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Brown DW, Wee P, Bhandari P, Bukhari A, Grin L, Vega H, Hejazi M, Sosnowski D, Ablack J, Clancy EK, Pink D, Kumar J, Solis Ares MP, Lamb S, Quevedo R, Rawal B, Elian F, Rana N, Morales L, Govindasamy N, Todd B, Delmage A, Gupta S, McMullen N, MacKenzie D, Beatty PH, Garcia H, Parmar M, Gyoba J, McAllister C, Scholz M, Duncan R, Raturi A, Lewis JD. Safe and effective in vivo delivery of DNA and RNA using proteolipid vehicles. Cell 2024:S0092-8674(24)00783-9. [PMID: 39260374 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
Genetic medicines show promise for treating various diseases, yet clinical success has been limited by tolerability, scalability, and immunogenicity issues of current delivery platforms. To overcome these, we developed a proteolipid vehicle (PLV) by combining features from viral and non-viral approaches. PLVs incorporate fusion-associated small transmembrane (FAST) proteins isolated from fusogenic orthoreoviruses into a well-tolerated lipid formulation, using scalable microfluidic mixing. Screening a FAST protein library, we identified a chimeric FAST protein with enhanced membrane fusion activity that improved gene expression from an optimized lipid formulation. Systemically administered FAST-PLVs showed broad biodistribution and effective mRNA and DNA delivery in mouse and non-human primate models. FAST-PLVs show low immunogenicity and maintain activity upon repeat dosing. Systemic administration of follistatin DNA gene therapy with FAST-PLVs raised circulating follistatin levels and significantly increased muscle mass and grip strength. These results demonstrate the promising potential of FAST-PLVs for redosable gene therapies and genetic medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas W Brown
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Ping Wee
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Prakash Bhandari
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Amirali Bukhari
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Liliya Grin
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Hector Vega
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Maryam Hejazi
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Deborah Sosnowski
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada
| | - Jailal Ablack
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada; OncoSenX, 701 Fifth Avenue, Suite 4200, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
| | - Eileen K Clancy
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Desmond Pink
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada
| | - Jitendra Kumar
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | | | - Suellen Lamb
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Rodrigo Quevedo
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Bijal Rawal
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Fahed Elian
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Natasha Rana
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Luis Morales
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Natasha Govindasamy
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Brendan Todd
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Angela Delmage
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Somnath Gupta
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Nichole McMullen
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Duncan MacKenzie
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Perrin H Beatty
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Henry Garcia
- Oisin Biotechnologies, 701 Fifth Avenue, Suite 4200, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
| | - Manoj Parmar
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Jennifer Gyoba
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Chandra McAllister
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada
| | - Matthew Scholz
- Oisin Biotechnologies, 701 Fifth Avenue, Suite 4200, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
| | - Roy Duncan
- Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada; Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Arun Raturi
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada.
| | - John D Lewis
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada; Entos Pharmaceuticals, 10230 Jasper Avenue, Suite 4550, Edmonton, AB T5J 4P6, Canada; OncoSenX, 701 Fifth Avenue, Suite 4200, Seattle, WA 98104, USA; Oisin Biotechnologies, 701 Fifth Avenue, Suite 4200, Seattle, WA 98104, USA.
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Krishna L, Prashant A, Kumar YH, Paneyala S, Patil SJ, Ramachandra SC, Vishwanath P. Molecular and Biochemical Therapeutic Strategies for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Neurol Int 2024; 16:731-760. [PMID: 39051216 PMCID: PMC11270304 DOI: 10.3390/neurolint16040055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Significant progress has been achieved in understanding Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) mechanisms and developing treatments to slow disease progression. This review article thoroughly assesses primary and secondary DMD therapies, focusing on innovative modalities. The primary therapy addresses the genetic abnormality causing DMD, specifically the absence or reduced expression of dystrophin. Gene replacement therapies, such as exon skipping, readthrough, and gene editing technologies, show promise in restoring dystrophin expression. Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs), a recent advancement in viral vector-based gene therapies, have shown encouraging results in preclinical and clinical studies. Secondary therapies aim to maintain muscle function and improve quality of life by mitigating DMD symptoms and complications. Glucocorticoid drugs like prednisone and deflazacort have proven effective in slowing disease progression and delaying loss of ambulation. Supportive treatments targeting calcium dysregulation, histone deacetylase, and redox imbalance are also crucial for preserving overall health and function. Additionally, the review includes a detailed table of ongoing and approved clinical trials for DMD, exploring various therapeutic approaches such as gene therapies, exon skipping drugs, utrophin modulators, anti-inflammatory agents, and novel compounds. This highlights the dynamic research field and ongoing efforts to develop effective DMD treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lakshmi Krishna
- Department of Biochemistry, JSS Medical College, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, Karnataka, India; (L.K.); (A.P.); (S.C.R.)
| | - Akila Prashant
- Department of Biochemistry, JSS Medical College, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, Karnataka, India; (L.K.); (A.P.); (S.C.R.)
- Department of Medical Genetics, JSS Medical College, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, Karnataka, India
| | - Yogish H. Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, JSS College of Pharmacy, Mysuru, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, Karnataka, India;
| | - Shasthara Paneyala
- Department of Neurology, JSS Medical College, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, Karnataka, India;
| | - Siddaramappa J. Patil
- Department of Medical Genetics, Narayana Hrudalaya Health Hospital/Mazumdar Shah, Bengaluru 560099, Karnataka, India;
| | - Shobha Chikkavaddaragudi Ramachandra
- Department of Biochemistry, JSS Medical College, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, Karnataka, India; (L.K.); (A.P.); (S.C.R.)
| | - Prashant Vishwanath
- Department of Biochemistry, JSS Medical College, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, Karnataka, India; (L.K.); (A.P.); (S.C.R.)
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Ahmad K, Lee EJ, Ali S, Han KS, Hur SJ, Lim JH, Choi I. Licochalcone A and B enhance muscle proliferation and differentiation by regulating Myostatin. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 125:155350. [PMID: 38237512 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myostatin (MSTN) inhibition has demonstrated promise for the treatment of diseases associated with muscle loss. In a previous study, we discovered that Glycyrrhiza uralensis (G. uralensis) crude water extract (CWE) inhibits MSTN expression while promoting myogenesis. Furthermore, three specific compounds of G. uralensis, namely liquiritigenin, tetrahydroxymethoxychalcone, and Licochalcone B (Lic B), were found to promote myoblast proliferation and differentiation, as well as accelerate the regeneration of injured muscle tissue. PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to build on our previous findings on G. uralensis and demonstrate the potential of its two components, Licochalcone A (Lic A) and Lic B, in muscle mass regulation (by inhibiting MSTN), aging and muscle formation. METHODS G. uralensis, Lic A, and Lic B were evaluated thoroughly using in silico, in vitro and in vivo approaches. In silico analyses included molecular docking, and dynamics simulations of these compounds with MSTN. Protein-protein docking was carried out for MSTN, as well as for the docked complex of MSTN-Lic with its receptor, activin type IIB receptor (ACVRIIB). Subsequent in vitro studies used C2C12 cell lines and primary mouse muscle stem cells to acess the cell proliferation and differentiation of normal and aged cells, levels of MSTN, Atrogin 1, and MuRF1, and plasma MSTN concentrations, employing techniques such as western blotting, immunohistochemistry, immunocytochemistry, cell proliferation and differentiation assays, and real-time RT-PCR. Furthermore, in vivo experiments using mouse models focused on measuring muscle fiber diameters. RESULTS CWE of G. uralensis and two of its components, namely Lic A and B, promote myoblast proliferation and differentiation by inhibiting MSTN and reducing Atrogin1 and MuRF1 expressions and MSTN protein concentration in serum. In silico interaction analysis revealed that Lic A (binding energy -6.9 Kcal/mol) and B (binding energy -5.9 Kcal/mol) bind to MSTN and reduce binding between it and ACVRIIB, thereby inhibiting downstream signaling. The experimental analysis, which involved both in vitro and in vivo studies, demonstrated that the levels of MSTN, Atrogin 1, and MuRF1 were decreased when G. uralensis CWE, Lic A, or Lic B were administered into mice or treated in the mouse primary muscle satellite cells (MSCs) and C2C12 myoblasts. The diameters of muscle fibers increased in orally treated mice, and the differentiation and proliferation of C2C12 cells were enhanced. G. uralensis CWE, Lic A, and Lic B also promoted cell proliferation in aged cells, suggesting that they may have anti-muslce aging properties. They also reduced the expression and phosphorylation of SMAD2 and SMAD3 (MSTN downstream effectors), adding to the evidence that MSTN is inhibited. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that CWE and its active constituents Lic A and Lic B have anti-mauscle aging potential. They also have the potential to be used as natural inhibitors of MSTN and as therapeutic options for disorders associated with muscle atrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khurshid Ahmad
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, South Korea; Research Institute of Cell Culture, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, South Korea
| | - Eun Ju Lee
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, South Korea; Research Institute of Cell Culture, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, South Korea
| | - Shahid Ali
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, South Korea; Research Institute of Cell Culture, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, South Korea
| | - Ki Soo Han
- Neo Cremar Co., Ltd., Seoul 05702, South Korea
| | - Sun Jin Hur
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong 17546, South Korea
| | - Jeong Ho Lim
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, South Korea; Research Institute of Cell Culture, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, South Korea
| | - Inho Choi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, South Korea; Research Institute of Cell Culture, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, South Korea.
