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Li CX, Talukder M, Wang ZY, Zhu SY, Xu YR, Li XN, Li JL. Nano‑selenium alleviates cadmium-induced blood-brain barrier destruction by restoring the Wnt7A/β-catenin pathway. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 935:173249. [PMID: 38754502 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Selenium (Se), a highly beneficial animal feed additive, exhibits remarkable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Nano‑selenium (Nano-Se) is an advanced formulation of Se featuring a specialized drug delivery vehicle, with good bioavailability, higher efficacy, and lower toxicity compared to the traditional form of Se. With the advancement of industry, cadmium (Cd) contamination occurs in different countries and regions and thereby contaminating different food crops, and the degree of pollution is degree increasing year by year. The present investigation entailed the oral administration of CdCl2 and/or Nano-Se to male chickens of the Hy-Line Variety White breed, which are one day old, subsequent to a 7-day adaptive feeding period, for a duration of 90 days. The study aimed to elucidate the potential protective impact of Nano-Se on Cd exposure. The study found that Nano-Se demonstrates potential in mitigating the blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction characterized by impairment of adherens junctions (AJS) and tight junctions (TJS) by inhibiting reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction. In addition, the data uncovered that Nano-Se demonstrates a proficient ability in alleviating BBB impairment and inflammatory reactions caused by Cd through the modulation of the Wnt7A/β-catenin pathway, highlights its potential to maintain brain homeostasis. Hence, this research anticipates that the utilization of Nano-Se effectively mitigate the detrimental impacts associated with Cd exposure on the BBB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Xi Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Milton Talukder
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Patuakhali Science and Technology University, Barishal 8210, Bangladesh
| | - Zhao-Yi Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Shi-Yong Zhu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China; College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, PR China
| | - Ya-Ru Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Xue-Nan Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China.
| | - Jin-Long Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China.
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Post Y, Lu C, Fletcher RB, Yeh WC, Nguyen H, Lee SJ, Li Y. Design principles and therapeutic applications of novel synthetic WNT signaling agonists. iScience 2024; 27:109938. [PMID: 38832011 PMCID: PMC11145361 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109938] [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] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Wingless-related integration site or Wingless and Int-1 or Wingless-Int (WNT) signaling is crucial for embryonic development, and adult tissue homeostasis and regeneration, through its essential roles in cell fate, patterning, and stem cell regulation. The biophysical characteristics of WNT ligands have hindered efforts to interrogate ligand activity in vivo and prevented their development as therapeutics. Recent breakthroughs have enabled the generation of synthetic WNT signaling molecules that possess characteristics of natural ligands and potently activate the pathway, while also providing distinct advantages for therapeutic development and manufacturing. This review provides a detailed discussion of the protein engineering of these molecular platforms for WNT signaling agonism. We discuss the importance of WNT signaling in several organs and share insights from the initial application of these new classes of molecules in vitro and in vivo. These molecules offer a unique opportunity to enhance our understanding of how WNT signaling agonism promotes tissue repair, enabling targeted development of tailored therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yorick Post
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Chenggang Lu
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Russell B. Fletcher
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Wen-Chen Yeh
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Huy Nguyen
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Sung-Jin Lee
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Yang Li
- Surrozen, Inc., 171 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
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Nwokoye PN, Abilez OJ. Bioengineering methods for vascularizing organoids. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2024; 4:100779. [PMID: 38759654 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2024.100779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Organoids, self-organizing three-dimensional (3D) structures derived from stem cells, offer unique advantages for studying organ development, modeling diseases, and screening potential therapeutics. However, their translational potential and ability to mimic complex in vivo functions are often hindered by the lack of an integrated vascular network. To address this critical limitation, bioengineering strategies are rapidly advancing to enable efficient vascularization of organoids. These methods encompass co-culturing organoids with various vascular cell types, co-culturing lineage-specific organoids with vascular organoids, co-differentiating stem cells into organ-specific and vascular lineages, using organoid-on-a-chip technology to integrate perfusable vasculature within organoids, and using 3D bioprinting to also create perfusable organoids. This review explores the field of organoid vascularization, examining the biological principles that inform bioengineering approaches. Additionally, this review envisions how the converging disciplines of stem cell biology, biomaterials, and advanced fabrication technologies will propel the creation of increasingly sophisticated organoid models, ultimately accelerating biomedical discoveries and innovations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter N Nwokoye
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Oscar J Abilez
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Division of Pediatric CT Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Maternal and Child Health Research Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Bio-X Program, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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4
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Sullivan JM, Bagnell AM, Alevy J, Avila EM, Mihaljević L, Saavedra-Rivera PC, Kong L, Huh JS, McCray BA, Aisenberg WH, Zuberi AR, Bogdanik L, Lutz CM, Qiu Z, Quinlan KA, Searson PC, Sumner CJ. Gain-of-function mutations of TRPV4 acting in endothelial cells drive blood-CNS barrier breakdown and motor neuron degeneration in mice. Sci Transl Med 2024; 16:eadk1358. [PMID: 38776392 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adk1358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Blood-CNS barrier disruption is a hallmark of numerous neurological disorders, yet whether barrier breakdown is sufficient to trigger neurodegenerative disease remains unresolved. Therapeutic strategies to mitigate barrier hyperpermeability are also limited. Dominant missense mutations of the cation channel transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) cause forms of hereditary motor neuron disease. To gain insights into the cellular basis of these disorders, we generated knock-in mouse models of TRPV4 channelopathy by introducing two disease-causing mutations (R269C and R232C) into the endogenous mouse Trpv4 gene. TRPV4 mutant mice exhibited weakness, early lethality, and regional motor neuron loss. Genetic deletion of the mutant Trpv4 allele from endothelial cells (but not neurons, glia, or muscle) rescued these phenotypes. Symptomatic mutant mice exhibited focal disruptions of blood-spinal cord barrier (BSCB) integrity, associated with a gain of function of mutant TRPV4 channel activity in neural vascular endothelial cells (NVECs) and alterations of NVEC tight junction structure. Systemic administration of a TRPV4-specific antagonist abrogated channel-mediated BSCB impairments and provided a marked phenotypic rescue of symptomatic mutant mice. Together, our findings show that mutant TRPV4 channels can drive motor neuron degeneration in a non-cell autonomous manner by precipitating focal breakdown of the BSCB. Further, these data highlight the reversibility of TRPV4-mediated BSCB impairments and identify a potential therapeutic strategy for patients with TRPV4 mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy M Sullivan
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Anna M Bagnell
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jonathan Alevy
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Elvia Mena Avila
- George and Anne Ryan Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Ljubica Mihaljević
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | | | - Lingling Kong
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jennifer S Huh
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Brett A McCray
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - William H Aisenberg
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | | | | | | | - Zhaozhu Qiu
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Katharina A Quinlan
- George and Anne Ryan Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Peter C Searson
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Charlotte J Sumner
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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5
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Zheng S, Sheng R. The emerging understanding of Frizzled receptors. FEBS Lett 2024. [PMID: 38744670 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
The Wnt signaling pathway is a huge network governing development and homeostasis, dysregulation of which is associated with a myriad of human diseases. The Frizzled receptor (FZD) family comprises receptors for Wnt ligands, which indispensably mediate Wnt signaling jointly with a variety of co-receptors. Studies of FZDs have revealed that 10 FZD subtypes play diverse roles in physiological processes. At the same time, dysregulation of FZDs is also responsible for various diseases, in particular human cancers. Enormous attention has been paid to the molecular understanding and targeted therapy of FZDs in the past decade. In this review, we summarize the latest research on FZD structure, function, regulation and targeted therapy, providing a basis for guiding future research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoqin Zheng
- College of Life and Health Science, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
| | - Ren Sheng
- College of Life and Health Science, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
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Zhao Y, Chen C, Xiao X, Fang L, Cheng X, Chang Y, Peng F, Wang J, Shen S, Wu S, Huang Y, Cai W, Zhou L, Qiu W. Teriflunomide Promotes Blood-Brain Barrier Integrity by Upregulating Claudin-1 via the Wnt/β-catenin Signaling Pathway in Multiple Sclerosis. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:1936-1952. [PMID: 37819429 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03655-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) and tight junction (TJ) proteins maintain the homeostasis of the central nervous system (CNS). The dysfunction of BBB allows peripheral T cells infiltration into CNS and contributes to the pathophysiology of multiple sclerosis (MS). Teriflunomide is an approved drug for the treatment of MS by suppressing lymphocytes proliferation. However, whether teriflunomide has a protective effect on BBB in MS is not understood. We found that teriflunomide restored the injured BBB in the EAE model. Furthermore, teriflunomide treatment over 6 months improved BBB permeability and reduced peripheral leakage of CNS proteins in MS patients. Teriflunomide increased human brain microvascular endothelial cell (HBMEC) viability and promoted BBB integrity in an in vitro cell model. The TJ protein claudin-1 was upregulated by teriflunomide and responsible for the protective effect on BBB. Furthermore, RNA sequencing revealed that the Wnt signaling pathway was affected by teriflunomide. The activation of Wnt signaling pathway increased claudin-1 expression and reduced BBB damage in cell model and EAE rats. Our study demonstrated that teriflunomide upregulated the expression of the tight junction protein claudin-1 in endothelial cells and promoted the integrity of BBB through Wnt signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yipeng Zhao
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
- The Center of Mental and Neurological Disorders Study, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Xiuqing Xiao
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenzhen, 518057, China
| | - Ling Fang
- Department of Radiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Xi Cheng
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Yanyu Chang
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Fuhua Peng
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Jingqi Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Shishi Shen
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Shilin Wu
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Yiying Huang
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Wei Cai
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
- The Center of Mental and Neurological Disorders Study, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Linli Zhou
- The Center of Mental and Neurological Disorders Study, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Wei Qiu
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China.
- The Center of Mental and Neurological Disorders Study, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China.
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Ju Y, Chen T, Ruan L, Zhao Y, Chang Q, Huang X. Mutations in TSPAN12 gene causing familial exudative vitreoretinopathy. Hum Genomics 2024; 18:22. [PMID: 38424652 PMCID: PMC10905792 DOI: 10.1186/s40246-024-00589-6] [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: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To report newly found TSPAN12 mutations with a unique form of familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (FEVR) and find out the possible mechanism of a repeated novel intronic variant in TSPAN12 led to FEVR. RESULTS Nine TSPAN12 mutations with a unique form of FEVR were detected by panel-based NGS. MINI-Gene assay showed two splicing modes of mRNA that process two different bands A and B, and mutant-type shows replacement with the splicing mode of Exon11 hopping. Construction of wild-type and mutant TSPAN12 vector showed the appearance of premature termination codons (PTC). In vitro expression detection showed significant down-regulated expression level of TSPAN12 mRNAs and proteins in cells transfected with mutant vectors compared with in wild-type group. On the contrary, translation inhibitor CHX and small interfering RNA of UPF1 (si-UPF1) significantly increased mRNA or protein expression of TSPAN12 in cells transfected with the mutant vectors. CONCLUSIONS Nine mutations in TSPAN12 gene are reported in 9 FEVR patients with a unique series of ocular abnormalities. The three novel TSPAN12 mutations trigger NMD would cause the decrease of TSPAN12 proteins that participate in biosynthesis and assembly of microfibers, which might lead to FEVR, and suggest that intronic sequence analysis might be a vital tool for genetic counseling and prenatal diagnoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqiao Ju
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, 83 Fenyang Rd, Shanghai, 200031, China
- Key Laboratory of Myopia of State Health Ministry, and Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration of Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianhui Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, 83 Fenyang Rd, Shanghai, 200031, China
- Key Laboratory of Myopia of State Health Ministry, and Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration of Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu Ruan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, 83 Fenyang Rd, Shanghai, 200031, China
- Key Laboratory of Myopia of State Health Ministry, and Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration of Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Ye Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, 83 Fenyang Rd, Shanghai, 200031, China
- Key Laboratory of Myopia of State Health Ministry, and Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration of Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing Chang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, 83 Fenyang Rd, Shanghai, 200031, China.
- Key Laboratory of Myopia of State Health Ministry, and Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration of Shanghai, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xin Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, 83 Fenyang Rd, Shanghai, 200031, China.
- Key Laboratory of Myopia of State Health Ministry, and Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration of Shanghai, Shanghai, China.
