1
|
Zadrozny M, Drapich P, Gasiorowska-Bien A, Niewiadomski W, Harrington CR, Wischik CM, Riedel G, Niewiadomska G. Neuroprotection of Cholinergic Neurons with a Tau Aggregation Inhibitor and Rivastigmine in an Alzheimer's-like Tauopathy Mouse Model. Cells 2024; 13:642. [PMID: 38607082 PMCID: PMC11011792 DOI: 10.3390/cells13070642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Basal forebrain cholinergic dysfunction, most likely linked with tau protein aggregation, is a characteristic feature of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Recent evidence suggests that tau protein is a putative target for the treatment of dementia, and the tau aggregation inhibitor, hydromethylthionine mesylate (HMTM), has emerged as a potential disease-modifying treatment. However, its efficacy was diminished in patients already receiving approved acetylcholinesterase inhibitors. In this study, we ask whether this negative interaction can also be mimicked in experimental tau models of AD and whether the underlying mechanism can be understood. From a previous age profiling study, 6-month-old line 1 (L1) tau transgenic mice were characterized by a severe reduction in several cholinergic markers. We therefore assessed whether long-term pre-exposure with the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor rivastigmine alone and in conjunction with the tau aggregation inhibitor HMTM can reverse cholinergic deficits in L1. Rivastigmine and HMTM, and combinations of the two compounds were administered orally for 11 weeks to both L1 and wild-type mice. The brains were sectioned with a focus on the basal forebrain, motor cortex and hippocampus. Immunohistochemical staining and quantification of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), tyrosine kinase A (TrkA)-positive neurons and relative optical intensity (ROI) for vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT), and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) reactivity confirmed reversal of the diminished cholinergic phenotype of interneurons (nucleus accumbens, striatum) and projection neurons (medial septum, nucleus basalis magnocellularis) by HMTM, to a greater extent than by rivastigmine alone in L1 mice. Combined administration did not yield additivity but, in most proxies, led to antagonistic effects in which rivastigmine decreased the benefits shown with HMTM alone. Local markers (VAChT and AChE) in target structures of the basal forebrain, motor cortex and hippocampal CA3 seemed to be normalized by HMTM, but not by rivastigmine or the combination of both drugs. HMTM, which was developed as a tau aggregation inhibitor, strongly decreased the tau load in L1 mice, however, not in combination with rivastigmine. Taken together, these data confirm a cholinergic phenotype in L1 tau transgenic mice that resembles the deficits observed in AD patients. This phenotype is reversible by HMTM, but at the same time appears to be subject to a homeostatic regulation induced by chronic pre-treatment with an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, which interferes with the efficacy of HMTM. The strongest phenotypic reversal coincided with a normalization of the tau load in the cortex and hippocampus of L1, suggesting that tau accumulation underpins the loss of cholinergic markers in the basal forebrain and its projection targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Zadrozny
- Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland; (M.Z.); (P.D.); (A.G.-B.); (W.N.)
| | - Patrycja Drapich
- Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland; (M.Z.); (P.D.); (A.G.-B.); (W.N.)
| | - Anna Gasiorowska-Bien
- Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland; (M.Z.); (P.D.); (A.G.-B.); (W.N.)
| | - Wiktor Niewiadomski
- Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland; (M.Z.); (P.D.); (A.G.-B.); (W.N.)
| | - Charles R. Harrington
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK; (C.R.H.); (C.M.W.); (G.R.)
- TauRx Therapeutics Ltd., Aberdeen AB24 3FX, UK
| | - Claude M. Wischik
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK; (C.R.H.); (C.M.W.); (G.R.)
- TauRx Therapeutics Ltd., Aberdeen AB24 3FX, UK
| | - Gernot Riedel
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK; (C.R.H.); (C.M.W.); (G.R.)
| | - Grazyna Niewiadomska
- Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland; (M.Z.); (P.D.); (A.G.-B.); (W.N.)
- Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kumro J, Tripathi A, Lei Y, Sword J, Callahan P, Terry A, Lu XY, Kirov SA, Pillai A, Blake DT. Chronic basal forebrain activation improves spatial memory, boosts neurotrophin receptor expression, and lowers BACE1 and Aβ42 levels in the cerebral cortex in mice. Cereb Cortex 2023; 33:7627-7641. [PMID: 36939283 PMCID: PMC10267632 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhad066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The etiology of Alzheimer's dementia has been hypothesized in terms of basal forebrain cholinergic decline, and in terms of reflecting beta-amyloid neuropathology. To study these different biological elements, we activated the basal forebrain in 5xFAD Alzheimer's model mice and littermates. Mice received 5 months of 1 h per day intermittent stimulation of the basal forebrain, which includes cholinergic projections to the cortical mantle. Then, mice were behaviorally tested followed by tissue analysis. The 5xFAD mice performed worse in water-maze testing than littermates. Stimulated groups learned the water maze better than unstimulated groups. Stimulated groups had 2-3-fold increases in frontal cortex immunoblot measures of the neurotrophin receptors for nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and a more than 50% decrease in the expression of amyloid cleavage enzyme BACE1. Stimulation also led to lower Aβ42 in 5xFAD mice. These data support a causal relationship between basal forebrain activation and both neurotrophin activation and reduced Aβ42 generation and accumulation. The observation that basal forebrain activation suppresses Aβ42 accumulation, combined with the known high-affinity antagonism of nicotinic receptors by Aβ42, documents bidirectional antagonism between acetylcholine and Aβ42.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Kumro
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, United States
| | - Ashutosh Tripathi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77054, United States
| | - Yun Lei
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, United States
| | - Jeremy Sword
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, United States
| | - Patrick Callahan
- Department of Pharmacology/Toxicology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, United States
| | - Alvin Terry
- Department of Pharmacology/Toxicology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, United States
| | - Xin-yun Lu
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, United States
| | - Sergei A Kirov
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, United States
| | - Anilkumar Pillai
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77054, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, United States
- Research and Development, Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30904, United States
| | - David T Blake
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, United States
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Malan L, van Wyk R, von Känel R, Ziemssen T, Vilser W, Nilsson PM, Magnusson M, Jujic A, Mak D, Steyn F, Malan NT. The chronic stress risk phenotype mirrored in the human retina as a neurodegenerative condition. Stress 2023:1-43. [PMID: 37154816 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2023.2210687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The brain is the key organ that orchestrates the stress response which translates to the retina. The retina is an extension of the brain and retinal symptoms in subjects with neurodegenerative diseases substantiated the eye as a window to the brain. The retina is used in this study to determine whether chronic stress reflects neurodegenerative signs indicative of neurodegenerative conditions. A 3-year prospective cohort (n = 333; aged 46 ± 9 years) was stratified into stress-phenotype cases (n = 212) and controls (n = 121) by applying the Malan stress-phenotype index. Neurodegenerative risk markers included ischemia (astrocytic S100 calcium-binding protein B/S100B); 24h blood pressure, proteomics; inflammation (tumor-necrosis-factor-α/TNF-α); neuronal damage (neuron-specific-enolase); anti-apoptosis of retinal-ganglion-cells (beta-nerve-growth-factor), astrocytic activity (glial-fibrillary-acidic-protein); hematocrit (viscosity) and retinal follow-up data [vessels; stress-optic-neuropathy]. Stress-optic-neuropathy risk was calculated from two indices: a newly derived diastolic-ocular-perfusion-pressure cut-point ≥68 mmHg relating to the stress-phenotype; combined with an established cup-to-disc ratio cut-point ≥0.3. Higher stress-optic-neuropathy (39% vs. 17%) and hypertension (73% vs. 16%) prevalence was observed in the stress-phenotype cases vs. controls. Elevated diastolic-ocular-perfusion-pressure, indicating hypoperfusion, was related to arterial narrowing and trend for ischemia increases in the stress-phenotype. Ischemia in the stress-phenotype at baseline, follow-up and 3-yr changes was related to consistent inflammation (TNF-α and cytokine-interleukin-17-receptor-A), neuron-specific-enolase increases, consistent apoptosis (chitinase 3-like-1, low beta-nerve-growth-factor), glial-fibrillary-acidic-protein decreases, elevated viscosity, vein widening as risk marker of endothelial dysfunction in the blood-retinal-barrier, lower vein count, and elevated stress-optic-neuropathy. The stress-phenotype and related neurodegenerative signs of ongoing brain ischemia, apoptosis and endothelial dysfunction compromised blood-retinal-barrier permeability and optic nerve integrity. In fact, the stress-phenotype could identify persons at high risk of neurodegeneration to indicate a neurodegenerative condition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leoné Malan
- Technology Transfer and Innovation-Support Office; Private Bag X1290, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
| | - Roelof van Wyk
- Surgical Ophthalmologist; 85 Peter Mokaba Street, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Roland von Känel
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Zurich; University of Zurich; Zurich Switzerland
| | - Tjalf Ziemssen
- Autonomic and Neuroendocrinological Laboratory Dresden, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus; Technische Universität Dresden, Germany
| | - Walthard Vilser
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and informatics; Technical University Ilmenau, Germany
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Section Neonatalogy; University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Peter M Nilsson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University; Malmö, Sweden
| | - Martin Magnusson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University; Malmö, Sweden
- Hypertension in Africa Research Team (HART); North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
- Department of Cardiology; Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Lund University; Malmö Sweden
| | - Amra Jujic
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University; Malmö, Sweden
| | - Daniel Mak
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health; Hong Kong Institute of Science & Innovation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Faans Steyn
- Statistical Consultation Services; North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Nico T Malan
- Technology Transfer and Innovation-Support Office; Private Bag X1290, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Salasova A, Monti G, Andersen OM, Nykjaer A. Finding memo: versatile interactions of the VPS10p-Domain receptors in Alzheimer’s disease. Mol Neurodegener 2022; 17:74. [PMID: 36397124 PMCID: PMC9673319 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-022-00576-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The family of VPS10p-Domain (D) receptors comprises five members named SorLA, Sortilin, SorCS1, SorCS2 and SorCS3. While their physiological roles remain incompletely resolved, they have been recognized for their signaling engagements and trafficking abilities, navigating a number of molecules between endosome, Golgi compartments, and the cell surface. Strikingly, recent studies connected all the VPS10p-D receptors to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) development. In addition, they have been also associated with diseases comorbid with AD such as diabetes mellitus and major depressive disorder. This systematic review elaborates on genetic, functional, and mechanistic insights into how dysfunction in VPS10p-D receptors may contribute to AD etiology, AD onset diversity, and AD comorbidities. Starting with their functions in controlling cellular trafficking of amyloid precursor protein and the metabolism of the amyloid beta peptide, we present and exemplify how these receptors, despite being structurally similar, regulate various and distinct cellular events involved in AD. This includes a plethora of signaling crosstalks that impact on neuronal survival, neuronal wiring, neuronal polarity, and synaptic plasticity. Signaling activities of the VPS10p-D receptors are especially linked, but not limited to, the regulation of neuronal fitness and apoptosis via their physical interaction with pro- and mature neurotrophins and their receptors. By compiling the functional versatility of VPS10p-D receptors and their interactions with AD-related pathways, we aim to further propel the AD research towards VPS10p-D receptor family, knowledge that may lead to new diagnostic markers and therapeutic strategies for AD patients.