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Sosa J, Oyelakin A, Sinha S. The Reign of Follistatin in Tumors and Their Microenvironment: Implications for Drug Resistance. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:130. [PMID: 38392348 PMCID: PMC10887188 DOI: 10.3390/biology13020130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Follistatin (FST) is a potent neutralizer of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily and is associated with normal cellular programs and various hallmarks of cancer, such as proliferation, migration, angiogenesis, and immune evasion. The aberrant expression of FST by solid tumors is a well-documented observation, yet how FST influences tumor progression and therapy response remains unclear. The recent surge in omics data has revealed new insights into the molecular foundation underpinning tumor heterogeneity and its microenvironment, offering novel precision medicine-based opportunities to combat cancer. In this review, we discuss these recent FST-centric studies, thereby offering an updated perspective on the protean role of FST isoforms in shaping the complex cellular ecosystem of tumors and in mediating drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Sosa
- Department of Biochemistry, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
| | - Akinsola Oyelakin
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
- Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Satrajit Sinha
- Department of Biochemistry, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
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Zheng Y, Yu Y, Feng J, Ling M, Wang X. Unveiling the Potential of Nelumbo nucifera-Derived Liensinine to Target The Myostatin Protein and to Counteract Muscle Atrophy. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:2240-2249. [PMID: 38258624 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c09002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Muscle atrophy refers to a decline in muscle mass and function, which has become a global concern due to the aging population. Various clinical trials have investigated the inhibitors of myostatin (MSTN). They have shown promising improvements in muscle function and quality of life. However, there are no drugs specifically targeting MSTN that have been approved for clinical use. In this study, we virtually screened liensinine (LIE), a food (Nelumbo nucifera)-derived compound, with low toxicity, from over 1.1 million compounds. We subsequently identified it as a potential candidate that targets MSTN by a cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA) and drug affinity response target stability (DARTS) assay. Further validation through cellular and in vivo studies demonstrated its promising potential in combating muscle atrophy. The mechanism of action may involve hindering the interaction between MSTN and the activin receptor type IIB (ActRIIB) and downregulating the expression of downstream proteins, including the muscle RING-finger protein-1 (MuRF-1) and muscle atrophy F-box (MAFbx)/Atrogin-1, ultimately promoting muscle regeneration. These results provide a strong foundation for future studies to explore the therapeutic potential of LIE in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youle Zheng
- National Reference Laboratory of Veterinary Drug Residues (HZAU) and MAO Key Laboratory for Detection of Veterinary Drug Residues, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China
| | - Yixin Yu
- National Reference Laboratory of Veterinary Drug Residues (HZAU) and MAO Key Laboratory for Detection of Veterinary Drug Residues, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China
| | - Jin Feng
- National Reference Laboratory of Veterinary Drug Residues (HZAU) and MAO Key Laboratory for Detection of Veterinary Drug Residues, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China
| | - Min Ling
- National Reference Laboratory of Veterinary Drug Residues (HZAU) and MAO Key Laboratory for Detection of Veterinary Drug Residues, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China
| | - Xu Wang
- National Reference Laboratory of Veterinary Drug Residues (HZAU) and MAO Key Laboratory for Detection of Veterinary Drug Residues, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China
- MOA Laboratory for Risk Assessment of Quality and Safety of Livestock and Poultry Products, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei 430070, China
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Directo D, Lee SR. Cancer Cachexia: Underlying Mechanisms and Potential Therapeutic Interventions. Metabolites 2023; 13:1024. [PMID: 37755304 PMCID: PMC10538050 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13091024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer cachexia, a multifactorial metabolic syndrome developed during malignant tumor growth, is characterized by an accelerated loss of body weight accompanied by the depletion of skeletal muscle mass. This debilitating condition is associated with muscle degradation, impaired immune function, reduced functional capacity, compromised quality of life, and diminished survival in cancer patients. Despite the lack of the known capability of fully reversing or ameliorating this condition, ongoing research is shedding light on promising preclinical approaches that target the disrupted mechanisms in the pathophysiology of cancer cachexia. This comprehensive review delves into critical aspects of cancer cachexia, including its underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, preclinical models for studying the progression of cancer cachexia, methods for clinical assessment, relevant biomarkers, and potential therapeutic strategies. These discussions collectively aim to contribute to the evolving foundation for effective, multifaceted counteractive strategies against this challenging condition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sang-Rok Lee
- Department of Kinesiology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM 88003, USA;
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Abstract
Myostatin (GDF-8) was discovered 25 years ago as a new transforming growth factor-β family member that acts as a master regulator of skeletal muscle mass. Myostatin is made by skeletal myofibers, circulates in the blood, and acts back on myofibers to limit growth. Myostatin appears to have all of the salient properties of a chalone, which is a term proposed over a half century ago to describe hypothetical circulating, tissue-specific growth inhibitors that control tissue size. The elucidation of the molecular, cellular, and physiological mechanisms underlying myostatin activity suggests that myostatin functions as a negative feedback regulator of muscle mass and raises the question as to whether this type of chalone mechanism is unique to skeletal muscle or whether it also operates in other tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Se-Jin Lee
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut, USA.,The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut, USA;
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Yedigaryan L, Sampaolesi M. Extracellular vesicles and Duchenne muscular dystrophy pathology: Modulators of disease progression. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1130063. [PMID: 36891137 PMCID: PMC9987248 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1130063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a devastating disorder and is considered to be one of the worst forms of inherited muscular dystrophies. DMD occurs as a result of mutations in the dystrophin gene, leading to progressive muscle fiber degradation and weakness. Although DMD pathology has been studied for many years, there are aspects of disease pathogenesis and progression that have not been thoroughly explored yet. The underlying issue with this is that the development of further effective therapies becomes stalled. It is becoming more evident that extracellular vesicles (EVs) may contribute to DMD pathology. EVs are vesicles secreted by cells that exert a multitude of effects via their lipid, protein, and RNA cargo. EV cargo (especially microRNAs) is also said to be a good biomarker for identifying the status of specific pathological processes that occur in dystrophic muscle, such as fibrosis, degeneration, inflammation, adipogenic degeneration, and dilated cardiomyopathy. On the other hand, EVs are becoming more prominent vehicles for custom-engineered cargos. In this review, we will discuss the possible contribution of EVs to DMD pathology, their potential use as biomarkers, and the therapeutic efficacy of both, EV secretion inhibition and custom-engineered cargo delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Yedigaryan
- Translational Cardiomyology Laboratory, Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Maurilio Sampaolesi
- Translational Cardiomyology Laboratory, Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Histology and Medical Embryology Unit, Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Assessment and Distribution of Runs of Homozygosity in Horse Breeds Representing Different Utility Types. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12233293. [PMID: 36496815 PMCID: PMC9736150 DOI: 10.3390/ani12233293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study reports runs of homozygosity (ROH) distribution in the genomes of six horse breeds (571 horses in total) representing three horse types (primitive, light, and draft horses) based on the 65k Equine BeadChip assay. Of major interest was the length, quantity, and frequency of ROH characteristics, as well as differences between horse breeds and types. Noticeable differences in the number, length and distribution of ROH between breeds were observed, as well as in genomic inbreeding coefficients. We also identified regions of the genome characterized by high ROH coverage, known as ROH islands, which may be signals of recent selection events. Eight to fourteen ROH islands were identified per breed, which spanned multiple genes. Many were involved in important horse breed characteristics, including WFIKNN2, CACNA1G, STXBP4, NOG, FAM184B, QDPR, LCORL, and the zinc finger protein family. Regions of the genome with zero ROH occurrences were also of major interest in specific populations. Depending on the breed, we detected between 2 to 57 no-ROH regions and identified 27 genes in these regions that were common for five breeds. These genes were involved in, e.g., muscle contractility (CACNA1A) and muscle development (miR-23, miR-24, miR-27). To sum up, the obtained results can be furthered analyzed in the topic of identification of markers unique for specific horse breed characteristics.
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Abstract
Muscular dystrophies are a group of genetic disorders characterized by varying degrees of progressive muscle weakness and degeneration. They are clinically and genetically heterogeneous but share the common histological features of dystrophic muscle. There is currently no cure for muscular dystrophies, which is of particular concern for the more disabling and/or lethal forms of the disease. Through the years, several therapies have encouragingly been developed for muscular dystrophies and include genetic, cellular, and pharmacological approaches. In this chapter, we undertake a comprehensive exploration of muscular dystrophy therapeutics under current development. Our review includes antisense therapy, CRISPR, gene replacement, cell therapy, nonsense suppression, and disease-modifying small molecule compounds.
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Mishra R, Jha R, Mishra B, Kim YS. Maternal immunization against myostatin suppresses post-hatch chicken growth. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0275753. [PMID: 36201511 PMCID: PMC9536644 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0275753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Myostatin (MSTN) is a negative regulator of skeletal muscle growth, thus it was hypothesized that immunization of hens against MSTN would enhance post-hatch growth and muscle mass via suppression of MSTN activity by anti-MSTN IgY in fertilized eggs. This study investigated the effects of immunization of hens against chicken MSTN (chMSTN) or a MSTN fragment (Myo2) on the growth and muscle mass of offspring. In Experiment 1, hens mixed with roosters were divided into two groups and hens in the Control and chMSTN groups were immunized with 0 and 0.5 mg of chMSTN, respectively. In Experiment 2, hens in the chMSTN group were divided into chMSTN and Myo2 groups while the Control group remained the same. The Control and chMSTN groups were immunized in the same way as Experiment 1. The Myo2 group was immunized against MSTN peptide fragment (Myo2) conjugated to KLH. Eggs collected from each group were incubated, and chicks were reared to examine growth and carcass parameters. ELISA showed the production of IgYs against chMSTN and Myo2 and the presence of these antibodies in egg yolk. IgY from the chMSTN and Myo2 groups showed binding affinity to chMSTN, Myo2, and commercial MSTN in Western blot analysis but did not show MSTN-inhibitory capacity in a reporter gene assay. In Experiment 1, no difference was observed in the body weight and carcass parameters of offspring between the Control and chMSTN groups. In Experiment 2, the body weight of chicks from the Myo2 group was significantly lower than that of the Control or chMSTN groups. The dressing percentage and breast muscle mass of the chMSTN and Myo2 groups were significantly lower than those of the Control group, and the breast muscle mass of Myo2 was significantly lower than that of the chMSTN. In summary, in contrast to our hypothesis, maternal immunization of hens did not increase but decreased the body weight and muscle mass of offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajeev Mishra
- Department of Human Nutrition, Food and Animal Sciences, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
| | - Rajesh Jha
- Department of Human Nutrition, Food and Animal Sciences, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
| | - Birendra Mishra
- Department of Human Nutrition, Food and Animal Sciences, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
| | - Yong Soo Kim
- Department of Human Nutrition, Food and Animal Sciences, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Georgieva AM, Guo X, Bartkuhn M, Günther S, Künne C, Smolka C, Atzberger A, Gärtner U, Mamchaoui K, Bober E, Zhou Y, Yuan X, Braun T. Inactivation of Sirt6 ameliorates muscular dystrophy in mdx mice by releasing suppression of utrophin expression. Nat Commun 2022; 13:4184. [PMID: 35859073 PMCID: PMC9300598 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-31798-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The NAD+-dependent SIRT1-7 family of protein deacetylases plays a vital role in various molecular pathways related to stress response, DNA repair, aging and metabolism. Increased activity of individual sirtuins often exerts beneficial effects in pathophysiological conditions whereas reduced activity is usually associated with disease conditions. Here, we demonstrate that SIRT6 deacetylates H3K56ac in myofibers to suppress expression of utrophin, a dystrophin-related protein stabilizing the sarcolemma in absence of dystrophin. Inactivation of Sirt6 in dystrophin-deficient mdx mice reduced damage of myofibers, ameliorated dystrophic muscle pathology, and improved muscle function, leading to attenuated activation of muscle stem cells (MuSCs). ChIP-seq and locus-specific recruitment of SIRT6 using a CRISPR-dCas9/gRNA approach revealed that SIRT6 is critical for removal of H3K56ac at the Downstream utrophin Enhancer (DUE), which is indispensable for utrophin expression. We conclude that epigenetic manipulation of utrophin expression is a promising approach for the treatment of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). Utrophin is a dystrophin-related protein stabilizing the sarcolemma in absence of dystrophin. Here the authors report that inactivation of the protein deacetylase SIRT6, involved in the deacetylation of the epigenetic mark H3K56ac in muscle cells, increases expression of utrophin and ameliorates dystrophic muscle pathology in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelina M Georgieva
- Department of Cardiac Development and Remodeling, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Xinyue Guo
- Department of Cardiac Development and Remodeling, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Marek Bartkuhn
- Biomedical Informatics and Systems Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Stefan Günther
- Department of Cardiac Development and Remodeling, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Carsten Künne
- Department of Cardiac Development and Remodeling, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Christian Smolka
- Department of Cardiac Development and Remodeling, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Ann Atzberger
- Department of Cardiac Development and Remodeling, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Ulrich Gärtner
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Kamel Mamchaoui
- Sorbonne Université, Inserm, Institut de Myologie, Centre de Recherche en Myologie, F-75013, Paris, France
| | - Eva Bober
- Department of Cardiac Development and Remodeling, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Yonggang Zhou
- Department of Cardiac Development and Remodeling, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Xuejun Yuan
- Department of Cardiac Development and Remodeling, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231, Bad Nauheim, Germany.
| | - Thomas Braun
- Department of Cardiac Development and Remodeling, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231, Bad Nauheim, Germany.