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Bruguera ES, Mahoney JP, Weis WI. The co-receptor Tspan12 directly captures Norrin to promote ligand-specific β-catenin signaling. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.03.578714. [PMID: 38352533 PMCID: PMC10862866 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.03.578714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Wnt/β-catenin signaling directs animal development and tissue renewal in a tightly controlled, cell- and tissue-specific manner. In the central nervous system, the atypical ligand Norrin controls angiogenesis and maintenance of the blood-brain barrier and blood-retina barrier through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Like Wnt, Norrin activates signaling by binding and heterodimerizing the receptors Frizzled (Fzd) and Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 5 or 6 (LRP5/6), leading to membrane recruitment of the intracellular transducer Dishevelled (Dvl); this ultimately results in the stabilization of the transcriptional coactivator β-catenin. Unlike Wnt, the cysteine-knot ligand Norrin only signals through Fzd4 and additionally requires the co-receptor Tspan12; however, the mechanism underlying Tspan12-mediated signal enhancement is unclear. It has been proposed that Tspan12 integrates into the Norrin-Fzd4 complex to enhance Norrin-Fzd4 affinity or otherwise allosterically modulate Fzd4 signaling. Here, we measure direct, high-affinity binding between purified Norrin and Tspan12 in a lipid environment and use AlphaFold models to interrogate this interaction interface. We find that Tspan12 and Fzd4 can simultaneously bind Norrin and that a pre-formed Tspan12/Fzd4 heterodimer, as well as cells co-expressing Tspan12 and Fzd4, more efficiently capture low concentrations of Norrin than Fzd4 alone. We also show that Tspan12 competes with both heparan sulfate proteoglycans and LRP6 for Norrin binding and that Tspan12 does not impact Fzd4-Dvl affinity in the presence or absence of Norrin. Our findings suggest that Tspan12 does not allosterically enhance Fzd4 binding to Norrin or Dvl, but instead functions to directly capture Norrin upstream of signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise S Bruguera
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - Jacob P Mahoney
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
| | - William I Weis
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
- Department of Structural Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305
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Gargas J, Janowska J, Gebala P, Maksymiuk W, Sypecka J. Reactive Gliosis in Neonatal Disorders: Friend or Foe for Neuroregeneration? Cells 2024; 13:131. [PMID: 38247822 PMCID: PMC10813898 DOI: 10.3390/cells13020131] [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: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
A developing nervous system is particularly vulnerable to the influence of pathophysiological clues and injuries in the perinatal period. Astrocytes are among the first cells that react to insults against the nervous tissue, the presence of pathogens, misbalance of local tissue homeostasis, and a lack of oxygen and trophic support. Under this background, it remains uncertain if induced astrocyte activation, recognized as astrogliosis, is a friend or foe for progressing neonatal neurodevelopment. Likewise, the state of astrocyte reactivity is considered one of the key factors discriminating between either the initiation of endogenous reparative mechanisms compensating for aberrations in the structures and functions of nervous tissue or the triggering of neurodegeneration. The responses of activated cells are modulated by neighboring neural cells, which exhibit broad immunomodulatory and pro-regenerative properties by secreting a plethora of active compounds (including interleukins and chemokines, neurotrophins, reactive oxygen species, nitric oxide synthase and complement components), which are engaged in cell crosstalk in a paracrine manner. As the developing nervous system is extremely sensitive to the influence of signaling molecules, even subtle changes in the composition or concentration of the cellular secretome can have significant effects on the developing neonatal brain. Thus, modulating the activity of other types of cells and their interactions with overreactive astrocytes might be a promising strategy for controlling neonatal astrogliosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Joanna Sypecka
- NeuroRepair Department, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, A. Pawinskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland; (J.G.); (J.J.)
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Manukjan N, Chau S, Caiment F, van Herwijnen M, Smeets HJ, Fulton D, Ahmed Z, Blankesteijn WM, Foulquier S. Wnt7a Decreases Brain Endothelial Barrier Function Via β-Catenin Activation. Mol Neurobiol 2023:10.1007/s12035-023-03872-0. [PMID: 38147228 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03872-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier consists of tightly connected endothelial cells protecting the brain's microenvironment from the periphery. These endothelial cells are characterized by specific tight junction proteins such as Claudin-5 and Occludin, forming the endothelial barrier. Disrupting these cells might lead to blood-brain barrier dysfunction. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway can regulate the expression of these tight junction proteins and subsequent barrier permeability. The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro effects of Wnt7a mediated β-catenin signaling on endothelial barrier integrity. Mouse brain endothelial cells, bEnd.3, were treated with recombinant Wnt7a protein or XAV939, a selective inhibitor of Wnt/β-catenin mediated transcription to modulate the Wnt signaling pathway. The involvement of Wnt/HIF1α signaling was investigated by inhibiting Hif1α signaling with Hif1α siRNA. Wnt7a stimulation led to activation and nuclear translocation of β-catenin, which was inhibited by XAV939. Wnt7a stimulation decreased Claudin-5 expression mediated by β-catenin and decreased endothelial barrier formation. Wnt7a increased Hif1α and Vegfa expression mediated by β-catenin. However, Hif1α signaling pathway did not regulate tight junction proteins Claudin-5 and Occludin. Our data suggest that Wnt7a stimulation leads to a decrease in tight junction proteins mediated by the nuclear translocation of β-catenin, which hampers proper endothelial barrier formation. This process might be crucial in initiating endothelial cell proliferation and angiogenesis. Although HIF1α did not modulate the expression of tight junction proteins, it might play a role in brain angiogenesis and underlie pathogenic mechanisms in Wnt/HIF1α signaling in diseases such as cerebral small vessel disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narek Manukjan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Maastricht University, 50 Universiteitssingel, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands
- CARIM-School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT, Birmingham, UK
| | - Steven Chau
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Maastricht University, 50 Universiteitssingel, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands
| | - Florian Caiment
- Department of Toxicogenomics, GROW - School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands
| | - Marcel van Herwijnen
- Department of Toxicogenomics, GROW - School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands
| | - Hubert J Smeets
- Department of Toxicogenomics, GROW - School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands
- MHeNs-School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands
| | - Daniel Fulton
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT, Birmingham, UK
| | - Zubair Ahmed
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT, Birmingham, UK.
- Centre for Trauma Sciences Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - W Matthijs Blankesteijn
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Maastricht University, 50 Universiteitssingel, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands.
- CARIM-School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands.
| | - Sébastien Foulquier
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Maastricht University, 50 Universiteitssingel, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands.
- CARIM-School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands.
- MHeNs-School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, Maastricht, 6200 MD, The Netherlands.
- Department of Neurology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, P.O. Box 5800, Maastricht, 6202 AZ, The Netherlands.
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11
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Wood EH, Moshfeghi DM, Capone A, Williams GA, Blumenkranz MS, Sieving PA, Harper CA, Hartnett ME, Drenser KA. A Literary Pediatric Retina Fellowship With Michael T. Trese, MD. Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina 2023; 54:701-712. [PMID: 38113364 DOI: 10.3928/23258160-20231020-01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Michael T. Trese, MD (1946-2022), a vitreoretinal surgeon, made significant contributions to the field of retina. Although most known for his work in pediatric retina surgery, he was a pioneer in areas such as medical retina, translational research, and telemedicine. This article reviews his major contributions to spread his knowledge more widely to vitreoretinal trainees and specialists. We discuss six areas where Trese made a lasting impact: lens-sparing vitrectomy, familial exudative vitreoretinopathy, congenital X-linked retinoschisis, autologous plasmin enzyme, regenerative medicine, and telemedicine. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina 2023;54:701-712.].
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12
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Le V, Abdelmessih G, Dailey WA, Pinnock C, Jobczyk V, Rashingkar R, Drenser KA, Mitton KP. Mechanisms Underlying Rare Inherited Pediatric Retinal Vascular Diseases: FEVR, Norrie Disease, Persistent Fetal Vascular Syndrome. Cells 2023; 12:2579. [PMID: 37947657 PMCID: PMC10647367 DOI: 10.3390/cells12212579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Familial Exudative Vitreoretinopathy (FEVR), Norrie disease, and persistent fetal vascular syndrome (PFVS) are extremely rare retinopathies that are clinically distinct but are unified by abnormal retinal endothelial cell function, and subsequent irregular retinal vascular development and/or aberrant inner blood-retinal-barrier (iBRB) function. The early angiogenesis of the retina and its iBRB is a delicate process that is mediated by the canonical Norrin Wnt-signaling pathway in retinal endothelial cells. Pathogenic variants in genes that play key roles within this pathway, such as NDP, FZD4, TSPAN12, and LRP5, have been associated with the incidence of these retinal diseases. Recent efforts to further elucidate the etiology of these conditions have not only highlighted their multigenic nature but have also resulted in the discovery of pathological variants in additional genes such as CTNNB1, KIF11, and ZNF408, some of which operate outside of the Norrin Wnt-signaling pathway. Recent discoveries of FEVR-linked variants in two other Catenin genes (CTNND1, CTNNA1) and the Endoplasmic Reticulum Membrane Complex Subunit-1 gene (EMC1) suggest that we will continue to find additional genes that impact the neural retinal vasculature, especially in multi-syndromic conditions. The goal of this review is to briefly highlight the current understanding of the roles of their encoded proteins in retinal endothelial cells to understand the essential functional mechanisms that can be altered to cause these very rare pediatric retinal vascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Le
- Eye Research Institute, Oakland University, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
- Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
| | | | - Wendy A. Dailey
- Eye Research Institute, Oakland University, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
| | - Cecille Pinnock
- Eye Research Institute, Oakland University, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
| | - Victoria Jobczyk
- Eye Research Institute, Oakland University, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
| | - Revati Rashingkar
- Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
| | - Kimberly A. Drenser
- Eye Research Institute, Oakland University, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
- Associated Retinal Consultants P.C., Royal Oak, MI 48073, USA
| | - Kenneth P. Mitton
- Eye Research Institute, Oakland University, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
- Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
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13
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Corano Scheri K, Lavine JA, Tedeschi T, Thomson BR, Fawzi AA. Single-cell transcriptomics analysis of proliferative diabetic retinopathy fibrovascular membranes reveals AEBP1 as fibrogenesis modulator. JCI Insight 2023; 8:e172062. [PMID: 37917183 PMCID: PMC10896003 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.172062] [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: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The management of preretinal fibrovascular membranes, a devastating complication of advanced diabetic retinopathy (DR), remains challenging. We characterized the molecular profile of cell populations in these fibrovascular membranes to identify potentially new therapeutic targets. Preretinal fibrovascular membranes were surgically removed from patients and submitted for single-cell RNA-Seq (scRNA-Seq). Differential gene expression was implemented to define the transcriptomics profile of these cells and revealed the presence of endothelial, inflammatory, and stromal cells. Endothelial cell reclustering identified subclusters characterized by noncanonical transcriptomics profile and active angiogenesis. Deeper investigation of the inflammatory cells showed a subcluster of macrophages expressing proangiogenic cytokines, presumably contributing to angiogenesis. The stromal cell cluster included a pericyte-myofibroblast transdifferentiating subcluster, indicating the involvement of pericytes in fibrogenesis. Differentially expressed gene analysis showed that Adipocyte Enhancer-binding Protein 1, AEBP1, was significantly upregulated in myofibroblast clusters, suggesting that this molecule may have a role in transformation. Cell culture experiments with human retinal pericytes (HRP) in high-glucose condition confirmed the molecular transformation of pericytes toward myofibroblastic lineage. AEBP1 siRNA transfection in HRP reduced the expression of profibrotic markers in high glucose. In conclusion, AEBP1 signaling modulates pericyte-myofibroblast transformation, suggesting that targeting AEBP1 could prevent scar tissue formation in advanced DR.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Benjamin R Thomson
- Department of Ophthalmology and
- Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Center for Kidney Research and Therapeutics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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14
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Ebrahimi M, Thompson P, Lauer AK, Sivaprasad S, Perry G. The retina-brain axis and diabetic retinopathy. Eur J Ophthalmol 2023; 33:2079-2095. [PMID: 37259525 DOI: 10.1177/11206721231172229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a major contributor to permanent vision loss and blindness. Changes in retinal neurons, glia, and microvasculature have been the focus of intensive study in the quest to better understand DR. However, the impact of diabetes on the rest of the visual system has received less attention. There are reports of associations of changes in the visual system with preclinical and clinical manifestations of diabetes. Simultaneous investigation of the retina and the brain may shed light on the mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration in diabetics. Additionally, investigating the links between DR and other neurodegenerative disorders of the brain including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease may reveal shared mechanisms for neurodegeneration and potential therapy options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moein Ebrahimi
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy, and Autoimmunity, Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Paul Thompson
- Imaging Genetics Center, Mark and Mary Stevens Institute for Neuroimaging and Informatics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Andreas K Lauer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Sobha Sivaprasad
- National Institute of Health and Care Research Moorfields Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
| | - George Perry
- Department of Neuroscience, Developmental and Regenerative Biology, University of Texas and San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
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15
