1
|
Ihnatovych I, Saddler RA, Sule N, Szigeti K. Translational implications of CHRFAM7A, an elusive human-restricted fusion gene. Mol Psychiatry 2024; 29:1020-1032. [PMID: 38200291 PMCID: PMC11176066 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02389-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Genes restricted to humans may contribute to human-specific traits and provide a different context for diseases. CHRFAM7A is a uniquely human fusion gene and a negative regulator of the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7 nAChR). The α7 nAChR has been a promising target for diseases affecting cognition and higher cortical functions, however, the treatment effect observed in animal models failed to translate into human clinical trials. As CHRFAM7A was not accounted for in preclinical drug screens it may have contributed to the translational gap. Understanding the complex genetic architecture of the locus, deciphering the functional impact of CHRFAM7A on α7 nAChR neurobiology and utilizing human-relevant models may offer novel approaches to explore α7 nAChR as a drug target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ivanna Ihnatovych
- Department of Neurology, State University of New York at Buffalo, 875 Ellicott St., Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA
| | - Ruth-Ann Saddler
- Department of Neurology, State University of New York at Buffalo, 875 Ellicott St., Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA
| | - Norbert Sule
- Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, 665 Elm St, Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA
| | - Kinga Szigeti
- Department of Neurology, State University of New York at Buffalo, 875 Ellicott St., Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhou R, Niu K, Wang C, He J, Huang W, Li T, Lan H, Zhang Y, Dang X, Mao L. Human-specific CHRFAM7A primes macrophages for a heightened pro-inflammatory response at the earlier stage of inflammation. Cell Biol Int 2023; 47:1926-1941. [PMID: 37655479 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.12083] [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: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
α7-Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7-nAChR) is the key effector molecule of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway. Evolution has evolved a uniquely human α7-nAChR encoded by CHRFAM7A. It has been demonstrated that CHRFAM7A dominant negatively regulates the functions of α7-nAChR. However, its role in inflammation remains to be fully characterized. CHRFAM7A transgenic (Tg) mice were phenotypically normal and their peritoneal macrophages exhibited decreased ligand-binding capability and, importantly, an activated gene expression profile of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Surprisingly, when challenged with sepsis, the Tg mice showed no survival disadvantage relative to their wild-type (Wt) counterparts. Further analysis showed that the complete blood count and serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines were comparable at resting state, but the degrees of leukocyte mobilization and the increase of pro-inflammatory cytokines were significantly higher in Tg than Wt mice at the early stage of sepsis. In vitro, peritoneal macrophages of the Tg mice exhibited an exaggerated response to lipopolysaccharides (LPSs), especially at the earlier time points and at lower dosages of LPS. Remarkably, monocytes from CHRFAM7A-carrier showed similar dynamic changes of the pro-inflammatory cytokines to that observed in the Tg mice upon LPS challenge. Our results suggest that CHRFAM7A increases the mobilization of leukocytes and primes macrophages that confer an enhanced immune response at the early stage of inflammation, which may lead to prompt pathogen clearance, an evolutionary advantage in less severe inflammatory conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rui Zhou
- National Regional Children's Medical Center (Northwest), Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine to Pediatric Diseases of Shaanxi Province, Xi'an Key Laboratory of Children's Health and Diseases, Shaanxi Institute for Pediatric Diseases, Xi'an Children's Hospital, Affiliated Children's Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Keran Niu
- The Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Collaborative Innovation Center for Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Luzhou, China
| | - Chaoying Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Collaborative Innovation Center for Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Luzhou, China
| | - Jianghui He
- The Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Collaborative Innovation Center for Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Luzhou, China
| | - Wenjun Huang
- National Regional Children's Medical Center (Northwest), Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine to Pediatric Diseases of Shaanxi Province, Xi'an Key Laboratory of Children's Health and Diseases, Shaanxi Institute for Pediatric Diseases, Xi'an Children's Hospital, Affiliated Children's Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
- The Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Collaborative Innovation Center for Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Luzhou, China
| | - Tao Li
