1
|
Sala-Jarque J, Gil V, Andrés-Benito P, Martínez-Soria I, Picón-Pagès P, Hernández F, Ávila J, Lanciego JL, Nuvolone M, Aguzzi A, Gavín R, Ferrer I, Del Río JA. The cellular prion protein does not affect tau seeding and spreading of sarkosyl-insoluble fractions from Alzheimer's disease. Sci Rep 2024; 14:21622. [PMID: 39284839 PMCID: PMC11405773 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-72232-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The cellular prion protein (PrPC) plays many roles in the developing and adult brain. In addition, PrPC binds to several amyloids in oligomeric and prefibrillar forms and may act as a putative receptor of abnormal misfolded protein species. The role of PrPC in tau seeding and spreading is not known. In the present study, we have inoculated well-characterized sarkosyl-insoluble fractions of sporadic Alzheimer's disease (sAD) into the brain of adult wild-type mice (Prnp+/+), Prnp0/0 (ZH3 strain) mice, and mice over-expressing the secreted form of PrPC lacking their GPI anchor (Tg44 strain). Phospho-tau (ptau) seeding and spreading involving neurons and oligodendrocytes were observed three and six months after inoculation. 3Rtau and 4Rtau deposits from the host tau, as revealed by inoculating Mapt0/0 mice and by using specific anti-mouse and anti-human tau antibodies suggest modulation of exon 10 splicing of the host mouse Mapt gene elicited by exogenous sAD-tau. However, no tau seeding and spreading differences were observed among Prnp genotypes. Our results show that PrPC does not affect tau seeding and spreading in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Sala-Jarque
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Parc Científic de Barcelona, Baldiri and Reixac 15-21, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Ciberned (Network Centre of Biomedical Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Vanessa Gil
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Parc Científic de Barcelona, Baldiri and Reixac 15-21, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Ciberned (Network Centre of Biomedical Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pol Andrés-Benito
- Ciberned (Network Centre of Biomedical Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Barcelona, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Inés Martínez-Soria
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Parc Científic de Barcelona, Baldiri and Reixac 15-21, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Ciberned (Network Centre of Biomedical Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pol Picón-Pagès
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Parc Científic de Barcelona, Baldiri and Reixac 15-21, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Ciberned (Network Centre of Biomedical Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Félix Hernández
- Ciberned (Network Centre of Biomedical Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Biología Molecular 'Severo Ochoa' (CBMSO) CSIC/UAM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús Ávila
- Ciberned (Network Centre of Biomedical Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Biología Molecular 'Severo Ochoa' (CBMSO) CSIC/UAM, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Luis Lanciego
- Ciberned (Network Centre of Biomedical Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Neurosciences, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Mario Nuvolone
- Institute of Neuropathology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Adriano Aguzzi
- Amyloidosis Research and Treatment Center, Foundation Scientific Institute Policlinico San Matteo, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Rosalina Gavín
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Parc Científic de Barcelona, Baldiri and Reixac 15-21, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Ciberned (Network Centre of Biomedical Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Isidro Ferrer
- Ciberned (Network Centre of Biomedical Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Barcelona, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - José Antonio Del Río
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Parc Científic de Barcelona, Baldiri and Reixac 15-21, 08028, Barcelona, Spain.