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Liu G, Feng L, Liu X, Gao P, Wang F. O-GlcNAcylation Inhibition Upregulates Connexin43 Expression in the Endothelium to Protect the Tight Junction Barrier in Diabetic Retinopathy. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2023; 64:30. [PMID: 37982762 PMCID: PMC10668625 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.64.14.30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to investigate the effects of O-linked N-acetylglucosamine modification (O-GlcNAcylation) on connexin43 (Cx43) expression and its subsequent effects on tight junction properties in diabetic retinopathy (DR). Methods O-GlcNAcylation levels in primary human retinal vascular endothelial cells (HRVECs) and retinas from rats with diabetes were regulated by treatment with Thiamet G or alloxan. Immunoprecipitation was used to examine the relationship between O-GlcNAcylation and Cx43 expression. Stable overexpression and knockdown of Cx43 in HRVECs were achieved using lentivirus constructs; further, their effects on occludin and zonula occluden-1 (ZO-1) expression and tight junction barrier function were determined. Results O-GlcNAcylation level increased significantly, whereas Cx43 expression decreased in retinas from rats with diabetes and HRVECs cultured under high-glucose conditions. Immunoprecipitation revealed that Cx43 was modified by O-GlcNAcylation and phosphorylation simultaneously. O-GlcNAcylation inhibition negatively regulated both total Cx43 and phosphorylated Cx43 expression, subsequently disrupting tight junction properties. Conversely, Cx43 overexpression reversed the disruption of tight junction properties and downregulated vascular endothelial growth factor expression. Consistently, Cx43 overexpression increased transendothelial electrical resistance values in HRVEC layers. Conclusions O-GlcNAcylation negatively regulated Cx43 expression, contributing to the disruption of the blood retinal barrier. However, O-GlcNAcylation inhibition and Cx43 overexpression could reverse the tight junction disruption. Therefore, O-GlcNAcylation inhibition is a potential target for avoiding tight junction disruption through the Cx43 pathway in DR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guodong Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Tongji Eye Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Le Feng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Tongji Eye Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Tongji Eye Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Peng Gao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Fang Wang
- Tongji Eye Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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16
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O'Brown NM, Patel NB, Hartmann U, Klein AM, Gu C, Megason SG. The secreted neuronal signal Spock1 promotes blood-brain barrier development. Dev Cell 2023; 58:1534-1547.e6. [PMID: 37437574 PMCID: PMC10525910 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2023.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a unique set of properties of the brain vasculature which severely restrict its permeability to proteins and small molecules. Classic chick-quail chimera studies have shown that these properties are not intrinsic to the brain vasculature but rather are induced by surrounding neural tissue. Here, we identify Spock1 as a candidate neuronal signal for regulating BBB permeability in zebrafish and mice. Mosaic genetic analysis shows that neuronally expressed Spock1 is cell non-autonomously required for a functional BBB. Leakage in spock1 mutants is associated with altered extracellular matrix (ECM), increased endothelial transcytosis, and altered pericyte-endothelial interactions. Furthermore, a single dose of recombinant SPOCK1 partially restores BBB function in spock1 mutants by quenching gelatinase activity and restoring vascular expression of BBB genes including mcamb. These analyses support a model in which neuronally secreted Spock1 initiates BBB properties by altering the ECM, thereby regulating pericyte-endothelial interactions and downstream vascular gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha M O'Brown
- Department of Systems Biology, Harvard Medical School, 200 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Nikit B Patel
- Department of Systems Biology, Harvard Medical School, 200 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ursula Hartmann
- Center for Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Joseph-Stelzmann-Str. 52, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Allon M Klein
- Department of Systems Biology, Harvard Medical School, 200 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Chenghua Gu
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Sean G Megason
- Department of Systems Biology, Harvard Medical School, 200 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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17
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Zhang L, Abedin M, Jo HN, Levey J, Dinh QC, Chen Z, Angers S, Junge HJ. A Frizzled4-LRP5 agonist promotes blood-retina barrier function by inducing a Norrin-like transcriptional response. iScience 2023; 26:107415. [PMID: 37559903 PMCID: PMC10407957 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Norrin (NDP) and WNT7A/B induce and maintain the blood-brain and blood-retina barrier (BBB, BRB) by stimulating the Frizzled4-LDL receptor related protein 5/6 (FZD4-LRP5/6) complex to induce beta-catenin-dependent signaling in endothelial cells (ECs). Recently developed agonists for the FZD4-LRP5 complex have therapeutic potential in retinal and neurological diseases. Here, we use the tetravalent antibody modality F4L5.13 to identify agonist activities in Tspan12-/- mice, which display a complex retinal pathology due to impaired NDP-signaling. F4L5.13 administration during development alleviates BRB defects, retinal hypovascularization, and restores neural function. In mature Tspan12-/- mice F4L5.13 partially induces a BRB de novo without inducing angiogenesis. In a genetic model of impaired BRB maintenance, administration of F4L5.13 rapidly and substantially restores the BRB. scRNA-seq reveals perturbations of key mediators of barrier functions in juvenile Tspan12-/- mice, which are in large parts restored after F4L5.13 administration. This study identifies transcriptional and functional activities of FZD4-LRP5 agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Md. Abedin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Ha-Neul Jo
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Graduate Program in Molecular, Cellular, Developmental Biology and Genetics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Jacklyn Levey
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Graduate Program in Molecular, Cellular, Developmental Biology and Genetics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Quynh Chau Dinh
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Zhe Chen
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Stephane Angers
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Harald J. Junge
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Graduate Program in Molecular, Cellular, Developmental Biology and Genetics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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18
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Huang L, Sun L, Li X, Li S, Zhang T, Zhang Z, Ding X. NDP-related retinopathies: clinical phenotype of female carriers. Br J Ophthalmol 2023; 107:1151-1155. [PMID: 35361573 PMCID: PMC10359507 DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2021-320084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Norrin cysteine knot growth factor (NDP) located on the X chromosome, was previously reported to cause Norrie disease and familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (FEVR), which are blindness-causing ocular disorders, in males. In this study, we aimed to explore the clinical characteristics of female carriers with NDP mutations. METHODS Twelve female carriers from 11 unrelated families with pathogenic NDP mutations were recruited. Clinical data were collected from the NDP carriers. Comprehensive ocular examinations, including best corrected visual acuity, slit lamp examination, fundus photography and fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) were evaluated. Targeted gene or whole exome sequencing was performed in the probands, and Sanger sequencing was performed to confirm NDP mutations in female carriers. RESULTS Of the 12 females, 1 (1/12, 8.3%) presented with decreased visual acuity and 11 (11/12, 91.7%) were asymptomatic. Based on the FFA, peripheral vascular changes were noted in 66.7% (16/24) of the eyes of 75.0% (9/12) of the carriers. A total of 33.3% (8/24) had typical FEVR phenotype, 33.3% (8/24) had mild vascular abnormalities and 33.3% (8/24) was unremarkable. In addition, predominant changes such as telangiectatic endings (66.7%), anomalous circumferential vessel (37.5%), supernumerary vascular branching (33.3%), fluorescein leakage (29.2%), avascular area (8.3%), retina fold (8.3%) and peripheral straightening of retinal vessels (33.3%) were noted. CONCLUSION Although NDP-related retinopathy is an X-linked recessive disorder, most of the female carriers of NDP exhibited clinical features of FEVR. Thus, timely examinations and lifelong monitoring should be conducted in the NDP female carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Limei Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaoyu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Songshan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhaotian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaoyan Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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19
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Ding J, Lee SJ, Vlahos L, Yuki K, Rada CC, van Unen V, Vuppalapaty M, Chen H, Sura A, McCormick AK, Tomaske M, Alwahabi S, Nguyen H, Nowatzke W, Kim L, Kelly L, Vollrath D, Califano A, Yeh WC, Li Y, Kuo CJ. Therapeutic blood-brain barrier modulation and stroke treatment by a bioengineered FZD 4-selective WNT surrogate in mice. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2947. [PMID: 37268690 PMCID: PMC10238527 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37689-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Derangements of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) or blood-retinal barrier (BRB) occur in disorders ranging from stroke, cancer, diabetic retinopathy, and Alzheimer's disease. The Norrin/FZD4/TSPAN12 pathway activates WNT/β-catenin signaling, which is essential for BBB and BRB function. However, systemic pharmacologic FZD4 stimulation is hindered by obligate palmitoylation and insolubility of native WNTs and suboptimal properties of the FZD4-selective ligand Norrin. Here, we develop L6-F4-2, a non-lipidated, FZD4-specific surrogate which significantly improves subpicomolar affinity versus native Norrin. In Norrin knockout (NdpKO) mice, L6-F4-2 not only potently reverses neonatal retinal angiogenesis deficits, but also restores BRB and BBB function. In adult C57Bl/6J mice, post-stroke systemic delivery of L6-F4-2 strongly reduces BBB permeability, infarction, and edema, while improving neurologic score and capillary pericyte coverage. Our findings reveal systemic efficacy of a bioengineered FZD4-selective WNT surrogate during ischemic BBB dysfunction, with potential applicability to adult CNS disorders characterized by an aberrant blood-brain barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Ding
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Sung-Jin Lee
- Surrozen, Inc. South San Francisco, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Lukas Vlahos
- Department of Systems Biology, Columbia University, Columbia, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Kanako Yuki
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Cara C Rada
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Vincent van Unen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Institute for Immunity, Transplantation and Infection, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | | | - Hui Chen
- Surrozen, Inc. South San Francisco, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Asmiti Sura
- Surrozen, Inc. South San Francisco, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Aaron K McCormick
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Madeline Tomaske
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Samira Alwahabi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Huy Nguyen
- Surrozen, Inc. South San Francisco, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - William Nowatzke
- Surrozen, Inc. South San Francisco, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Lily Kim
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Lisa Kelly
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Douglas Vollrath
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Andrea Califano
- Department of Systems Biology, Columbia University, Columbia, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Wen-Chen Yeh
- Surrozen, Inc. South San Francisco, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Yang Li
- Surrozen, Inc. South San Francisco, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Calvin J Kuo
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
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20
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Rada CC, Yuki K, Ding J, Kuo CJ. Regulation of the Blood-Brain Barrier in Health and Disease. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2023; 13:a041191. [PMID: 36987582 PMCID: PMC10691497 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
The neurovascular unit is a dynamic microenvironment with tightly controlled signaling and transport coordinated by the blood-brain barrier (BBB). A properly functioning BBB allows sufficient movement of ions and macromolecules to meet the high metabolic demand of the central nervous system (CNS), while protecting the brain from pathogenic and noxious insults. This review describes the main cell types comprising the BBB and unique molecular signatures of these cells. Additionally, major signaling pathways for BBB development and maintenance are highlighted. Finally, we describe the pathophysiology of BBB diseases, their relationship to barrier dysfunction, and identify avenues for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara C Rada
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, USA
| | - Kanako Yuki
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, USA
| | - Jie Ding
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, USA
| | - Calvin J Kuo
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, USA
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21
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Phillips CM, Stamatovic SM, Keep RF, Andjelkovic AV. Epigenetics and stroke: role of DNA methylation and effect of aging on blood-brain barrier recovery. Fluids Barriers CNS 2023; 20:14. [PMID: 36855111 PMCID: PMC9972738 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-023-00414-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Incomplete recovery of blood-brain barrier (BBB) function contributes to stroke outcomes. How the BBB recovers after stroke remains largely unknown. Emerging evidence suggests that epigenetic factors play a significant role in regulating post-stroke BBB recovery. This study aimed to evaluate the epigenetic and transcriptional profile of cerebral microvessels after thromboembolic (TE) stroke to define potential causes of limited BBB recovery. RNA-sequencing and reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS) analyses were performed using microvessels isolated from young (6 months) and old (18 months) mice seven days poststroke compared to age-matched sham controls. DNA methylation profiling of poststroke brain microvessels revealed 11,287 differentially methylated regions (DMR) in old and 9818 DMR in young mice, corresponding to annotated genes. These DMR were enriched in genes encoding cell structural proteins (e.g., cell junction, and cell polarity, actin cytoskeleton, extracellular matrix), transporters and channels (e.g., potassium transmembrane transporter, organic anion and inorganic cation transporters, calcium ion transport), and proteins involved in endothelial cell processes (e.g., angiogenesis/vasculogenesis, cell signaling and transcription regulation). Integrated analysis of methylation and RNA sequencing identified changes in cell junctions (occludin), actin remodeling (ezrin) as well as signaling pathways like Rho GTPase (RhoA and Cdc42ep4). Aging as a hub of aberrant methylation affected BBB recovery processes by profound alterations (hypermethylation and repression) in structural protein expression (e.g., claudin-5) as well as activation of a set of genes involved in endothelial to mesenchymal transformation (e.g., Sox9, Snai1), repression of angiogenesis and epigenetic regulation. These findings revealed that DNA methylation plays an important role in regulating BBB repair after stroke, through regulating processes associated with BBB restoration and prevalently with processes enhancing BBB injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea M Phillips
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Svetlana M Stamatovic
- Department of Pathology, Medical School, University of Michigan, 7520A MSRB I, 1150 W Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5602, USA
| | - Richard F Keep
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical School, University of Michigan, 7520A MSRB I, 1150 W Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5602, USA.,Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Anuska V Andjelkovic
- Department of Pathology, Medical School, University of Michigan, 7520A MSRB I, 1150 W Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5602, USA. .,Department of Neurosurgery, Medical School, University of Michigan, 7520A MSRB I, 1150 W Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5602, USA.