- The Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Collaborative Innovation Center for Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Luzhou, China
| | - Huan Lan
- The Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Collaborative Innovation Center for Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Luzhou, China
| | - Yanmin Zhang
- National Regional Children's Medical Center (Northwest), Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine to Pediatric Diseases of Shaanxi Province, Xi'an Key Laboratory of Children's Health and Diseases, Shaanxi Institute for Pediatric Diseases, Xi'an Children's Hospital, Affiliated Children's Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
- Department of Cardiology, Xi'an Children's Hospital, Affiliated Children's Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xitong Dang
- The Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Collaborative Innovation Center for Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Luzhou, China
| | - Liang Mao
- The Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Collaborative Innovation Center for Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Luzhou, China
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sinclair P, Kabbani N. Ionotropic and metabotropic responses by alpha 7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Pharmacol Res 2023; 197:106975. [PMID: 38032294 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) belong to a superfamily of cys-loop receptors characterized by the assembly of five subunits into a multi-protein channel complex. Ligand binding to nAChRs activates rapid allosteric transitions of the receptor leading to channel opening and ion flux in neuronal and non-neuronal cell. Thus, while ionotropic properties of nAChRs are well recognized, less is known about ligand-mediated intracellular metabotropic signaling responses. Studies in neural and non-neural cells confirm ionotropic and metabotropic channel responses following ligand binding. In this review we summarize evidence on the existence of ionotropic and metabotropic signaling responses by homopentameric α7 nAChRs in various cell types. We explore how coordinated calcium entry through the ion channel and calcium release from nearby stores gives rise to signaling important for the modulation of cytoskeletal motility and cell growth. Amino acid residues for intracellular protein binding within the α7 nAChR support engagement in metabotropic responses including signaling through heterotrimeric G proteins in neural and immune cells. Understanding the dual properties of ionotropic and metabotropic nAChR responses is essential in advancing drug development for the treatment of various human disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Nadine Kabbani
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Fairfax, VA, USA; School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Leonard S, Benfante R. Unanswered questions in the regulation and function of the duplicated α7 nicotinic receptor gene CHRFAM7A. Pharmacol Res 2023; 192:106783. [PMID: 37164281 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The α7 nicotinic receptor (α7 nAChR) is an important entry point for Ca2+ into the cell, which has broad and important effects on gene expression and function. The gene (CHRNA7), mapping to chromosome (15q14), has been genetically linked to a large number of diseases, many of which involve defects in cognition. While numerous mutations in CHRNA7 are associated with mental illness and inflammation, an important control point may be the function of a recently discovered partial duplication CHRNA7, CHRFAM7A, that negatively regulates the function of the α7 receptor, through the formation of heteropentamers; other functions cannot be excluded. The deregulation of this human specific gene (CHRFAM7A) has been linked to neurodevelopmental, neurodegenerative, and inflammatory disorders and has important copy number variations. Much effort is being made to understand its function and regulation both in healthy and pathological conditions. However, many questions remain to be answered regarding its functional role, its regulation, and its role in the etiogenesis of neurological and inflammatory disorders. Missing knowledge on the pharmacology of the heteroreceptor has limited the discovery of new molecules capable of modulating its activity. Here we review the state of the art on the role of CHRFAM7A, highlighting unanswered questions to be addressed. A possible therapeutic approach based on genome editing protocols is also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sherry Leonard
- Department of Psychiatry - University of Colorado Anschutz, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Roberta Benfante
