the Amyloid Precursor Protein (APP) plays a central role in Alzheimer's disease, its cellular function still remains largely unclear. It was our goal to establish APP function which will provide insights into APP's implication in Alzheimer's disease. Using our recently developed proteo-liposome assay we established the interactome of APP's intracellular domain (known as AICD), thereby identifying novel APP interactors that provide mechanistic insights into APP function. By combining biochemical, cell biological and genetic approaches we validated the functional significance of one of these novel interactors. Here we show that APP binds the PIKfyve complex, an essential kinase for the synthesis of the endosomal phosphoinositide phosphatidylinositol-3,5-bisphosphate. This signalling lipid plays a crucial role in endosomal homeostasis and receptor sorting. Loss of PIKfyve function by mutation causes profound neurodegeneration in mammals. Using C. elegans genetics we demonstrate that APP functionally cooperates with PIKfyve in vivo. This regulation is required for maintaining endosomal and neuronal function. Our findings establish an unexpected role for APP in the regulation of endosomal phosphoinositide metabolism with dramatic consequences for endosomal biology and important implications for our understanding of Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zita Balklava
- Aston University, School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston Triangle, Birmingham, B4 7ET, United Kingdom
| | - Christian Niehage
- Biotechnologisches Zentrum, TU-Dresden, Tatzberg 47–49, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Heather Currinn
- Aston University, School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston Triangle, Birmingham, B4 7ET, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Mellor
- University of Manchester, Michael Smith Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, United Kingdom
| | - Benjamin Guscott
- Aston University, School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston Triangle, Birmingham, B4 7ET, United Kingdom
| | - Gino Poulin
- University of Manchester, Michael Smith Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, United Kingdom
| | - Bernard Hoflack
- Biotechnologisches Zentrum, TU-Dresden, Tatzberg 47–49, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Thomas Wassmer
- Aston University, School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston Triangle, Birmingham, B4 7ET, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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37
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van der Kant R, Goldstein LSB. Cellular functions of the amyloid precursor protein from development to dementia. Dev Cell 2015; 32:502-15. [PMID: 25710536 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2015.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Amyloid precursor protein (APP) is a key player in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The Aβ fragments of APP are the major constituent of AD-associated amyloid plaques, and mutations or duplications of the gene coding for APP can cause familial AD. Here we review the roles of APP in neuronal development, signaling, intracellular transport, and other aspects of neuronal homeostasis. We suggest that APP acts as a signaling nexus that transduces information about a range of extracellular conditions, including neuronal damage, to induction of intracellular signaling events. Subtle disruptions of APP signaling functions may be major contributors to AD-causing neuronal dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rik van der Kant
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
| | - Lawrence S B Goldstein
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
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38
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Shamsuzzama, Kumar L, Haque R, Nazir A. Role of MicroRNA Let-7 in Modulating Multifactorial Aspect of Neurodegenerative Diseases: an Overview. Mol Neurobiol 2015; 53:2787-2793. [PMID: 25823513 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-015-9145-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2015] [Accepted: 03/18/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The multifactorial aspect of neurodegenerative diseases has posed challenges in terms of understanding various mechanistic cues behind these ailments. The fact that single microRNA (miRNA) molecules can regulate multiple genes and associated pathways makes these molecules interesting for studies within the area of age-associated neurodegenerative diseases. miRNAs are endogenous, evolutionarily conserved, 20-23 nucleotide non-coding RNAs, which were first discovered in Caenorhabditis elegans. They play a key role in gene regulation and are known to be deregulated in many disease conditions. Steady regulations of miRNAs are required for normal biological processes. One of the crucial miRNA molecules let-7 is highly conserved and is known to be required for development and viability. It acts as a regulator for oncogenes and insulin-PI3K-mTOR pathway genes. Upregulation of let-7 impairs glucose homeostasis and results in degeneration of neurons, while its downregulation leads to cancer. Maturation of let-7 in cancer subjects is inhibited by lin-28, an RNA-binding protein inhibitor. This highlights the importance of let-7 miRNAs in various diseases and developmental processes. This article provides an overview on the functions of let-7 and its probable association with various neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shamsuzzama
- Laboratory of Functional Genomics and Molecular Toxicology, Division of Toxicology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, UP, 226 031, India
| | - Lalit Kumar
- Laboratory of Functional Genomics and Molecular Toxicology, Division of Toxicology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, UP, 226 031, India
| | - Rizwanul Haque
- Laboratory of Functional Genomics and Molecular Toxicology, Division of Toxicology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, UP, 226 031, India
| | - Aamir Nazir
- Laboratory of Functional Genomics and Molecular Toxicology, Division of Toxicology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, UP, 226 031, India.