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22
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Furtado J, Geraldo LH, Leser FS, Poulet M, Park H, Pibouin-Fragner L, Eichmann A, Boyé K. Netrin-1 binding to Unc5B regulates Blood-Retina Barrier integrity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.21.525006. [PMID: 36711611 PMCID: PMC9882365 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.21.525006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Background The blood brain barrier (BBB) preserves neuronal function in the central nervous system (CNS) by tightly controlling metabolite exchanges with the blood. In the eye, the retina is likewise protected by the blood-retina barrier (BRB) to maintain phototransduction. We showed that the secreted guidance cue Netrin-1 regulated BBB integrity, by binding to endothelial Unc5B and regulating canonical β-catenin dependent expression of BBB gene expression. Objective Here, we investigated if Netrin-1-binding to endothelial Unc5B also controlled BRB integrity, and if this process involved Norrin/β-catenin signaling, which is the major known driver of BRB development and maintenance. Methods We analyzed Tamoxifen-inducible loss- and gain- of-function alleles of Unc5B, Ntn1 and Ctnnb1 in conjunction with tracer injections and biochemical signaling studies. Results Inducible endothelial Unc5B deletion, and inducible global Ntn1 deletion in postnatal mice reduced phosphorylation of the Norrin receptor LRP5, leading to reduced β-catenin and LEF1 expression, conversion of retina endothelial cells from a barrier-competent Claudin-5+/PLVAP- state to a Claudin-5-/PLVAP+ leaky phenotype, and extravasation of injected low molecular weight tracers. Inducible Ctnnb1 gain of function rescued vascular leak in Unc5B mutants, and Ntn1 overexpression induced BRB tightening. Unc5B expression in pericytes contributed to BRB permeability, via regulation of endothelial Unc5B. Mechanistically, Netrin-1-Unc5B signaling promoted β-catenin dependent BRB signaling by enhancing phosphorylation of the Norrin receptor LRP5 via the Discs large homologue 1 (Dlg1) intracellular scaffolding protein. Conclusions The data identify Netrin1-Unc5B as novel regulators of BRB integrity, with implications for diseases associated with BRB disruption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Furtado
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
| | - Luiz Henrique Geraldo
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
| | | | - Mathilde Poulet
- Paris Cardiovascular Research Center, Inserm U970, Université Paris, France
| | - Hyojin Park
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
| | | | - Anne Eichmann
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
- Paris Cardiovascular Research Center, Inserm U970, Université Paris, France
| | - Kevin Boyé
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT, USA
- Paris Cardiovascular Research Center, Inserm U970, Université Paris, France
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23
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Phillips C, Stamatovic S, Keep R, Andjelkovic A. Epigenetics and stroke: role of DNA methylation and effect of aging on blood-brain barrier recovery. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-2444060. [PMID: 36711725 PMCID: PMC9882686 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2444060/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Incomplete recovery of blood-brain barrier (BBB) function contributes to stroke outcomes. How the BBB recovers after stroke remains largely unknown. Emerging evidence suggests that epigenetic factors play a significant role in regulating post-stroke BBB recovery. This study aimed to evaluate the epigenetic and transcriptional profile of cerebral microvessels after thromboembolic (TE) stroke to define potential causes of limited BBB recovery. RNA-sequencing and reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS) analyses were performed using microvessels isolated from young (6 months) and old (18 months) mice seven days poststroke compared to age-matched sham controls. DNA methylation profiling of poststroke brain microvessels revealed 11287 differentially methylated regions (DMR) in old and 9818 DMR in young mice, corresponding to annotated genes. These DMR were enriched in genes encoding cell structural proteins (e.g., cell junction, and cell polarity, actin cytoskeleton, extracellular matrix), transporters and channels (e.g., potassium transmembrane transporter, organic anion and inorganic cation transporters, calcium ion transport), and proteins involved in endothelial cell processes (e.g., angiogenesis/vasculogenesis, cell signaling and transcription regulation). Integrated analysis of methylation and RNA sequencing identified changes in cell junctions (occludin), actin remodeling (ezrin) as well as signaling pathways like Rho GTPase (RhoA and Cdc42ep4). Aging as a hub of aberrant methylation affected BBB recovery processes by profound alterations (hypermethylation and repression) in structural protein expression (e.g., claudin-5) as well as activation of a set of genes involved in endothelial to mesenchymal transformation (e.g., Sox17 , Snail1 ), repression of angiogenesis and epigenetic regulation. These findings revealed that DNA methylation plays an important role in regulating BBB repair after stroke, through regulating processes associated with BBB restoration and prevalently with processes enhancing BBB injury.
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24
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Reiss Y, Bauer S, David B, Devraj K, Fidan E, Hattingen E, Liebner S, Melzer N, Meuth SG, Rosenow F, Rüber T, Willems LM, Plate KH. The neurovasculature as a target in temporal lobe epilepsy. Brain Pathol 2023; 33:e13147. [PMID: 36599709 PMCID: PMC10041171 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.13147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a physiological barrier maintaining a specialized brain micromilieu that is necessary for proper neuronal function. Endothelial tight junctions and specific transcellular/efflux transport systems provide a protective barrier against toxins, pathogens, and immune cells. The barrier function is critically supported by other cell types of the neurovascular unit, including pericytes, astrocytes, microglia, and interneurons. The dysfunctionality of the BBB is a hallmark of neurological diseases, such as ischemia, brain tumors, neurodegenerative diseases, infections, and autoimmune neuroinflammatory disorders. Moreover, BBB dysfunction is critically involved in epilepsy, a brain disorder characterized by spontaneously occurring seizures because of abnormally synchronized neuronal activity. While resistance to antiseizure drugs that aim to reduce neuronal hyperexcitability remains a clinical challenge, drugs targeting the neurovasculature in epilepsy patients have not been explored. The use of novel imaging techniques permits early detection of BBB leakage in epilepsy; however, the detailed mechanistic understanding of causes and consequences of BBB compromise remains unknown. Here, we discuss the current knowledge of BBB involvement in temporal lobe epilepsy with the emphasis on the neurovasculature as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne Reiss
- Institute of Neurology (Edinger Institute), University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany.,Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Sebastian Bauer
- Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany.,Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Center of Neurology and Neurosurgery, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Bastian David
- Department of Epileptology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Kavi Devraj
- Institute of Neurology (Edinger Institute), University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany.,Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Elif Fidan
- Institute of Neurology (Edinger Institute), University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany.,Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Elke Hattingen
- Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany.,Institute of Neuroradiology, Center of Neurology and Neurosurgery, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Stefan Liebner
- Institute of Neurology (Edinger Institute), University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany.,Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Nico Melzer
- Department of Neurology, Heinrich-Heine University of Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Sven G Meuth
- Department of Neurology, Heinrich-Heine University of Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Felix Rosenow
- Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany.,Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Center of Neurology and Neurosurgery, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Theodor Rüber
- Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany.,Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Center of Neurology and Neurosurgery, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany.,Department of Epileptology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Laurent M Willems
- Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany.,Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Center of Neurology and Neurosurgery, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Karl H Plate
- Institute of Neurology (Edinger Institute), University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany.,Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
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25
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Selective Activation of the Wnt-Signaling Pathway as a Novel Therapy for the Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy and Other Retinal Vascular Diseases. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14112476. [PMID: 36432666 PMCID: PMC9697247 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14112476] [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: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal ischemia, often associated with various disorders such as diabetic retinopathy (DR), retinal vein occlusion, glaucoma, optic neuropathies, stroke, and other retinopathies, is a major cause of visual impairment and blindness worldwide. As proper blood supply to the retina is critical to maintain its high metabolic demand, any impediment to blood flow can lead to a decrease in oxygen supply, resulting in retinal ischemia. In the pathogenesis of DR, including diabetic macular edema (DME), elevated blood glucose leads to blood-retina barrier (BRB) disruptions, vascular leakage, and capillary occlusion and dropouts, causing insufficient delivery of oxygen to the retina, and ultimately resulting in visual impairment. Other potential causes of DR include neuronal dysfunction in the absence of vascular defect, genetic, and environmental factors. The exact disease progression remains unclear and varies from patient to patient. Vascular leakage leading to edema clearly links to visual impairment and remains an important target for therapy. Despite recent advances in the treatment of DME and DR with anti-VEGFs, effective therapies with new mechanisms of action to address current treatment limitations regarding vessel regeneration and reperfusion of ischemic retinal areas are still needed. The Wnt signaling pathway plays a critical role in proper vascular development and maintenance in the retina, and thus provides a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of diabetic and other retinopathies. In this review, we summarize the potential of this pathway to address treatment gaps with current therapies, its promise as a novel and potentially disease modifying therapy for patients with DR and opportunities in other retinal vascular diseases.