- CNR - Institute of Neuroscience, Vedano al Lambro (MB), Italy; Dept. Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; NeuroMI - Milan Center for Neuroscience, University of Milano Bicocca, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Shelukhina I, Siniavin A, Kasheverov I, Ojomoko L, Tsetlin V, Utkin Y. α7- and α9-Containing Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors in the Functioning of Immune System and in Pain. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076524. [PMID: 37047495 PMCID: PMC10095066 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) present as many different subtypes in the nervous and immune systems, muscles and on the cells of other organs. In the immune system, inflammation is regulated via the vagus nerve through the activation of the non-neuronal α7 nAChR subtype, affecting the production of cytokines. The analgesic properties of α7 nAChR-selective compounds are mostly based on the activation of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway. The molecular mechanism of neuropathic pain relief mediated by the inhibition of α9-containing nAChRs is not fully understood yet, but the role of immune factors in this process is becoming evident. To obtain appropriate drugs, a search of selective agonists, antagonists and modulators of α7- and α9-containing nAChRs is underway. The naturally occurring three-finger snake α-neurotoxins and mammalian Ly6/uPAR proteins, as well as neurotoxic peptides α-conotoxins, are not only sophisticated tools in research on nAChRs but are also considered as potential medicines. In particular, the inhibition of the α9-containing nAChRs by α-conotoxins may be a pathway to alleviate neuropathic pain. nAChRs are involved in the inflammation processes during AIDS and other viral infections; thus they can also be means used in drug design. In this review, we discuss the role of α7- and α9-containing nAChRs in the immune processes and in pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Yuri Utkin
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +7-495-3366522
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Fehlings MG, Pedro K, Hejrati N. Management of Acute Spinal Cord Injury: Where Have We Been? Where Are We Now? Where Are We Going? J Neurotrauma 2022; 39:1591-1602. [PMID: 35686453 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2022.0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Michael G Fehlings
- Division of Genetics and Development, Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Medical Science, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Division of Neurosurgery and Spine Program, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Karlo Pedro
- Division of Neurosurgery and Spine Program, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nader Hejrati
- Division of Genetics and Development, Krembil Brain Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Division of Neurosurgery and Spine Program, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Peng W, Mao L, Dang X. The emergence of the uniquely human α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor gene and its roles in inflammation. Gene 2022; 842:146777. [PMID: 35952843 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2022.146777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The uniquely human CHRFAM7A gene is evolved from the fusion of two partially duplicated genes, ULK4 and CHRNA7. Transcription of CHRFAM7A gene produces a 1256-bp open reading frame (ORF) that encodes duplicate α7-nAChR (dup-α7-nAChR), in which a 27-aminoacid peptide derived from ULK4 gene replaces the 146-aminoacid N-terminal extracellular domain of α7-nAChR, and the rest protein domains are exactly the same as those of α7-nAChR. In vitro, dup-α7-nAChR has been shown to form hetero-pentamer with α7-nAChR and dominant-negatively inhibits the channel functions of the latter. α7-nAChR has been shown to participate in many pathophysiological processes such as cognition, memory, neuronal degenerative disease, psychological disease, and inflammatory diseases, among others, and thus has been extensively exploited as potential therapeutic targets for many diseases. Unfortunately, many lead compounds that showed potent therapeutic effect in preclinical animal models failed clinical trials, suggesting the possibility that the contribution of the uniquely human CHRFAM7A gene may not be accounted for in the preclinical research. Here, we review the emergence of CHRFAM7A gene and its transcriptional regulation, the regulatory roles of CHRFAM7A gene in α7-nAChR-mediated cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway, and the potential implications of CHRFAM7A gene in translational research and drug discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wanling Peng
- The Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Collaborative Innovation Center for Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, India
| | - Liang Mao
- The Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Collaborative Innovation Center for Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, India
| | - Xitong Dang
- The Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Collaborative Innovation Center for Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, India; Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The 1st Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Pattanaik B, Hammarlund M, Mjörnstedt F, Ulleryd MA, Zhong W, Uhlén M, Gummesson A, Bergström G, Johansson ME. Polymorphisms in alpha 7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor gene, CHRNA7, and its partially duplicated gene, CHRFAM7A, associate with increased inflammatory response in human peripheral mononuclear cells. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22271. [PMID: 35344211 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202101898r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The vagus nerve can, via the alpha 7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR), regulate inflammation. The gene coding for the α7nAChR, CHRNA7, can be partially duplicated, that is, CHRFAM7A, which is reported to impair the anti-inflammatory effect mediated via the α7nAChR. Several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been described in both CHRNA7 and CHRFAM7A, however, the functional role of these SNPs for immune responses remains to be investigated. In the current study, we set out to investigate whether genetic variants of CHRNA7 and CHRFAM7A can influence immune responses. By investigating data available from the Swedish SciLifeLab SCAPIS Wellness Profiling (S3WP) study, in combination with droplet digital PCR and freshly isolated PBMCs from the S3WP participants, challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), we show that CHRNA7 and CHRFAM7A are expressed in human PBMCs, with approximately four times higher expression of CHRFAM7A compared with CHRNA7. One SNP in CHRFAM7A, rs34007223, is positively associated with hsCRP in healthy individuals. Furthermore, gene ontology (GO)-terms analysis of plasma proteins associated with gene expression of CHRNA7 and CHRFAM7A demonstrated an involvement for these genes in immune responses. This was further supported by in vitro data showing that several SNPs in both CHRNA7 and CHRFAM7A are significantly associated with cytokine response. In conclusion, genetic variants of CHRNA7 and CHRFAM7A alters cytokine responses. Furthermore, given that CHRFAM7A SNP rs34007223 is associated with inflammatory marker hsCRP in healthy individuals suggests that CHRFAM7A may have a more pronounced role in regulating inflammatory processes in humans than previously been recognized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bagmi Pattanaik
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Maria Hammarlund
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Filip Mjörnstedt
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Marcus A Ulleryd
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Wen Zhong
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Protein Science, KTH-Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mathias Uhlén
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Protein Science, KTH-Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anders Gummesson
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Wallenberg Laboratory for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Göran Bergström
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Wallenberg Laboratory for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Maria E Johansson
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Di Lascio S, Fornasari D, Benfante R. The Human-Restricted Isoform of the α7 nAChR, CHRFAM7A: A Double-Edged Sword in Neurological and Inflammatory Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073463. [PMID: 35408823 PMCID: PMC8998457 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
CHRFAM7A is a relatively recent and exclusively human gene arising from the partial duplication of exons 5 to 10 of the α7 neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subunit (α7 nAChR) encoding gene, CHRNA7. CHRNA7 is related to several disorders that involve cognitive deficits, including neuropsychiatric, neurodegenerative, and inflammatory disorders. In extra-neuronal tissues, α7nAChR plays an important role in proliferation, differentiation, migration, adhesion, cell contact, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and tumor progression, as well as in the modulation of the inflammatory response through the “cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway”. CHRFAM7A translates the dupα7 protein in a multitude of cell lines and heterologous systems, while maintaining processing and trafficking that are very similar to the full-length form. It does not form functional ion channel receptors alone. In the presence of CHRNA7 gene products, dupα7 can assemble and form heteromeric receptors that, in order to be functional, should include at least two α7 subunits to form the agonist binding site. When incorporated into the receptor, in vitro and in vivo data showed that dupα7 negatively modulated α7 activity, probably due to a reduction in the number of ACh binding sites. Very recent data in the literature report that the presence of the duplicated gene may be responsible for the translational gap in several human diseases. Here, we will review the studies that have been conducted on CHRFAM7A in different pathologies, with the intent of providing evidence regarding when and how the expression of this duplicated gene may be beneficial or detrimental in the pathogenesis, and eventually in the therapeutic response, to CHRNA7-related neurological and non-neurological diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simona Di Lascio
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (BIOMETRA), Università degli Studi di Milano, 20129 Milan, Italy; (S.D.L.); (D.F.)
| | - Diego Fornasari
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (BIOMETRA), Università degli Studi di Milano, 20129 Milan, Italy; (S.D.L.); (D.F.)
- CNR Institute of Neuroscience, 20845 Vedano al Lambro, Italy
| | - Roberta Benfante
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (BIOMETRA), Università degli Studi di Milano, 20129 Milan, Italy; (S.D.L.); (D.F.)