Collapse
|
5
|
Capsoni S, Arisi I, Malerba F, D’Onofrio M, Cattaneo A, Cherubini E. Targeting the Cation-Chloride Co-Transporter NKCC1 to Re-Establish GABAergic Inhibition and an Appropriate Excitatory/Inhibitory Balance in Selective Neuronal Circuits: A Novel Approach for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12060783. [PMID: 35741668 PMCID: PMC9221351 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12060783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
GABA, the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the adult brain, depolarizes and excites immature neurons because of an initially higher intracellular chloride concentration [Cl-]i due to the delayed expression of the chloride exporter KCC2 at birth. Depolarization-induced calcium rise via NMDA receptors and voltage-dependent calcium channels is instrumental in shaping neuronal circuits and in controlling the excitatory (E)/inhibitory (I) balance in selective brain areas. An E/I imbalance accounts for cognitive impairment observed in several neuropsychiatric disorders. The aim of this review is to summarize recent data on the mechanisms by which alterations of GABAergic signaling alter the E/I balance in cortical and hippocampal neurons in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and the role of cation-chloride co-transporters in this process. In particular, we discuss the NGF and AD relationship and how mice engineered to express recombinant neutralizing anti-NGF antibodies (AD11 mice), which develop a neurodegenerative pathology reminiscent of that observed in AD patients, exhibit a depolarizing action of GABA due to KCC2 impairment. Treating AD and other forms of dementia with bumetanide, a selective KCC2 antagonist, contributes to re-establishing a proper E/I balance in selective brain areas, leading to amelioration of AD symptoms and the slowing down of disease progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simona Capsoni
- Bio@SNS Laboratory of Biology, Scuola Normale Superiore, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
- Section of Physiology, Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ivan Arisi
- Fondazione European Brain Research Institute (EBRI) Rita Levi-Montalcini, 00161 Rome, Italy; (I.A.); (F.M.); (M.D.)
| | - Francesca Malerba
- Fondazione European Brain Research Institute (EBRI) Rita Levi-Montalcini, 00161 Rome, Italy; (I.A.); (F.M.); (M.D.)
| | - Mara D’Onofrio
- Fondazione European Brain Research Institute (EBRI) Rita Levi-Montalcini, 00161 Rome, Italy; (I.A.); (F.M.); (M.D.)
| | - Antonino Cattaneo
- Bio@SNS Laboratory of Biology, Scuola Normale Superiore, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
- Fondazione European Brain Research Institute (EBRI) Rita Levi-Montalcini, 00161 Rome, Italy; (I.A.); (F.M.); (M.D.)
- Correspondence: (A.C.); (E.C.); Tel.: +39-050-509320 (A.C.); +39-06-49255255 (E.C.)
| | - Enrico Cherubini
- Fondazione European Brain Research Institute (EBRI) Rita Levi-Montalcini, 00161 Rome, Italy; (I.A.); (F.M.); (M.D.)
- Correspondence: (A.C.); (E.C.); Tel.: +39-050-509320 (A.C.); +39-06-49255255 (E.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
A Microglial Function for the Nerve Growth Factor: Predictions of the Unpredictable. Cells 2022; 11:cells11111835. [PMID: 35681529 PMCID: PMC9180430 DOI: 10.3390/cells11111835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Microglia are the only immune cell population present in the brain parenchyma. Their vantage position in the central nervous system (CNS) enables these myeloid cells to perform the most disparate of tasks: from the classical immune functions of fighting infections and surveilling the extracellular space for pathogens and damage, to sculpting the neuronal circuitry by pruning unnecessary synapses and assisting neurons in spine formation, aiding in the maintenance of brain homeostasis. The neurotrophin field has always been dominated by the neurocentric view that the primary target of these molecules must be neurons: this holds true even for the Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), which owes its popularity in the neuroscience community to its trophic and tropic activity towards sensory and sympathetic neurons in the peripheral nervous system, and cholinergic neurons in the CNS. The increasing evidence that microglia are an integral part of neuronal computation calls for a closer look as to whether these glial cells are capable of responding directly to NGF. In this review, we will first outline evidence in support of a role for NGF as a molecule mediating neuroimmune communication. Then, we will illustrate some of those non-immune features that have made microglial cells one of the hottest topics of this last decade. In conclusion, we will discuss evidence in support of a microglial function for NGF.
Collapse
|
7
|
Barabás K, Kobolák J, Godó S, Kovács T, Ernszt D, Kecskés M, Varga C, Jánosi TZ, Fujiwara T, Kusumi A, Téglási A, Dinnyés A, Ábrahám IM. Live-Cell Imaging of Single Neurotrophin Receptor Molecules on Human Neurons in Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413260. [PMID: 34948057 PMCID: PMC8708879 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurotrophin receptors such as the tropomyosin receptor kinase A receptor (TrkA) and the low-affinity binding p75 neurotrophin receptor p75NTR play a critical role in neuronal survival and their functions are altered in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Changes in the dynamics of receptors on the plasma membrane are essential to receptor function. However, whether receptor dynamics are affected in different pathophysiological conditions is unexplored. Using live-cell single-molecule imaging, we examined the surface trafficking of TrkA and p75NTR molecules on live neurons that were derived from human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) of presenilin 1 (PSEN1) mutant familial AD (fAD) patients and non-demented control subjects. Our results show that the surface movement of TrkA and p75NTR and the activation of TrkA- and p75NTR-related phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K)/serine/threonine-protein kinase (AKT) signaling pathways are altered in neurons that are derived from patients suffering from fAD compared to controls. These results provide evidence for altered surface movement of receptors in AD and highlight the importance of investigating receptor dynamics in disease conditions. Uncovering these mechanisms might enable novel therapies for AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Klaudia Barabás
- NAP Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Institute of Physiology, Medical School, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Institute, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (K.B.); (S.G.); (T.K.); (D.E.); (T.Z.J.); (I.M.Á.)
| | | | - Soma Godó
- NAP Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Institute of Physiology, Medical School, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Institute, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (K.B.); (S.G.); (T.K.); (D.E.); (T.Z.J.); (I.M.Á.)
| | - Tamás Kovács
- NAP Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Institute of Physiology, Medical School, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Institute, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (K.B.); (S.G.); (T.K.); (D.E.); (T.Z.J.); (I.M.Á.)
| | - Dávid Ernszt
- NAP Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Institute of Physiology, Medical School, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Institute, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (K.B.); (S.G.); (T.K.); (D.E.); (T.Z.J.); (I.M.Á.)
| | - Miklós Kecskés
- NAP-B Cortical Microcircuits Research Group, Institute of Physiology, Medical School, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Institute, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (M.K.); (C.V.)
| | - Csaba Varga
- NAP-B Cortical Microcircuits Research Group, Institute of Physiology, Medical School, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Institute, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (M.K.); (C.V.)
| | - Tibor Z. Jánosi
- NAP Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Institute of Physiology, Medical School, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Institute, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (K.B.); (S.G.); (T.K.); (D.E.); (T.Z.J.); (I.M.Á.)
| | - Takahiro Fujiwara
- Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences (WPI-iCeMS), Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan;
| | - Akihiro Kusumi
- Membrane Cooperativity Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST), Onna 904-0495, Japan;
| | | | - András Dinnyés
- BioTalentum Ltd., 2100 Gödöllő, Hungary; (J.K.); (A.T.)
- Correspondence:
| | - István M. Ábrahám
- NAP Molecular Neuroendocrinology Research Group, Institute of Physiology, Medical School, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Institute, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (K.B.); (S.G.); (T.K.); (D.E.); (T.Z.J.); (I.M.Á.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Malerba F, Arisi I, Florio R, Zecca C, Dell'Abate MT, Bruni Ercole B, Camerini S, Casella M, Logroscino G, Cattaneo A. proNGF Measurement in Cerebrospinal Fluid Samples of a Large Cohort of Living Patients With Alzheimer's Disease by a New Automated Immunoassay. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:741414. [PMID: 34776928 PMCID: PMC8579109 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.741414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The discovery of new biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease (AD) is essential for an accurate diagnosis, to conceive new strategies of treatments, and for monitoring the efficacy of potential disease-modifying therapies in clinical trials. proNGF levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) represent a promising diagnostic biomarker for AD, but its validation was hampered by the absence of a reliable immunoassay. In the literature, proNGF is currently measured in postmortem brain tissue by semiquantitative immunoblot. Here we describe the development and validation of a new method to measure proNGF in the CSF of living patients. This method, based on molecular size separation by capillary electrophoresis, is automated and shows a 40-fold increase in sensitivity with respect to the proNGF immunoblot, largely used in literature, and is robust, specific, and scalable to high-throughput. We have measured proNGF in the cerebrospinal fluid of 84 living patients with AD, 13 controls, and 15 subjective memory complaints (SMC) subjects. By comparing the proNGF levels in the three groups, we found a very significant difference between proNGF levels in AD samples compared with both controls and SMC subjects, while no significant difference was found between SMC and controls. Because of the development of this new immunoassay, we are ready to explore the potentiality of proNGF as a new biomarker for AD or subgroups thereof, as well as for other neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Malerba
- Fondazione EBRI (European Brain Research Institute) Rita Levi-Montalcini, Rome, Italy
| | - Ivan Arisi
- Fondazione EBRI (European Brain Research Institute) Rita Levi-Montalcini, Rome, Italy.,Institute of Translational Pharmacology - National Research Council (IFT-CNR), Rome, Italy
| | - Rita Florio
- Fondazione EBRI (European Brain Research Institute) Rita Levi-Montalcini, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Zecca
- Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases and the Aging Brain, Department of Clinical Research in Neurology of the University of Bari "Aldo Moro" at "Pia Fondazione Card. G. Panico" Hospital Tricase, Lecce, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Dell'Abate
- Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases and the Aging Brain, Department of Clinical Research in Neurology of the University of Bari "Aldo Moro" at "Pia Fondazione Card. G. Panico" Hospital Tricase, Lecce, Italy
| | - Bruno Bruni Ercole
- Fondazione EBRI (European Brain Research Institute) Rita Levi-Montalcini, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Giancarlo Logroscino
- Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases and the Aging Brain, Department of Clinical Research in Neurology of the University of Bari "Aldo Moro" at "Pia Fondazione Card. G. Panico" Hospital Tricase, Lecce, Italy.,Department of Basic Medicine Sciences, Neuroscience, and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Antonino Cattaneo
- Fondazione EBRI (European Brain Research Institute) Rita Levi-Montalcini, Rome, Italy.,BIO@SNS Laboratory, Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
In vivo functions of p75 NTR: challenges and opportunities for an emerging therapeutic target. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2021; 42:772-788. [PMID: 34334250 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2021.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) functions at the molecular nexus of cell death, survival, and differentiation. In addition to its contribution to neurodegenerative diseases and nervous system injuries, recent studies have revealed unanticipated roles of p75NTR in liver repair, fibrinolysis, lung fibrosis, muscle regeneration, and metabolism. Linking these various p75NTR functions more precisely to specific mechanisms marks p75NTR as an emerging candidate for therapeutic intervention in a wide range of disorders. Indeed, small molecule inhibitors of p75NTR binding to neurotrophins have shown efficacy in models of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and neurodegeneration. Here, we outline recent advances in understanding p75NTR pleiotropic functions in vivo, and propose an integrated view of p75NTR and its challenges and opportunities as a pharmacological target.
Collapse
|
10
|
Risk Factors for Retinal Ganglion Cell Distress in Glaucoma and Neuroprotective Potential Intervention. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22157994. [PMID: 34360760 PMCID: PMC8346985 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22157994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) are a population of neurons of the central nervous system (CNS) extending with their soma to the inner retina and with their axons to the optic nerve. Glaucoma represents a group of neurodegenerative diseases where the slow progressive death of RGCs results in a permanent loss of vision. To date, although Intra Ocular Pressure (IOP) is considered the main therapeutic target, the precise mechanisms by which RGCs die in glaucoma have not yet been clarified. In fact, Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG), which is the most common glaucoma form, also occurs without elevated IOP. This present review provides a summary of some pathological conditions, i.e., axonal transport blockade, glutamate excitotoxicity and changes in pro-inflammatory cytokines along the RGC projection, all involved in the glaucoma cascade. Moreover, neuro-protective therapeutic approaches, which aim to improve RGC degeneration, have also been taken into consideration.