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26
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Yu QC, Geng A, Preusch CB, Chen Y, Peng G, Xu Y, Jia Y, Miao Y, Xue H, Gao D, Bao L, Pan W, Chen J, Garcia KC, Cheung TH, Zeng YA. Activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling by Zeb1 in endothelial progenitors induces vascular quiescence entry. Cell Rep 2022; 41:111694. [DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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27
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Non-canonical Wnt signaling in the eye. Prog Retin Eye Res 2022:101149. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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28
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Alkailani MI, Aittaleb M, Tissir F. WNT signaling at the intersection between neurogenesis and brain tumorigenesis. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:1017568. [PMID: 36267699 PMCID: PMC9577257 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1017568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurogenesis and tumorigenesis share signaling molecules/pathways involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, and death. Self-renewal of neural stem cells is a tightly regulated process that secures the accuracy of cell division and eliminates cells that undergo mitotic errors. Abnormalities in the molecular mechanisms controlling this process can trigger aneuploidy and genome instability, leading to neoplastic transformation. Mutations that affect cell adhesion, polarity, or migration enhance the invasive potential and favor the progression of tumors. Here, we review recent evidence of the WNT pathway’s involvement in both neurogenesis and tumorigenesis and discuss the experimental progress on therapeutic opportunities targeting components of this pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maisa I. Alkailani
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohamed Aittaleb
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Fadel Tissir
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
- Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Fadel Tissir,
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29
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Biswas S, Shahriar S, Giangreco NP, Arvanitis P, Winkler M, Tatonetti NP, Brunken WJ, Cutforth T, Agalliu D. Mural Wnt/β-catenin signaling regulates Lama2 expression to promote neurovascular unit maturation. Development 2022; 149:dev200610. [PMID: 36098369 PMCID: PMC9578690 DOI: 10.1242/dev.200610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Neurovascular unit and barrier maturation rely on vascular basement membrane (vBM) composition. Laminins, a major vBM component, are crucial for these processes, yet the signaling pathway(s) that regulate their expression remain unknown. Here, we show that mural cells have active Wnt/β-catenin signaling during central nervous system development in mice. Bulk RNA sequencing and validation using postnatal day 10 and 14 wild-type versus adenomatosis polyposis coli downregulated 1 (Apcdd1-/-) mouse retinas revealed that Lama2 mRNA and protein levels are increased in mutant vasculature with higher Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Mural cells are the main source of Lama2, and Wnt/β-catenin activation induces Lama2 expression in mural cells in vitro. Markers of mature astrocytes, including aquaporin 4 (a water channel in astrocyte endfeet) and integrin-α6 (a laminin receptor), are upregulated in Apcdd1-/- retinas with higher Lama2 vBM deposition. Thus, the Wnt/β-catenin pathway regulates Lama2 expression in mural cells to promote neurovascular unit and barrier maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saptarshi Biswas
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Sanjid Shahriar
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Nicholas P. Giangreco
- Department of Systems Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Panos Arvanitis
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Markus Winkler
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Anatomy, Ludwig-Maximilians Universität, Munich 80336, Germany
| | - Nicholas P. Tatonetti
- Department of Systems Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - William J. Brunken
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Tyler Cutforth
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Dritan Agalliu
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
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30
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Nguyen H, Chen H, Vuppalapaty M, Whisler E, Logas KR, Sampathkumar P, Fletcher RB, Sura A, Suen N, Gupta S, Lopez T, Ye J, Tu S, Bolaki M, Yeh WC, Li Y, Lee SJ. SZN-413, a FZD4 Agonist, as a Potential Novel Therapeutic for the Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2022; 11:19. [PMID: 36149648 PMCID: PMC9520515 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.11.9.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose There remains a high unmet need for therapies with new mechanisms of action to achieve reperfusion of ischemic retina in diabetic retinopathy. We examined whether a novel frizzled class receptor 4 (FZD4) agonist could promote regeneration of functional blood vessels in animal models of retinopathy. Methods We developed a novel Norrin mimetic (SZN-413-p) targeting FZD4 and low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 5 (LRP5) and examined its effect on retinal and brain endothelial cells in vitro. SZN-413-p was subsequently humanized, resulting in the therapeutic candidate SZN-413, and was examined in animal models of retinopathy. In an oxygen-induced retinopathy mouse model, avascular and neovascularization areas were measured. Furthermore, in a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-induced retinal vascular leakage rabbit model, the impact on vascular leakage by SZN-413 was examined by measuring fluorescein leakage. Results SZN-413-p induced Wnt/β-catenin signaling and upregulated blood-brain barrier/blood-retina barrier gene expressions in endothelial cells. In the oxygen-induced retinopathy mouse model, SZN-413-p and SZN-413 significantly reduced the neovascularization area size (P < 0.001) to a level comparable to, or better than the positive control aflibercept. Both agonists also showed a reduction in avascular area size compared to vehicle (P < 0.001) and aflibercept groups (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01 for SZN-413-p and SZN-413, respectively). In the VEGF-induced retinal vascular leakage rabbit model, SZN-413 reduced retinal vascular leakage by ∼80%, compared to the vehicle-treated group (P < 0.01). Conclusions Reduction of neovascular tufts and avascular areas and of VEGF-driven retinal vascular leakage suggests that SZN-413 can simultaneously address retinal non-perfusion and vascular leakage. Translational Relevance FZD4 signaling modulation by SZN-413 is a novel mechanism of action that can offer a new therapeutic strategy for diabetic retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huy Nguyen
- Surrozen Operating, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Hui Chen
- Surrozen Operating, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Asmiti Sura
- Surrozen Operating, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Nicholas Suen
- Surrozen Operating, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Suhani Gupta
- Surrozen Operating, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Tom Lopez
- Surrozen Operating, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jay Ye
- Surrozen Operating, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Shengjiang Tu
- Surrozen Operating, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Menaka Bolaki
- Surrozen Operating, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Wen-Chen Yeh
- Surrozen Operating, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Yang Li
- Surrozen Operating, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sung-Jin Lee
- Surrozen Operating, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
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31
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Le TNU, Nguyen TQ, Kalailingam P, Nguyen YTK, Sukumar VK, Tan CKH, Tukijan F, Couty L, Hasan Z, Del Gaudio I, Wenk MR, Cazenave-Gassiot A, Camerer E, Nguyen LN. Mfsd2b and Spns2 are essential for maintenance of blood vessels during development and in anaphylactic shock. Cell Rep 2022; 40:111208. [PMID: 35977478 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a potent lipid mediator that is secreted by several cell types. We recently showed that Mfsd2b is an S1P transporter from hematopoietic cells that contributes approximately 50% plasma S1P. Here we report the characterization of compound deletion of Mfsd2b and Spns2, another S1P transporter active primarily in endothelial cells. Global deletion of Mfsd2b and Spns2 (global double knockout [gDKO]) results in embryonic lethality beyond embryonic day 14.5 (E14.5), with severe hemorrhage accompanied by defects of tight junction proteins, indicating that Mfsd2b and Spns2 provide S1P for signaling, which is essential for blood vessel integrity. Compound postnatal deletion of Mfsd2b and Spns2 using Mx1Cre (ctDKO-Mx1Cre) results in maximal 80% reduction of plasma S1P. ctDKO-Mx1Cre mice exhibit severe susceptibility to anaphylaxis, indicating that S1P from Mfsd2b and Spns2 is indispensable for vascular homeostasis. Our results show that S1P export from Mfsd2b and Spns2 is essential for developing and mature vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanh Nha Uyen Le
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596, Singapore
| | - Toan Q Nguyen
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596, Singapore
| | - Pazhanichamy Kalailingam
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596, Singapore
| | - Yen Thi Kim Nguyen
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596, Singapore
| | - Viresh Krishnan Sukumar
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596, Singapore
| | - Clarissa Kai Hui Tan
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596, Singapore
| | - Farhana Tukijan
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596, Singapore
| | - Ludovic Couty
- Université Paris Cité, PARCC, INSERM U970, 56 Rue Leblanc, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Zafrul Hasan
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596, Singapore
| | - Ilaria Del Gaudio
- Université Paris Cité, PARCC, INSERM U970, 56 Rue Leblanc, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Markus R Wenk
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596, Singapore; Singapore Lipidomics Incubator (SLING), Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
| | - Amaury Cazenave-Gassiot
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596, Singapore; Singapore Lipidomics Incubator (SLING), Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
| | - Eric Camerer
- Université Paris Cité, PARCC, INSERM U970, 56 Rue Leblanc, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Long N Nguyen
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596, Singapore; Singapore Lipidomics Incubator (SLING), Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore; Cardiovascular Disease Research (CVD) Program, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117545, Singapore; Immunology Program, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore; Immunology Translational Research Program, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore.
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32
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Rattner A, Wang Y, Nathans J. Signaling Pathways in Neurovascular Development. Annu Rev Neurosci 2022; 45:87-108. [PMID: 35803586 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-neuro-111020-102127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
During development, the central nervous system (CNS) vasculature grows to precisely meet the metabolic demands of neurons and glia. In addition, the vast majority of the CNS vasculature acquires a unique set of molecular and cellular properties-collectively referred to as the blood-brain barrier-that minimize passive diffusion of molecules between the blood and the CNS parenchyma. Both of these processes are controlled by signals emanating from neurons and glia. In this review, we describe the nature and mechanisms-of-action of these signals, with an emphasis on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and beta-catenin (canonical Wnt) signaling, the two best-understood systems that regulate CNS vascular development. We highlight foundational discoveries, interactions between different signaling systems, the integration of genetic and cell biological studies, advances that are of clinical relevance, and questions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Rattner
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States;
| | - Yanshu Wang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States; .,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Jeremy Nathans
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States; .,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States.,Departments of Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
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33
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Ben-Zvi A, Liebner S. Developmental regulation of barrier- and non-barrier blood vessels in the CNS. J Intern Med 2022; 292:31-46. [PMID: 33665890 DOI: 10.1111/joim.13263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is essential for creating and maintaining tissue homeostasis in the central nervous system (CNS), which is key for proper neuronal function. In most vertebrates, the BBB is localized to microvascular endothelial cells that acquire barrier properties during angiogenesis of the neuroectoderm. Complex and continuous tight junctions, and the lack of fenestrae combined with low pinocytotic activity render the BBB endothelium a tight barrier for water-soluble molecules that may only enter the CNS via specific transporters. The differentiation of these unique endothelial properties during embryonic development is initiated by endothelial-specific flavours of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in a precise spatiotemporal manner. In this review, we summarize the currently known cellular (neural precursor and endothelial cells) and molecular (VEGF and Wnt/β-catenin) mechanisms mediating brain angiogenesis and barrier formation. Moreover, we introduce more recently discovered crosstalk with cellular and acellular elements within the developing CNS such as the extracellular matrix. We discuss recent insights into the downstream molecular mechanisms of Wnt/β-catenin in particular, the recently identified target genes like Foxf2, Foxl2, Foxq1, Lef1, Ppard, Zfp551, Zic3, Sox17, Apcdd1 and Fgfbp1 that are involved in refining and maintaining barrier characteristics in the mature BBB endothelium. Additionally, we elute to recent insight into barrier heterogeneity and differential endothelial barrier properties within the CNS, focussing on the circumventricular organs as well as on the neurogenic niches in the subventricular zone and the hippocampus. Finally, open questions and future BBB research directions are highlighted in the context of taking benefit from understanding BBB development for strategies to modulate BBB function under pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ben-Zvi
- From the, The Department of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research, Institute for Medical Research IMRIC, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - S Liebner
- Institute of Neurology (Edinger Institute), University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Excellence Cluster Cardio-Pulmonary Systems (ECCPS), Partner Site Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhine-Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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34
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Matsuoka RL, Buck LD, Vajrala KP, Quick RE, Card OA. Historical and current perspectives on blood endothelial cell heterogeneity in the brain. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:372. [PMID: 35726097 PMCID: PMC9209386 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04403-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Dynamic brain activity requires timely communications between the brain parenchyma and circulating blood. Brain-blood communication is facilitated by intricate networks of brain vasculature, which display striking heterogeneity in structure and function. This vascular cell heterogeneity in the brain is fundamental to mediating diverse brain functions and has long been recognized. However, the molecular basis of this biological phenomenon has only recently begun to be elucidated. Over the past century, various animal species and in vitro systems have contributed to the accumulation of our fundamental and phylogenetic knowledge about brain vasculature, collectively advancing this research field. Historically, dye tracer and microscopic observations have provided valuable insights into the anatomical and functional properties of vasculature across the brain, and these techniques remain an important approach. Additionally, recent advances in molecular genetics and omics technologies have revealed significant molecular heterogeneity within brain endothelial and perivascular cell types. The combination of these conventional and modern approaches has enabled us to identify phenotypic differences between healthy and abnormal conditions at the single-cell level. Accordingly, our understanding of brain vascular cell states during physiological, pathological, and aging processes has rapidly expanded. In this review, we summarize major historical advances and current knowledge on blood endothelial cell heterogeneity in the brain, and discuss important unsolved questions in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryota L Matsuoka
- Department of Neurosciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA. .,Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA.