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13
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Bigford GE, Donovan A, Webster MT, Dietrich WD, Nash MS. Selective Myostatin Inhibition Spares Sublesional Muscle Mass and Myopenia-Related Dysfunction after Severe Spinal Cord Contusion in Mice. J Neurotrauma 2021; 38:3440-3455. [PMID: 34714134 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2021.0061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinically relevant myopenia accompanies spinal cord injury (SCI), and compromises function, metabolism, body composition, and health. Myostatin, a transforming growth factor (TGF)β family member, is a key negative regulator of skeletal muscle mass. We investigated inhibition of myostatin signaling using systemic delivery of a highly selective monoclonal antibody - muSRK-015P (40 mg/kg) - that blocks release of active growth factor from the latent form of myostatin. Adult female mice (C57BL/6) were subjected to a severe SCI (65 kdyn) at T9 and were then immediately and 1 week later administered test articles: muSRK-015P (40 mg/kg) or control (vehicle or IgG). A sham control group (laminectomy only) was included. At euthanasia, (2 weeks post-SCI) muSRK-015P preserved whole body lean mass and sublesional gastrocnemius and soleus mass. muSRK-015P-treated mice with SCI also had significantly attenuated myofiber atrophy, lipid infiltration, and loss of slow-oxidative phenotype in soleus muscle. These outcomes were accompanied by significantly improved sublesional motor function and muscle force production at 1 and 2 weeks post-SCI. At 2 weeks post-SCI, lean mass was significantly decreased in SCI-IgG mice, but was not different in SCI-muSRK-015P mice than in sham controls. Total energy expenditure (kCal/day) at 2 weeks post-SCI was lower in SCI-immunoglobulin (Ig)G mice, but not different in SCI-muSRK-015P mice than in sham controls. We conclude that in a randomized, blinded, and controlled study in mice, myostatin inhibition using muSRK-015P had broad effects on physical, metabolic, and functional outcomes when compared with IgG control treated SCI animals. These findings may identify a useful, targeted therapeutic strategy for treating post-SCI myopenia and related sequelae in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory E Bigford
- Department of Neurological Surgery and the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | | | | | - W Dalton Dietrich
- Department of Neurological Surgery and the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Mark S Nash
- Department of Neurological Surgery and the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA.,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA.,Department of Physical Therapy, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
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14
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Feike Y, Zhijie L, Wei C. Advances in research on pharmacotherapy of sarcopenia. Aging Med (Milton) 2021; 4:221-233. [PMID: 34553120 PMCID: PMC8444957 DOI: 10.1002/agm2.12168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Sarcopenia is a comprehensive degenerative disease with the progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass with age, accompanied by the loss of muscle strength and muscle dysfunction. As a new type of senile syndrome, sarcopenia seriously threatens the health of the elderly. The first-line treatment for sarcopenia is exercise and nutritional supplements. However, pharmacotherapy will provide more reliable and sustainable interventions in geriatric medicine. Clinical trials of new drugs targeting multiple molecules are ongoing. This article focuses on the latest progress in pharmacotherapeutic approaches of sarcopenia in recent years by comprehensively reviewing the clinical outcomes of the existing and emerging pharmacotherapies as well as the molecular mechanisms underlying their therapeutic benefits and side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Feike
- Department of Geriatric MedicineThe Central Hospital of Changsha CityChangshaChina
| | - Liu Zhijie
- Department of Geriatric MedicineThe Central Hospital of Changsha CityChangshaChina
| | - Chen Wei
- Department of Geriatric MedicineThe Central Hospital of Changsha CityChangshaChina
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15
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MSTN is an important myokine for weight-bearing training to attenuate bone loss in ovariectomized rats. J Physiol Biochem 2021; 78:61-72. [PMID: 34453705 DOI: 10.1007/s13105-021-00838-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Weight-bearing training, as one of resistance exercises, is beneficial to bone health. Myostatin (MSTN) is a negative regulator of skeletal muscle growth and development. Animals lacking MSTN show increased bone mineral density (BMD). The aim of this study was to investigate the preventive effect of weight-bearing training on bone loss in ovariectomized rats and whether it was related to MSTN. In this study, the rats were randomly assigned to three group: Sham-ovariectomized (Sham), ovariectomized (OVX), ovariectomized and weight-bearing training (OWT). The rats in the OWT group ran at 20-m/min bearing with 35% of their body weight for 6 days/week. After 10 weeks, compared with the OVX group, weight-bearing training increased the BMD of total femur and trabecular bone by 8.13% and 57.44%, respectively. The OVX-induced destruction of bone microarchitecture including the thickness and number of trabeculae and bone volume fraction was all significantly improved (9.26%, 47.68%, 63.03%) in the OWT group. The OVX-induced degradation of bone mechanical properties was significantly enhanced in the OWT group (maximum load increased by 35.46%, stiffness increased by 89.19%, energy absorption increased by 53.4%; elastic modulus increased by 26.3%). Ten-week weight-bearing training also significantly upregulated the mRNA and protein expression of Wnt1 and β-catenin, which is crucial in bone development. Compared with the Sham group, MSTN in serum and muscle increased in the OVX group, but it decreased in the OWT group compared with the OVX group. Its receptor ActRIIB and downstream molecules Smad2/3 in the OVX group were downregulated in bone by weight-bearing training. The results indicated that MSTN is an important myokine for weight-bearing training to attenuate bone loss in ovariectomized rats.
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16
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Yao S, Chen Z, Yu Y, Zhang N, Jiang H, Zhang G, Zhang Z, Zhang B. Current Pharmacological Strategies for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:689533. [PMID: 34490244 PMCID: PMC8417245 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.689533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a lethal, X-linked neuromuscular disorder caused by the absence of dystrophin protein, which is essential for muscle fiber integrity. Loss of dystrophin protein leads to recurrent myofiber damage, chronic inflammation, progressive fibrosis, and dysfunction of muscle stem cells. There is still no cure for DMD so far and the standard of care is principally limited to symptom relief through glucocorticoids treatments. Current therapeutic strategies could be divided into two lines. Dystrophin-targeted therapeutic strategies that aim at restoring the expression and/or function of dystrophin, including gene-based, cell-based and protein replacement therapies. The other line of therapeutic strategies aims to improve muscle function and quality by targeting the downstream pathological changes, including inflammation, fibrosis, and muscle atrophy. This review introduces the important developments in these two lines of strategies, especially those that have entered the clinical phase and/or have great potential for clinical translation. The rationale and efficacy of each agent in pre-clinical or clinical studies are presented. Furthermore, a meta-analysis of gene profiling in DMD patients has been performed to understand the molecular mechanisms of DMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Yao
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Zihao Chen
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Yuanyuan Yu
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Ning Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Hewen Jiang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Ge Zhang
- Law Sau Fai Institute for Advancing Translational Medicine in Bone and Joint Diseases, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Zongkang Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Baoting Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
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17
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Identification of the insertion site of transgenic DNA based on cyclization of the target gene with the flanking sequence and nested inverse PCR. TALANTA OPEN 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.talo.2021.100033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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18
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Iyer CC, Chugh D, Bobbili PJ, Iii AJB, Crum AE, Yi AF, Kaspar BK, Meyer KC, Burghes AHM, Arnold WD. Follistatin-induced muscle hypertrophy in aged mice improves neuromuscular junction innervation and function. Neurobiol Aging 2021; 104:32-41. [PMID: 33964607 PMCID: PMC8225567 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2021.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Sarcopenia, or age-related loss of muscle mass and strength, is an important contributor to loss of physical function in older adults. The pathogenesis of sarcopenia is likely multifactorial, but recently the role of neurological degeneration, such as motor unit loss, has received increased attention. Here, we investigated the longitudinal effects of muscle hypertrophy (via overexpression of human follistatin, a myostatin antagonist) on neuromuscular integrity in C57BL/6J mice between the ages of 24 and 27 months. Following follistatin overexpression (delivered via self-complementary adeno-associated virus subtype 9 injection), muscle weight and torque production were significantly improved. Follistatin treatment resulted in improvements of neuromuscular junction innervation and transmission but had no impact on age-related losses of motor units. These studies demonstrate that follistatin overexpression-induced muscle hypertrophy not only increased muscle weight and torque production but also countered age-related degeneration at the neuromuscular junction in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chitra C Iyer
- Department of Neurology, Neuromuscular Division, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Deepti Chugh
- Department of Neurology, Neuromuscular Division, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Prameela J Bobbili
- Department of Neurology, Neuromuscular Division, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Anton J Blatnik Iii
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Pharmacology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Alexander E Crum
- Department of Neurology, Neuromuscular Division, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Allen F Yi
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Brian K Kaspar
- The Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Kathrin C Meyer
- The Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Arthur H M Burghes
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Pharmacology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - W David Arnold
- Department of Neurology, Neuromuscular Division, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
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19
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Avey AM, Baar K. Muscle-tendon Crosstalk During Muscle Wasting. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2021; 321:C559-C568. [PMID: 34319830 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00260.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In organisms from flies to mammals, the initial formation of a functional tendon is completely dependent on chemical signals from muscle (myokines). However, how myokines affect the maturation, maintenance, and regeneration of tendons as a function of age is completely unstudied. Here we discuss the role of four myokines - fibroblast growth factors (FGF), myostatin, the secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC), and miR-29 - in tendon development and hypothesize a role for these factors in the progressive changes in tendon structure and function as a result of muscle wasting (disuse, aging and disease). Because of the close relationship between mechanical loading and muscle and tendon regulation, disentangling muscle-tendon crosstalk from simple mechanical loading is experimentally quite difficult. Therefore, we propose an experimental framework that hopefully will be useful in demonstrating muscle-tendon crosstalk in vivo. Though understudied, the promise of a better understanding of muscle-tendon crosstalk is the development of new interventions that will improve tendon development, regeneration, and function throughout the lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alec M Avey
- Functional Molecular Biology Laboratory, University of California, Davis, CA, United States.,Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Keith Baar