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39
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The multifaceted nature of amyloid precursor protein and its proteolytic fragments: friends and foes. Acta Neuropathol 2015; 129:1-19. [PMID: 25287911 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-014-1347-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2014] [Revised: 09/26/2014] [Accepted: 09/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The amyloid precursor protein (APP) has occupied a central position in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathophysiology, in large part due to the seminal role of amyloid-β peptide (Aβ), a proteolytic fragment derived from APP. Although the contribution of Aβ to AD pathogenesis is accepted by many in the research community, recent studies have unveiled a more complicated picture of APP's involvement in neurodegeneration in that other APP-derived fragments have been shown to exert pathological influences on neuronal function. However, not all APP-derived peptides are neurotoxic, and some even harbor neuroprotective effects. In this review, we will explore this complex picture by first discussing the pleiotropic effects of the major APP-derived peptides cleaved by multiple proteases, including soluble APP peptides (sAPPα, sAPPβ), various C- and N-terminal fragments, p3, and APP intracellular domain fragments. In addition, we will highlight two interesting sequences within APP that likely contribute to this duality in APP function. First, it has been found that caspase-mediated cleavage of APP in the cytosolic region may release a cytotoxic peptide, C31, which plays a role in synapse loss and neuronal death. Second, recent studies have implicated the -YENPTY- motif in the cytoplasmic region as a domain that modulates several APP activities through phosphorylation and dephosphorylation of the first tyrosine residue. Thus, this review summarizes the current understanding of various APP proteolytic products and the interplay among them to gain deeper insights into the possible mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration and AD pathophysiology.
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40
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Bolós M, Hu Y, Young KM, Foa L, Small DH. Neurogenin 2 mediates amyloid-β precursor protein-stimulated neurogenesis. J Biol Chem 2014; 289:31253-61. [PMID: 25217641 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m114.581918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyloid-β precursor protein (APP) is well studied for its role in Alzheimer disease, although its normal function remains uncertain. It has been reported that APP stimulates the proliferation and neuronal differentiation of neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs). In this study we examined the role of APP in NSPC differentiation. To identify proteins that may mediate the effect of APP on NSPC differentiation, we used a gene array approach to find genes whose expression correlated with APP-induced neurogenesis. We found that the expression of neurogenin 2 (Ngn2), a basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor, was significantly down-regulated in NSPCs from APP knock-out mice (APPKO) and increased in APP transgenic (Tg2576) mice. Ngn2 overexpression in APPKO NSPCs promoted neuronal differentiation, whereas siRNA knockdown of Ngn2 expression in wild-type NSPCs decreased neuronal differentiation. The results demonstrate that APP-stimulated neuronal differentiation of NSPCs is mediated by Ngn2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Bolós
- From the Menzies Research Institute Tasmania and
| | - Yanling Hu
- From the Menzies Research Institute Tasmania and
| | | | - Lisa Foa
- From the Menzies Research Institute Tasmania and School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia
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41
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Alexander AG, Marfil V, Li C. Use of Caenorhabditis elegans as a model to study Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases. Front Genet 2014; 5:279. [PMID: 25250042 PMCID: PMC4155875 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2014.00279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 189] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2014] [Accepted: 07/31/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in research and technology has increased our quality of life, allowed us to combat diseases, and achieve increased longevity. Unfortunately, increased longevity is accompanied by a rise in the incidences of age-related diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). AD is the sixth leading cause of death, and one of the leading causes of dementia amongst the aged population in the USA. It is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, characterized by the prevalence of extracellular Aβ plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles, derived from the proteolysis of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) and the hyperphosphorylation of microtubule-associated protein tau, respectively. Despite years of extensive research, the molecular mechanisms that underlie the pathology of AD remain unclear. Model organisms, such as the nematode, Caenorhabditis elegans, present a complementary approach to addressing these questions. C. elegans has many advantages as a model system to study AD and other neurodegenerative diseases. Like their mammalian counterparts, they have complex biochemical pathways, most of which are conserved. Genes in which mutations are correlated with AD have counterparts in C. elegans, including an APP-related gene, apl-1, a tau homolog, ptl-1, and presenilin homologs, such as sel-12 and hop-1. Since the neuronal connectivity in C. elegans has already been established, C. elegans is also advantageous in modeling learning and memory impairments seen during AD. This article addresses the insights C. elegans provide in studying AD and other neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, we explore the advantages and drawbacks associated with using this model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adanna G Alexander