Collapse
|
11
|
Gasiorowska A, Wydrych M, Drapich P, Zadrozny M, Steczkowska M, Niewiadomski W, Niewiadomska G. The Biology and Pathobiology of Glutamatergic, Cholinergic, and Dopaminergic Signaling in the Aging Brain. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:654931. [PMID: 34326765 PMCID: PMC8315271 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.654931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The elderly population is growing worldwide, with important health and socioeconomic implications. Clinical and experimental studies on aging have uncovered numerous changes in the brain, such as decreased neurogenesis, increased synaptic defects, greater metabolic stress, and enhanced inflammation. These changes are associated with cognitive decline and neurobehavioral deficits. Although aging is not a disease, it is a significant risk factor for functional worsening, affective impairment, disease exaggeration, dementia, and general disease susceptibility. Conversely, life events related to mental stress and trauma can also lead to accelerated age-associated disorders and dementia. Here, we review human studies and studies on mice and rats, such as those modeling human neurodegenerative diseases, that have helped elucidate (1) the dynamics and mechanisms underlying the biological and pathological aging of the main projecting systems in the brain (glutamatergic, cholinergic, and dopaminergic) and (2) the effect of defective glutamatergic, cholinergic, and dopaminergic projection on disabilities associated with aging and neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Detailed knowledge of the mechanisms of age-related diseases can be an important element in the development of effective ways of treatment. In this context, we briefly analyze which adverse changes associated with neurodegenerative diseases in the cholinergic, glutaminergic and dopaminergic systems could be targeted by therapeutic strategies developed as a result of our better understanding of these damaging mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Gasiorowska
- Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Wydrych
- Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Patrycja Drapich
- Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Zadrozny
- Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marta Steczkowska
- Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Wiktor Niewiadomski
- Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Grazyna Niewiadomska
- Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Eriksdotter M, Mitra S. Gene and cell therapy for the nucleus basalis of Meynert with NGF in Alzheimer's disease. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2021; 179:219-229. [PMID: 34225964 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-819975-6.00012-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
There is currently no effective treatment for the most common of the dementia disorders, Alzheimer's disease (AD). It has been known for decades that the central cholinergic system is important for memory. The cholinergic neurons in the basal forebrain with its cortical and hippocampal projections degenerate in AD and thus contribute to the cognitive decline characteristic of AD. This knowledge led to the development of the currently approved treatment for AD, with inhibitors of acetylcholine-esterase targeting the cholinergic system with beneficial but mild effects. In recent years, other approaches to influence the degenerating cholinergic system in AD focusing on nerve growth factor (NGF) have been undertaken. NGF is required for the survival and function of the basal forebrain cholinergic neurons, the most important being the nucleus basalis of Meynert (nbM). Since there is a lack of NGF and its receptors in the AD forebrain, the hypothesis is that local delivery of NGF to the nbM could revive the cholinergic circuitry and thereby restore cognitive functions. Since NGF does not pass through the blood-brain barrier, approaches involving cerebral injections of genetically modified cells or viral vectors or implantation of encapsulated cells in the nbM in AD patients have been used. These attempts have been partially successful but also have limitations, which are presented and discussed here. In conclusion, these trials point to the importance of further development of NGF-related therapies in AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Eriksdotter
- Division of Clinical Geriatrics, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society (NVS), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Theme Aging, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Sweden.
| | - Sumonto Mitra
- Division of Clinical Geriatrics, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society (NVS), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ma S, Zang T, Liu ML, Zhang CL. Aging-relevant human basal forebrain cholinergic neurons as a cell model for Alzheimer's disease. Mol Neurodegener 2020; 15:61. [PMID: 33087140 PMCID: PMC7579825 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-020-00411-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is an adult-onset mental disorder with aging as a major risk factor. Early and progressive degeneration of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons (BFCNs) contributes substantially to cognitive impairments of AD. An aging-relevant cell model of BFCNs will critically help understand AD and identify potential therapeutics. Recent studies demonstrate that induced neurons directly reprogrammed from adult human skin fibroblasts retain aging-associated features. However, human induced BFCNs (hiBFCNs) have yet to be achieved. Methods We examined a reprogramming procedure for the generation of aging-relevant hiBFCNs through virus-mediated expression of fate-determining transcription factors. Skin fibroblasts were obtained from healthy young persons, healthy adults and sporadic AD patients. Properties of the induced neurons were examined by immunocytochemistry, qRT-PCR, western blotting, and electrophysiology. Results We established a protocol for efficient generation of hiBFCNs from adult human skin fibroblasts. They show electrophysiological properties of mature neurons and express BFCN-specific markers, such as CHAT, p75NTR, ISL1, and VACHT. As a proof-of-concept, our preliminary results further reveal that hiBFCNs from sporadic AD patients exhibit time-dependent TAU hyperphosphorylation in the soma and dysfunctional nucleocytoplasmic transport activities. Conclusions Aging-relevant BFCNs can be directly reprogrammed from human skin fibroblasts of healthy adults and sporadic AD patients. They show promises as an aging-relevant cell model for understanding AD pathology and may be employed for therapeutics identification for AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuaipeng Ma
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 6000 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA.,Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 6000 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Tong Zang
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 6000 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA.,Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 6000 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Meng-Lu Liu
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 6000 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA.,Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 6000 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Chun-Li Zhang
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 6000 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA. .,Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 6000 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Xie Y, Seawell J, Boesch E, Allen L, Suchy A, Longo FM, Meeker RB. Small molecule modulation of the p75 neurotrophin receptor suppresses age- and genotype-associated neurodegeneration in HIV gp120 transgenic mice. Exp Neurol 2020; 335:113489. [PMID: 33007293 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2020.113489] [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: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The persistence of HIV in the central nervous system leads to cognitive deficits in up to 50% of people living with HIV even with systemic suppression by antiretroviral treatment. The interaction of chronic inflammation with age-associated degeneration places these individuals at increased risk of accelerated aging and other neurodegenerative diseases and no treatments are available that effectively halt these processes. The adverse effects of aging and inflammation may be mediated, in part, by an increase in the expression of the p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) which shifts the balance of neurotrophin signaling toward less protective pathways. To determine if modulation of p75NTR could modify the disease process, we treated HIV gp120 transgenic mice with a small molecule ligand designed to engage p75NTR and downregulate degenerative signaling. Daily treatment with 50 mg/kg LM11A-31 for 4 months suppressed age- and genotype-dependent activation of microglia, increased microtubule associated protein-2 (MAP-2), reduced dendritic varicosities and slowed the loss of parvalbumin immunoreactive neurons in the hippocampus. An age related accumulation of microtubule associated protein Tau was identified in the hippocampus in extracellular clusters that co-expressed p75NTR suggesting a link between Tau and p75NTR. Although the significance of the relationship between p75NTR and Tau is unclear, a decrease in Tau-1 immunoreactivity as gp120 mice entered old age (>16 months) suggests that the Tau may transition to more pathological modifications; a process blocked by LM11A-31. Overall, the effects of LM11A-31 are consistent with strong neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory actions that have significant therapeutic potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Youmie Xie
- Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States of America
| | - Jaimie Seawell
- Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States of America; The Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Spartanburg, SC 29303, United States of America
| | - Emily Boesch
- School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States of America
| | - Lauren Allen
- Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States of America
| | - Ashley Suchy
- Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States of America
| | - Frank M Longo
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, United States of America
| | - Rick B Meeker
- Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States of America; Neurobiology Curriculum, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ding XW, Li R, Geetha T, Tao YX, Babu JR. Nerve growth factor in metabolic complications and Alzheimer's disease: Physiology and therapeutic potential. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2020; 1866:165858. [PMID: 32531260 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2020.165858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
As the population ages, obesity and metabolic complications as well as neurological disorders are becoming more prevalent, with huge economic burdens on both societies and families. New therapeutics are urgently needed. Nerve growth factor (NGF), first discovered in 1950s, is a neurotrophic factor involved in regulating cell proliferation, growth, survival, and apoptosis in both central and peripheral nervous systems. NGF and its precursor, proNGF, bind to TrkA and p75 receptors and initiate protein phosphorylation cascades, resulting in changes of cellular functions, and are associated with obesity, diabetes and its complications, and Alzheimer's disease. In this article, we summarize changes in NGF levels in metabolic and neuronal disorders, the signal transduction initiated by NGF and proNGF, the physiological and pathophysiological relevance, and therapeutic potential in treating chronic metabolic diseases and cognitive decline.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Wen Ding
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Hospitality Management, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Rongzi Li
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Hospitality Management, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Thangiah Geetha
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Hospitality Management, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; Boshell Metabolic Diseases and Diabetes Program, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Ya-Xiong Tao
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
| | - Jeganathan Ramesh Babu
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Hospitality Management, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; Boshell Metabolic Diseases and Diabetes Program, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Corvaglia V, Cilli D, Scopa C, Brandi R, Arisi I, Malerba F, La Regina F, Scardigli R, Cattaneo A. ProNGF Is a Cell-Type-Specific Mitogen for Adult Hippocampal and for Induced Neural Stem Cells. Stem Cells 2019; 37:1223-1237. [PMID: 31132299 DOI: 10.1002/stem.3037] [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: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 02/16/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The role of proNGF, the precursor of nerve growth factor (NGF), in the biology of adult neural stem cells (aNSCs) is still unclear. Here, we analyzed adult hippocampal neurogenesis in AD11 transgenic mice, in which the constitutive expression of anti-NGF antibody leads to an imbalance of proNGF over mature NGF. We found increased proliferation of progenitors but a reduced neurogenesis in the AD11 dentate gyrus (DG)-hippocampus (HP). Also in vitro, AD11 hippocampal neural stem cells (NSCs) proliferated more, but were unable to differentiate into morphologically mature neurons. By treating wild-type hippocampal progenitors with the uncleavable form of proNGF (proNGF-KR), we demonstrated that proNGF acts as mitogen on aNSCs at low concentration. The mitogenic effect of proNGF was specifically addressed to the radial glia-like (RGL) stem cells through the induction of cyclin D1 expression. These cells express high levels of p75NTR , as demonstrated by immunofluorescence analyses performed ex vivo on RGL cells isolated from freshly dissociated HP-DG or selected in vitro from NSCs by leukemia inhibitory factor. Clonogenic assay performed in the absence of mitogens showed that RGLs respond to proNGF-KR by reactivating their proliferation and thus leading to neurospheres formation. The mitogenic effect of proNGF was further exploited in the expansion of mouse-induced neural stem cells (iNSCs). Chronic exposure of iNSCs to proNGF-KR increased their proliferation. Altogether, we demonstrated that proNGF acts as mitogen on hippocampal and iNSCs. Stem Cells 2019;37:1223-1237.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valerio Corvaglia
- Scuola Normale Superiore, Italy.,European Brain Research Institute (EBRI), Italy
| | - Domenica Cilli
- European Brain Research Institute (EBRI), Italy.,Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Institute of Translational Pharmacology, Italy
| | - Chiara Scopa
- European Brain Research Institute (EBRI), Italy.,Department of Biology, University "Roma Tre", Italy
| | | | - Ivan Arisi
- European Brain Research Institute (EBRI), Italy
| | - Francesca Malerba
- Scuola Normale Superiore, Italy.,European Brain Research Institute (EBRI), Italy
| | | | - Raffaella Scardigli
- European Brain Research Institute (EBRI), Italy.,Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Institute of Translational Pharmacology, Italy
| | - Antonino Cattaneo
- Scuola Normale Superiore, Italy.,European Brain Research Institute (EBRI), Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Cattaneo A, Capsoni S. Painless Nerve Growth Factor: A TrkA biased agonist mediating a broad neuroprotection via its actions on microglia cells. Pharmacol Res 2018; 139:17-25. [PMID: 30391352 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2018] [Revised: 10/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) is a therapeutic candidate for Alzheimer's disease, based on its well known actions on basal forebrain cholinergic neurons. However, because of its pro-nociceptive activity, in current clinical trials NGF has to be administered intraparenchymally into the brain by neurosurgery via cell or gene therapy approaches. To prevent the NGF pain-inducing collateral effects, thus avoiding the necessity for local brain injection, we developed painless NGF (hNGFp), based on the human genetic disease Hereditary Sensory and Autonomic Neuropathy type V (HSAN V). hNGFp has similar neurotrophic activity as wild type human NGF, but its pain sensitizing activity is tenfold lower. Pharmacologically, hNGFp is a biased receptor agonist of NGF TrkA receptor. The results of recent studies shed new light on the neuroprotective mechanism by hNGFp and are highly relevant for the planning of NGF-based clinical trials. The intraparenchymal delivery of hNGFp, as used in clinical trials, was simulated in the 5xFAD mouse model and found to be inefficacious in reducing Aβ plaque load. On the contrary, the same dose of hNGFp administered intranasally, which was rather widely biodistributed in the brain and did not induce pain sensitization, blocked APP processing into amyloid and restored synaptic plasticity and memory in this aggressive neurodegeneration model. This potent and broad neuroprotection by hNGFp was found to be mediated by hNGFp actions on glial cells. hNGFp increases inflammatory proteins such as the soluble TNFα receptor II and the chemokine CXCL12. Independent work has shown that NGF has a potent anti-inflammatory action on microglia and steers them towards a neuroprotective phenotype. These studies demonstrate that microglia cells are a new target cell of NGF in the brain and have therapeutic significance: i) they establish that the neuroprotective actions of hNGFp relies on a widespread exposure of the brain, ii) they identify a new anti-neurodegenerative pathway, linking hNGFp to inflammatory chemokines and cytokines via microglia, a common target for new therapeutic opportunities for neurodegenerative diseases, iii) they extend the neuroprotective potential of hNGFp beyond its classical cholinergic target, thereby widening the range of neurological diseases for which this neurotrophic factor might be used therapeutically, iv) they help interpreting the results of current NGF clinical trials in AD and the design of future trials with this new potent therapeutic candidate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonino Cattaneo
- Bio@SNS Laboratory of Biology, Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy; Rita Levi-Montalcini European Brain Research Institute (EBRI), Roma, Italy.