- Functional Molecular Biology Laboratory, University of California, Davis, CA, United States.,Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, United States.,Physiology and Membrane Biology, University of California Davis Health, Sacramento, CA, United States.,VA Northern California Health Care System, Mather, CA, United States
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20
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Lee SJ. Targeting the myostatin signaling pathway to treat muscle loss and metabolic dysfunction. J Clin Invest 2021; 131:148372. [PMID: 33938454 DOI: 10.1172/jci148372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the discovery of myostatin (MSTN; also known as GDF-8) as a critical regulator of skeletal muscle mass in 1997, there has been an extensive effort directed at understanding the cellular and physiological mechanisms underlying MSTN activity, with the long-term goal of developing strategies and agents capable of blocking MSTN signaling to treat patients with muscle loss. Considerable progress has been made in elucidating key components of this regulatory system, and in parallel with this effort has been the development of numerous biologics that have been tested in clinical trials for a wide range of indications, including muscular dystrophy, sporadic inclusion body myositis, spinal muscular atrophy, cachexia, muscle loss due to aging or following falls, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. Here, I review what is known about the MSTN regulatory system and the current state of efforts to target this pathway for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Se-Jin Lee
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut, USA.,University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
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21
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Chugh D, Iyer CC, Bobbili P, Blatnik AJ, Kaspar BK, Meyer K, Burghes AH, Clark BC, Arnold WD. Voluntary wheel running with and without follistatin overexpression improves NMJ transmission but not motor unit loss in late life of C57BL/6J mice. Neurobiol Aging 2021; 101:285-296. [PMID: 33678425 PMCID: PMC8122043 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2021.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Sarcopenia, or pathological loss of muscle mass and strength during aging, is an important contributor to loss of physical function in older adults. Sarcopenia is a multifactorial syndrome associated with intrinsic muscle and upstream neurological dysfunction. Exercise is well-established as an effective intervention for sarcopenia, but less is known about the long-term neurobiological impact of exercise. The goals of this study were to investigate the effects of exercise, alone or in combination with follistatin (FST) overexpression (antagonist of myostatin), on neuromuscular junction transmission and motor unit numbers in mice between the age of 22 and 27 months, ages at which prior studies have demonstrated that some motor unit loss is already evident. C57BL/6J mice underwent baseline assessment and were randomized to housing with or without voluntary running wheels and injection with adeno-associated virus to overexpress FST or vehicle. Groups for comparison included sedentary and running with and without FST. Longitudinal assessments showed significantly increased muscle mass and contractility in the 'running plus FST' group, but running, with and without FST, showed no effect on motor unit degeneration. In contrast, running, with and without FST, demonstrated marked improvement of neuromuscular junction transmission stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepti Chugh
- Department of Neurology, Neuromuscular Division, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Chitra C Iyer
- Department of Neurology, Neuromuscular Division, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Prameela Bobbili
- Department of Neurology, Neuromuscular Division, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Anton J Blatnik
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Pharmacology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Brian K Kaspar
- The Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Kathrin Meyer
- The Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Arthur Hm Burghes
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Pharmacology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Brian C Clark
- Ohio Musculoskeletal and Neurological Institute & the Department of Biomedical Sciences, Athens, OH, USA
| | - W David Arnold
- Department of Neurology, Neuromuscular Division, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
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22
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Starosta A, Konieczny P. Therapeutic aspects of cell signaling and communication in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:4867-4891. [PMID: 33825942 PMCID: PMC8233280 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03821-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a devastating chromosome X-linked disease that manifests predominantly in progressive skeletal muscle wasting and dysfunctions in the heart and diaphragm. Approximately 1/5000 boys and 1/50,000,000 girls suffer from DMD, and to date, the disease is incurable and leads to premature death. This phenotypic severity is due to mutations in the DMD gene, which result in the absence of functional dystrophin protein. Initially, dystrophin was thought to be a force transducer; however, it is now considered an essential component of the dystrophin-associated protein complex (DAPC), viewed as a multicomponent mechanical scaffold and a signal transduction hub. Modulating signal pathway activation or gene expression through epigenetic modifications has emerged at the forefront of therapeutic approaches as either an adjunct or stand-alone strategy. In this review, we propose a broader perspective by considering DMD to be a disease that affects myofibers and muscle stem (satellite) cells, as well as a disorder in which abrogated communication between different cell types occurs. We believe that by taking this systemic view, we can achieve safe and holistic treatments that can restore correct signal transmission and gene expression in diseased DMD tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicja Starosta
- Faculty of Biology, Institute of Human Biology and Evolution, Adam Mickiewicz University, ul. Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 6, 61-614, Poznań, Poland
| | - Patryk Konieczny
- Faculty of Biology, Institute of Human Biology and Evolution, Adam Mickiewicz University, ul. Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 6, 61-614, Poznań, Poland.
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23
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Weight-bearing exercise prevents skeletal muscle atrophy in ovariectomized rats. J Physiol Biochem 2021; 77:273-281. [PMID: 33788149 DOI: 10.1007/s13105-021-00794-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Skeletal muscle atrophy (SMA) is a dominant symptom induced by estrogen deficiency which can lead to severe health problems of postmenopausal women. Furthermore, estrogen deficiency has severely compromised the maintenance of muscle stem cells as well as impairs self-renewal and differentiation into muscle fibers. Resistance training is commonly considered as a positive and useful intervention in accelerating the rate of muscle growth. As one of the resistance training, whether the weight-bearing exercise can alleviate SMA induced by estrogen deficiency has not been investigated. The rats were divided into 3 groups randomly: sham group, ovariectomized (OVX) group, and weight-bearing exercise (WBE) therapeutic group. The weight that rats were loaded was 35% of their body weight, and the rats were trained by treadmill training (5° slope, 20 m/min, 30 min/day, 6 days/week) for 8 weeks. After training, the quality and strength of skeletal muscle of the WBE rats were improved; meanwhile, the cross-sectional areas of the skeletal muscle were also increased. Moreover, the WBE activated Akt significantly, upregulated the expression of mTOR, and downregulated the expression of MSTN and its receptor ActRIIB and FoxO1, respectively. The SMA phenomena of rats which induced by estrogen deficiency were prevented effectively via WBE, and the MSTN/Akt/mTOR and FoxO1 signaling pathway may be the predominant way in this improvement.
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24
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Antimyostatin Treatment in Health and Disease: The Story of Great Expectations and Limited Success. Cells 2021; 10:cells10030533. [PMID: 33802348 PMCID: PMC8001237 DOI: 10.3390/cells10030533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In the past 20 years, myostatin, a negative regulator of muscle mass, has attracted attention as a potential therapeutic target in muscular dystrophies and other conditions. Preclinical studies have shown potential for increasing muscular mass and ameliorating the pathological features of dystrophic muscle by the inhibition of myostatin in various ways. However, hardly any clinical trials have proven to translate the promising results from the animal models into patient populations. We present the background for myostatin regulation, clinical and preclinical results and discuss why translation from animal models to patients is difficult. Based on this, we put the clinical relevance of future antimyostatin treatment into perspective.
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25
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Kamimura H, Sato T, Natsui K, Kobayashi T, Yoshida T, Kamimura K, Tsuchiya A, Murayama T, Yokoyama J, Kawai H, Takamura M, Terai S. Molecular Mechanisms and Treatment of Sarcopenia in Liver Disease: A Review of Current Knowledge. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22031425. [PMID: 33572604 PMCID: PMC7867020 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Sarcopenia is characterized by progressive and generalized loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength that occurs with aging or in association with various diseases. The condition is prevalent worldwide and occurs more frequently in patients with chronic diseases owing to the intrinsic relationship of muscles with glucose, lipid, and protein metabolism. Liver cirrhosis is characterized by the progression of necro-inflammatory liver diseases, which leads to fibrosis, portal hypertension, and a catabolic state, which causes loss of muscle tissue. Sarcopenia is of significant concern in the state of liver cirrhosis because sarcopenia has been associated with higher mortality, increased hospital admissions, worse post-liver transplant outcomes, decreased quality of life, and increased risk for other complications associated with cirrhosis. Therefore, sarcopenia is also an important feature of liver cirrhosis, representing a negative prognostic factor and influencing mortality. An increased understanding of sarcopenia could lead to the development of novel therapeutic approaches that could help improve the cognitive impairment of cirrhotic patients; therefore, we present a review of the mechanisms and diagnosis of sarcopenia in liver disease and existing therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroteru Kamimura
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata 951-8510, Japan; (T.S.); (K.N.); (T.K.); (T.Y.); (K.K.); (A.T.); (J.Y.); (H.K.); (M.T.); (S.T.)
- Nutrition Support Team, Niigata University Medical and Dental Hospital, Niigata 951-8510, Japan;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-25-227-2207
| | - Takeki Sato
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata 951-8510, Japan; (T.S.); (K.N.); (T.K.); (T.Y.); (K.K.); (A.T.); (J.Y.); (H.K.); (M.T.); (S.T.)
| | - Kazuki Natsui
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata 951-8510, Japan; (T.S.); (K.N.); (T.K.); (T.Y.); (K.K.); (A.T.); (J.Y.); (H.K.); (M.T.); (S.T.)
| | - Takamasa Kobayashi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata 951-8510, Japan; (T.S.); (K.N.); (T.K.); (T.Y.); (K.K.); (A.T.); (J.Y.); (H.K.); (M.T.); (S.T.)
| | - Tomoaki Yoshida
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata 951-8510, Japan; (T.S.); (K.N.); (T.K.); (T.Y.); (K.K.); (A.T.); (J.Y.); (H.K.); (M.T.); (S.T.)
| | - Kenya Kamimura
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata 951-8510, Japan; (T.S.); (K.N.); (T.K.); (T.Y.); (K.K.); (A.T.); (J.Y.); (H.K.); (M.T.); (S.T.)
| | - Atsunori Tsuchiya
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata 951-8510, Japan; (T.S.); (K.N.); (T.K.); (T.Y.); (K.K.); (A.T.); (J.Y.); (H.K.); (M.T.); (S.T.)
| | - Toshiko Murayama
- Nutrition Support Team, Niigata University Medical and Dental Hospital, Niigata 951-8510, Japan;
| | - Junji Yokoyama
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata 951-8510, Japan; (T.S.); (K.N.); (T.K.); (T.Y.); (K.K.); (A.T.); (J.Y.); (H.K.); (M.T.); (S.T.)
- Nutrition Support Team, Niigata University Medical and Dental Hospital, Niigata 951-8510, Japan;
| | - Hirokazu Kawai
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata 951-8510, Japan; (T.S.); (K.N.); (T.K.); (T.Y.); (K.K.); (A.T.); (J.Y.); (H.K.); (M.T.); (S.T.)
| | - Masaaki Takamura
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata 951-8510, Japan; (T.S.); (K.N.); (T.K.); (T.Y.); (K.K.); (A.T.); (J.Y.); (H.K.); (M.T.); (S.T.)
| | - Shuji Terai
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata 951-8510, Japan; (T.S.); (K.N.); (T.K.); (T.Y.); (K.K.); (A.T.); (J.Y.); (H.K.); (M.T.); (S.T.)