- Department of Biology, City College of New York New York, NY, USA ; Department of Biology, The Graduate Center, City University of New York New York, NY, USA
| | - Vanessa Marfil
- Department of Biology, City College of New York New York, NY, USA
| | - Chris Li
- Department of Biology, City College of New York New York, NY, USA ; Department of Biology, The Graduate Center, City University of New York New York, NY, USA
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42
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Abstract
Interest in the amyloid precursor protein (APP) has increased in recent years due to its involvement in Alzheimer's disease. Since its molecular cloning, significant genetic and biochemical work has focused on the role of APP in the pathogenesis of this disease. Thus far, however, these studies have failed to deliver successful therapies. This suggests that understanding the basic biology of APP and its physiological role during development might be a crucial missing link for a better comprehension of Alzheimer's disease. Here, we present an overview of some of the key studies performed in various model organisms that have revealed roles for APP at different stages of neuronal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Nicolas
- VIB Center for the Biology of Disease, VIB, 3000 Leuven, Belgium Center for Human Genetics, University of Leuven School of Medicine, 3000 Leuven, Belgium Doctoral Program in Molecular and Developmental Genetics, University of Leuven Group Biomedicine, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bassem A Hassan
- VIB Center for the Biology of Disease, VIB, 3000 Leuven, Belgium Center for Human Genetics, University of Leuven School of Medicine, 3000 Leuven, Belgium Doctoral Program in Molecular and Developmental Genetics, University of Leuven Group Biomedicine, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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43
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Dawkins E, Small DH. Insights into the physiological function of the β-amyloid precursor protein: beyond Alzheimer's disease. J Neurochem 2014; 129:756-69. [PMID: 24517464 PMCID: PMC4314671 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.12675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2014] [Revised: 02/02/2014] [Accepted: 02/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The β-amyloid precursor protein (APP) has been extensively studied for its role as the precursor of the β-amyloid protein (Aβ) of Alzheimer's disease. However, the normal function of APP remains largely unknown. This article reviews studies on the structure, expression and post-translational processing of APP, as well as studies on the effects of APP in vitro and in vivo. We conclude that the published data provide strong evidence that APP has a trophic function. APP is likely to be involved in neural stem cell development, neuronal survival, neurite outgrowth and neurorepair. However, the mechanisms by which APP exerts its actions remain to be elucidated. The available evidence suggests that APP interacts both intracellularly and extracellularly to regulate various signal transduction mechanisms. This article reviews studies on the structure, expression and post-translational processing of β-amyloid precursor protein (APP), as well as studies on the effects of APP in vitro and in vivo. We conclude that the published data provide strong evidence that APP has a trophic function. APP is likely to be involved in neural stem cell development, neuronal survival, neurite outgrowth and neurorepair. However, the mechanisms by which APP exerts its actions remain to be elucidated. The available evidence suggests that APP interacts both intracellularly and extracellularly to regulate various signal transduction mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar Dawkins
- Menzies Research Institute Tasmania, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
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44
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Leong SL, Young TR, Barnham KJ, Wedd AG, Hinds MG, Xiao Z, Cappai R. Quantification of copper binding to amyloid precursor protein domain 2 and its Caenorhabditis elegans ortholog. Implications for biological function. Metallomics 2014; 6:105-16. [DOI: 10.1039/c3mt00258f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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45
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Chen CH, Chen YC, Jiang HC, Chen CK, Pan CL. Neuronal aging: learning from C. elegans. J Mol Signal 2013; 8:14. [PMID: 24325838 PMCID: PMC3895751 DOI: 10.1186/1750-2187-8-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2013] [Accepted: 12/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The heterogeneity and multigenetic nature of nervous system aging make modeling of it a formidable task in mammalian species. The powerful genetics, simple anatomy and short life span of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans offer unique advantages in unraveling the molecular genetic network that regulates the integrity of neuronal structures and functions during aging. In this review, we first summarize recent breakthroughs in the morphological and functional characterization of C. elegans neuronal aging. Age-associated morphological changes include age-dependent neurite branching, axon beading or swelling, axon defasciculation, progressive distortion of the neuronal soma, and early decline in presynaptic release function. We then discuss genetic pathways that modulate the speed of neuronal aging concordant with alteration in life span, such as insulin signaling, as well as cell-autonomous factors that promote neuronal integrity during senescence, including membrane activity and JNK/MAPK signaling. As a robust genetic model for aging, insights from C. elegans neuronal aging studies will contribute to our mechanistic understanding of human brain aging.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Chun-Liang Pan
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, No, 7, Chung-Shan South Rd, Taipei 100, Taiwan.