| | - Simona Capsoni
- Bio@SNS Laboratory of Biology, Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy; Section of Human Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Rizzi C, Tiberi A, Giustizieri M, Marrone MC, Gobbo F, Carucci NM, Meli G, Arisi I, D'Onofrio M, Marinelli S, Capsoni S, Cattaneo A. NGF steers microglia toward a neuroprotective phenotype. Glia 2018; 66:1395-1416. [PMID: 29473218 PMCID: PMC6001573 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2017] [Revised: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Microglia are the sentinels of the brain but a clear understanding of the factors that modulate their activation in physiological and pathological conditions is still lacking. Here we demonstrate that Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) acts on microglia by steering them toward a neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory phenotype. We show that microglial cells express functional NGF receptors in vitro and ex vivo. Our transcriptomic analysis reveals how, in primary microglia, NGF treatment leads to a modulation of motility, phagocytosis and degradation pathways. At the functional level, NGF induces an increase in membrane dynamics and macropinocytosis and, in vivo, it activates an outward rectifying current that appears to modulate glutamatergic neurotransmission in nearby neurons. Since microglia are supposed to be a major player in Aβ peptide clearance in the brain, we tested the effects of NGF on its phagocytosis. NGF was shown to promote TrkA-mediated engulfment of Aβ by microglia, and to enhance its degradation. Additionally, the proinflammatory activation induced by Aβ treatment is counteracted by the concomitant administration of NGF. Moreover, by acting specifically on microglia, NGF protects neurons from the Aβ-induced loss of dendritic spines and inhibition of long term potentiation. Finally, in an ex-vivo setup of acute brain slices, we observed a similar increase in Aβ engulfment by microglial cells under the influence of NGF. Our work substantiates a role for NGF in the regulation of microglial homeostatic activities and points toward this neurotrophin as a neuroprotective agent in Aβ accumulation pathologies, via its anti-inflammatory activity on microglia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Rizzi
- Bio@SNS Laboratory, Scuola Normale Superiore, Piazza dei Cavalieri 7Pisa56126Italy
| | - Alexia Tiberi
- Bio@SNS Laboratory, Scuola Normale Superiore, Piazza dei Cavalieri 7Pisa56126Italy
| | - Michela Giustizieri
- European Brain Research Institute‐Fondazione Rita Levi Montalcini, Viale Regina Elena 295Roma00161, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Marrone
- European Brain Research Institute‐Fondazione Rita Levi Montalcini, Viale Regina Elena 295Roma00161, Italy
| | - Francesco Gobbo
- Bio@SNS Laboratory, Scuola Normale Superiore, Piazza dei Cavalieri 7Pisa56126Italy
| | - Nicola Maria Carucci
- Bio@SNS Laboratory, Scuola Normale Superiore, Piazza dei Cavalieri 7Pisa56126Italy
| | - Giovanni Meli
- European Brain Research Institute‐Fondazione Rita Levi Montalcini, Viale Regina Elena 295Roma00161, Italy
| | - Ivan Arisi
- European Brain Research Institute‐Fondazione Rita Levi Montalcini, Viale Regina Elena 295Roma00161, Italy
| | - Mara D'Onofrio
- European Brain Research Institute‐Fondazione Rita Levi Montalcini, Viale Regina Elena 295Roma00161, Italy
| | - Silvia Marinelli
- European Brain Research Institute‐Fondazione Rita Levi Montalcini, Viale Regina Elena 295Roma00161, Italy
| | - Simona Capsoni
- Bio@SNS Laboratory, Scuola Normale Superiore, Piazza dei Cavalieri 7Pisa56126Italy
- Section of Human Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical SciencesUniversity of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17‐19Ferrara44121Italy
| | - Antonino Cattaneo
- Bio@SNS Laboratory, Scuola Normale Superiore, Piazza dei Cavalieri 7Pisa56126Italy
- European Brain Research Institute‐Fondazione Rita Levi Montalcini, Viale Regina Elena 295Roma00161, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Pietropaolo A, Magrì A, Greco V, Losasso V, La Mendola D, Sciuto S, Carloni P, Rizzarelli E. Binding of Zn(II) to Tropomyosin Receptor Kinase A in Complex with Its Cognate Nerve Growth Factor: Insights from Molecular Simulation and in Vitro Essays. ACS Chem Neurosci 2018; 9:1095-1103. [PMID: 29281262 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.7b00470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The binding of the human nerve growth factor (NGF) protein to tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TrkA) is associated with Alzhemeir's development. Owing to the large presence of zinc(II) ions in the synaptic compartments, the zinc ions might be bound to the complex in vivo. Here, we have identified a putative zinc binding site using a combination of computations and experiments. First, we have predicted structural features of the NGF/TrkA complex in an aqueous solution by molecular simulation. Metadynamics free energy calculations suggest that these are very similar to those in the X-ray structure. Here, the "crab" structure of the NGF shape binds tightly to two TrkA "pincers". Transient conformations of the complex include both more extended and more closed conformations. Interestingly, the latter features facial histidines (His60 and His61) among the N-terminal D1-D3 domains, each of which is a potential binding region for biometals. This suggests the presence of a four-His Zn binding site connecting the two chains. To address this issue, we investigated the binding of a D1-D3 domains' peptide mimic by stability constant and nuclear magnetic resonance measurements, complemented by density functional theory-based calculations. Taken together, these establish unambiguously a four-His coordination of the metal ion in the model systems, supporting the presence of our postulated binding site in the NGF/TrkA complex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Pietropaolo
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute, Università di Catanzaro, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Antonio Magrì
- IBB-CNR, UOS Catania, via Paolo Gaifami 18, 95126 Catania, Italy
| | - Valentina Greco
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, Università degli Studi di Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Valeria Losasso
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine (IAS-5/INM-9/INM-9) Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52425 Jülich, Germany
- Department of Physics, RWTH Aachen University, 52056 Aachen, Germany
| | - Diego La Mendola
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno Pisano 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Sciuto
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, Università degli Studi di Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Paolo Carloni
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine (IAS-5/INM-9/INM-9) Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52425 Jülich, Germany
- Department of Physics, RWTH Aachen University, 52056 Aachen, Germany
| | - Enrico Rizzarelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, Università degli Studi di Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
The Cyanthin Diterpenoid and Sesterterpene Constituents of Hericium erinaceus Mycelium Ameliorate Alzheimer's Disease-Related Pathologies in APP/PS1 Transgenic Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19020598. [PMID: 29463001 PMCID: PMC5855820 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19020598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hericium erinaceus was used in traditional Chinese medicine for physiologically beneficial medicines. Recently, it has become a candidate in causing positive brain health-related activities. We previously reported that Hericium erinaceus mycelium ameliorates Alzheimer’s disease (AD)-related pathologies. To reveal the role of the cyanthin diterpenoid and sesterterpene constituents on this effects, erinacine A and S were isolated and their effects on attenuating AD-related pathology in APPswe/PS1dE9 transgenic mice were investigated. A 30 day short-term administration of erinacine A and S were performed to explore the effect of each erinacine on AD-related pathology including amyloid β production and degradation, plaque formation, plaque growth, glial activation and neurogenesis deterioration. Our results indicated the benefit effects of both erinacine A and S in cerebrum of APPswe/PS1dE9 mice, including: (1) attenuating cerebral plaque loading by inhibiting plaque growth; (2) diminishing the activation of glial cells; (3) raising the level of insulin degrading enzyme; and (4) promoting hippocampal neurogenesis. Moreover, erinacine A reduced the level of insoluble amyloid β and C-terminal fragment of amyloid precursor protein which was not mediated by erinacine S. We further performed a long term administration of erinacine A and found that erinacine A recovered the impairment in the tasks including burrowing, nesting, and Morris water maze. Our data pointed out that although both erinacine A and S reduce AD pathology via reducing amyloid deposition and promoting neurogenesis, erinacine A can also inhibit amyloid β production and is worth to be further developed for AD therapeutic use.