- Nutrition Support Team, Niigata University Medical and Dental Hospital, Niigata 951-8510, Japan;
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Pervin S, Reddy ST, Singh R. Novel Roles of Follistatin/Myostatin in Transforming Growth Factor-β Signaling and Adipose Browning: Potential for Therapeutic Intervention in Obesity Related Metabolic Disorders. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:653179. [PMID: 33897620 PMCID: PMC8062757 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.653179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a global health problem and a major risk factor for several metabolic conditions including dyslipidemia, diabetes, insulin resistance and cardiovascular diseases. Obesity develops from chronic imbalance between energy intake and energy expenditure. Stimulation of cellular energy burning process has the potential to dissipate excess calories in the form of heat via the activation of uncoupling protein-1 (UCP1) in white and brown adipose tissues. Recent studies have shown that activation of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling pathway significantly contributes to the development of obesity, and blockade or inhibition is reported to protect from obesity by promoting white adipose browning and increasing mitochondrial biogenesis. Identification of novel compounds that activate beige/brown adipose characteristics to burn surplus calories and reduce excess storage of fat are actively sought in the fight against obesity. In this review, we present recent developments in our understanding of key modulators of TGF-β signaling pathways including follistatin (FST) and myostatin (MST) in regulating adipose browning and brown adipose mass and activity. While MST is a key ligand for TGF-β family, FST can bind and regulate biological activity of several TGF-β superfamily members including activins, bone morphogenic proteins (BMP) and inhibins. Here, we review the literature supporting the critical roles for FST, MST and other proteins in modulating TGF-β signaling to influence beige and brown adipose characteristics. We further review the potential therapeutic utility of FST for the treatment of obesity and related metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shehla Pervin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Srinivasa T. Reddy
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Rajan Singh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Endocrinology, Men’s Health: Aging and Metabolism, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- *Correspondence: Rajan Singh,
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Abstract
Over a thousand diseases are caused by mutations that alter gene expression levels. The potential of nuclease-deficient zinc fingers, TALEs or CRISPR fusion systems to treat these diseases by modulating gene expression has recently emerged. These systems can be applied to modify the activity of gene-regulatory elements - promoters, enhancers, silencers and insulators, subsequently changing their target gene expression levels to achieve therapeutic benefits - an approach termed cis-regulation therapy (CRT). Here, we review emerging CRT technologies and assess their therapeutic potential for treating a wide range of diseases caused by abnormal gene dosage. The challenges facing the translation of CRT into the clinic are discussed.
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roostaei M, pirani H, rashidlamir A. High intensity interval training induces the expression of Myostatin and Follistatin isoforms in rat muscle: differential effects on fast and slow twitch skeletal muscles. MEDICAL LABORATORY JOURNAL 2020. [DOI: 10.29252/mlj.14.5.48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
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29
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Chung MS, Langouët M, Chamberlain SJ, Carmichael GG. Prader-Willi syndrome: reflections on seminal studies and future therapies. Open Biol 2020; 10:200195. [PMID: 32961075 PMCID: PMC7536080 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.200195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is caused by the loss of function of the paternally inherited 15q11-q13 locus. This region is governed by genomic imprinting, a phenomenon in which genes are expressed exclusively from one parental allele. The genomic imprinting of the 15q11-q13 locus is established in the germline and is largely controlled by a bipartite imprinting centre. One part, termed the Prader-Willi syndrome imprinting center (PWS-IC), comprises a CpG island that is unmethylated on the paternal allele and methylated on the maternal allele. The second part, termed the Angelman syndrome imprinting centre, is required to silence the PWS_IC in the maternal germline. The loss of the paternal contribution of the imprinted 15q11-q13 locus most frequently occurs owing to a large deletion of the entire imprinted region but can also occur through maternal uniparental disomy or an imprinting defect. While PWS is considered a contiguous gene syndrome based on large-deletion and uniparental disomy patients, the lack of expression of only non-coding RNA transcripts from the SNURF-SNRPN/SNHG14 may be the primary cause of PWS. Patients with small atypical deletions of the paternal SNORD116 cluster alone appear to have most of the PWS related clinical phenotypes. The loss of the maternal contribution of the 15q11-q13 locus causes a separate and distinct condition called Angelman syndrome. Importantly, while much has been learned about the regulation and expression of genes and transcripts deriving from the 15q11-q13 locus, there remains much to be learned about how these genes and transcripts contribute at the molecular level to the clinical traits and developmental aspects of PWS that have been observed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Gordon G. Carmichael
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, UCONN Health, 400 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
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30
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Suh J, Lee YS. Myostatin Inhibitors: Panacea or Predicament for Musculoskeletal Disorders? J Bone Metab 2020; 27:151-165. [PMID: 32911580 PMCID: PMC7571243 DOI: 10.11005/jbm.2020.27.3.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Myostatin, also known as growth differentiation factor 8 (GDF8), is a transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) family member that functions to limit skeletal muscle growth. Accordingly, loss-of-function mutations in myostatin result in a dramatic increase in muscle mass in humans and various animals, while its overexpression leads to severe muscle atrophy. Myostatin also exerts a significant effect on bone metabolism, as demonstrated by enhanced bone mineral density and bone regeneration in myostatin null mice. The identification of myostatin as a negative regulator of muscle and bone mass has sparked an enormous interest in developing myostatin inhibitors as therapeutic agents for treating a variety of clinical conditions associated with musculoskeletal disorders. As a result, various myostatin-targeting strategies involving antibodies, myostatin propeptides, soluble receptors, and endogenous antagonists have been generated, and many of them have progressed to clinical trials. Importantly, most myostatin inhibitors also repress the activities of other closely related TGF-β family members including GDF11, activins, and bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), increasing the potential for unwanted side effects, such as vascular side effects through inhibition of BMP 9/10 and bone weakness induced by follistatin through antagonizing several TGF-β family members. Therefore, a careful distinction between targets that may enhance the efficacy of an agent and those that may cause adverse effects is required with the improvement of the target specificity. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of the endogenous function of myostatin, and provide an overview of clinical trial outcomes from different myostatin inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joonho Suh
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Dental Pharmacology, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yun-Sil Lee
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Dental Pharmacology, School of Dentistry and Dental Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
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31
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Vitale F, Ortolan J, Volpe BT, Marambaud P, Giliberto L, d'Abramo C. Intramuscular injection of vectorized-scFvMC1 reduces pathological tau in two different tau transgenic models. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2020; 8:126. [PMID: 32762731 PMCID: PMC7409655 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-020-01003-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
With evidence supporting the prion-like spreading of extracellular tau as a mechanism for the initiation and progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD), immunotherapy has emerged as a potential disease-modifying strategy to target tau. Many studies have proven effective to clear pathological tau species in animal models of AD, and several clinical trials using conventional immunotherapy with anti-tau native antibodies are currently active. We have previously generated a vectorized scFv derived from the conformation-dependent anti-tau antibody MC1, scFvMC1, and demonstrated that its intracranial injection was able to prevent tau pathology in adult tau mice. Here, we show that, in a prevention paradigm and in two different tau transgenic models (JNPL3 and P301S), a one-time intramuscular injection of AAV1-scFvMC1 generated a long-lasting peripheral source of anti-tau scFvMC1 and significantly reduced insoluble and soluble tau species in the brain. Moreover, our data showed that scFvMC1 was internalized by the microglia, in the absence of overt inflammation. This study demonstrates the efficacy of intramuscular delivery of vectorized scFv to target tau, and suggests a new potential application to treat AD and the other tauopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Vitale
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, The Litwin-Zucker Center for Alzheimer's Disease & Memory Disorder, The Feintein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Jasmin Ortolan
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, The Litwin-Zucker Center for Alzheimer's Disease & Memory Disorder, The Feintein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Bruce T Volpe
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Center for Autoimmune and Musculoskeletal Disease, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, USA
| | - Philippe Marambaud
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, The Litwin-Zucker Center for Alzheimer's Disease & Memory Disorder, The Feintein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
| | - Luca Giliberto
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, The Litwin-Zucker Center for Alzheimer's Disease & Memory Disorder, The Feintein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA.
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA.
- Northwell Health Neuroscience Institute, Northwell Health System, Manhasset, NY, USA.
| | - Cristina d'Abramo
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, The Litwin-Zucker Center for Alzheimer's Disease & Memory Disorder, The Feintein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA.
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA.
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Role of Myokines in Myositis Pathogenesis and Their Potential to be New Therapeutic Targets in Idiopathic Inflammatory Myopathies. J Immunol Res 2020; 2020:9079083. [PMID: 32775472 PMCID: PMC7396002 DOI: 10.1155/2020/9079083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) represent a heterogeneous group of autoimmune diseases whose treatment is often a challenge. Many patients, even after immunosuppressive therapy, do not respond to treatment, so new alternatives have been sought for this. Therefore, other signaling pathways that could contribute to the pathogenesis of myositis have been investigated, such as the expression of myokines in skeletal muscle in response to the inflammatory process. In this review, we will refer to these muscle cytokines that are overexpressed or downregulated in skeletal muscle in patients with various forms of IIM, thus being able to contribute to the maintenance of the autoimmune process. Some muscle cytokines, through their antagonistic action, may be a helpful contributor to the disease modulation, and thus, they could represent personalized treatment targets. Here, we consider the main myokines involved in the pathogenesis of myositis, expressing our view on the possibility of using them as potential therapeutic targets: interleukins IL-6, IL-15, and IL-18; chemokines CXCL10, CCL2, CCL3, CCL4, CCL5, and CCL20; myostatin; follistatin; decorin; osteonectin; and insulin-like 6. An interesting topic regarding the complex connection between myokines and noninflammatory pathways implied in IIM has also been briefly described, because it is an important scientific approach to the pathogenesis of IIM and can be a therapeutic alternative to be considered, especially for the patients who do not respond to immunosuppressive treatment.