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46
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Small DH, Hu Y, Bolós M, Dawkins E, Foa L, Young KM. β-Amyloid precursor protein: function in stem cell development and Alzheimer's disease brain. NEURODEGENER DIS 2013; 13:96-8. [PMID: 23942027 DOI: 10.1159/000353686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2013] [Accepted: 05/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell therapy may be a suitable approach for the treatment of many neurodegenerative diseases. However, one major impediment to the development of successful cell-based therapies is our limited understanding of the mechanisms that instruct neural stem cell behaviour, such as proliferation and cell fate specification. The β-amyloid precursor protein (APP) of Alzheimer's disease (AD) may play an important role in neural stem cell proliferation and differentiation. Our recent work shows that in vitro, APP stimulates neural stem or progenitor cell proliferation and neuronal differentiation. The effect on proliferation is mediated by an autocrine factor that we have identified as cystatin C. As cystatin C expression is also reported to inhibit the development of amyloid pathology in APP transgenic mice, our finding has implications for the possible use of cystatin C for the therapy of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- David H Small
- Menzies Research Institute Tasmania and School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tas., Australia
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47
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Saraceno C, Musardo S, Marcello E, Pelucchi S, Di Luca M. Modeling Alzheimer's disease: from past to future. Front Pharmacol 2013; 4:77. [PMID: 23801962 PMCID: PMC3685797 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2013.00077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2013] [Accepted: 05/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is emerging as the most prevalent and socially disruptive illness of aging populations, as more people live long enough to become affected. Although AD is placing a considerable and increasing burden on society, it represents the largest unmet medical need in neurology, because current drugs improve symptoms, but do not have profound disease-modifying effects. Although AD pathogenesis is multifaceted and difficult to pinpoint, genetic and cell biological studies led to the amyloid hypothesis, which posits that amyloid β (Aβ) plays a pivotal role in AD pathogenesis. Amyloid precursor protein (APP), as well as β- and γ-secretases are the principal players involved in Aβ production, while α-secretase cleavage on APP prevents Aβ deposition. The association of early onset familial AD with mutations in the APP and γ-secretase components provided a potential tool of generating animal models of the disease. However, a model that recapitulates all the aspects of AD has not yet been produced. Here, we face the problem of modeling AD pathology describing several models, which have played a major role in defining critical disease-related mechanisms and in exploring novel potential therapeutic approaches. In particular, we will provide an extensive overview on the distinct features and pros and contras of different AD models, ranging from invertebrate to rodent models and finally dealing with computational models and induced pluripotent stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Saraceno
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano Milano, Italy ; Centre of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano Milano, Italy
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48
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Abstract
Biochemical and genetic evidence establishes a central role of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) in Alzheimer disease (AD) pathogenesis. Biochemically, deposition of the β-amyloid (Aβ) peptides produced from proteolytic processing of APP forms the defining pathological hallmark of AD; genetically, both point mutations and duplications of wild-type APP are linked to a subset of early onset of familial AD (FAD) and cerebral amyloid angiopathy. As such, the biological functions of APP and its processing products have been the subject of intense investigation, and the past 20+ years of research have met with both excitement and challenges. This article will review the current understanding of the physiological functions of APP in the context of APP family members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike C Müller
- Institute for Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, University of Heidelberg, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
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49