Collapse
|
21
|
Carleton LA, Chakravarthy R, van der Sloot AM, Mnich K, Serrano L, Samali A, Gorman AM. Generation of rationally-designed nerve growth factor (NGF) variants with receptor specificity. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2017; 495:700-705. [PMID: 29108999 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2017.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Nerve growth factor (NGF) is the prototypic member of the neurotrophin family and binds two receptors, TrkA and the 75 kDa neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR), through which diverse and sometimes opposing effects are mediated. Using the FoldX protein design algorithm, we generated eight NGF variants with different point mutations predicted to have altered binding to TrkA or p75NTR. Of these, the I31R NGF variant exhibited specific binding to p75NTR. The generation of this NGF variant with selective affinity for p75NTR can be used to enhance understanding of neurotrophin receptor imbalance in diseases and identifies a key targetable residue for the development of small molecules to disrupt binding of NGF to TrkA with potential uses in chronic pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Almer M van der Sloot
- EMBL/CRG Systems Biology Research Unit, Centre for Genomic Regulation, Barcelona, Spain; Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, University of Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Luis Serrano
- EMBL/CRG Systems Biology Research Unit, Centre for Genomic Regulation, Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats, Pg. Lluís Companys 23, 08010 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Nanotechnological strategies for nerve growth factor delivery: Therapeutic implications in Alzheimer’s disease. Pharmacol Res 2017; 120:68-87. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2017.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2016] [Revised: 02/23/2017] [Accepted: 03/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
|
23
|
Alkadhi KA. Exercise as a Positive Modulator of Brain Function. Mol Neurobiol 2017; 55:3112-3130. [PMID: 28466271 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-017-0516-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2016] [Accepted: 04/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Various forms of exercise have been shown to prevent, restore, or ameliorate a variety of brain disorders including dementias, Parkinson's disease, chronic stress, thyroid disorders, and sleep deprivation, some of which are discussed here. In this review, the effects on brain function of various forms of exercise and exercise mimetics in humans and animal experiments are compared and discussed. Possible mechanisms of the beneficial effects of exercise including the role of neurotrophic factors and others are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karim A Alkadhi
- Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, TX, 77204, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Venkatesan R, Shim WS, Yeo EJ, Kim SY. Lactucopicrin potentiates neuritogenesis and neurotrophic effects by regulating Ca 2+/CaMKII/ATF1 signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2017; 198:174-183. [PMID: 28011163 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2016.12.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2016] [Revised: 12/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
ETHNO-PHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Lactucopicrin is one of constitutes in Cichorium intybus L, which is commonly known as chicory in worldwide. It has been used for traditional usage such as antianalgesics, antidepressants and antihyperglycemics AIM OF STUDY: We investigated the neurotrophin-mediated neuroprotective effect of lactucopicrin in in vitro and examined for the underlying mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHOD To verify the neuroprotective effect of lactucopicrin, we investigated the inhibitory AChE activity, neurite outgrowth-related downstream signaling in murine neuroblastoma N2a and neurotrophins secretion in rat C6 glioma cells. RESULTS Lactucopicrin inhibited the AChE activity and increased intracellular Ca2+ levels with a substantial rise in muscarinic acetylcholine receptor M1 (CHRM1) expression in N2a cells. Moreover, lactucopicrin actively promoted neurite outgrowth via Ca2+-mediated activation of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase-II (CaMKII). It further activates transcription factor 1 (ATF1) along with modulating the levels of tropomyosin receptor kinase A, extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2, AKT, and synaptophysin 1 in N2a cells. Additionally, the levels of neurotrophins including NGF, BDNF, and NT3 were increased by treatment of lactucopicrin in C6 cells. The effects of lactucopicrin on NGF secretion and neuritogenesis were maintained even in the presence of phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor LY294002, indicating that lactucopicrin exerts its effect on neuritogenesis in a PI3K-independent manner. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that the natural compound lactucopicrin may be a promising neurotrophin-mediated neuroprotective candidate for neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ramu Venkatesan
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, #191, Hambakmoero, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21936, Republic of Korea; Vanta Bioscience, K3, 11th Cross Street, SIPCOT Industrial Complex, Gummidipundi 601201, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Won-Sik Shim
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, #191, Hambakmoero, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21936, Republic of Korea.
| | - Eui-Ju Yeo
- Department of Biochemistry, Gachon University College of Medicine, Hambakmoero 191, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21936, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sun Yeou Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, #191, Hambakmoero, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21936, Republic of Korea; Gachon Medical Research Institute, Gil Medical Center, Inchon 21565, Republic of Korea; Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Gachon University, #191 Hambakmoero, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21936, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Fasulo L, Brandi R, Arisi I, La Regina F, Berretta N, Capsoni S, D'Onofrio M, Cattaneo A. ProNGF Drives Localized and Cell Selective Parvalbumin Interneuron and Perineuronal Net Depletion in the Dentate Gyrus of Transgenic Mice. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:20. [PMID: 28232789 PMCID: PMC5299926 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2016] [Accepted: 01/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
ProNGF, the precursor of mature Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), is the most abundant NGF form in the brain and increases markedly in the cortex in Alzheimer's Disease (AD), relative to mature NGF. A large body of evidence shows that the actions of ProNGF and mature NGF are often conflicting, depending on the receptors expressed in target cells. TgproNGF#3 mice, expressing furin-cleavage resistant proNGF in CNS neurons, directly reveal consequences of increased proNGF levels on brain homeostasis. Their phenotype clearly indicates that proNGF can be a driver of neurodegeneration, including severe learning and memory behavioral deficits, cholinergic deficits, and diffuse immunoreactivity for A-beta and A-beta-oligomers. In aged TgproNGF#3 mice spontaneous epileptic-like events are detected in entorhinal cortex-hippocampal slices, suggesting occurrence of excitatory/inhibitory (E/I) imbalance. In this paper, we investigate the molecular events linking increased proNGF levels to the epileptiform activity detected in hippocampal slices. The occurrence of spontaneous epileptiform discharges in the hippocampal network in TgproNGF#3 mice suggests an impaired inhibitory interneuron homeostasis. In the present study, we detect the onset of hippocampal epileptiform events at 1-month of age. Later, we observe a regional- and cellular-selective Parvalbumin interneuron and perineuronal net (PNN) depletion in the dentate gyrus (DG), but not in other hippocampal regions of TgproNGF#3 mice. These results demonstrate that, in the hippocampus, the DG is selectively vulnerable to altered proNGF/NGF signaling. Parvalbumin interneuron depletion is also observed in the amygdala, a region strongly connected to the hippocampus and likewise receiving cholinergic afferences. Transcriptome analysis of TgproNGF#3 hippocampus reveals a proNGF signature with broad down-regulation of transcription. The most affected mRNAs modulated at early times belong to synaptic transmission and plasticity and extracellular matrix (ECM) gene families. Moreover, alterations in the expression of selected BDNF splice variants were observed. Our results provide further mechanistic insights into the vicious negative cycle linking proNGF and neurodegeneration, confirming the regulation of E/I homeostasis as a crucial mediating mechanism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Fasulo
- Bio@SNS Laboratory, Scuola Normale SuperiorePisa, Italy; European Brain Research Institute Rita Levi-MontalciniRome, Italy
| | - Rossella Brandi
- European Brain Research Institute Rita Levi-Montalcini Rome, Italy
| | - Ivan Arisi
- European Brain Research Institute Rita Levi-Montalcini Rome, Italy
| | | | - Nicola Berretta
- Department of Experimental Neurology, Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Capsoni
- Bio@SNS Laboratory, Scuola Normale Superiore Pisa, Italy
| | - Mara D'Onofrio
- European Brain Research Institute Rita Levi-Montalcini Rome, Italy
| | - Antonino Cattaneo
- Bio@SNS Laboratory, Scuola Normale SuperiorePisa, Italy; European Brain Research Institute Rita Levi-MontalciniRome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Janssens J, Lu D, Ni B, Chadwick W, Siddiqui S, Azmi A, Etienne H, Jushaj A, van Gastel J, Martin B, Maudsley S. Development of Precision Small-Molecule Proneurotrophic Therapies for Neurodegenerative Diseases. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2016; 104:263-311. [PMID: 28215298 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2016.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Age-related neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, will represent one of the largest future burdens on worldwide healthcare systems due to the increasing proportion of elderly in our society. As deficiencies in neurotrophins are implicated in the pathogenesis of many age-related neurodegenerative disorders, it is reasonable to consider that global neurotrophin resistance may also become a major healthcare threat. Central nervous system networks are effectively maintained through aging by neuroprotective and neuroplasticity signaling mechanisms which are predominantly controlled by neurotrophin receptor signaling. Neurotrophin receptors are single pass receptor tyrosine kinases that form dimeric structures upon ligand binding to initiate cellular signaling events that control many protective and plasticity-related pathways. Declining functionality of the neurotrophin ligand-receptor system is considered one of the hallmarks of neuropathological aging. Therefore, it is imperative to develop effective therapeutic strategies to contend with this significant issue. While the therapeutic applications of cognate ligands for neurotrophin receptors are limited, the development of nonpeptidergic, small-molecule ligands can overcome these limitations, and productively regulate this important receptor system with beneficial effects. Using our advanced knowledge of the high-dimensionality complexity of receptor systems, the future generation of precision medicines targeting these systems will be an attainable goal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Janssens
- Translational Neurobiology Group, University of Antwerp, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - D Lu
- Receptor Pharmacology Unit, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore MD United States
| | - B Ni
- Receptor Pharmacology Unit, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore MD United States
| | - W Chadwick
- Receptor Pharmacology Unit, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore MD United States
| | - S Siddiqui
- Receptor Pharmacology Unit, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore MD United States
| | - A Azmi
- Translational Neurobiology Group, University of Antwerp, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - H Etienne
- Translational Neurobiology Group, University of Antwerp, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - A Jushaj
- Translational Neurobiology Group, University of Antwerp, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - J van Gastel
- Translational Neurobiology Group, University of Antwerp, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - B Martin
- Metabolism Unit, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore MD United States
| | - S Maudsley
- Translational Neurobiology Group, University of Antwerp, Antwerpen, Belgium; Receptor Pharmacology Unit, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore MD United States.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Malerba F, Paoletti F, Cattaneo A. NGF and proNGF Reciprocal Interference in Immunoassays: Open Questions, Criticalities, and Ways Forward. Front Mol Neurosci 2016; 9:63. [PMID: 27536217 PMCID: PMC4971159 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2016.00063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2016] [Accepted: 07/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The homeostasis between mature neurotrophin NGF and its precursor proNGF is thought to be crucial in physiology and in pathological states. Therefore, the measurement of the relative amounts of NGF and proNGF could serve as a footprint for the identification of disease states, for diagnostic purposes. Since NGF is part of proNGF, their selective identification with anti-NGF antibodies is not straightforward. Currently, many immunoassays for NGF measurement are available, while the proNGF assays are few and not validated by published information. The question arises, as to whether the commercially available assays are able to distinguish between the two forms. Also, since in biological samples the two forms coexist, are the measurements of one species affected by the presence of the other? We describe experiments addressing these questions. For the first time, NGF and proNGF were measured together and tested in different immunoassays. Unexpectedly, NGF and proNGF were found to reciprocally interfere with the experimental outcome. The interference also calls into question the widely used NGF ELISA methods, applied to biological samples where NGF and proNGF coexist. Therefore, an immunoassay, able to distinguish between the two forms is needed. We propose possible ways forward, toward the development of a selective assay. In particular, the use of the well validated anti-NGF αD11 antibody in an alphaLISA assay with optimized incubation times would be a solution to avoid the interference in the measurement of a mixed sample containing NGF and proNGF. Furthermore, we explored the possibility of measuring proNGF in a biological sample. But the available commercial kit for the detection of proNGF does not allow the measurement of proNGF in mouse brain tissues. Therefore, we validated an SPR approach for the measurement of proNGF in a biological sample. Our experiments help in understanding the technical limits in the measurement of the NGF/proNGF ratio in biological samples, and propose concrete solutions toward the solution of this problem.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Malerba
- Neurotrophic Factors and Neurodegenerative Diseases Unit, European Brain Research Institute, "Rita Levi-Montalcini" FoundationRome, Italy; BioSNS Laboratory, Scuola Normale SuperiorePisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Paoletti
- Neurotrophic Factors and Neurodegenerative Diseases Unit, European Brain Research Institute, "Rita Levi-Montalcini" FoundationRome, Italy; BioSNS Laboratory, Scuola Normale SuperiorePisa, Italy
| | - Antonino Cattaneo
- Neurotrophic Factors and Neurodegenerative Diseases Unit, European Brain Research Institute, "Rita Levi-Montalcini" FoundationRome, Italy; BioSNS Laboratory, Scuola Normale SuperiorePisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
p75NTR ectodomain is a physiological neuroprotective molecule against amyloid-beta toxicity in the brain of Alzheimer's disease. Mol Psychiatry 2015; 20:1301-10. [PMID: 25917367 PMCID: PMC4759103 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2015.49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2014] [Revised: 02/26/2015] [Accepted: 03/24/2015] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
In Alzheimer's disease (AD), neurodegenerative signals such as amyloid-beta (Aβ) and the precursors of neurotrophins, outbalance neurotrophic signals, causing synaptic dysfunction and neurodegeneration. The neurotrophin receptor p75 (p75NTR) is a receptor of Aβ and mediates Aβ-induced neurodegenerative signals. The shedding of its ectodomain from the cell surface is physiologically regulated; however, the function of the diffusible p75NTR ectodomain (p75ECD) after shedding remains largely not known. Here, we show that p75ECD levels in cerebrospinal fluid and in the brains of Alzheimer's patients and amyloid-beta precursor protein (APP)/PS1 transgenic mice were significantly reduced, due to inhibition of the sheddase-tumor necrosis factor-alpha-converting enzyme by Aβ. Restoration of p75ECD to the normal level by brain delivery of the gene encoding human p75ECD before or after Aβ deposition in the brain of APP/PS1 mice reversed the behavioral deficits and AD-type pathologies, such as Aβ deposit, apoptotic events, neuroinflammation, Tau phosphorylation and loss of dendritic spine, neuronal structures and synaptic proteins. Furthermore, p75ECD can also reduce amyloidogenesis by suppressing β-secretase expression and activities. Our data demonstrate that p75ECD is a physiologically neuroprotective molecule against Aβ toxicity and would be a novel therapeutic target and biomarker for AD.