| | - Luke D Buck
- Department of Neurosciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
| | - Keerti P Vajrala
- Department of Neurosciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA.,Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Kansas City, MO 64106, USA
| | - Rachael E Quick
- Department of Neurosciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
| | - Olivia A Card
- Department of Neurosciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
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35
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Peng L, Dai E, Xiao H, Zhao R, He Y, Li S, Yang M, Yang Z, Zhao P. A novel frameshift variant in the TSPAN12 gene causes autosomal dominant FEVR. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2022; 10:e1949. [PMID: 35417085 PMCID: PMC9184668 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.1949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (FEVR) is an inherited blinding eye disease with abnormal retinal vascular development. We aim to broaden the variant spectrum of FEVR and provide a basis for molecular diagnosis and genetic consultation. METHODS We recruited five FEVR patients from one large Chinese family. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) and Sanger sequencing were applied to sequence, analyze, and verify variants on genomic DNA samples. Immunocytochemistry, western blot, qPCR, and luciferase assay were performed to test the influence of the variant on the protein expression and activity of the Norrin/β-catenin pathway. RESULTS We identified a novel heterozygous frameshift variant c.533dupC (p.D179Rfs*6) in Tetraspanin 12 (TSPAN12) gene that is related to FEVR. This variant caused degradation of the entire TSPAN12 protein, which failed to activate Norrin/β-catenin signaling, possibly causing FEVR. CONCLUSION Our study revealed a novel frameshift variant D179Rfs*6 in TSPAN12 that is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. We found that D179Rfs*6 caused a failure to activate Norrin/β-catenin signaling. This finding broadens the variant spectrum of TSPAN12 and provides invaluable information for the molecular diagnosis of FEVR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Peng
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study and Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's HospitalUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengduChina
- Natural Products Research Center, Institute of Chengdu BiologySichuan Translational Medicine Hospital, Chinese Academy of SciencesChengduChina
| | - Erkuan Dai
- Department of OphthalmologyXinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Haodong Xiao
- Department of OphthalmologyXinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Rulian Zhao
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study and Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's HospitalUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengduChina
| | - Yunqi He
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study and Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's HospitalUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengduChina
- Natural Products Research Center, Institute of Chengdu BiologySichuan Translational Medicine Hospital, Chinese Academy of SciencesChengduChina
| | - Shujin Li
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study and Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's HospitalUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengduChina
- Natural Products Research Center, Institute of Chengdu BiologySichuan Translational Medicine Hospital, Chinese Academy of SciencesChengduChina
- Research Unit for Blindness Prevention of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU026)Sichuan Academy of Medical SciencesChengduChina
| | - Mu Yang
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study and Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's HospitalUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengduChina
- Natural Products Research Center, Institute of Chengdu BiologySichuan Translational Medicine Hospital, Chinese Academy of SciencesChengduChina
- Research Unit for Blindness Prevention of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU026)Sichuan Academy of Medical SciencesChengduChina
| | - Zhenglin Yang
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study and Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Provincial People's HospitalUniversity of Electronic Science and Technology of ChinaChengduChina
- Natural Products Research Center, Institute of Chengdu BiologySichuan Translational Medicine Hospital, Chinese Academy of SciencesChengduChina
- Research Unit for Blindness Prevention of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU026)Sichuan Academy of Medical SciencesChengduChina
| | - Peiquan Zhao
- Department of OphthalmologyXinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
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Bats ML, Peghaire C, Delobel V, Dufourcq P, Couffinhal T, Duplàa C. Wnt/frizzled Signaling in Endothelium: A Major Player in Blood-Retinal- and Blood-Brain-Barrier Integrity. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2022; 12:a041219. [PMID: 35074794 PMCID: PMC9121893 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The Wnt/frizzled signaling pathway is one of the major regulators of endothelial biology, controlling key cellular activities. Many secreted Wnt ligands have been identified and can initiate diverse signaling via binding to a complex set of Frizzled (Fzd) transmembrane receptors and coreceptors. Roughly, Wnt signaling is subdivided into two pathways: the canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway whose main downstream effector is the transcriptional coactivator β-catenin, and the noncanonical Wnt signaling pathway, which is subdivided into the Wnt/Ca2+ pathway and the planar cell polarity pathway. Here, we will focus on its cross talk with other angiogenic pathways and on its role in blood-retinal- and blood-brain-barrier formation and its maintenance in a differentiated state. We will unravel how retinal vascular pathologies and neurovascular degenerative diseases result from disruption of the Wnt pathway related to vascular instability, and highlight current research into therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Lise Bats
- Univ. Bordeaux, Inserm, UMR1034, Biology of Cardiovascular Diseases, F-33600 Pessac, France
- Department of Biochemistry, Pellegrin Hospital, University Hospital of Bordeaux, 33076 Bordeaux Cedex, France
| | - Claire Peghaire
- Univ. Bordeaux, Inserm, UMR1034, Biology of Cardiovascular Diseases, F-33600 Pessac, France
| | - Valentin Delobel
- Univ. Bordeaux, Inserm, UMR1034, Biology of Cardiovascular Diseases, F-33600 Pessac, France
| | - Pascale Dufourcq
- Univ. Bordeaux, Inserm, UMR1034, Biology of Cardiovascular Diseases, F-33600 Pessac, France
| | - Thierry Couffinhal
- Univ. Bordeaux, Inserm, UMR1034, Biology of Cardiovascular Diseases, F-33600 Pessac, France
- Centre d'exploration, de prévention et de traitement de l'athérosclérose (CEPTA), CHU Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Cécile Duplàa
- Univ. Bordeaux, Inserm, UMR1034, Biology of Cardiovascular Diseases, F-33600 Pessac, France
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37
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Wang Y, Venkatesh A, Xu J, Xu M, Williams J, Smallwood PM, James A, Nathans J. The WNT7A/WNT7B/GPR124/RECK signaling module plays an essential role in mammalian limb development. Development 2022; 149:275368. [PMID: 35552394 PMCID: PMC9148564 DOI: 10.1242/dev.200340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
In central nervous system vascular endothelial cells, signaling via the partially redundant ligands WNT7A and WNT7B requires two co-activator proteins, GPR124 and RECK. WNT7A and RECK have been shown previously to play a role in limb development, but the mechanism of RECK action in this context is unknown. The roles of WNT7B and GPR124 in limb development have not been investigated. Using combinations of conventional and/or conditional loss-of-function alleles for mouse Wnt7a, Wnt7b, Gpr124 and Reck, including a Reck allele that codes for a protein that is specifically defective in WNT7A/WNT7B signaling, we show that reductions in ligand and/or co-activator function synergize to cause reduced and dysmorphic limb bone growth. Two additional limb phenotypes – loss of distal Lmx1b expression and ectopic growth of nail-like structures – occur with reduced Wnt7a/Wnt7b gene copy number and, respectively, with Reck mutations and with combined Reck and Gpr124 mutations. A third limb phenotype – bleeding into a digit – occurs with the most severe combinations of Wnt7a/Wnt7b, Reck and Gpr124 mutations. These data imply that the WNT7A/WNT7B-FRIZZLED-LRP5/LRP6-GPR124-RECK signaling system functions as an integral unit in limb development. Summary: Genetic analyses in mice show that the WNT7A/WNT7B-FRIZZLED-LRP5/LRP6-GPR124-RECK signaling system, first defined in the context of CNS angiogenesis and barrier development, also functions as an integral unit in limb development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanshu Wang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Arjun Venkatesh
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jiajia Xu
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Mingxin Xu
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - John Williams
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Philip M. Smallwood
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Aaron James
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jeremy Nathans
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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38
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Mou Y, Du Y, Zhou L, Yue J, Hu X, Liu Y, Chen S, Lin X, Zhang G, Xiao H, Dong B. Gut Microbiota Interact With the Brain Through Systemic Chronic Inflammation: Implications on Neuroinflammation, Neurodegeneration, and Aging. Front Immunol 2022; 13:796288. [PMID: 35464431 PMCID: PMC9021448 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.796288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
It has been noticed in recent years that the unfavorable effects of the gut microbiota could exhaust host vigor and life, yet knowledge and theory are just beginning to be established. Increasing documentation suggests that the microbiota-gut-brain axis not only impacts brain cognition and psychiatric symptoms but also precipitates neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and multiple sclerosis (MS). How the blood-brain barrier (BBB), a machinery protecting the central nervous system (CNS) from the systemic circulation, allows the risky factors derived from the gut to be translocated into the brain seems paradoxical. For the unique anatomical, histological, and immunological properties underpinning its permeable dynamics, the BBB has been regarded as a biomarker associated with neural pathogenesis. The BBB permeability of mice and rats caused by GM dysbiosis raises the question of how the GM and its metabolites change BBB permeability and causes the brain pathophysiology of neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration (NF&ND) and brain aging, a pivotal multidisciplinary field tightly associated with immune and chronic systemic inflammation. If not all, gut microbiota-induced systemic chronic inflammation (GM-SCI) mainly refers to excessive gut inflammation caused by gut mucosal immunity dysregulation, which is often influenced by dietary components and age, is produced at the interface of the intestinal barrier (IB) or exacerbated after IB disruption, initiates various common chronic diseases along its dispersal routes, and eventually impairs BBB integrity to cause NF&ND and brain aging. To illustrate the immune roles of the BBB in pathophysiology affected by inflammatory or "leaky" IB resulting from GM and their metabolites, we reviewed the selected publications, including the role of the BBB as the immune barrier, systemic chronic inflammation and inflammation influences on BBB permeability, NF&ND, and brain aging. To add depth to the bridging role of systemic chronic inflammation, a plausible mechanism indispensable for BBB corruption was highlighted; namely, BBB maintenance cues are affected by inflammatory cytokines, which may help to understand how GM and its metabolites play a major role in NF&ND and aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Mou
- Geroscience and Chronic Disease Department, The Eighth Municipal Hospital for the People, Chengdu, China
| | - Yu Du
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, The Fourth West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lixing Zhou
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jirong Yue
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xianliang Hu
- Geroscience and Chronic Disease Department, The Eighth Municipal Hospital for the People, Chengdu, China
| | - Yixin Liu
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Sao Chen
- Geroscience and Chronic Disease Department, The Eighth Municipal Hospital for the People, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiufang Lin
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Gongchang Zhang
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hengyi Xiao
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Birong Dong
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Gueniot F, Rubin S, Bougaran P, Abelanet A, Morel JL, Bontempi B, Proust C, Dufourcq P, Couffinhal T, Duplàa C. Targeting Pdzrn3 maintains adult blood-brain barrier and central nervous system homeostasis. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2022; 42:613-629. [PMID: 34644209 PMCID: PMC9051145 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x211048981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Blood brain barrier (BBB) disruption is a critical component of the pathophysiology of cognitive impairment of vascular etiology (VCI) and associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD). The Wnt pathway plays a crucial role in BBB maintenance, but there is limited data on its role in cognitive pathologies. The E3 ubiquitin ligase PDZRN3 is a regulator of the Wnt pathway. In a murine model of VCI, overexpressing Pdzrn3 in endothelial cell (EC) exacerbated BBB hyperpermeability and accelerated cognitive decline. We extended these observations, in both VCI and AD models, showing that EC-specific depletion of Pdzrn3, reinforced the BBB, with a decrease in vascular permeability and a subsequent spare in cognitive decline. We found that in cerebral vessels, Pdzrn3 depletion protects against AD-induced Wnt target gene alterations and enhances endothelial tight junctional proteins. Our results provide evidence that Wnt signaling could be a molecular link regulating BBB integrity and cognitive decline under VCI and AD pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Gueniot
- Biology of Cardiovascular Diseases, University of Bordeaux U1034, Bordeaux, France
| | - Sebastien Rubin
- Biology of Cardiovascular Diseases, University of Bordeaux U1034, Bordeaux, France
| | - Pauline Bougaran
- Biology of Cardiovascular Diseases, University of Bordeaux U1034, Bordeaux, France
| | - Alice Abelanet
- Biology of Cardiovascular Diseases, University of Bordeaux U1034, Bordeaux, France
| | | | | | - Carole Proust
- Biology of Cardiovascular Diseases, University of Bordeaux U1034, Bordeaux, France
| | - Pascale Dufourcq
- Biology of Cardiovascular Diseases, University of Bordeaux U1034, Bordeaux, France.,Service de Biochimie clinique, CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Thierry Couffinhal
- Biology of Cardiovascular Diseases, University of Bordeaux U1034, Bordeaux, France.,Service des Maladies cardiaques et vasculaires, CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Cecile Duplàa
- Biology of Cardiovascular Diseases, University of Bordeaux U1034, Bordeaux, France
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40
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Martinelli I, Tayebati SK, Tomassoni D, Nittari G, Roy P, Amenta F. Brain and Retinal Organoids for Disease Modeling: The Importance of In Vitro Blood–Brain and Retinal Barriers Studies. Cells 2022; 11:cells11071120. [PMID: 35406683 PMCID: PMC8997725 DOI: 10.3390/cells11071120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain and retinal organoids are functional and dynamic in vitro three-dimensional (3D) structures derived from pluripotent stem cells that spontaneously organize themselves to their in vivo counterparts. Here, we review the main literature data of how these organoids have been developed through different protocols and how they have been technically analyzed. Moreover, this paper reviews recent advances in using organoids to model neurological and retinal diseases, considering their potential for translational applications but also pointing out their limitations. Since the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and blood–retinal barrier (BRB) are understood to play a fundamental role respectively in brain and eye functions, both in health and in disease, we provide an overview of the progress in the development techniques of in vitro models as reliable and predictive screening tools for BBB and BRB-penetrating compounds. Furthermore, we propose potential future directions for brain and retinal organoids, in which dedicated biobanks will represent a novel tool for neuroscience and ophthalmology research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilenia Martinelli
- School of Medicinal and Health Products Sciences, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (S.K.T.); (G.N.); (F.A.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Seyed Khosrow Tayebati
- School of Medicinal and Health Products Sciences, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (S.K.T.); (G.N.); (F.A.)
| | - Daniele Tomassoni
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (D.T.); (P.R.)
| | - Giulio Nittari
- School of Medicinal and Health Products Sciences, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (S.K.T.); (G.N.); (F.A.)
| | - Proshanta Roy
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (D.T.); (P.R.)
| | - Francesco Amenta
- School of Medicinal and Health Products Sciences, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (S.K.T.); (G.N.); (F.A.)