- CNR Institute of Neuroscience, 20845 Vedano al Lambro, Italy
- NeuroMi, Milan Center for Neuroscience, University of Milano Bicocca, 20126 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Rasouli HR, Talebi S, Ahmadpour F. Evaluation of Associated Genes with Traumatic Pain: A Systematic Review. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS DRUG TARGETS 2022; 21:830-840. [PMID: 34872485 DOI: 10.2174/1871527320666211206121645] [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: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The knowledge about the molecular pathway of traumatic pain relief is less documented. This systematic review study aimed to identify the genes and molecular pathways associated with various traumatic pains. METHODS The online databases such as EMBASE, MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane Library, International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, Clinical Trials, Google Scholar, Wiley, ISI Web of Knowledge, and Scopus were searched. Two review authors searched and screened all records' titles and abstracts, and the third expert reviewer author resolved their disagreement. The study's design, various trauma injuries, types of genes, and molecular pathways were recorded. The genes and molecular pathways data were obtained via GeneCards®: The Human Gene Database (https://www.genecards.org). RESULTS Studies on a variety of trauma injuries regarding nerve and Spinal Cord Injuries (SCIs) (12 records), Hypertrophic scar with Severe Pain (one record), severe post-traumatic musculoskeletal pain (MSP) (one record), and orthopedic trauma (one record) were included. The main molecular pathways such as the immune system, apoptosis, and death receptor signaling, T-cell antigen receptor (TCR) signaling pathway, oxidative stress, interleukin(s) mediated signaling pathway, biological oxidations, metabolic pathways (especially amino acid metabolism and amino group), focal adhesion, the proliferation of vascular, epithelial, and connective tissue cells, angiogenesis and neural development were identified. CONCLUSION The immune system, apoptosis, and metabolic pathways are crucial for understanding the roles of genes in traumatic pain. It is recommended that these identified pathways and related genes be considered therapeutical targets for pain management in patients with trauma injuries. In addition, different forms of trauma injuries require different pathways and related genes to be considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Reza Rasouli
- Trauma Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samira Talebi
- National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fathollah Ahmadpour
- Trauma Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Lin M, Huang W, Kabbani N, Theiss MM, Hamilton JF, Ecklund JM, Conley YP, Vodovotz Y, Brienza D, Wagner AK, Robbins E, Sowa GA, Lipsky RH. Effect of CHRFAM7A Δ2bp gene variant on secondary inflammation after spinal cord injury. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251110. [PMID: 33956875 PMCID: PMC8101719 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The α7 neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (α7nAChRs) are essential for anti-inflammatory responses. The human-specific CHRFAM7A gene and its 2bp deletion polymorphism (Δ2bp variant) encodes a structurally-deficient α7nAChRs that may impact the anti-inflammatory function. We studied 45 spinal cord injury (SCI) patients for up to six weeks post SCI to investigate the role of the Δ2bp variant on multiple circulating inflammatory mediators and two outcome measures (neuropathic pain and risk of pressure ulcers). The patient's SCI were classified as either severe or mild. Missing values were imputed. Overall genetic effect was conducted with independent sample t-test and corrected with false discovery rate (FDR). Univariate analysis and regression analysis were applied to evaluate the Δ2bp effects on temporal variation of inflammatory mediators post SCI and their interaction with outcome measures. In severe SCI, the Δ2bp carriers showed higher levels of circulating inflammatory mediators than the Δ2bp non-carriers in TNF-α (FDR = 9.6x10-4), IFN-γ (FDR = 1.3x10-3), IL-13 (FDR = 1.6x10-3), CCL11 (FDR = 2.1x10-3), IL-12p70 (FDR = 2.2x10-3), IL-8 (FDR = 2.2x10-3), CXCL10 (FDR = 3.1x10-3), CCL4 (FDR = 5.7x10-3), IL-12p40 (FDR = 7.1x10-3), IL-1b (FDR = 0.014), IL-15 (FDR = 0.024), and IL-2 (FDR = 0.037). IL-8 and CCL2 were negatively associated with days post injury (DPI) for the Δ2bp carriers (P = 2x10-7 and P = 2x10-8, respectively) and IL-5 was positively associated with DPI for the Δ2bp non-carriers (P = 0.015). Neuropathic pain was marginally positively associated with IL-13 for the Δ2bp carriers (P = 0.056). In mild SCI, the Δ2bp carriers had lower circulating levels of IL-15 (FDR = 0.04) than the Δ2bp non-carriers. Temporal variation of inflammatory mediators post SCI was not associated with the Δ2bp variant. For the mild SCI Δ2bp carriers, risk of pressure ulcers was positively associated with circulating levels of IFN-γ, CXCL10, and CCL4 and negatively associated with circulating levels of IL-12p70. These findings support an important role for the human-specific CHRFAM7A Δ2bp gene variant in modifying anti-inflammatory function of α7nAChRs following SCI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mingkuan Lin