Collapse
|
29
|
Marschall ALJ, Dübel S, Böldicke T. Specific in vivo knockdown of protein function by intrabodies. MAbs 2015; 7:1010-35. [PMID: 26252565 PMCID: PMC4966517 DOI: 10.1080/19420862.2015.1076601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Revised: 07/19/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Intracellular antibodies (intrabodies) are recombinant antibody fragments that bind to target proteins expressed inside of the same living cell producing the antibodies. The molecules are commonly used to study the function of the target proteins (i.e., their antigens). The intrabody technology is an attractive alternative to the generation of gene-targeted knockout animals, and complements knockdown techniques such as RNAi, miRNA and small molecule inhibitors, by-passing various limitations and disadvantages of these methods. The advantages of intrabodies include very high specificity for the target, the possibility to knock down several protein isoforms by one intrabody and targeting of specific splice variants or even post-translational modifications. Different types of intrabodies must be designed to target proteins at different locations, typically either in the cytoplasm, in the nucleus or in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Most straightforward is the use of intrabodies retained in the ER (ER intrabodies) to knock down the function of proteins passing the ER, which disturbs the function of members of the membrane or plasma proteomes. More effort is needed to functionally knock down cytoplasmic or nuclear proteins because in this case antibodies need to provide an inhibitory effect and must be able to fold in the reducing milieu of the cytoplasm. In this review, we present a broad overview of intrabody technology, as well as applications both of ER and cytoplasmic intrabodies, which have yielded valuable insights in the biology of many targets relevant for drug development, including α-synuclein, TAU, BCR-ABL, ErbB-2, EGFR, HIV gp120, CCR5, IL-2, IL-6, β-amyloid protein and p75NTR. Strategies for the generation of intrabodies and various designs of their applications are also reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea LJ Marschall
- Technische Universität Braunschweig, Institute of Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Bioinformatics; Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Stefan Dübel
- Technische Universität Braunschweig, Institute of Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Bioinformatics; Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Thomas Böldicke
- Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Recombinant Protein Expression/Intrabody Unit, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research; Braunschweig, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Nazem A, Sankowski R, Bacher M, Al-Abed Y. Rodent models of neuroinflammation for Alzheimer's disease. J Neuroinflammation 2015; 12:74. [PMID: 25890375 PMCID: PMC4404276 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-015-0291-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2015] [Accepted: 03/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease remains incurable, and the failures of current disease-modifying strategies for Alzheimer's disease could be attributed to a lack of in vivo models that recapitulate the underlying etiology of late-onset Alzheimer's disease. The etiology of late-onset Alzheimer's disease is not based on mutations related to amyloid-β (Aβ) or tau production which are currently the basis of in vivo models of Alzheimer's disease. It has recently been suggested that mechanisms like chronic neuroinflammation may occur prior to amyloid-β and tau pathologies in late-onset Alzheimer's disease. The aim of this study is to analyze the characteristics of rodent models of neuroinflammation in late-onset Alzheimer's disease. Our search criteria were based on characteristics of an idealistic disease model that should recapitulate causes, symptoms, and lesions in a chronological order similar to the actual disease. Therefore, a model based on the inflammation hypothesis of late-onset Alzheimer's disease should include the following features: (i) primary chronic neuroinflammation, (ii) manifestations of memory and cognitive impairment, and (iii) late development of tau and Aβ pathologies. The following models fit the pre-defined criteria: lipopolysaccharide- and PolyI:C-induced models of immune challenge; streptozotocin-, okadaic acid-, and colchicine neurotoxin-induced neuroinflammation models, as well as interleukin-1β, anti-nerve growth factor and p25 transgenic models. Among these models, streptozotocin, PolyI:C-induced, and p25 neuroinflammation models are compatible with the inflammation hypothesis of Alzheimer's disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Nazem
- Elmezzi Graduate School of Molecular Medicine, The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, 350 Community drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA.
| | - Roman Sankowski
- Elmezzi Graduate School of Molecular Medicine, The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, 350 Community drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA.
| | - Michael Bacher
- Institute of Immunology, Philipps University Marburg, Hans-Meerwein-Str., 35043, Marburg, Germany.
| | - Yousef Al-Abed
- Center for Molecular Innovation, The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, 350 Community drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
The nerve growth factor signaling and its potential as therapeutic target for glaucoma. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:759473. [PMID: 25250333 PMCID: PMC4164261 DOI: 10.1155/2014/759473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2014] [Accepted: 08/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Neuroprotective therapies which focus on factors leading to retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) degeneration have been drawing more and more attention. The beneficial effects of nerve growth factor (NGF) on the glaucoma have been recently suggested, but its effects on eye tissue are complex and controversial in various studies. Recent clinical trials of systemically and topically administrated NGF demonstrate that NGF is effective in treating several ocular diseases, including glaucoma. NGF has two receptors named high affinity NGF tyrosine kinase receptor TrkA and low affinity receptor p75NTR. Both receptors exist in cells in retina like RGC (expressing TrkA) and glia cells (expressing p75NTR). NGF functions by binding to TrkA or p75NTR alone or both together. The binding of NGF to TrkA alone in RGC promotes RGC's survival and proliferation through activation of TrkA and several prosurvival pathways. In contrast, the binding of NGF to p75NTR leads to apoptosis although it also promotes survival in some cases. Binding of NGF to both TrkA and p75NTR at the same time leads to survival in which p75NTR functions as a TrkA helping receptor. This review discusses the current understanding of the NGF signaling in retina and the therapeutic implications in the treatment of glaucoma.
Collapse
|
32
|
Liu MY, Wang S, Yao WF, Zhang ZJ, Zhong X, Sha L, He M, Zheng ZH, Wei MJ. Memantine improves spatial learning and memory impairments by regulating NGF signaling in APP/PS1 transgenic mice. Neuroscience 2014; 273:141-51. [PMID: 24846616 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2014.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2013] [Revised: 05/04/2014] [Accepted: 05/06/2014] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Memantine (MEM) is used for improving the cognitive impairments of the patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease (AD) by multiple neuroprotective mechanisms. However, it is still not clear whether nerve growth factor (NGF) signaling is involved in the mechanisms of MEM. The present study investigated the neuroprotective effects of MEM treatment on the cognitive performance and amyloidosis in APP/PS1 transgenic mice, and disclosed the NGF-related mechanism of MEM. We found that MEM treatment improved the cognitive performance by decreasing the escape latency and path length in the navigation test, by shortening the duration in target quadrant and reducing the frequency to pass through the target in probe trial, and by prolonging the latency and decreasing the frequencies of entering the dark compartment in passive avoidance test. The over-expressions of Aβ(1-42) and amyloid precursor protein (APP) were also decreased in the brains of APP/PS1 mice. Interestingly, MEM treatment improved the decreased NGF levels in APP/PS1 mice. Furthermore, NGF/TrkA signaling was activated by increasing the phosphorylation levels of tyrosine kinase (TrkA), proto-oncogene serine/threonine-protein kinase, Raf1 (c-Raf), extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK)1/2 and cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) after MEM treatment. Simultaneously, MEM also inhibited NGF/p75(NTR) signaling via decreasing the cleavage substrate of p75(NTR), increasing the JNK2 phosphorylation and decreasing the levels of p53 and cleaved-caspase 3. Therefore, the dual-regulation on NGF signaling was attributed to the improvements of cognitive deficits and Aβ depositions in APP/PS1 mice. In conclusion, MEM treatment activated the NGF/TrkA signaling, and inhibited the p75(NTR) signaling in APP/PS1 mice to ameliorate the behavioral deficits and amyloidosis, indicating that NGF signaling was a new potential target of MEM treatment for AD therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Y Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - S Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - W F Yao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Z J Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - X Zhong
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - L Sha
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - M He
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - Z H Zheng
- Laboratory Animal Center, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China
| | - M J Wei
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Arisi I, D'Onofrio M, Brandi R, Malerba F, Paoletti F, Storti AE, Florenzano F, Fasulo L, Cattaneo A. proNGF/NGF mixtures induce gene expression changes in PC12 cells that neither singly produces. BMC Neurosci 2014; 15:48. [PMID: 24713110 PMCID: PMC4098786 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2202-15-48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2013] [Accepted: 03/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Growing evidence shows that, in vivo, the precursor of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), proNGF, displays biological activities different from those of its mature NGF counterpart, mediated by distinct, and somewhat complementary, receptor binding properties. NGF and proNGF induce distinct transcriptional signatures in target cells, highlighting their different bioactivities. In vivo, proNGF and mature NGF coexist. It was proposed that the relative proNGF/NGF ratio is important for their biological outcomes, especially in pathological conditions, since proNGF, the principal form of NGF in Central Nervous System (CNS), is increased in Alzheimer's disease brains. These observations raise a relevant question: does proNGF, in the presence of NGF, influence the NGF transcriptional response and viceversa? In order to understand the specific proNGF effect on NGF activity, depending on the relative proNGF/NGF concentration, we investigated whether proNGF affects the pattern of well-known NGF-regulated mRNAs. RESULTS To test any influence of proNGF on pure NGF expression fingerprinting, the expression level of a set of candidate genes was analysed by qReal-Time PCR in rat adrenal pheochromocytoma cell line PC12, treated with a mixture of NGF and proNGF recombinant proteins, in different stoichiometric ratios. These candidates were selected amongst a set of genes well-known as being rapidly induced by NGF treatment. We found that, when PC12 cells are treated with proNGF/NGF mixtures, a unique pattern of gene expression, which does not overlap with that deriving from treatment with either proNGF or NGF alone, is induced. The specific effect is also dependent on the stoichiometric composition of the mixture. The proNGF/NGF equimolar mixture seems to partially neutralize the specific effects of the proNGF or NGF individual treatments, showing a weaker overall response, compared to the individual contributions of NGF and proNGF alone. CONCLUSIONS Using gene expression as a functional read-out, our data demonstrate that the relative availability of NGF and proNGF in vivo might modulate the biological outcome of these ligands.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Antonino Cattaneo
- Neurotrophic Factors and Neurodegenerative Diseases Laboratory, European Brain Research Institute (EBRI) "Rita Levi-Montalcini", Via del Fosso di Fiorano, 64, 00143 Roma, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Keimpema E, Hökfelt T, Harkany T, Doherty P. The molecular interplay between endocannabinoid and neurotrophin signals in the nervous system and beyond. Eur J Neurosci 2014; 39:334-43. [DOI: 10.1111/ejn.12431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2013] [Revised: 10/16/2013] [Accepted: 10/18/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Erik Keimpema
- Division of Molecular Neurobiology; Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics; Karolinska Institutet; Scheeles väg 1:A1 SE-17177 Stockholm Sweden
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience; Center for Brain Research; Medical University of Vienna; Spitalgasse 4 A-1090 Vienna Austria
| | - Tomas Hökfelt
- Department of Neuroscience; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
| | - Tibor Harkany
- Division of Molecular Neurobiology; Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics; Karolinska Institutet; Scheeles väg 1:A1 SE-17177 Stockholm Sweden
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience; Center for Brain Research; Medical University of Vienna; Spitalgasse 4 A-1090 Vienna Austria
| | - Patrick Doherty
- Wolfson Centre for Age-Related Diseases; King's College London; London SE1 9RT UK
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Abstract
The sortilin family of Vps10p-domain receptors includes sortilin, SorLA, and SorCS1-3. These type-I transmembrane receptors predominate in distinct neuronal tissues, but expression is also present in certain specialized non-neuronal cell populations including hepatocytes and cells of the immune system. The biology of sortilins is complex as they participate in both cell signaling and in intracellular protein sorting. Sortilins function physiologically in signaling by pro- and mature neurotrophins in neuronal viability and functionality. Recent genome-wide association studies have linked members to neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and bipolar disorder and outside the nervous system to development of coronary artery disease and type-2 diabetes. Particularly well described are the receptor functions in neuronal signaling by pro- (proNT) and mature (NT) neurotrophins and in the processing/metabolism of amyloid precursor protein (APP).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Glerup
- Danish Research Institute of Translational Neuroscience DANDRITE, Nordic EMBL Partnership, and The Lundbeck Foundation Research Center MIND, Department of Biomedicine, University of Aarhus, Ole Worms Allé 3, 8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Abstract
Like most growth factors, neurotrophins are initially synthesized as precursors that are cleaved to release C-terminal mature forms. The well-characterized mature neurotrophins bind to Trk receptors to initiate survival and differentiative responses. More recently, the precursor forms or proneurotrophins have been found to act as distinct ligands by binding to an unrelated receptor complex consisting of the p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75) and sortilin to initiate cell death. Induction of proNGF and p75 has been observed in preclinical injury models and in pathological states in the central nervous system, and strategies that block the proNGF/p75 interaction are effective in limiting neuronal apoptosis. In contrast, the mechanisms that regulate expression of other proneurotrophins, including proBDNF and proNT-3, are less well understood. Here, recent findings on the biological actions, regulation of expression, and pathophysiological effects of proneurotrophins will be reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B L Hempstead
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, Room C610, 1300 York Ave, New York, NY, 10065, USA,
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Allen SJ, Watson JJ, Shoemark DK, Barua NU, Patel NK. GDNF, NGF and BDNF as therapeutic options for neurodegeneration. Pharmacol Ther 2013; 138:155-75. [PMID: 23348013 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2013.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 550] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2012] [Accepted: 01/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), and the neurotrophin nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are important for the survival, maintenance and regeneration of specific neuronal populations in the adult brain. Depletion of these neurotrophic factors has been linked with disease pathology and symptoms, and replacement strategies are considered as potential therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and Huntington's diseases. GDNF administration has recently been shown to be an effective treatment for Parkinson's disease, with clinical trials currently in progress. Trials with NGF for Alzheimer's disease are ongoing, with some degree of success. Preclinical results using BDNF also show much promise, although there are accompanying difficulties. Ultimately, the administration of a therapy involving proteins in the brain has inherent problems. Because of the blood-brain-barrier, the protein must be infused directly, produced by viral constructs, secreted from implanted protein-secreting cells or actively transported across the brain. An alternative to this is the use of a small molecule agonist, a modulator or enhancer targeting the associated receptors. We evaluate these neurotrophic factors as potential short or long-term treatments, weighing up preclinical and clinical results with the possible effects on the underlying neurodegenerative process.