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Abstract
The skeletal muscle is the largest organ in the body, by mass. It is also the regulator of glucose homeostasis, responsible for 80% of postprandial glucose uptake from the circulation. Skeletal muscle is essential for metabolism, both for its role in glucose uptake and its importance in exercise and metabolic disease. In this article, we give an overview of the importance of skeletal muscle in metabolism, describing its role in glucose uptake and the diseases that are associated with skeletal muscle metabolic dysregulation. We focus on the role of skeletal muscle in peripheral insulin resistance and the potential for skeletal muscle-targeted therapeutics to combat insulin resistance and diabetes, as well as other metabolic diseases like aging and obesity. In particular, we outline the possibilities and pitfalls of the quest for exercise mimetics, which are intended to target the molecular mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of exercise on metabolic disease. We also provide a description of the molecular mechanisms that regulate skeletal muscle glucose uptake, including a focus on the SNARE proteins, which are essential regulators of glucose transport into the skeletal muscle. © 2020 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 10:785-809, 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karla E. Merz
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, California, USA
- The Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Debbie C. Thurmond
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, California, USA
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34
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Paul JA, Whittington RA, Baldwin MR. Critical Illness and the Frailty Syndrome: Mechanisms and Potential Therapeutic Targets. Anesth Analg 2020; 130:1545-1555. [PMID: 32384344 DOI: 10.1213/ane.0000000000004792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Frailty is a syndrome characterized by decreased reserves across multiple physiologic systems resulting in functional limitations and vulnerability to new stressors. Physical frailty develops over years in community-dwelling older adults but presents or worsens within days in the intensive care unit (ICU) because common mechanisms governing age-related physical frailty are often exacerbated by critical illness. The hallmark of physical frailty is a combined loss of muscle mass, force, and endurance. About one-third of ICU patients have frailty before hospitalization, which increases their risk for both short- and long-term disability and mortality. While there are several valid ways to measure clinical frailty in patients before or after an ICU admission, the mechanistic underpinnings of frailty in critically ill patients and ICU survivors have not been thoroughly investigated. Furthermore, therapeutic interventions to treat frailty during and after time in the ICU are lacking. In this narrative review, we examine studies that identify potential biological mechanisms underlying the development and propagation of physical frailty in both aging and critical illness (eg, inflammation, mitochondrial myopathy, and neuroendocrinopathy). We discuss specific aspects of these frailty mechanisms in older adults, critically ill patients, and ICU survivors that may represent therapeutic targets. Consistent with complexity underlying frailty, this syndrome is unlikely to result from an excess of a single harmful mediator or deficit of a single protective mediator. Rather, frailty occurs in the presence of an incompletely understood state of multisystem dysregulation. We further describe knowledge gaps that warrant clinical and translational research in frailty and critical care with an overall goal of developing effective frailty treatments in critically ill patients and ICU survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan A Paul
- From the Department of Anesthesiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Robert A Whittington
- From the Department of Anesthesiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Matthew R Baldwin
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care, Department of Internal Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
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35
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Anti-Inflammatory and General Glucocorticoid Physiology in Skeletal Muscles Affected by Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: Exploration of Steroid-Sparing Agents. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21134596. [PMID: 32605223 PMCID: PMC7369834 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21134596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), the activation of proinflammatory and metabolic cellular pathways in skeletal muscle cells is an inherent characteristic. Synthetic glucocorticoid intake counteracts the majority of these mechanisms. However, glucocorticoids induce burdensome secondary effects, including hypertension, arrhythmias, hyperglycemia, osteoporosis, weight gain, growth delay, skin thinning, cushingoid appearance, and tissue-specific glucocorticoid resistance. Hence, lowering the glucocorticoid dosage could be beneficial for DMD patients. A more profound insight into the major cellular pathways that are stabilized after synthetic glucocorticoid administration in DMD is needed when searching for the molecules able to achieve similar pathway stabilization. This review provides a concise overview of the major anti-inflammatory pathways, as well as the metabolic effects of glucocorticoids in the skeletal muscle affected in DMD. The known drugs able to stabilize these pathways, and which could potentially be combined with glucocorticoid therapy as steroid-sparing agents, are described. This could create new opportunities for testing in DMD animal models and/or clinical trials, possibly leading to smaller glucocorticoids dosage regimens for DMD patients.
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36
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Dagbay KB, Treece E, Streich FC, Jackson JW, Faucette RR, Nikiforov A, Lin SC, Boston CJ, Nicholls SB, Capili AD, Carven GJ. Structural basis of specific inhibition of extracellular activation of pro- or latent myostatin by the monoclonal antibody SRK-015. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:5404-5418. [PMID: 32075906 PMCID: PMC7170532 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.012293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Myostatin (or growth/differentiation factor 8 (GDF8)) is a member of the transforming growth factor β superfamily of growth factors and negatively regulates skeletal muscle growth. Its dysregulation is implicated in muscle wasting diseases. SRK-015 is a clinical-stage mAb that prevents extracellular proteolytic activation of pro- and latent myostatin. Here we used integrated structural and biochemical approaches to elucidate the molecular mechanism of antibody-mediated neutralization of pro-myostatin activation. The crystal structure of pro-myostatin in complex with 29H4-16 Fab, a high-affinity variant of SRK-015, at 2.79 Å resolution revealed that the antibody binds to a conformational epitope in the arm region of the prodomain distant from the proteolytic cleavage sites. This epitope is highly sequence-divergent, having only limited similarity to other closely related members of the transforming growth factor β superfamily. Hydrogen/deuterium exchange MS experiments indicated that antibody binding induces conformational changes in pro- and latent myostatin that span the arm region, the loops contiguous to the protease cleavage sites, and the latency-associated structural elements. Moreover, negative-stain EM with full-length antibodies disclosed a stable, ring-like antigen-antibody structure in which the two Fab arms of a single antibody occupy the two arm regions of the prodomain in the pro- and latent myostatin homodimers, suggesting a 1:1 (antibody:myostatin homodimer) binding stoichiometry. These results suggest that SRK-015 binding stabilizes the latent conformation and limits the accessibility of protease cleavage sites within the prodomain. These findings shed light on approaches that specifically block the extracellular activation of growth factors by targeting their precursor forms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Erin Treece
- Scholar Rock Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
| | | | | | | | | | - Susan C Lin
- Scholar Rock Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
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37
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Salmaninejad A, Jafari Abarghan Y, Bozorg Qomi S, Bayat H, Yousefi M, Azhdari S, Talebi S, Mojarrad M. Common therapeutic advances for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Int J Neurosci 2020; 131:370-389. [DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2020.1740218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Arash Salmaninejad
- Halal Research Center of IRI, FDA, Tehran, Iran
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Yousef Jafari Abarghan
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Saeed Bozorg Qomi
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hadi Bayat
- Medical Nano-Technology & Tissue Engineering Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Meysam Yousefi
- Department of Medical Genetics Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Sara Azhdari
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, School of Medicine, Bam University of Medical Sciences, Bam, Iran
| | - Samaneh Talebi
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Majid Mojarrad
- Medical Genetics Research Center, Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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38
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Effects of exosome-mediated delivery of myostatin propeptide on functional recovery of mdx mice. Biomaterials 2020; 236:119826. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2020.119826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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39
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GDF11 promotes osteogenesis as opposed to MSTN, and follistatin, a MSTN/GDF11 inhibitor, increases muscle mass but weakens bone. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:4910-4920. [PMID: 32071240 PMCID: PMC7060712 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1916034117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
MSTN, a member of the TGF-β family, has been widely shown to suppress muscle growth, leading to an intense effort being directed at targeting MSTN to treat patients with muscle loss. GDF11 is another TGF-β family member closely related to MSTN, but its postnatal function is less clear. Using conditional knockout techniques, we show that GDF11 enhances bone mass in contrast to MSTN, emphasizing that MSTN/GDF11 inhibitors, such as FST, can induce adverse effects on bone through GDF11 inhibition. Because most MSTN inhibitors also inhibit GDF11 due to the high sequence similarity between MSTN and GDF11, our findings suggest that their opposing roles must be carefully considered when developing MSTN inhibitors for clinical applications. Growth and differentiation factor 11 (GDF11) and myostatin (MSTN) are closely related transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) family members, but their biological functions are quite distinct. While MSTN has been widely shown to inhibit muscle growth, GDF11 regulates skeletal patterning and organ development during embryogenesis. Postnatal functions of GDF11, however, remain less clear and controversial. Due to the perinatal lethality of Gdf11 null mice, previous studies used recombinant GDF11 protein to prove its postnatal function. However, recombinant GDF11 and MSTN proteins share nearly identical biochemical properties, and most GDF11-binding molecules have also been shown to bind MSTN, generating the possibility that the effects mediated by recombinant GDF11 protein actually reproduce the endogenous functions of MSTN. To clarify the endogenous functions of GDF11, here, we focus on genetic studies and show that Gdf11 null mice, despite significantly down-regulating Mstn expression, exhibit reduced bone mass through impaired osteoblast (OB) and chondrocyte (CH) maturations and increased osteoclastogenesis, while the opposite is observed in Mstn null mice that display enhanced bone mass. Mechanistically, Mstn deletion up-regulates Gdf11 expression, which activates bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling pathway to enhance osteogenesis. Also, mice overexpressing follistatin (FST), a MSTN/GDF11 inhibitor, exhibit increased muscle mass accompanied by bone fractures, unlike Mstn null mice that display increased muscle mass without fractures, indicating that inhibition of GDF11 impairs bone strength. Together, our findings suggest that GDF11 promotes osteogenesis in contrast to MSTN, and these opposing roles of GDF11 and MSTN must be considered to avoid the detrimental effect of GDF11 inhibition when developing MSTN/GDF11 inhibitors for therapeutic purposes.
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Morelli KH, Hatton CL, Harper SQ, Burgess RW. Gene therapies for axonal neuropathies: Available strategies, successes to date, and what to target next. Brain Res 2020; 1732:146683. [PMID: 32001243 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2020.146683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Nearly one-hundred loci in the human genome have been associated with different forms of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) and related inherited neuropathies. Despite this wealth of gene targets, treatment options are still extremely limited, and clear "druggable" pathways are not obvious for many of these mutations. However, recent advances in gene therapies are beginning to circumvent this challenge. Each type of CMT is a monogenic disorder, and the cellular targets are usually well-defined and typically include peripheral neurons or Schwann cells. In addition, the genetic mechanism is often also clear, with loss-of-function mutations requiring restoration of gene expression, and gain-of-function or dominant-negative mutations requiring silencing of the mutant allele. These factors combine to make CMT a good target for developing genetic therapies. Here we will review the state of relatively established gene therapy approaches, including viral vector-mediated gene replacement and antisense oligonucleotides for exon skipping, altering splicing, and gene knockdown. We will also describe earlier stage approaches for allele-specific knockdown and CRIPSR/Cas9 gene editing. We will next describe how these various approaches have been deployed in clinical and preclinical studies. Finally, we will evaluate various forms of CMT as candidates for gene therapy based on the current understanding of their genetics, cellular/tissue targets, validated animal models, and availability of patient populations and natural history data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn H Morelli
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA; The Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469, USA
| | | | - Scott Q Harper
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Robert W Burgess
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA; The Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469, USA.