- School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, United States of America
- Inova Neuroscience and Spine Institute, Inova Health System, Falls Church, Virginia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Wan Huang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Nadine Kabbani
- School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Mark M. Theiss
- Department of Orthopedic Services, Inova Health System, Falls Church, Virginia, United States of America
| | - John F. Hamilton
- Inova Neuroscience and Spine Institute, Inova Health System, Falls Church, Virginia, United States of America
| | - James M. Ecklund
- Inova Neuroscience and Spine Institute, Inova Health System, Falls Church, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Yvette P. Conley
- School of Nursing and Department of Human Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Yoram Vodovotz
- Department of Surgery, Center for Inflammation & Regenerative Modeling in McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - David Brienza
- Rehabilitation Science &Technology, Bioengineering, McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Amy K. Wagner
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Emily Robbins
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Gwendolyn A. Sowa
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Robert H. Lipsky
- School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, United States of America
- Inova Neuroscience and Spine Institute, Inova Health System, Falls Church, Virginia, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kringel D, Malkusch S, Kalso E, Lötsch J. Computational Functional Genomics-Based AmpliSeq™ Panel for Next-Generation Sequencing of Key Genes of Pain. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22020878. [PMID: 33467215 PMCID: PMC7830224 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 12/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The genetic background of pain is becoming increasingly well understood, which opens up possibilities for predicting the individual risk of persistent pain and the use of tailored therapies adapted to the variant pattern of the patient's pain-relevant genes. The individual variant pattern of pain-relevant genes is accessible via next-generation sequencing, although the analysis of all "pain genes" would be expensive. Here, we report on the development of a cost-effective next generation sequencing-based pain-genotyping assay comprising the development of a customized AmpliSeq™ panel and bioinformatics approaches that condensate the genetic information of pain by identifying the most representative genes. The panel includes 29 key genes that have been shown to cover 70% of the biological functions exerted by a list of 540 so-called "pain genes" derived from transgenic mice experiments. These were supplemented by 43 additional genes that had been independently proposed as relevant for persistent pain. The functional genomics covered by the resulting 72 genes is particularly represented by mitogen-activated protein kinase of extracellular signal-regulated kinase and cytokine production and secretion. The present genotyping assay was established in 61 subjects of Caucasian ethnicity and investigates the functional role of the selected genes in the context of the known genetic architecture of pain without seeking functional associations for pain. The assay identified a total of 691 genetic variants, of which many have reports for a clinical relevance for pain or in another context. The assay is applicable for small to large-scale experimental setups at contemporary genotyping costs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dario Kringel
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Goethe-University, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (D.K.); (S.M.)
| | - Sebastian Malkusch
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Goethe-University, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (D.K.); (S.M.)
| | - Eija Kalso
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, P.O. Box 440, 00029 HUS Helsinki, Finland;
| | - Jörn Lötsch
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Goethe-University, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt am Main, Germany; (D.K.); (S.M.)