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
- Ciberned (Network Centre of Biomedical Research of Neurodegenerative Diseases), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Burato A, Legname G. Comparing Prion Proteins Across Species: Is Zebrafish a Useful Model? Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04324-z. [PMID: 38918277 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04324-z] [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: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Despite the considerable body of research dedicated to the field of neurodegeneration, the gap in knowledge on the prion protein and its intricate involvement in brain diseases remains substantial. However, in the past decades, many steps forward have been taken toward a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying both the physiological role of the prion protein and the misfolding event converting it into its pathological counterpart, the prion. This review aims to provide an overview of the main findings regarding this protein, highlighting the advantages of many different animal models that share a conserved amino acid sequence and/or structure with the human prion protein. A particular focus will be given to the species Danio rerio, a compelling research organism for the investigation of prion biology, thanks to its conserved orthologs, ease of genetic manipulation, and cost-effectiveness of high-throughput experimentation. We will explore its potential in filling some of the gaps on physiological and pathological aspects of the prion protein, with the aim of directing the future development of therapeutic interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Burato
- Laboratory of Prion Biology, Department of Neuroscience, Scuola Internazionale Superiore Di Studi Avanzati (SISSA), Trieste, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Legname
- Laboratory of Prion Biology, Department of Neuroscience, Scuola Internazionale Superiore Di Studi Avanzati (SISSA), Trieste, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Hong JM, Munna AN, Moon JH, Seol JW, Park SY. Melatonin-mediated calcineurin inactivation attenuates amyloid beta-induced apoptosis. IBRO Neurosci Rep 2024; 16:336-344. [PMID: 38390232 PMCID: PMC10882114 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2024.02.001] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common age-related progressive neurodegenerative disorder. The accumulation of amyloid beta-peptide is a neuropathological marker of AD. While melatonin is recognized to have protective effects on aging and neurodegenerative disorders, the therapeutic effect of melatonin on calcineurin in AD is poorly understood. In this study, we examined the effect and underlying molecular mechanisms of melatonin treatment on amyloid beta-mediated neurotoxicity in neuroblastoma cells. Melatonin treatment decreased calcineurin and autophagy in neuroblastoma cells. Electron microscopy images showed that melatonin inhibited amyloid beta-induced autophagic vacuoles. The increase in the amyloid beta-induced apoptosis rate was observed more in PrPC-expressing ZW cells than in PrPC-silencing Zpl cells. Taken together, the results suggest that by mitigating the effect of calcineurin and autophagy flux activation, melatonin could also rescue amyloid beta-induced neurotoxic effects. These findings may be relevant to therapy for neurodegenerative diseases, including AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeong-Min Hong
- Biosafety Research Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jeonbuk National University, Gobong ro, Iksan, Jeonbuk 54596, Republic of Korea
| | - Ali Newaz Munna
- Biosafety Research Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jeonbuk National University, Gobong ro, Iksan, Jeonbuk 54596, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Hong Moon
- Biosafety Research Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jeonbuk National University, Gobong ro, Iksan, Jeonbuk 54596, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Won Seol
- Biosafety Research Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jeonbuk National University, Gobong ro, Iksan, Jeonbuk 54596, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Youel Park
- Biosafety Research Institute, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jeonbuk National University, Gobong ro, Iksan, Jeonbuk 54596, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Paprzycka O, Wieczorek J, Nowak I, Madej M, Strzalka-Mrozik B. Potential Application of MicroRNAs and Some Other Molecular Biomarkers in Alzheimer's Disease. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:5066-5084. [PMID: 38920976 PMCID: PMC11202417 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46060304] [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: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the world's most common neurodegenerative disease, expected to affect up to one-third of the elderly population in the near future. Among the major challenges in combating AD are the inability to reverse the damage caused by the disease, expensive diagnostic tools, and the lack of specific markers for the early detection of AD. This paper highlights promising research directions for molecular markers in AD diagnosis, including the diagnostic potential of microRNAs. The latest molecular methods for diagnosing AD are discussed, with particular emphasis on diagnostic techniques prior to the appearance of full AD symptoms and markers detectable in human body fluids. A collection of recent studies demonstrates the promising potential of molecular methods in AD diagnosis, using miRNAs as biomarkers. Up- or downregulation in neurodegenerative diseases may not only provide a new diagnostic tool but also serve as a marker for differentiating neurodegenerative diseases. However, further research in this direction is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olga Paprzycka
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland; (O.P.); (J.W.); (M.M.)
| | - Jan Wieczorek
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland; (O.P.); (J.W.); (M.M.)
| | - Ilona Nowak
- Silesia LabMed, Centre for Research and Implementation, Medical University of Silesia, 40-752 Katowice, Poland;
| | - Marcel Madej
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland; (O.P.); (J.W.); (M.M.)