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Shariati SAM, De Strooper B. Redundancy and divergence in the amyloid precursor protein family. FEBS Lett 2013; 587:2036-45. [PMID: 23707420 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2013.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2013] [Accepted: 05/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Gene duplication provides genetic material required for functional diversification. An interesting example is the amyloid precursor protein (APP) protein family. The APP gene family has experienced both expansion and contraction during evolution. The three mammalian members have been studied quite extensively in combined knock out models. The underlying assumption is that APP, amyloid precursor like protein 1 and 2 (APLP1, APLP2) are functionally redundant. This assumption is primarily supported by the similarities in biochemical processing of APP and APLPs and on the fact that the different APP genes appear to genetically interact at the level of the phenotype in combined knockout mice. However, unique features in each member of the APP family possibly contribute to specification of their function. In the current review, we discuss the evolution and the biology of the APP protein family with special attention to the distinct properties of each homologue. We propose that the functions of APP, APLP1 and APLP2 have diverged after duplication to contribute distinctly to different neuronal events. Our analysis reveals that APLP2 is significantly diverged from APP and APLP1.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Ali M Shariati
- KU Leuven, Center for Human Genetics and Leuven Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases (LIND), 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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50
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Martorell P, Bataller E, Llopis S, Gonzalez N, Álvarez B, Montón F, Ortiz P, Ramón D, Genovés S. A cocoa peptide protects Caenorhabditis elegans from oxidative stress and β-amyloid peptide toxicity. PLoS One 2013; 8:e63283. [PMID: 23675471 PMCID: PMC3652819 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0063283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2012] [Accepted: 03/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cocoa and cocoa-based products contain different compounds with beneficial properties for human health. Polyphenols are the most frequently studied, and display antioxidant properties. Moreover, protein content is a very interesting source of antioxidant bioactive peptides, which can be used therapeutically for the prevention of age-related diseases. Methodology/Principal Findings A bioactive peptide, 13L (DNYDNSAGKWWVT), was obtained from a hydrolyzed cocoa by-product by chromatography. The in vitro inhibition of prolyl endopeptidase (PEP) was used as screening method to select the suitable fraction for peptide identification. Functional analysis of 13L peptide was achieved using the transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans strain CL4176 expressing the human Aβ1–42 peptide as a pre-clinical in vivo model for Alzheimer's disease. Among the peptides isolated, peptide 13L (1 µg/mL) showed the highest antioxidant activity (P≤0.001) in the wild-type strain (N2). Furthermore, 13L produced a significant delay in body paralysis in strain CL4176, especially in the 24–47 h period after Aβ1–42 peptide induction (P≤0.0001). This observation is in accordance with the reduction of Aβ deposits in CL4176 by western blot. Finally, transcriptomic analysis in wild-type nematodes treated with 13L revealed modulation of the proteosomal and synaptic functions as the main metabolic targets of the peptide. Conclusions/Significance These findings suggest that the cocoa 13L peptide has antioxidant activity and may reduce Aβ deposition in a C. elegans model of Alzheimer's disease; and therefore has a putative therapeutic potential for prevention of age-related diseases. Further studies in murine models and humans will be essential to analyze the effectiveness of the 13L peptide in higher animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Martorell
- Cell Biology Laboratory, Food Biotechnology Department, Biópolis SL, Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Esther Bataller
- Cell Biology Laboratory, Food Biotechnology Department, Biópolis SL, Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Silvia Llopis
- Cell Biology Laboratory, Food Biotechnology Department, Biópolis SL, Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Núria Gonzalez
- Cell Biology Laboratory, Food Biotechnology Department, Biópolis SL, Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Beatriz Álvarez
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Microbial Biotechnology Department, Biópolis SL, Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Fernando Montón
- Cell Biology Laboratory, Food Biotechnology Department, Biópolis SL, Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Pepa Ortiz
- Cell Biology Laboratory, Food Biotechnology Department, Biópolis SL, Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Daniel Ramón
- Cell Biology Laboratory, Food Biotechnology Department, Biópolis SL, Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Salvador Genovés
- Cell Biology Laboratory, Food Biotechnology Department, Biópolis SL, Paterna, Valencia, Spain
- * E-mail:
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