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-69-6301-4589; Fax: +49-69-6301-4354
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Anderson G, Maes M. Mitochondria and immunity in chronic fatigue syndrome. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2020; 103:109976. [PMID: 32470498 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.109976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
It is widely accepted that the pathophysiology and treatment of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) could be considerably improved. The heterogeneity of ME/CFS and the confusion over its classification have undoubtedly contributed to this, although this would seem a consequence of the complexity of the array of ME/CFS presentations and high levels of diverse comorbidities. This article reviews the biological underpinnings of ME/CFS presentations, including the interacting roles of the gut microbiome/permeability, endogenous opioidergic system, immune cell mitochondria, autonomic nervous system, microRNA-155, viral infection/re-awakening and leptin as well as melatonin and the circadian rhythm. This details not only relevant pathophysiological processes and treatment options, but also highlights future research directions. Due to the complexity of interacting systems in ME/CFS pathophysiology, clarification as to its biological underpinnings is likely to considerably contribute to the understanding and treatment of other complex and poorly managed conditions, including fibromyalgia, depression, migraine, and dementia. The gut and immune cell mitochondria are proposed to be two important hubs that interact with the circadian rhythm in driving ME/CFS pathophysiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Anderson
- CRC Scotland & London, Eccleston Square, London, UK.
| | - M Maes
- Dept Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand; Dept Psychiatry, Medical University Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.; IMPACT Research Center, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Viswanath O, Urits I, Burns J, Charipova K, Gress K, McNally A, Urman RD, Welschmeyer A, Berger AA, Kassem H, Sanchez MG, Kaye AD, Eubanks TN, Cornett EM, Ngo AL. Central Neuropathic Mechanisms in Pain Signaling Pathways: Current Evidence and Recommendations. Adv Ther 2020; 37:1946-1959. [PMID: 32291648 PMCID: PMC7467462 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-020-01334-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose This is a comprehensive review of the current literature on central neuropathic pain mechanisms that is secondary to spinal cord injury. It reviews recent and seminal findings on the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment and compares treatment options and recommendations. Recent Findings Neuropathic pain (NP) is a common complication of spinal cord injury (SCI). Chronicity of NP is attributed to increased abundance of inflammatory mediators and ion channel dysfunction leading to afferent nerve sensitization; nerve damage and nerve–glia cross talk have also been implicated. Conventional treatment is medical and has had limited success. Recent studies have made headway in identifying novel biomarkers, including microRNA and psychosocial attributes that can predict progress from SCI to chronic NP (CNP). Recent advances have provided evidence of efficacy for two promising drugs. Baclofen was able to provide good, long-lasting pain relief. Ziconotide, a voltage-gated calcium channel blocker, was studied in a small trial and was able to provide good analgesia in most participants. However, several participants had to be withdrawn because of worrisome creatine phosphokinase (CPK) elevations, and further studies are required to define its safety profile. Non-medical interventions include brain sensitization and biofeedback techniques. These methods have recently had encouraging results, albeit preliminary. Case reports of non-conventional techniques, such as hypnosis, were also reported. Summary CNP is a common complication of SCI and is a prevalent disorder with significant morbidity and disability. Conventional medical treatment is limited in efficacy. Recent studies identified baclofen and ziconotide as possible new therapies, alongside non-medical interventions. Further research into the pathophysiology is required to identify further therapy candidates. A multidisciplinary approach, including psychosocial support, medical and non-medical interventions, is likely needed to achieve therapeutic effects in this difficult to treat syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Omar Viswanath
- Valley Anesthesiology and Pain Consultants-Envision Physician Services, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Arizona College of Medicine Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Ivan Urits
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - James Burns
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Kyle Gress
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Richard D Urman
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ali Welschmeyer
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Amnon A Berger
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hisham Kassem
- Department of Anesthesiology, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL, USA
| | - Manuel G Sanchez
- Department of Pain Medicine, Pain Specialty Group, Newington, NH, USA
| | - Alan D Kaye
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Treniece N Eubanks
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Elyse M Cornett
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Anh L Ngo
- Department of Pain Medicine, Pain Specialty Group, Newington, NH, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| |
Collapse
|