- Silesia LabMed, Centre for Research and Implementation, Medical University of Silesia, 40-752 Katowice, Poland;
| | - Barbara Strzalka-Mrozik
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland; (O.P.); (J.W.); (M.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Benarroch E. What Are the Roles of Cellular Prion Protein in Normal and Pathologic Conditions? Neurology 2024; 102:e209272. [PMID: 38484222 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000209272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
|
6
|
Wu J, Wang X, Lakkaraju A, Sternke-Hoffmann R, Qureshi BM, Aguzzi A, Luo J. Channel Activities of the Full-Length Prion and Truncated Proteins. ACS Chem Neurosci 2024; 15:98-107. [PMID: 38096481 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00412] [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] [Indexed: 01/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Prion diseases are fatal neurodegenerative disorders characterized by the conversion of the cellular prion protein (PrPC) into a misfolded prion form, which is believed to disrupt the cellular membranes. However, the exact mechanisms underlying prion toxicity, including the formation of membrane pores, are not fully understood. The prion protein consists of two domains: a globular domain (GD) and a flexible N-terminus (FT) domain. Although a proximal polybasic amino acid (FT(23-31) sequence of FT is a prerequisite for cellular membrane permeabilization, other functional domain regions may modulate its effects. Through single-channel electrical recordings and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), we discovered that the FT(23-50) fragment forms pore-shaped oligomers and plays a dominant role in membrane permeabilization within the full-length mouse prion protein (mPrP(23-230)). In contrast, the FT(51-110) domain or the C-terminal domain downregulate the channel activity of FT(23-50) and mPrP(23-230). The addition of prion mimetic antibody, POM1 significantly amplifies mPrP(23-230) membrane permeabilization, whereas POM1_Y104A, a mutant that binds to PrP but cannot elicit toxicity, has a negligible effect on membrane permeabilization. Additionally, the anti-N-terminal antibody POM2 or Cu2+ binds to the FT domain, subsequently enhancing the FT(23-110) channel activity. Importantly, our setup provides a novel approach without an external fused protein to examine the channel activity of truncated PrP in the lipid membranes. We therefore propose that the primary N-terminal residues are essential for membrane permeabilization, while other functional segments of PrP play a vital role in modulating the pathological effects of PrP-mediated neurotoxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinming Wu
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institute, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland
| | - Xue Wang
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institute, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland
| | - Asvin Lakkaraju
- Institute of Neuropathology, University of Zurich and University Hospital Zurich, Zurich 8091, Switzerland
| | | | - Bilal M Qureshi
- Scientific Center for Optical and Electron Microscopy (ScopeM), ETH Zurich, Zurich 8093, Switzerland
| | - Adriano Aguzzi
- Institute of Neuropathology, University of Zurich and University Hospital Zurich, Zurich 8091, Switzerland
| | - Jinghui Luo
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institute, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Girigoswami K, Pallavi P, Girigoswami A. Intricate subcellular journey of nanoparticles to the enigmatic domains of endoplasmic reticulum. Drug Deliv 2023; 30:2284684. [PMID: 37990530 PMCID: PMC10987057 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2023.2284684] [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: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
It is evident that site-specific systemic drug delivery can reduce side effects, systemic toxicity, and minimal dosage requirements predominantly by delivering drugs to particular pathological sites, cells, and even subcellular structures. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and associated cell organelles play a vital role in several essential cellular functions and activities, such as the synthesis of lipids, steroids, membrane-associated proteins along with intracellular transport, signaling of Ca2+, and specific response to stress. Therefore, the dysfunction of ER is correlated with numerous diseases where cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, diabetes mellitus, hepatic disorder, etc., are very common. To achieve satisfactory therapeutic results in certain diseases, it is essential to engineer delivery systems that can effectively enter the cells and target ER. Nanoparticles are highly biocompatible, contain a variety of cargos or payloads, and can be modified in a pliable manner to achieve therapeutic effectiveness at the subcellular level when delivered to specific organelles. Passive targeting drug delivery vehicles, or active targeting drug delivery systems, reduce the nonselective accumulation of drugs while reducing side effects by modifying them with small molecular compounds, antibodies, polypeptides, or isolated bio-membranes. The targeting of ER and closely associated organelles in cells using nanoparticles, however, is still unsymmetrically understood. Therefore, here we summarized the pathophysiological prospect of ER stress, involvement of ER and mitochondrial response, disease related to ER dysfunctions, essential therapeutics, and nanoenabled modulation of their delivery to optimize therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Koyeli Girigoswami
- Medical Bionanotechnology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chettinad Hospital & Research Institute (CHRI), Chettinad Academy of Research and Education (CARE), Kelambakkam, Chennai, TN, India
| | - Pragya Pallavi
- Medical Bionanotechnology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chettinad Hospital & Research Institute (CHRI), Chettinad Academy of Research and Education (CARE), Kelambakkam, Chennai, TN, India
| | - Agnishwar Girigoswami
- Medical Bionanotechnology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chettinad Hospital & Research Institute (CHRI), Chettinad Academy of Research and Education (CARE), Kelambakkam, Chennai, TN, India
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Adulla A, Patel U, Ashok A, Katiyar P, Kaulakis M, Kritikos AE, Pillai S, Lee H, Lindner E, Rhee DJ, Singh N. α-Synuclein modulates fibronectin expression in the trabecular meshwork independent of TGFβ2. Exp Eye Res 2023; 226:109351. [PMID: 36539052 PMCID: PMC10384565 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
α-Synuclein (α-Syn) is implicated in Parkinson's disease (PD), a neuromotor disorder with prominent visual symptoms. The underlying cause of motor dysfunction has been studied extensively, and is attributed to the death of dopaminergic neurons mediated in part by intracellular aggregation of α-Syn. The cause of visual symptoms, however, is less clear. Neuroretinal degeneration due to the presence of aggregated α-Syn has been reported, but the evidence is controversial. Other symptoms including those arising from primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) are believed to be the side-effects of medications prescribed for PD. Here, we explored the alternative hypothesis that dysfunction of α-Syn in the anterior eye alters the interaction between the actin cytoskeleton of trabecular meshwork (TM) cells with the extracellular matrix (ECM), impairing their ability to respond to physiological changes in intraocular pressure (IOP). A similar dysfunction in neurons is responsible for impaired neuritogenesis, a characteristic feature of PD. Using cadaveric human and bovine TM tissue and primary human TM cells as models, we report two main observations: 1) α-Syn is expressed in human and bovine TM cells, and significant amounts of monomeric and oligomeric α-Syn are present in the AH, and 2) primary human TM cells and human and bovine TM tissue endocytose extracellular recombinant monomeric and oligomeric α-Syn via the prion protein (PrPC), and upregulate fibronectin (FN) and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), fibrogenic proteins implicated in POAG. Transforming growth factor β2 (TGFβ2), a fibrogenic cytokine implicated in ∼50% cases of POAG, is also increased, and so is RhoA-associated coiled-coil-containing protein kinase 1 (ROCK-1). However, silencing of α-Syn in primary human TM cells reduces FN, α-SMA, and ROCK-1 in the absence or presence of over-expressed active TGFβ2, suggesting modulation of FN and ROCK-1 independent of, or upstream of TGFβ2. These observations suggest that extracellular α-Syn modulates ECM proteins in the TM independently or via PrPC by activating the RhoA-ROCK pathway. These observations reveal a novel function of α-Syn in the anterior eye, and offer new therapeutic options.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anika Adulla
- Departments of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Urvi Patel
- Departments of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Ajay Ashok
- Departments of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Priya Katiyar
- Departments of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Mare Kaulakis
- Departments of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Alexander E Kritikos
- Departments of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Sachin Pillai
- Departments of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - HyunPin Lee
- Departments of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Ewald Lindner