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Pearsall RS, Davies MV, Cannell M, Li J, Widrick J, Mulivor AW, Wallner S, Troy ME, Spaits M, Liharska K, Sako D, Castonguay R, Keates S, Grinberg AV, Suragani RNVS, Kumar R. Follistatin-based ligand trap ACE-083 induces localized hypertrophy of skeletal muscle with functional improvement in models of neuromuscular disease. Sci Rep 2019; 9:11392. [PMID: 31388039 PMCID: PMC6684588 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-47818-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Skeletal muscle is under inhibitory homeostatic regulation by multiple ligands of the transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) superfamily. Follistatin is a secreted protein that promotes muscle growth and function by sequestering these ligands extracellularly. In the present study, we evaluated the potential of ACE-083 – a locally acting, follistatin-based fusion protein – as a novel therapeutic agent for focal or asymmetric myopathies. Characterization of ACE-083 in vitro revealed its high affinity for heparin and extracellular matrix while surface plasmon resonance and cell-based assays confirmed that ACE-083 binds and potently neutralizes myostatin, activin A, activin B and growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11). Intramuscular administration of ACE-083 caused localized, dose-dependent hypertrophy of the injected muscle in wild-type mice and mouse models of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) and Duchenne muscular dystrophy, with no evidence of systemic muscle effects or endocrine perturbation. Importantly, ACE-083 also increased the force of isometric contraction in situ by the injected tibialis anterior muscle in wild-type mice and disease models and increased ankle dorsiflexion torque in CMT mice. Our results demonstrate the potential of ACE-083 as a therapeutic agent for patients with CMT, muscular dystrophy and other disorders with focal or asymmetric muscle atrophy or weakness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - M Cannell
- Acceleron Pharma, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - J Li
- Acceleron Pharma, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - J Widrick
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, The Manton Center for Orphan Disease Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - A W Mulivor
- Acceleron Pharma, Cambridge, MA, USA.,The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - S Wallner
- Acceleron Pharma, Cambridge, MA, USA.,NovaRock Biotherapeutics, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - M E Troy
- Acceleron Pharma, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - M Spaits
- Acceleron Pharma, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - K Liharska
- Acceleron Pharma, Cambridge, MA, USA.,Dragonfly Therapeutics, Waltham, MA, USA
| | - D Sako
- Acceleron Pharma, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - S Keates
- Acceleron Pharma, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - A V Grinberg
- Acceleron Pharma, Cambridge, MA, USA.,Dragonfly Therapeutics, Waltham, MA, USA
| | | | - R Kumar
- Acceleron Pharma, Cambridge, MA, USA
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García-Martínez MÁ, Montejo González JC, García-de-Lorenzo Y Mateos A, Teijeira S. Muscle weakness: Understanding the principles of myopathy and neuropathy in the critically ill patient and the management options. Clin Nutr 2019; 39:1331-1344. [PMID: 31255348 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnu.2019.05.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Revised: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Myo-neuropathy of the critically ill patient is a difficult nosological entity to understand and manage. It appears soon after injury, and it is estimated that 20-30% of patients admitted to Intensive Care Units will develop it in some degree. Although muscular and nervous involvement are related, the former has a better prognosis. Myo-neuropathy associates to more morbidity, longer stay in Intensive Care Unit and in hospital, and also to higher costs and mortality. It is considered part of the main determinants of the new entities: the Chronic Critical Patient and the Post Intensive Care Syndrome. This update focuses on aetiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis and strategies that can prevent, alleviate and/or improve muscle (or muscle-nerve) weakness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Ángel García-Martínez
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Hospital Universitario de Torrevieja, Ctra. Torrevieja a San Miguel de Salinas s/n, 03186, Torrevieja, Alicante, Spain.
| | - Juan Carlos Montejo González
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Hospital Universitario, 12 de Octubre, Av. Cordoba, s/n, 28041, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Susana Teijeira
- Rare Diseases & Pediatric Medicine Research Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute (IIS Galicia Sur), SERGAS-UVIGO, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Vigo, Calle de Clara Campoamor, 341, 36312, Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain
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Jin Q, Qiao C, Li J, Xiao B, Li J, Xiao X. A GDF11/myostatin inhibitor, GDF11 propeptide-Fc, increases skeletal muscle mass and improves muscle strength in dystrophic mdx mice. Skelet Muscle 2019; 9:16. [PMID: 31133057 PMCID: PMC6537384 DOI: 10.1186/s13395-019-0197-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11) is a member of the transforming growth factor β superfamily. The GDF11 propeptide, which is derived from the GDF11 precursor protein, blocks the activity of GDF11 and its homolog, myostatin, which are both potent inhibitors of muscle growth. Thus, treatment with GDF11 propeptide may be a potential therapeutic strategy for diseases associated with muscle atrophy like sarcopenia and the muscular dystrophies. Here, we evaluate the impact of GDF11 propeptide-Fc (GDF11PRO-Fc) gene delivery on skeletal muscle in normal and dystrophic adult mice. Methods A pull-down assay was used to obtain physical confirmation of a protein-protein interaction between GDF11PRO-Fc and GDF11 or myostatin. Next, differentiated C2C12 myotubes were treated with AAV6-GDF11PRO-Fc and challenged with GDF11 or myostatin to determine if GDF11PRO-Fc could block GDF11/myostatin-induced myotube atrophy. Localized expression of GDF11PRO-Fc was evaluated via a unilateral intramuscular injection of AAV9-GDF11PRO-Fc into the hindlimb of C57BL/6J mice. In mdx mice, intravenous injection of AAV9-GDF11PRO-Fc was used to achieve systemic expression. The impact of GDF11PRO-Fc on muscle mass, function, and pathological features were assessed. Results GDF11PRO-Fc was observed to bind both GDF11 and myostatin. In C2C12 myotubes, expression of GDF11PRO-Fc was able to mitigate GDF11/myostatin-induced atrophy. Following intramuscular injection in C57BL/6J mice, increased grip strength and localized muscle hypertrophy were observed in the injected hindlimb after 10 weeks. In mdx mice, systemic expression of GDF11PRO-Fc resulted in skeletal muscle hypertrophy without a significant change in cardiac mass after 12 weeks. In addition, grip strength and rotarod latency time were improved. Intramuscular fibrosis was also reduced in treated mdx mice; however, there was no change seen in central nucleation, membrane permeability to serum IgG or serum creatine kinase levels. Conclusions GDF11PRO-Fc induces skeletal muscle hypertrophy and improvements in muscle strength via inhibition of GDF11/myostatin signaling. However, GDF11PRO-Fc does not significantly improve the dystrophic pathology in mdx mice. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13395-019-0197-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Jin
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Chunping Qiao
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jianbin Li
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Bin Xiao
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Juan Li
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Xiao Xiao
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Bhattacharya TK, Shukla R, Chatterjee RN, Bhanja SK. Comparative analysis of silencing expression of myostatin (MSTN) and its two receptors (ACVR2A and ACVR2B) genes affecting growth traits in knock down chicken. Sci Rep 2019; 9:7789. [PMID: 31127166 PMCID: PMC6534594 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-44217-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Myostatin (MSTN), a growth differentiation factor-8 regulates muscular development through its receptors, ACVR2A (Activin receptor type IIA) and ACVR2B (Activin receptor type IIB) by inhibiting cellular differentiation of developing somites during embryonic stage and diminishing myofibriller growth during post-embryonic period. The objective of this study was to compare the effect of knockdown of expression of myostatin, ACVR2A and ACVR2B genes on growth traits in chicken. The shRNAs for Myostatin, ACVR2A and ACVR2B genes were designed, synthesized and cloned in DEST vector. The recombinant molecules were transfected into the spermatozoa and transfected spermatozoa were inseminated artificially to the hens to obtain fertile eggs. The fertile eggs were collected, incubated in the incubator and hatched to chicks. Silencing of ACVR2B gene showed significantly higher body weight than other single, double and triple knock down of genes in transgenic birds. The carcass traits such as dressing%, leg muscle%, and breast muscle% were found with the highest magnitudes in birds with silencing of the ACVR2B gene as compared to the birds with that of other genes and control group. The lowest serum cholesterol and HDL content was found in ACVR2B silencing birds. The total RBC count was the highest in this group though the differential counts did not differ significantly among various silencing and control groups of birds. It is concluded that silencing of only one receptor of MSTN particularly, ACVR2B may augment the highest growth in chicken during juvenile stage. Our findings may be used as model for improving growth in other food animals and repairing muscular degenerative disorders in human and other animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- T K Bhattacharya
- ICAR-Directorate of Poultry Research, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, India.
| | - Renu Shukla
- ICAR-Directorate of Poultry Research, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, India
| | - R N Chatterjee
- ICAR-Directorate of Poultry Research, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, India
| | - S K Bhanja
- ICAR-Directorate of Poultry Research, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, India
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a neuromuscular disease caused by a dystrophin protein deficiency. Dystrophin functions to stabilize and protect the muscle fiber during muscle contraction; thus, the absence of functional dystrophin protein leads to muscle injury. DMD patients experience progressive muscle necrosis, loss of function, and ultimately succumb to respiratory failure or cardiomyopathy. Exercise is known to improve muscle health and strength in healthy individuals as well as positively affect other systems. Because of this, exercise has been investigated as a potential therapeutic approach for DMD. METHODS This review aims to provide a concise presentation of the exercise literature with a focus on dystrophin-deficient muscle. Our intent was to identify trends and gaps in knowledge with an appreciation of exercise modality. RESULTS After compiling data from mouse and human studies, it became apparent that endurance exercises such as a swimming and voluntary wheel running have therapeutic potential in limb muscles of mice and respiratory training was beneficial in humans. However, in the comparatively few long-term investigations, the effect of low-intensity training on cardiac and respiratory muscles was contradictory. In addition, the effect of exercise on other systems is largely unknown. CONCLUSIONS To safely prescribe exercise as a therapy to DMD patients, multisystemic investigations are needed including the evaluation of respiratory and cardiac muscle.