Collapse
|
38
|
Increased nerve growth factor signaling in sensory neurons of early diabetic rats is corrected by electroacupuncture. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2013; 2013:652735. [PMID: 23710226 PMCID: PMC3654322 DOI: 10.1155/2013/652735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2012] [Revised: 03/18/2013] [Accepted: 03/20/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN), characterized by early hyperalgesia and increased nerve growth factor (NGF), evolves in late irreversible neuropathic symptoms with reduced NGF support to sensory neurons. Electroacupuncture (EA) modulates NGF in the peripheral nervous system, being effective for the treatment of DPN symptoms. We hypothesize that NGF plays an important pathogenic role in DPN development, while EA could be useful in the therapy of DPN by modulating NGF expression/activity. Diabetes was induced in rats by streptozotocin (STZ) injection. One week after STZ, EA was started and continued for three weeks. NGF system and hyperalgesia-related mediators were analyzed in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and in their spinal cord and skin innervation territories. Our results show that four weeks long diabetes increased NGF and NGF receptors and deregulated intracellular signaling mediators of DRG neurons hypersensitization; EA in diabetic rats decreased NGF and NGF receptors, normalized c-Jun N-terminal and p38 kinases activation, decreased transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 ion channel, and possibly activated the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (Nf-κB). In conclusion, NGF signaling deregulation might play an important role in the development of DPN. EA represents a supportive tool to control DPN development by modulating NGF signaling in diabetes-targeted neurons.
Collapse
|
39
|
Hu Y, Lee X, Shao Z, Apicco D, Huang G, Gong BJ, Pepinsky RB, Mi S. A DR6/p75(NTR) complex is responsible for β-amyloid-induced cortical neuron death. Cell Death Dis 2013; 4:e579. [PMID: 23559013 PMCID: PMC3641333 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2013.110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2012] [Revised: 02/20/2013] [Accepted: 02/25/2013] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75(NTR)) is a known mediator of β-amyloid (Aβ)-induced neurotoxicity implicated in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Here, we demonstrate that death receptor 6 (DR6) binds to p75(NTR) and is a component of the p75(NTR) signaling complex responsible for Aβ-induced cortical neuron death. Cortical neurons isolated from either DR6 or p75(NTR) null mice are resistant to Aβ-induced neurotoxicity. Blocking DR6 function in cortical neurons by anti-DR6 antibodies that block the binding of DR6 to p75(NTR) receptor complex or by a dominant negative DR6 construct lacking the cytoplasmic signaling death domain attenuates Aβ-induced caspase 3 activation and cell death. DR6 expression is upregulated in AD cortex and correlates with elevated neuronal death. Targeting the disruption of the DR6/p75(NTR) complex to prevent Aβ cytotoxicity represents a new approach for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders such as AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Y Hu
- Department of Discovery Neurobiology, BiogenIdec Inc., 14 Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - X Lee
- Department of Discovery Neurobiology, BiogenIdec Inc., 14 Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Z Shao
- Department of Discovery Neurobiology, BiogenIdec Inc., 14 Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - D Apicco
- Department of Discovery Neurobiology, BiogenIdec Inc., 14 Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - G Huang
- Department of Discovery Neurobiology, BiogenIdec Inc., 14 Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - B J Gong
- Department of Discovery Neurobiology, BiogenIdec Inc., 14 Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - R B Pepinsky
- Department of Discovery Neurobiology, BiogenIdec Inc., 14 Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - S Mi
- Department of Discovery Neurobiology, BiogenIdec Inc., 14 Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Tiveron C, Fasulo L, Capsoni S, Malerba F, Marinelli S, Paoletti F, Piccinin S, Scardigli R, Amato G, Brandi R, Capelli P, D'Aguanno S, Florenzano F, La Regina F, Lecci A, Manca A, Meli G, Pistillo L, Berretta N, Nisticò R, Pavone F, Cattaneo A. ProNGF\NGF imbalance triggers learning and memory deficits, neurodegeneration and spontaneous epileptic-like discharges in transgenic mice. Cell Death Differ 2013; 20:1017-30. [PMID: 23538417 DOI: 10.1038/cdd.2013.22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2012] [Revised: 02/14/2013] [Accepted: 02/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
ProNGF, the precursor of mature nerve growth factor (NGF), is the most abundant form of NGF in the brain. ProNGF and mature NGF differ significantly in their receptor interaction properties and in their bioactivity. ProNGF increases markedly in the cortex of Alzheimer's disease (AD) brains and proNGF\NGF imbalance has been postulated to play a role in neurodegeneration. However, a direct proof for a causal link between increased proNGF and AD neurodegeneration is lacking. In order to evaluate the consequences of increased levels of proNGF in the postnatal brain, transgenic mice expressing a furin cleavage-resistant form of proNGF, under the control of the neuron-specific mouse Thy1.2 promoter, were derived and characterized. Different transgenic lines displayed a phenotypic gradient of neurodegenerative severity features. We focused the analysis on the two lines TgproNGF#3 and TgproNGF#72, which shared learning and memory impairments in behavioral tests, cholinergic deficit and increased Aβ-peptide immunoreactivity. In addition, TgproNGF#3 mice developed Aβ oligomer immunoreactivity, as well as late diffuse astrocytosis. Both TgproNGF lines also display electrophysiological alterations related to spontaneous epileptic-like events. The results provide direct evidence that alterations in the proNGF/NGF balance in the adult brain can be an upstream driver of neurodegeneration, contributing to a circular loop linking alterations of proNGF/NGF equilibrium to excitatory/inhibitory synaptic imbalance and amyloid precursor protein (APP) dysmetabolism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Tiveron
- Neurotrophic Factors and Neurodegenerative Diseases Unit, EBRI-European Brain Research Institute, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Immunosympathectomy as the first phenotypic knockout with antibodies. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2013; 110:4877-85. [PMID: 23515328 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1217586110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In a PNAS Classic Article published in 1960, Rita Levi-Montalcini offered formal and conclusive proof that endogenous NGF was responsible for the survival of sympathetic neurons in vivo. Thus ended an experimental tour de force lasting a decade, starting with the demonstration that a humoral factor, produced from a tumor transplanted in a chicken embryo, was responsible for stimulating outgrowth of nerve fibers from sympathetic and sensory neurons. From a more general methodological point of view, this work provided a breakthrough in the quest to achieve targeted loss of function and experimentally validate the function of biological molecules. Finally, this work provided an example of the ablation of a specific neuronal subpopulation in an otherwise intact nervous system, an immunological knife of unsurpassed effectiveness and precision. The novelty and the importance of the PNAS Classic Article is discussed here, collocating it within the context of the particular moment of the NGF discovery saga, of Rita Levi-Montalcini's scientific and academic career, and of the general scientific context of those years. This seminal work, involving the use of antibodies for phenotypic knockout in vivo, planted seeds that were to bear new fruit many years later with the advent of monoclonal antibodies and recombinant antibody technologies.