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 4, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Douglas J Rhee
- Departments of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Neena Singh
- Departments of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Vanni I, Iacobone F, D’Agostino C, Giovannelli M, Pirisinu L, Altmeppen HC, Castilla J, Torres JM, Agrimi U, Nonno R. An optimized Western blot assay provides a comprehensive assessment of the physiological endoproteolytic processing of the prion protein. J Biol Chem 2022; 299:102823. [PMID: 36565989 PMCID: PMC9867980 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The prion protein (PrPC) is subjected to several conserved endoproteolytic events producing bioactive fragments that are of increasing interest for their physiological functions and their implication in the pathogenesis of prion diseases and other neurodegenerative diseases. However, systematic and comprehensive investigations on the full spectrum of PrPC proteoforms have been hampered by the lack of methods able to identify all PrPC-derived proteoforms. Building on previous knowledge of PrPC endoproteolytic processing, we thus developed an optimized Western blot assay able to obtain the maximum information about PrPC constitutive processing and the relative abundance of PrPC proteoforms in a complex biological sample. This approach led to the concurrent identification of the whole spectrum of known endoproteolytic-derived PrPC proteoforms in brain homogenates, including C-terminal, N-terminal and, most importantly, shed PrPC-derived fragments. Endoproteolytic processing of PrPC was remarkably similar in the brain of widely used wild type and transgenic rodent models, with α-cleavage-derived C1 representing the most abundant proteoform and ADAM10-mediated shedding being an unexpectedly prominent proteolytic event. Interestingly, the relative amount of shed PrPC was higher in WT mice than in most other models. Our results indicate that constitutive endoproteolytic processing of PrPC is not affected by PrPC overexpression or host factors other than PrPC but can be impacted by PrPC primary structure. Finally, this method represents a crucial step in gaining insight into pathophysiological roles, biomarker suitability, and therapeutic potential of shed PrPC and for a comprehensive appraisal of PrPC proteoforms in therapies, drug screening, or in the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Vanni
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
| | - Floriana Iacobone
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia D’Agostino
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Giovannelli
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Pirisinu
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Joaquin Castilla
- Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA) - CIC BioGUNE & IKERBasque, Bizkaia, Spain,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Maria Torres
- Centro de Investigación en Sanidad Animal (CISA-INIA-CSIC), Valdeolmos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Umberto Agrimi
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Romolo Nonno
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Abstract
To maintain energy supply to the brain, a direct energy source called adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is produced by oxidative phosphorylation and aerobic glycolysis of glucose in the mitochondria and cytoplasm. Brain glucose metabolism is reduced in many neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), where it appears presymptomatically in a progressive and region-specific manner. Following dysregulation of energy metabolism in AD, many cellular repair/regenerative processes are activated to conserve the energy required for cell viability. Glucose metabolism plays an important role in the pathology of AD and is closely associated with the tricarboxylic acid cycle, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and insulin resistance. The glucose intake in neurons is from endothelial cells, astrocytes, and microglia. Damage to neurocentric glucose also damages the energy transport systems in AD. Gut microbiota is necessary to modulate bidirectional communication between the gastrointestinal tract and brain. Gut microbiota may influence the process of AD by regulating the immune system and maintaining the integrity of the intestinal barrier. Furthermore, some therapeutic strategies have shown promising therapeutic effects in the treatment of AD at different stages, including the use of antidiabetic drugs, rescuing mitochondrial dysfunction, and epigenetic and dietary intervention. This review discusses the underlying mechanisms of alterations in energy metabolism in AD and provides potential therapeutic strategies in the treatment of AD.