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41
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De A, Morales JE, Chen Z, Sebastian S, McCarty JH. The β8 integrin cytoplasmic domain activates extracellular matrix adhesion to promote brain neurovascular development. Development 2022; 149:274538. [PMID: 35217866 PMCID: PMC8977100 DOI: 10.1242/dev.200472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In the developing mammalian brain, neuroepithelial cells interact with blood vessels to regulate angiogenesis, blood-brain barrier maturation and other key neurovascular functions. Genetic studies in mice have shown that neurovascular development is controlled, in part, by Itgb8, which encodes the neuroepithelial cell-expressed integrin β8 subunit. However, these studies have involved complete loss-of-function Itgb8 mutations, and have not discerned the relative roles for the β8 integrin extracellular matrix (ECM) binding region versus the intracellular signaling tail. Here, Cre/lox strategies have been employed to selectively delete the cytoplasmic tail of murine Itgb8 without perturbing its transmembrane and extracellular domains. We report that the β8 integrin cytoplasmic domain is essential for inside-out modulation of adhesion, including activation of latent-TGFβs in the ECM. Quantitative sequencing of the brain endothelial cell transcriptome identifies TGFβ-regulated genes with putative links to blood vessel morphogenesis, including several genes linked to Wnt/β-catenin signaling. These results reveal that the β8 integrin cytoplasmic domain is essential for the regulation of TGFβ-dependent gene expression in endothelial cells and suggest that cross-talk between TGFβs and Wnt pathways is crucial for neurovascular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpan De
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Tumor Center, Unit 1004, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - John E Morales
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Tumor Center, Unit 1004, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Zhihua Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Tumor Center, Unit 1004, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Sumod Sebastian
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Tumor Center, Unit 1004, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Joseph H McCarty
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Tumor Center, Unit 1004, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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42
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Cicerone AP, Dailey W, Sun M, Santos A, Jeong D, Jones L, Koustas K, Drekh M, Schmitz K, Haque N, Felisky JA, Guzman AE, Mellert K, Trese MT, Capone A, Drenser KA, Mitton KP. A Survey of Multigenic Protein-Altering Variant Frequency in Familial Exudative Vitreo-Retinopathy (FEVR) Patients by Targeted Sequencing of Seven FEVR-Linked Genes. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:495. [PMID: 35328049 PMCID: PMC8953269 DOI: 10.3390/genes13030495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
While Inherited Retinal Diseases (IRDs) are typically considered rare diseases, Familial Exudative Vitreo-Retinopathy (FEVR) and Norrie Disease (ND) are more rare than retinitis pigmentosa. We wanted to determine if multigenic protein-altering variants are common in FEVR subjects within a set of FEVR-related genes. The potential occurrence of protein-altering variants in two different genes has been documented in a very small percentage of patients, but potential multigenic contributions to FEVR remain unclear. Genes involved in these orphan pediatric retinal diseases are not universally included in available IRD targeted-sequencing panels, and cost is also a factor limiting multigenic-sequence-based testing for these rare conditions. To provide an accurate solution at lower cost, we developed a targeted-sequencing protocol that includes seven genes involved in Familial Exudative Vitreo-Retinopathy (FEVR) and Norrie disease. Seventy-six DNA samples from persons refered to clinic with possible FEVR and some close relatives were sequenced using a novel Oakland-ERI orphan pediatric retinal disease panel (version 2) providing 900 times average read coverage. The seven genes involved in FEVR/ND were: NDP (ChrX), CTNNB1 (Chr3); TSPAN12 (Chr7); KIF11 (Chr10), FZD4 (Chr11), LRP5 (Chr11), ZNF408 (Chr11). A total of 33 variants were found that alter protein sequence, with the following relative distribution: LRP5 13/33 (40%), FZD4 9/33 (27%), ZNF408 6/33 (18%), (KIF11 3/33 (9%), NDP 1/33 (3%), CTNNB1 1/33 (3%). Most protein-altering variants, 85%, were found in three genes: FZD4, LRP5, and ZNF408. Four previously known pathogenic variants were detected in five families and two unrelated individuals. Two novel, likely pathogenic variants were detected in one family (FZD4: Cys450ter), and a likely pathogenic frame shift termination variant was detected in one unrelated individual (LRP5: Ala919CysfsTer67). The average number of genes with protein-altering variants was greater in subjects with confirmed FEVR (1.46, n = 30) compared to subjects confirmed unaffected by FEVR (0.95, n = 20), (p = 0.009). Thirty-four percent of persons sequenced had digenic and trigenic protein-altering variants within this set of FEVR genes, which was much greater than expected in the general population (3.6%), as derived from GnomAD data. While the potential contributions to FEVR are not known for most of the variants in a multigenic context, the high multigenic frequency suggests that potential multigenic contributions to FEVR severity warrant future investigation. The targeted-sequencing format developed will support such exploration by reducing the testing cost to $250 (US) for seven genes and facilitating greater access to genetic testing for families with this very rare inherited retinal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Petrelli Cicerone
- Eye Research Institute, Rochester, MI 48309, USA; (A.P.C.); (W.D.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (D.J.); (L.J.); (K.K.); (M.D.); (K.S.); (N.H.); (J.A.F.); (A.E.G.)
| | - Wendy Dailey
- Eye Research Institute, Rochester, MI 48309, USA; (A.P.C.); (W.D.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (D.J.); (L.J.); (K.K.); (M.D.); (K.S.); (N.H.); (J.A.F.); (A.E.G.)
| | - Michael Sun
- Eye Research Institute, Rochester, MI 48309, USA; (A.P.C.); (W.D.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (D.J.); (L.J.); (K.K.); (M.D.); (K.S.); (N.H.); (J.A.F.); (A.E.G.)
- Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
| | - Andrew Santos
- Eye Research Institute, Rochester, MI 48309, USA; (A.P.C.); (W.D.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (D.J.); (L.J.); (K.K.); (M.D.); (K.S.); (N.H.); (J.A.F.); (A.E.G.)
- Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
| | - Daeun Jeong
- Eye Research Institute, Rochester, MI 48309, USA; (A.P.C.); (W.D.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (D.J.); (L.J.); (K.K.); (M.D.); (K.S.); (N.H.); (J.A.F.); (A.E.G.)
- Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
| | - Lance Jones
- Eye Research Institute, Rochester, MI 48309, USA; (A.P.C.); (W.D.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (D.J.); (L.J.); (K.K.); (M.D.); (K.S.); (N.H.); (J.A.F.); (A.E.G.)
- Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
| | - Konstaninos Koustas
- Eye Research Institute, Rochester, MI 48309, USA; (A.P.C.); (W.D.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (D.J.); (L.J.); (K.K.); (M.D.); (K.S.); (N.H.); (J.A.F.); (A.E.G.)
- Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
| | - Mary Drekh
- Eye Research Institute, Rochester, MI 48309, USA; (A.P.C.); (W.D.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (D.J.); (L.J.); (K.K.); (M.D.); (K.S.); (N.H.); (J.A.F.); (A.E.G.)
- Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
| | - Keaton Schmitz
- Eye Research Institute, Rochester, MI 48309, USA; (A.P.C.); (W.D.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (D.J.); (L.J.); (K.K.); (M.D.); (K.S.); (N.H.); (J.A.F.); (A.E.G.)
- Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
| | - Naomi Haque
- Eye Research Institute, Rochester, MI 48309, USA; (A.P.C.); (W.D.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (D.J.); (L.J.); (K.K.); (M.D.); (K.S.); (N.H.); (J.A.F.); (A.E.G.)
- Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
| | - Jennifer A. Felisky
- Eye Research Institute, Rochester, MI 48309, USA; (A.P.C.); (W.D.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (D.J.); (L.J.); (K.K.); (M.D.); (K.S.); (N.H.); (J.A.F.); (A.E.G.)
| | - Alvaro E. Guzman
- Eye Research Institute, Rochester, MI 48309, USA; (A.P.C.); (W.D.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (D.J.); (L.J.); (K.K.); (M.D.); (K.S.); (N.H.); (J.A.F.); (A.E.G.)
| | - Kendra Mellert
- Associated Retinal Consultants LLC, Royal Oak, MI 48073, USA; (K.M.); (M.T.T.); (A.C.)
| | - Michael T. Trese
- Associated Retinal Consultants LLC, Royal Oak, MI 48073, USA; (K.M.); (M.T.T.); (A.C.)
| | - Antonio Capone
- Associated Retinal Consultants LLC, Royal Oak, MI 48073, USA; (K.M.); (M.T.T.); (A.C.)
| | - Kimberly A. Drenser
- Associated Retinal Consultants LLC, Royal Oak, MI 48073, USA; (K.M.); (M.T.T.); (A.C.)
| | - Kenneth P. Mitton
- Eye Research Institute, Rochester, MI 48309, USA; (A.P.C.); (W.D.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (D.J.); (L.J.); (K.K.); (M.D.); (K.S.); (N.H.); (J.A.F.); (A.E.G.)
- Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
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Abstract
Blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity is critical for proper function of the central nervous system (CNS). Here, we show that the endothelial Unc5B receptor controls BBB integrity by maintaining Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Inducible endothelial-specific deletion of Unc5B in adult mice leads to BBB leak from brain capillaries that convert to a barrier-incompetent state with reduced Claudin-5 and increased PLVAP expression. Loss of Unc5B decreases BBB Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and β-catenin overexpression rescues Unc5B mutant BBB defects. Mechanistically, the Unc5B ligand Netrin-1 enhances Unc5B interaction with the Wnt co-receptor LRP6, induces its phosphorylation and activates Wnt/β-catenin downstream signaling. Intravenous delivery of antibodies blocking Netrin-1 binding to Unc5B causes a transient BBB breakdown and disruption of Wnt signaling, followed by neurovascular barrier resealing. These data identify Netrin-1-Unc5B signaling as a ligand-receptor pathway that regulates BBB integrity, with implications for CNS diseases. The authors show that Netrin-1-Unc5B signaling controls blood-brain barrier integrity by maintaining Wnt/b-catenin signaling and that delivery of antibodies blocking Netrin-1 binding to Unc5B causes transient and size-selective BBB breakdown.
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Engelbrecht E, Metzler MA, Sandell LL. Retinoid signaling regulates angiogenesis and blood-retinal barrier integrity in neonatal mouse retina. Microcirculation 2022; 29:e12752. [PMID: 35203102 DOI: 10.1111/micc.12752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The neonatal mouse retina is a well-characterized experimental model for investigating factors impacting retinal angiogenesis and inner blood-retinal barrier (BRB) integrity. Retinoic acid (RA) is an essential signaling molecule. RA is needed for vasculogenic development in embryos and endothelial barrier integrity in zebrafish retina and adult mouse brain, however the function of this signaling molecule in developing mammalian retinal vasculature remains unknown. This study aims to investigate the role of RA signaling in angiogenesis and inner BRB integrity in mouse neonatal retina. METHODS RA distribution in the developing neurovascular retina was assessed in mice carrying an RA-responsive transgene. RA function in retinal angiogenesis was determined by treating C57BL/6 neonatal pups with a pharmacological inhibitor of RA signaling BMS493 or control vehicle. BRB integrity assessed by monitoring leakage of injected tracer into extravascular retinal tissue. RESULTS RA signaling activity is present in peripheral astrocytes in domains corresponding to RA activity of the underlying neural retina. RA inhibition impaired retinal angiogenesis and reduced endothelial cell proliferation. RA inhibition also compromised BRB integrity. Vascular leakage was not associated with altered expression of CLDN5, PLVAP, LEF1 or VEcad. CONCLUSIONS RA signaling is needed for angiogenesis and integrity of the BRB in the neonatal mouse retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Engelbrecht
- University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA
| | - Melissa A Metzler
- Department of Oral Immunology and Infectious Diseases, University of Louisville School of Dentistry, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA
| | - Lisa L Sandell
- Department of Oral Immunology and Infectious Diseases, University of Louisville School of Dentistry, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA
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Bryant D, Pauzuolyte V, Ingham NJ, Patel A, Pagarkar W, Anderson LA, Smith KE, Moulding DA, Leong YC, Jafree DJ, Long DA, Al-Yassin A, Steel KP, Jagger DJ, Forge A, Berger W, Sowden JC, Bitner-Glindzicz M. The timing of auditory sensory deficits in Norrie disease has implications for therapeutic intervention. JCI Insight 2022; 7:148586. [PMID: 35132964 PMCID: PMC8855802 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.148586] [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: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Norrie disease is caused by mutation of the NDP gene, presenting as congenital blindness followed by later onset of hearing loss. Protecting patients from hearing loss is critical for maintaining their quality of life. This study aimed to understand the onset of pathology in cochlear structure and function. By investigating patients and juvenile Ndp-mutant mice, we elucidated the sequence of onset of physiological changes (in auditory brainstem responses, distortion product otoacoustic emissions, endocochlear potential, blood-labyrinth barrier integrity) and determined the cellular, histological, and ultrastructural events leading to hearing loss. We found that cochlear vascular pathology occurs earlier than previously reported and precedes sensorineural hearing loss. The work defines a disease mechanism whereby early malformation of the cochlear microvasculature precedes loss of vessel integrity and decline of endocochlear potential, leading to hearing loss and hair cell death while sparing spiral ganglion cells. This provides essential information on events defining the optimal therapeutic window and indicates that early intervention is needed. In an era of advancing gene therapy and small-molecule technologies, this study establishes Ndp-mutant mice as a platform to test such interventions and has important implications for understanding the progression of hearing loss in Norrie disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dale Bryant
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, and NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | - Valda Pauzuolyte
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, and NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | - Neil J Ingham
- Wolfson Centre for Age-Related Diseases, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Aara Patel
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, and NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | - Waheeda Pagarkar
- Great Ormond Street Hospital, Great Ormond Street, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lucy A Anderson
- UCL Ear Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Katie E Smith
- UCL Ear Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dale A Moulding
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, and NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yeh C Leong
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, and NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | - Daniyal J Jafree
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, and NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom.,UCL MB/PhD Programme, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David A Long
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, and NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | - Amina Al-Yassin
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, and NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | - Karen P Steel
- Wolfson Centre for Age-Related Diseases, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel J Jagger
- UCL Ear Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Forge
- UCL Ear Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Wolfgang Berger
- Institute of Medical Molecular Genetics, University of Zürich, Schlieren, Switzerland.,Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology (ZIHP), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jane C Sowden
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, and NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Bitner-Glindzicz
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, and NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom
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Agarwala S, Ramachandra NB. Risk homozygous haplotype regions for autism identifies population-specific ten genes for numerous pathways. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, PSYCHIATRY AND NEUROSURGERY 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s41983-021-00323-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Recessive homozygous haplotype (rHH) mapping is a reliable tool for identifying recessive genes by detecting homozygous segments of identical haplotype structures. These are shared at a higher frequency amongst probands compared to parental controls. Finding out such rHH blocks in autism subjects can help in deciphering the disorder etiology.