Collapse
|
42
|
Leclerc B, Abulrob A. Perspectives in molecular imaging using staging biomarkers and immunotherapies in Alzheimer's disease. ScientificWorldJournal 2013; 2013:589308. [PMID: 23476143 PMCID: PMC3576798 DOI: 10.1155/2013/589308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2012] [Accepted: 12/20/2012] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Sporadic Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an emerging chronic illness characterized by a progressive pleiotropic pathophysiological mode of actions triggered during the senescence process and affecting the elderly worldwide. The complex molecular mechanisms of AD not only are supported by cholinergic, beta-amyloid, and tau theories but also have a genetic basis that accounts for the difference in symptomatology processes activation among human population which will evolve into divergent neuropathological features underlying cognitive and behaviour alterations. Distinct immune system tolerance could also influence divergent responses among AD patients treated by immunotherapy. The complexity in nature increases when taken together the genetic/immune tolerance with the patient's brain reserve and with neuropathological evolution from early till advance AD clinical stages. The most promising diagnostic strategies in today's world would consist in performing high diagnostic accuracy of combined modality imaging technologies using beta-amyloid 42 peptide-cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) positron emission tomography (PET), Pittsburgh compound B-PET, fluorodeoxyglucose-PET, total and phosphorylated tau-CSF, and volumetric magnetic resonance imaging hippocampus biomarkers for criteria evaluation and validation. Early diagnosis is the challenge task that needs to look first at plausible mechanisms of actions behind therapies, and combining them would allow for the development of efficient AD treatment in a near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benoît Leclerc
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON, Canada K1H 8M5
| | - Abedelnasser Abulrob
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON, Canada K1H 8M5
- Institute for Biological Sciences, National Research Council Canada, 1200 Montreal Road, Building M-54, Ottawa, ON, Canada K1A 0R6
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Lin LF, Liao MJ, Xue XY, Zhang W, Yan L, Cai L, Zhou XW, Zhou X, Luo HM. Combination of Aβ clearance and neurotrophic factors as a potential treatment for Alzheimer's disease. Neurosci Bull 2013; 29:111-20. [PMID: 23179066 PMCID: PMC5561854 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-012-1287-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2012] [Accepted: 06/12/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
There is no effective drug to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD), a neurodegenerative disease affecting an estimated 30 million people around the world. Strongly supported by preclinical and clinical studies, amyloid-beta (Aβ) may be a target for developing drugs against AD. Meanwhile, the fact that localized neuronal death/loss and synaptic impairment occur in AD should also be considered. Neuronal regeneration, which does not occur normally in the mammalian central nervous system, can be promoted by neurotrophic factors (NTFs). Evidence from clinical trials has shown that both Aβ clearance and NTFs are potentially effective in treating AD, thus a new approach combining Aβ clearance and administration of NTFs may be an effective therapeutic strategy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lian-Feng Lin
- Department of Pharmacology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632 China
| | - Min-Jing Liao
- Department of Pharmacology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632 China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical College of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410013 China
| | - Xiao-Yan Xue
- Ganzhou People’s Hospital, Ganzhou, 341000 China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632 China
| | - Li Yan
- Department of Pharmacology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632 China
| | - Liang Cai
- Department of Pharmacology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632 China
| | - Xiao-Wen Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632 China
| | - Xing Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632 China
| | - Huan-Min Luo
- Department of Pharmacology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632 China
- Institute of Brain Sciences, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632 China
- The Joint Laboratory of Brain Function and Health, Jinan University and The University of Hong Kong, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632 China
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Capsoni S, Amato G, Vignone D, Criscuolo C, Nykjaer A, Cattaneo A. Dissecting the role of sortilin receptor signaling in neurodegeneration induced by NGF deprivation. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2013; 431:579-85. [PMID: 23313508 PMCID: PMC3585961 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2013.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2012] [Accepted: 01/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Sortilin is a member of the family of vacuolar protein sorting 10 protein domain receptors which has emerged as a co-receptor in cell death and neurodegeneration processes mediated by proneurotrophins. Here we tested the possibility that sortilin deficiency interferes with behavioral and neuropathological endpoints in a chronic Nerve Growth factor (NGF)-deprivation model of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the AD10 anti-NGF mouse. AD10 mice show cholinergic deficit, increased APP processing and tau hyper-phosphorylation, resulting in behavioral deficits in learning and memory paradigms assessed by novel object recognition and Morris water maze tests. Sort1−/− mice were crossed with AD10 anti-NGF mice and the neurodegenerative phenotype was studied. We found that the loss of sortilin partially protected AD10 anti-NGF mice from neurodegeneration. A protective effect was observed on non-spatial memory as assessed by novel object recognition, and histopathologically at the level of Aβ and BFCNs, while the phosphotau increase was unaltered by knocking out sortilin. We suggest that sortilin might be involved in different aspects of neurodegeneration in a complex way, supporting the view that sortilin functions in the CNS are broader than being a co-receptor in proneurotrophin and neurotrophin signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simona Capsoni
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Nerve growth factor and Alzheimer's disease: new facts for an old hypothesis. Mol Neurobiol 2012; 46:588-604. [PMID: 22940884 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-012-8310-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2012] [Accepted: 07/12/2012] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Understanding sporadic Alzheimer's disease (AD) onset and progression requires an explanation of what triggers the common core of abnormal processing of the amyloid precursor protein and tau processing. In the quest for upstream drivers of sporadic, late-onset AD neurodegeneration, nerve growth factor (NGF) has a central role. Initially connected to AD on a purely correlative basis, because of its neurotrophic actions on basal forebrain cholinergic neurons, two independent lines of research, reviewed in this article, place alterations of NGF processing and signaling at the center stage of a new mechanism, leading to the activation of amyloidogenesis and tau processing. Thus, experimental studies on NGF deficit induced neurodegeneration in transgenic mice, as well as the mechanistic studies on the anti-amyloidogenic actions of NGF/TrkA signaling in primary neuronal cultures demonstrated a novel causal link between neurotrophic signaling deficits and Alzheimer's neurodegeneration. Around these results, a new NGF hypothesis can be built, with neurotrophic deficits of various types representing an upstream driver of the core AD triad pathology. According to the new NGF hypothesis for AD, therapies aimed at reestablishing a correct homeostatic balance between ligands (and receptors) of the NGF pathway appear to have a clear and strong rationale, not just as long-term cholinergic neuroprotection, but also as a truly disease-modifying approach.
Collapse
|
46
|
Nagata T, Shinagawa S, Nukariya K, Nakayama R, Nakayama K, Yamada H. Association between nerve growth factor gene polymorphism and executive dysfunction in Japanese patients with early-stage Alzheimer's disease and amnestic mild cognitive impairment. Dement Geriatr Cogn Disord 2012; 32:379-86. [PMID: 22301435 DOI: 10.1159/000335355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/15/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS To address the clinical neurocognitive roles of nerve growth factor (NGF) genetic polymorphism in early-stage Alzheimer's disease (AD) and amnestic mild cognitive impairment (A-MCI), we investigated the association between this single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and executive dysfunction as a nonmemory cognitive impairment. METHODS Among 200 outpatients with dementia and MCI whose NGF SNP rs6330 genotype was identified, those with A-MCI (n = 35) and early-stage AD (n = 67) were recruited and divided into three groups according to genotype (C/C: n = 58, C/T: n = 39, T/T: n = 5). Then, the Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB) scores were compared among the three (C/C, C/T, T/T) or two (C/C, T carrier) genotype groups. RESULTS Among the subtests, a significant difference was only noted for the go/no-go scores (p < 0.01) between C/C and T carriers. However, no significant differences in the demographic variables and other neuropsychological subtest scores reflecting attentional and memory function were observed among the genotypes. CONCLUSION Regarding the functional roles of neurotrophin polymorphisms as they relate to executive dysfunction, the NGF gene rs6330 might influence the inhibition task in Japanese patients with early-stage AD or A-MCI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomoyuki Nagata
- Division of Molecular Genetics, Institute of DNA Medicine, Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
|
48
|
Travaglia A, Pietropaolo A, La Mendola D, Nicoletti VG, Rizzarelli E. The inorganic perspectives of neurotrophins and Alzheimer's disease. J Inorg Biochem 2012; 111:130-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2011.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2011] [Revised: 08/30/2011] [Accepted: 10/03/2011] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
|
49
|
Capsoni S, Marinelli S, Ceci M, Vignone D, Amato G, Malerba F, Paoletti F, Meli G, Viegi A, Pavone F, Cattaneo A. Intranasal "painless" human Nerve Growth Factor [corrected] slows amyloid neurodegeneration and prevents memory deficits in App X PS1 mice. PLoS One 2012; 7:e37555. [PMID: 22666365 PMCID: PMC3364340 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0037555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2011] [Accepted: 04/25/2012] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) is being considered as a therapeutic candidate for Alzheimer's disease (AD) treatment but the clinical application is hindered by its potent pro-nociceptive activity. Thus, to reduce systemic exposure that would induce pain, in recent clinical studies NGF was administered through an invasive intracerebral gene-therapy approach. Our group demonstrated the feasibility of a non-invasive intranasal delivery of NGF in a mouse model of neurodegeneration. NGF therapeutic window could be further increased if its nociceptive effects could be avoided altogether. In this study we exploit forms of NGF, mutated at residue R100, inspired by the human genetic disease HSAN V (Hereditary Sensory Autonomic Neuropathy Type V), which would allow increasing the dose of NGF without triggering pain. We show that "painless" hNGF displays full neurotrophic and anti-amyloidogenic activities in neuronal cultures, and a reduced nociceptive activity in vivo. When administered intranasally to APPxPS1 mice ( n = 8), hNGFP61S/R100E prevents the progress of neurodegeneration and of behavioral deficits. These results demonstrate the in vivo neuroprotective and anti-amyloidogenic properties of hNGFR100 mutants and provide a rational basis for the development of "painless" hNGF variants as a new generation of therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simona Capsoni
- European Brain Research Institute, Rome, Italy
- Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy
| | - Sara Marinelli
- Institute of Neuroscience, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Francesca Malerba
- European Brain Research Institute, Rome, Italy
- Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Flaminia Pavone
- Institute of Neuroscience, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonino Cattaneo
- European Brain Research Institute, Rome, Italy
- Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Covaceuszach S, Marinelli S, Krastanova I, Ugolini G, Pavone F, Lamba D, Cattaneo A. Single cycle structure-based humanization of an anti-nerve growth factor therapeutic antibody. PLoS One 2012; 7:e32212. [PMID: 22403636 PMCID: PMC3293900 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0032212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2011] [Accepted: 01/25/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Most forms of chronic pain are inadequately treated by present therapeutic options. Compelling evidence has accumulated, demonstrating that Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) is a key modulator of inflammatory and nociceptive responses, and is a promising target for the treatment of human pathologies linked to chronic and inflammatory pain. There is therefore a growing interest in the development of therapeutic molecules antagonising the NGF pathway and its nociceptor sensitization actions, among which function-blocking anti-NGF antibodies are particularly relevant candidates. In this respect, the rat anti-NGF αD11 monoclonal antibody (mAb) is a potent antagonist, able to effectively antagonize rodent and human NGF in a variety of in vitro and in vivo systems. Here we show that mAb αD11 displays a significant analgesic effect in two different models of persistent pain in mice, with a remarkable long-lasting activity. In order to advance αD11 mAb towards its clinical application in man, anti-NGF αD11 mAb was humanized by applying a novel single cycle strategy based on the a priori experimental determination of the crystal and molecular structure of the parental Fragment antigen-binding (Fab). The humanized antibody (hum-αD11) was tested in vitro and in vivo, showing that the binding mode and the NGF neutralizing biological activities of the parental antibody are fully preserved, with even a significant affinity improvement. The results firmly establish hum-αD11 as a lead candidate for clinical applications in a therapeutic area with a severe unmet medical need. More generally, the single-cycle structure-based humanization method represents a considerable improvement over the standard humanization methods, which are intrinsically empirical and require several refinement cycles.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Amino Acid Sequence
- Analgesics/chemistry
- Analgesics/immunology
- Analgesics/pharmacology
- Analgesics/therapeutic use
- Animals
- Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/chemistry
- Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/immunology
- Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/pharmacology
- Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/therapeutic use
- Antibody Specificity
- Crystallography, X-Ray
- Drug Design
- Formaldehyde/adverse effects
- Humans
- Mice
- Models, Molecular
- Molecular Sequence Data
- Nerve Growth Factor/chemistry
- Nerve Growth Factor/immunology
- Neuralgia/chemically induced
- Neuralgia/drug therapy
- Protein Conformation
- Rats
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Covaceuszach
- Lay Line Genomics, SpA, Roma, Italy
- Istituto di Cristallografia, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Trieste, Italy
| | - Sara Marinelli
- Istituto di Biologia Cellulare e Neurobiologia, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Roma, Italy
| | - Ivet Krastanova
- Structural Biology Laboratory, Sincrotrone Trieste, S.C.p.A., Trieste, Italy
| | | | - Flaminia Pavone
- Istituto di Cristallografia, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Trieste, Italy
| | - Doriano Lamba
- Istituto di Cristallografia, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Trieste, Italy
| | - Antonino Cattaneo
- European Brain Research Institute, Roma, Italy
- Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, Italy
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|