Collapse
|
11
|
Mohammadi B, Song F, Matamoros-Angles A, Shafiq M, Damme M, Puig B, Glatzel M, Altmeppen HC. Anchorless risk or released benefit? An updated view on the ADAM10-mediated shedding of the prion protein. Cell Tissue Res 2022; 392:215-234. [PMID: 35084572 PMCID: PMC10113312 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03582-4] [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: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The prion protein (PrP) is a broadly expressed glycoprotein linked with a multitude of (suggested) biological and pathological implications. Some of these roles seem to be due to constitutively generated proteolytic fragments of the protein. Among them is a soluble PrP form, which is released from the surface of neurons and other cell types by action of the metalloprotease ADAM10 in a process termed 'shedding'. The latter aspect is the focus of this review, which aims to provide a comprehensive overview on (i) the relevance of proteolytic processing in regulating cellular PrP functions, (ii) currently described involvement of shed PrP in neurodegenerative diseases (including prion diseases and Alzheimer's disease), (iii) shed PrP's expected roles in intercellular communication in many more (patho)physiological conditions (such as stroke, cancer or immune responses), (iv) and the need for improved research tools in respective (future) studies. Deeper mechanistic insight into roles played by PrP shedding and its resulting fragment may pave the way for improved diagnostics and future therapeutic approaches in diseases of the brain and beyond.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Behnam Mohammadi
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
- Working Group for Interdisciplinary Neurobiology and Immunology (INI Research), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Feizhi Song
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Andreu Matamoros-Angles
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mohsin Shafiq
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Markus Damme
- Institute of Biochemistry, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Berta Puig
- Department of Neurology, Experimental Research in Stroke and Inflammation (ERSI), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Markus Glatzel
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kovač V, Čurin Šerbec V. Prion Protein: The Molecule of Many Forms and Faces. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031232. [PMID: 35163156 PMCID: PMC8835406 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular prion protein (PrPC) is a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored protein most abundantly found in the outer membrane of neurons. Due to structural characteristics (a flexible tail and structured core), PrPC interacts with a wide range of partners. Although PrPC has been proposed to be involved in many physiological functions, only peripheral nerve myelination homeostasis has been confirmed as a bona fide function thus far. PrPC misfolding causes prion diseases and PrPC has been shown to mediate β-rich oligomer-induced neurotoxicity in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease as well as neuroprotection in ischemia. Upon proteolytic cleavage, PrPC is transformed into released and attached forms of PrP that can, depending on the contained structural characteristics of PrPC, display protective or toxic properties. In this review, we will outline prion protein and prion protein fragment properties as well as overview their involvement with interacting partners and signal pathways in myelination, neuroprotection and neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
|
13
|
Panes JD, Saavedra P, Pineda B, Escobar K, Cuevas ME, Moraga-Cid G, Fuentealba J, Rivas CI, Rezaei H, Muñoz-Montesino C. PrP C as a Transducer of Physiological and Pathological Signals. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:762918. [PMID: 34880726 PMCID: PMC8648500 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.762918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
After the discovery of prion phenomenon, the physiological role of the cellular prion protein (PrP C ) remained elusive. In the past decades, molecular and cellular analysis has shed some light regarding interactions and functions of PrP C in health and disease. PrP C , which is located mainly at the plasma membrane of neuronal cells attached by a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor, can act as a receptor or transducer from external signaling. Although the precise role of PrP C remains elusive, a variety of functions have been proposed for this protein, namely, neuronal excitability and viability. Although many issues must be solved to clearly define the role of PrP C , its connection to the central nervous system (CNS) and to several misfolding-associated diseases makes PrP C an interesting pharmacological target. In a physiological context, several reports have proposed that PrP C modulates synaptic transmission, interacting with various proteins, namely, ion pumps, channels, and metabotropic receptors. PrP C has also been implicated in the pathophysiological cell signaling induced by β-amyloid peptide that leads to synaptic dysfunction in the context of Alzheimer's disease (AD), as a mediator of Aβ-induced cell toxicity. Additionally, it has been implicated in other proteinopathies as well. In this review, we aimed to analyze the role of PrP C as a transducer of physiological and pathological signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica D Panes
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Paulina Saavedra
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile.,Departamento de Fisiopatología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Benjamin Pineda
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Kathleen Escobar
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile.,Departamento de Fisiopatología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Magdalena E Cuevas
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Gustavo Moraga-Cid
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Jorge Fuentealba
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Coralia I Rivas
- Departamento de Fisiopatología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Human Rezaei