Objectives
The study aims to detect rHH segments of identical haplotype structure shared at a higher frequency in autism subjects than controls to identify recessive genes responsible for autism manifestation.
Methods
In the present study, 426 unrelated autism genotyped probands with 232 parents (116 trios) were obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) Database. Homozygosity mapping analyses have been performed on the samples using standardized algorithms using the Affymetrix GeneChip® 500K SNP Nsp and Sty mapping arrays datasets.
Results
A total of 38 homozygous haplotype blocks were revealed across sample datasets. Upon downstream analysis, 10 autism genes were identified based on selected autism candidate genes criteria. Further, expressive Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) analysis of SNPs revealed various binding sites for regulatory proteins BX3, FOS, BACH1, MYC, JUND, MAFK, POU2F2, RBBP5, RUNX3, and SMARCA4 impairing essential autism genes CEP290, KITLG, CHD8, and INS2. Pathways and processes such as adherens junction, dipeptidase activity, and platelet-derived growth factor—vital to autism manifestation were identified with varied protein-protein clustered interactions.
Conclusion
These findings bring various population clusters with significant rHH genes. It is suggestive of the existence of common but population-specific risk alleles in related autism subjects.
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47
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Wang J, Rattner A, Nathans J. A transcriptome atlas of the mouse iris at single-cell resolution defines cell types and the genomic response to pupil dilation. eLife 2021; 10:e73477. [PMID: 34783308 PMCID: PMC8594943 DOI: 10.7554/elife.73477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The iris controls the level of retinal illumination by controlling pupil diameter. It is a site of diverse ophthalmologic diseases and it is a potential source of cells for ocular auto-transplantation. The present study provides foundational data on the mouse iris based on single nucleus RNA sequencing. More specifically, this work has (1) defined all of the major cell types in the mouse iris and ciliary body, (2) led to the discovery of two types of iris stromal cells and two types of iris sphincter cells, (3) revealed the differences in cell type-specific transcriptomes in the resting vs. dilated states, and (4) identified and validated antibody and in situ hybridization probes that can be used to visualize the major iris cell types. By immunostaining for specific iris cell types, we have observed and quantified distortions in nuclear morphology associated with iris dilation and clarified the neural crest contribution to the iris by showing that Wnt1-Cre-expressing progenitors contribute to nearly all iris cell types, whereas Sox10-Cre-expressing progenitors contribute only to stromal cells. This work should be useful as a point of reference for investigations of iris development, disease, and pharmacology, for the isolation and propagation of defined iris cell types, and for iris cell engineering and transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Amir Rattner
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Jeremy Nathans
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
- Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreUnited States
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48
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Traylor M, Malik R, Gesierich B, Dichgans M. The BS variant of C4 protects against age-related loss of white matter microstructural integrity. Brain 2021; 145:295-304. [PMID: 34358307 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awab261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related loss of white matter microstructural integrity is a major determinant of cognitive decline, dementia, and gait disorders. However, the mechanisms and molecular pathways that contribute to this loss of integrity remain elusive. We performed a GWAS of white matter microstructural integrity as quantified by diffusion MRI metrics (mean diffusivity, MD; and fractional anisotropy, FA) in up to 31,128 individuals from UK Biobank (age 45-81 years) based on a 2 degrees of freedom (2df) test of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and SNP x age effects. We identified 18 loci that were associated at genome-wide significance with either MD (N = 16) or FA (N = 6). Among the top loci was a region on chromosome 6 encoding the human major histocompatibility complex (MHC). Variants in the MHC region were strongly associated with both MD (best SNP: 6:28866209_TTTTG_T, beta(SE)=-0.069(0.009); 2df p = 6.5x10-15) and FA (best SNP: rs3129787, beta(SE)=-0.056(0.008); 2df p = 3.5x10-12). Of the imputed HLA alleles and complement component 4 (C4) structural haplotype variants in the human MHC, the strongest association was with the C4-BS variant (for MD: beta(SE)=-0.070(0.010); p = 2.7x10-11; for FA: beta(SE)=-0.054(0.011); p = 1.6x10-7). After conditioning on C4-BS no associations with HLA alleles remained significant. The protective influence of C4-BS was stronger in older subjects (age ≥ 65; interaction p = 0.0019 (MD), p = 0.015 (FA)) and in subjects without a history of smoking (interaction p = 0.00093 (MD), p = 0.021 (FA)). Taken together, our findings demonstrate a role of the complement system and of gene-environment interactions in age-related loss of white matter microstructural integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Traylor
- Clinical Pharmacology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.,The Barts Heart Centre and NIHR Barts Biomedical Research Centre-Barts Health NHS Trust, The William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University London, London, UK
| | - Rainer Malik
- Institute for Stroke and Dementia Research (ISD), University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Benno Gesierich
- Institute for Stroke and Dementia Research (ISD), University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Martin Dichgans
- Institute for Stroke and Dementia Research (ISD), University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.,German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE, Munich), Munich, Germany.,Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
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49
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Wang Y, Smallwood PM, Williams J, Nathans J. A mouse model for kinesin family member 11 (Kif11)-associated familial exudative vitreoretinopathy. Hum Mol Genet 2021; 29:1121-1131. [PMID: 31993640 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddaa018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 12/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
During mitosis, Kif11, a kinesin motor protein, promotes bipolar spindle formation and chromosome movement, and during interphase, Kif11 mediates diverse trafficking processes in the cytoplasm. In humans, inactivating mutations in KIF11 are associated with (1) retinal hypovascularization with or without microcephaly and (2) multi-organ syndromes characterized by variable combinations of lymphedema, chorioretinal dysplasia, microcephaly and/or mental retardation. To explore the pathogenic basis of KIF11-associated retinal vascular disease, we generated a Kif11 conditional knockout (CKO) mouse and investigated the consequences of early postnatal inactivation of Kif11 in vascular endothelial cells (ECs). The principal finding is that postnatal EC-specific loss of Kif11 leads to severely stunted growth of the retinal vasculature, mildly stunted growth of the cerebellar vasculature and little or no effect on the vasculature elsewhere in the central nervous system (CNS). Thus, in mice, Kif11 function in early postnatal CNS ECs is most significant in the two CNS regions-the retina and cerebellum-that exhibit the most rapid rate of postnatal growth, which may sensitize ECs to impaired mitotic spindle function. Several lines of evidence indicate that these phenotypes are not caused by reduced beta-catenin signaling in ECs, despite the close resemblance of the Kif11 CKO phenotype to that caused by EC-specific reductions in beta-catenin signaling. Based on prior work, defective beta-catenin signaling had been the only known mechanism responsible for monogenic human disorders of retinal hypovascularization. The present study implies that retinal hypovascularization can arise from a second and mechanistically distinct cause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanshu Wang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Philip M Smallwood
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - John Williams
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jeremy Nathans
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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50
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Wang Y, Su Y, Yu G, Wang X, Chen X, Yu B, Cheng Y, Li R, Sáez JC, Yi C, Xiao L, Niu J. Reduced Oligodendrocyte Precursor Cell Impairs Astrocytic Development in Early Life Stress. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:e2101181. [PMID: 34155833 PMCID: PMC8373108 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202101181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Astrocyte maldevelopment is implicated in various neuropsychiatric diseases associated with early life stress. However, the underlying astrocytopathy mechanism, which can result in the psychiatric symptoms, remains unclear. In this study, it is shown that a reduced oligodendrocyte precursor cell (OPC) population accompanies hindered hippocampal astrocytic development in an improved parental isolation mouse model, and that the loss of OPCs suppresses astrocytic network formation and activity. It is further demonstrated that OPC-derived Wnt ligands, in particular Wnt7b, are required for Wnt/β-catenin pathway-mediated astrocytic development and subsequent effects related to neuronal function. In addition, focal replenishment of Wnt7a/b is sufficient to rescue astrocytic maldevelopment. These results elucidate a Wnt-paracrine-dependent but myelin-independent role of OPCs in regulating astrocytic development, which provides a unique insight into the astrocytopathy mechanism in early life stress, and can be implicated in the pathogenesis of human early life stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Wang
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyChongqing Key Laboratory of NeurobiologyBrain and Intelligence Research Key Laboratory of Chongqing Education CommissionThird Military Medical UniversityChongqing400038China
| | - Yixun Su
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyChongqing Key Laboratory of NeurobiologyBrain and Intelligence Research Key Laboratory of Chongqing Education CommissionThird Military Medical UniversityChongqing400038China
- Research CentreSeventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhen518107China
| | - Guangdan Yu
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyChongqing Key Laboratory of NeurobiologyBrain and Intelligence Research Key Laboratory of Chongqing Education CommissionThird Military Medical UniversityChongqing400038China
| | - Xiaorui Wang
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyChongqing Key Laboratory of NeurobiologyBrain and Intelligence Research Key Laboratory of Chongqing Education CommissionThird Military Medical UniversityChongqing400038China
| | - Xiaoying Chen
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyChongqing Key Laboratory of NeurobiologyBrain and Intelligence Research Key Laboratory of Chongqing Education CommissionThird Military Medical UniversityChongqing400038China
| | - Bin Yu
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyChongqing Key Laboratory of NeurobiologyBrain and Intelligence Research Key Laboratory of Chongqing Education CommissionThird Military Medical UniversityChongqing400038China
- Department of Neurosurgery2nd affiliated HospitalThird Military Medical UniversityChongqing400038China
| | - Yijun Cheng
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyChongqing Key Laboratory of NeurobiologyBrain and Intelligence Research Key Laboratory of Chongqing Education CommissionThird Military Medical UniversityChongqing400038China
| | - Rui Li
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyChongqing Key Laboratory of NeurobiologyBrain and Intelligence Research Key Laboratory of Chongqing Education CommissionThird Military Medical UniversityChongqing400038China
| | - Juan C. Sáez
- Instituto de NeurocienciaCentro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de ValparaísoValparaíso2381850Chile
| | - Chenju Yi
- Research CentreSeventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‐sen UniversityShenzhen518107China
| | - Lan Xiao
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyChongqing Key Laboratory of NeurobiologyBrain and Intelligence Research Key Laboratory of Chongqing Education CommissionThird Military Medical UniversityChongqing400038China
- Department of Neurosurgery2nd affiliated HospitalThird Military Medical UniversityChongqing400038China
| | - Jianqin Niu
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyChongqing Key Laboratory of NeurobiologyBrain and Intelligence Research Key Laboratory of Chongqing Education CommissionThird Military Medical UniversityChongqing400038China
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