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Kim JH, Kim JH, Sutikno LA, Lee SB, Jin DH, Hong YK, Kim YS, Jin HJ. Identification of the minimum region of flatfish myostatin propeptide (Pep45-65) for myostatin inhibition and its potential to enhance muscle growth and performance in animals. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0215298. [PMID: 30998775 PMCID: PMC6472743 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0215298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 03/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Myostatin (MSTN) negatively regulates skeletal muscle growth, and its activity is inhibited by the binding of MSTN propeptide (MSTNpro), the N-terminal domain of proMSTN that is proteolytically cleaved from the proMSTN. Partial sequences from the N-terminal side of MSTNpro have shown to be sufficient to inhibit MSTN activity. In this study, to determine the minimum size of flatfish MSTNpro for MSTN inhibition, various truncated forms of flatfish MSTNpro with N-terminal maltose binding protein (MBP) fusion were expressed in E. coli and purified. MSTNpro regions consisting of residues 45–68, -69, and -70 with MBP fusion suppressed MSTN activity with a potency comparable to that of full-sequence flatfish MSTNpro in a pGL3-(CAGA)12-luciferase reporter assay. Even though the MSTN-inhibitory potency was about 1,000-fold lower, the flatfish MSTNpro region containing residues 45–65 (MBP-Pro45-65) showed MSTN-inhibitory capacity but not the MBP-Pro45-64, indicating that the region 45–65 is the minimum domain required for MSTN binding and suppression of its activity. To examine the in vivo effect of MBP-fused, truncated flatfish MSTNpro, MBP-Pro45-70-His6 (20 mg/kg body wt) was subcutaneously injected 5 times for 14 days in mice. Body wt gain and bone mass were not affected by the administration. Grip strength and swimming time were significantly enhanced at 7 d after the administration. At 14 d, the effect on grip strength disappeared, and the extent of the effect on swimming time significantly diminished. The presence of antibody against MBP-Pro45-70-His6 was observed at both 7 and 14 d after the administration with the titer value at 14 d being much greater than that at 7 d, suggesting that antibodies against MBP-Pro45-70-His6 neutralized the MSTN-inhibitory effect of MBP-Pro45-70-His6. We, thus, examined the MSTN-inhibitory capacity and in vivo effect of flatfish MSTNpro region 45–65 peptide (Pep45-65-NH2), which was predicted to have no immunogenicity in silico analysis. Pep45-65-NH2 suppressed MSTN activity with a potency similar to that of MBP-Pro45-65 but did not suppress GDF11, or activin A. Pep45-65-NH2 blocked MSTN-induced Smad2 phosphorylation in HepG2 cells. The administration of Pep45-65 (20 mg/kg body wt, 5 times for 2 weeks) increased the body wt gain with a greater gain at 14 d than at 7 d and muscle wt. Grip strength and swimming time were also significantly enhanced by the administration. Antibody titer against Pep45-65 was not detected. In conclusion, current results indicate that MSTN-inhibitory proteins with heterologous fusion partner may not be effective in suppressing MSTN activity in vivo due to an immune response against the proteins. Current results also show that the region of flatfish MSTNpro consisting of 45–65 (Pep45-65) can suppress mouse MSTN activity and increase muscle mass and function without invoking an immune response, implying that Pep45-65 would be a potential agent to enhance skeletal muscle growth and function in animals or to treat muscle atrophy caused by various clinical conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong Hwan Kim
- Department of Marine Molecular Bioscience, Gangneung-Wonju National University, Gangneung-si, Ganwon-do, Korea
| | - Jeong Han Kim
- Department of Marine Molecular Bioscience, Gangneung-Wonju National University, Gangneung-si, Ganwon-do, Korea
| | | | - Sang Beum Lee
- Department of Human Nurtrition, Food and Animal Sciences, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
| | - Deuk-Hee Jin
- Department of Marine Molecular Bioscience, Gangneung-Wonju National University, Gangneung-si, Ganwon-do, Korea
| | - Yong-Ki Hong
- Department of Biotechnology, Pukyong National University, Namgu, Busan, Korea
| | - Yong Soo Kim
- Department of Human Nurtrition, Food and Animal Sciences, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
- * E-mail: (YK); (HJ)
| | - Hyung-Joo Jin
- Department of Marine Molecular Bioscience, Gangneung-Wonju National University, Gangneung-si, Ganwon-do, Korea
- * E-mail: (YK); (HJ)
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Tasfaout H, Cowling BS, Laporte J. Centronuclear myopathies under attack: A plethora of therapeutic targets. J Neuromuscul Dis 2019; 5:387-406. [PMID: 30103348 PMCID: PMC6218136 DOI: 10.3233/jnd-180309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Centronuclear myopathies are a group of congenital myopathies characterized by severe muscle weakness, genetic heterogeneity, and defects in the structural organization of muscle fibers. Their names are derived from the central position of nuclei on biopsies, while they are at the fiber periphery under normal conditions. No specific therapy exists yet for these debilitating diseases. Mutations in the myotubularin phosphoinositides phosphatase, the GTPase dynamin 2, or amphiphysin 2 have been identified to cause respectively X-linked centronuclear myopathies (also called myotubular myopathy) or autosomal dominant and recessive forms. Mutations in additional genes, as RYR1, TTN, SPEG or CACNA1S, were linked to phenotypes that can overlap with centronuclear myopathies. Numerous animal models of centronuclear myopathies have been studied over the last 15 years, ranging from invertebrate to large mammalian models. Their characterization led to a partial understanding of the pathomechanisms of these diseases and allowed the recent validation of therapeutic proof-of-concepts. Here, we review the different therapeutic strategies that have been tested so far for centronuclear myopathies, some of which may be translated to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hichem Tasfaout
- Department of Translational Medicine and Neurogenetics, Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Illkirch, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U1258, Illkirch, France
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), UMR7104, Illkirch, France
- Université de Strasbourg, Illkirch, France
| | - Belinda S. Cowling
- Department of Translational Medicine and Neurogenetics, Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Illkirch, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U1258, Illkirch, France
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), UMR7104, Illkirch, France
- Université de Strasbourg, Illkirch, France
| | - Jocelyn Laporte
- Department of Translational Medicine and Neurogenetics, Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Illkirch, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U1258, Illkirch, France
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), UMR7104, Illkirch, France
- Université de Strasbourg, Illkirch, France
- Correspondence to: Jocelyn Laporte, Tel.: 33 0 388653412; E-mail:
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Castonguay R, Lachey J, Wallner S, Strand J, Liharska K, Watanabe AE, Cannell M, Davies MV, Sako D, Troy ME, Krishnan L, Mulivor AW, Li H, Keates S, Alexander MJ, Pearsall RS, Kumar R. Follistatin-288-Fc Fusion Protein Promotes Localized Growth of Skeletal Muscle. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2018; 368:435-445. [PMID: 30563942 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.118.252304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Follistatin is an endogenous glycoprotein that promotes growth and repair of skeletal muscle by sequestering inhibitory ligands of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily and may therefore have therapeutic potential for neuromuscular diseases. Here, we sought to determine the suitability of a newly engineered follistatin fusion protein (FST288-Fc) to promote localized, rather than systemic, growth of skeletal muscle by capitalizing on the intrinsic heparin-binding ability of the follistatin-288 isoform. As determined by surface plasmon resonance and cell-based assays, FST288-Fc binds to activin A, activin B, myostatin (growth differentiation factor GDF8), and GDF11 with high affinity and neutralizes their activity in vitro. Intramuscular administration of FST288-Fc in mice induced robust, dose-dependent growth of the targeted muscle but not of surrounding or contralateral muscles, in contrast to the systemic effects of a locally administered fusion protein incorporating activin receptor type IIB (ActRIIB-Fc). Furthermore, systemic administration of FST288-Fc in mice did not alter muscle mass or body composition as determined by NMR, which again contrasts with the pronounced systemic activity of ActRIIB-Fc when administered by the same route. Subsequent analysis revealed that FST288-Fc in the circulation undergoes rapid proteolysis, thereby restricting its activity to individual muscles targeted by intramuscular administration. These results indicate that FST288-Fc can produce localized growth of skeletal muscle in a targeted manner with reduced potential for undesirable systemic effects. Thus, FST288-Fc and similar agents may be beneficial in the treatment of disorders with muscle atrophy that is focal, asymmetric, or otherwise heterogeneous.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Huiming Li
- Acceleron Pharma, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | | | | | | | - Ravi Kumar
- Acceleron Pharma, Cambridge, Massachusetts
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Giesige CR, Wallace LM, Heller KN, Eidahl JO, Saad NY, Fowler AM, Pyne NK, Al-Kharsan M, Rashnonejad A, Chermahini GA, Domire JS, Mukweyi D, Garwick-Coppens SE, Guckes SM, McLaughlin KJ, Meyer K, Rodino-Klapac LR, Harper SQ. AAV-mediated follistatin gene therapy improves functional outcomes in the TIC-DUX4 mouse model of FSHD. JCI Insight 2018; 3:123538. [PMID: 30429376 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.123538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) is an autosomal dominant or digenic disorder linked to derepression of the toxic DUX4 gene in muscle. There is currently no pharmacological treatment. The emergence of DUX4 enabled development of cell and animal models that could be used for basic and translational research. Since DUX4 is toxic, animal model development has been challenging, but progress has been made, revealing that tight regulation of DUX4 expression is critical for creating viable animals that develop myopathy. Here, we report such a model - the tamoxifen-inducible FSHD mouse model called TIC-DUX4. Uninduced animals are viable, born in Mendelian ratios, and overtly indistinguishable from WT animals. Induced animals display significant DUX4-dependent myopathic phenotypes at the molecular, histological, and functional levels. To demonstrate the utility of TIC-DUX4 mice for therapeutic development, we tested a gene therapy approach aimed at improving muscle strength in DUX4-expressing muscles using adeno-associated virus serotype 1.Follistatin (AAV1.Follistatin), a natural myostatin antagonist. This strategy was not designed to modulate DUX4 but could offer a mechanism to improve muscle weakness caused by DUX4-induced damage. AAV1.Follistatin significantly increased TIC-DUX4 muscle mass and strength even in the presence of DUX4 expression, suggesting that myostatin inhibition may be a promising approach to treat FSHD-associated weakness. We conclude that TIC-DUX4 mice are a relevant model to study DUX4 toxicity and, importantly, are useful in therapeutic development studies for FSHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlee R Giesige
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Lindsay M Wallace
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Kristin N Heller
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Jocelyn O Eidahl
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Nizar Y Saad
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Allison M Fowler
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Nettie K Pyne
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Mustafa Al-Kharsan
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Afrooz Rashnonejad
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | | | - Jacqueline S Domire
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Diana Mukweyi
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Sara E Garwick-Coppens
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Susan M Guckes
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - K John McLaughlin
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Kathrin Meyer
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Louise R Rodino-Klapac
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Scott Q Harper
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Center for Gene Therapy, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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50
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Schumann C, Nguyen DX, Norgard M, Bortnyak Y, Korzun T, Chan S, Lorenz AS, Moses AS, Albarqi HA, Wong L, Michaelis K, Zhu X, Alani AWG, Taratula OR, Krasnow S, Marks DL, Taratula O. Increasing lean muscle mass in mice via nanoparticle-mediated hepatic delivery of follistatin mRNA. Am J Cancer Res 2018; 8:5276-5288. [PMID: 30555546 PMCID: PMC6276093 DOI: 10.7150/thno.27847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Muscle atrophy occurs during chronic diseases, resulting in diminished quality of life and compromised treatment outcomes. There is a high demand for therapeutics that increase muscle mass while abrogating the need for special dietary and exercise requirements. Therefore, we developed an efficient nanomedicine approach capable of increasing muscle mass. Methods: The therapy is based on nanoparticle-mediated delivery of follistatin messenger RNA (mRNA) to the liver after subcutaneous administration. The delivered mRNA directs hepatic cellular machinery to produce follistatin, a glycoprotein that increases lean mass through inhibition of negative regulators of muscle mass (myostatin and activin A). These factors are elevated in numerous disease states, thereby providing a target for therapeutic intervention. Results: Animal studies validated that mRNA-loaded nanoparticles enter systemic circulation following subcutaneous injection, accumulate and internalize in the liver, where the mRNA is translated into follistatin. Follistatin serum levels were elevated for 72 h post injection and efficiently reduced activin A and myostatin serum concentrations. After eight weeks of repeated injections, the lean mass of mice in the treatment group was ~10% higher when compared to that of the controls. Conclusion: Based on the obtained results demonstrating an increased muscle mass as well as restricted fat accumulation, this nanoplatform might be a milestone in the development of mRNA technologies and the treatment of muscle wasting disorders.
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