- Virologie et Immunologie Moléculaires (VIM), Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement (INRAE), Jouy-en-Josas, France.,Université de Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines (UVSQ), Versailles, France.,Université Paris-Saclay, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Carola Muñoz-Montesino
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Crestini A, Santilli F, Martellucci S, Carbone E, Sorice M, Piscopo P, Mattei V. Prions and Neurodegenerative Diseases: A Focus on Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 85:503-518. [PMID: 34864675 DOI: 10.3233/jad-215171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Specific protein misfolding and aggregation are mechanisms underlying various neurodegenerative diseases such as prion disease and Alzheimer's disease (AD). The misfolded proteins are involved in prions, amyloid-β (Aβ), tau, and α-synuclein disorders; they share common structural, biological, and biochemical characteristics, as well as similar mechanisms of aggregation and self-propagation. Pathological features of AD include the appearance of plaques consisting of deposition of protein Aβ and neurofibrillary tangles formed by the hyperphosphorylated tau protein. Although it is not clear how protein aggregation leads to AD, we are learning that the cellular prion protein (PrPC) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of AD. Herein, we first examined the pathogenesis of prion and AD with a focus on the contribution of PrPC to the development of AD. We analyzed the mechanisms that lead to the formation of a high affinity bond between Aβ oligomers (AβOs) and PrPC. Also, we studied the role of PrPC as an AβO receptor that initiates an AβO-induced signal cascade involving mGluR5, Fyn, Pyk2, and eEF2K linking Aβ and tau pathologies, resulting in the death of neurons in the central nervous system. Finally, we have described how the PrPC-AβOs interaction can be used as a new potential therapeutic target for the treatment of PrPC-dependent AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Crestini
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Santilli
- Biomedicine and Advanced Technologies Rieti Center, "Sabina Universitas", Rieti, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Martellucci
- Biomedicine and Advanced Technologies Rieti Center, "Sabina Universitas", Rieti, Italy
| | - Elena Carbone
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Sorice
- Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Piscopo
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Mattei
- Biomedicine and Advanced Technologies Rieti Center, "Sabina Universitas", Rieti, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Prion Protein Biology Through the Lens of Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation. J Mol Biol 2021; 434:167368. [PMID: 34808226 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2021.167368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Conformational conversion of the α-helix-rich cellular prion protein into the misfolded, β-rich, aggregated, scrapie form underlies the molecular basis of prion diseases that represent a class of invariably fatal, untreatable, and transmissible neurodegenerative diseases. However, despite the extensive and rigorous research, there is a significant gap in the understanding of molecular mechanisms that contribute to prion pathogenesis. In this review, we describe the historical perspective of the development of the prion concept and the current state of knowledge of prion biology including structural, molecular, and cellular aspects of the prion protein. We then summarize the putative functional role of the N-terminal intrinsically disordered segment of the prion protein. We next describe the ongoing efforts in elucidating the prion phase behavior and the emerging role of liquid-liquid phase separation that can have potential functional relevance and can offer an alternate non-canonical pathway involving conformational conversion into a disease-associated form. We also attempt to shed light on the evolutionary perspective of the prion protein highlighting the potential role of intrinsic disorder in prion protein biology and summarize a few important questions associated with the phase transitions of the prion protein. Delving deeper into these key aspects can pave the way for a detailed understanding of the critical molecular determinants of the prion phase transition and its relevance to physiology and neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
|
16
|
Dexter E, Kong Q. Neuroprotective effect and potential of cellular prion protein and its cleavage products for treatment of neurodegenerative disorders part II: strategies for therapeutics development. Expert Rev Neurother 2021; 21:983-991. [PMID: 34470554 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2021.1965882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: The cellular prion protein (PrPC), some of its derivatives (especially PrP N-terminal N1 peptide and shed PrP), and PrPC-containing exosomes have strong neuroprotective activities, which have been reviewed in the companion article (Part I) and are briefly summarized here.Areas covered: We propose that elevating the extracellular levels of a protective PrP form using gene therapy and other approaches is a very promising novel avenue for prophylactic and therapeutic treatments against prion disease, Alzheimer's disease, and several other neurodegenerative diseases. We will dissect the pros and cons of various potential PrP-based treatment options and propose a few strategies that are more likely to succeed. The cited references were obtained from extensive PubMed searches of recent literature, including peer-reviewed original articles and review articles.Expert opinion: Concurrent knockdown of celllular PrP expression and elevation of the extracellular levels of a neuroprotective PrP N-terminal peptide via optimized gene therapy vectors is a highly promising broad-spectrum prophylactic and therapeutic strategy against several neurodegenerative diseases, including prion diseases, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily Dexter
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Qingzhong Kong
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.,Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|