1
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Yang Y, Zhang Z. α-Synuclein pathology from the body to the brain: so many seeds so close to the central soil. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1463-1472. [PMID: 38051888 PMCID: PMC10883481 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.387967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT α-Synuclein is a protein that mainly exists in the presynaptic terminals. Abnormal folding and accumulation of α-synuclein are found in several neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's disease. Aggregated and highly phosphorylated α-synuclein constitutes the main component of Lewy bodies in the brain, the pathological hallmark of Parkinson's disease. For decades, much attention has been focused on the accumulation of α-synuclein in the brain parenchyma rather than considering Parkinson's disease as a systemic disease. Recent evidence demonstrates that, at least in some patients, the initial α-synuclein pathology originates in the peripheral organs and spreads to the brain. Injection of α-synuclein preformed fibrils into the gastrointestinal tract triggers the gut-to-brain propagation of α-synuclein pathology. However, whether α-synuclein pathology can occur spontaneously in peripheral organs independent of exogenous α-synuclein preformed fibrils or pathological α-synuclein leakage from the central nervous system remains under investigation. In this review, we aimed to summarize the role of peripheral α-synuclein pathology in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease. We also discuss the pathways by which α-synuclein pathology spreads from the body to the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunying Yang
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Zhentao Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
- TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
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2
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Schneider TR, Stöckli L, Felbecker A, Nirmalraj PN. Protein fibril aggregation on red blood cells: a potential biomarker to distinguish neurodegenerative diseases from healthy aging. Brain Commun 2024; 6:fcae180. [PMID: 38873003 PMCID: PMC11170662 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcae180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease are characterized by the accumulation of misfolded proteins into fibrils in the brain. Atomic force microscopy is a nanoscale imaging technique that can be used to resolve and quantify protein aggregates from oligomers to fibrils. Recently, we characterized protein fibrillar aggregates adsorbed on the surface of red blood cells with atomic force microscopy from patients with neurocognitive disorders, suggesting a novel Alzheimer's disease biomarker. However, the age association of fibril deposits on red blood cells has not yet been studied in detail in healthy adults. Here, we used atomic force microscopy to visualize and quantify fibril coverage on red blood cells in 50 healthy adults and 37 memory clinic patients. Fibrillar protein deposits sporadically appeared in healthy individuals but were much more prevalent in patients with neurodegenerative disease, especially those with Alzheimer's disease as confirmed by positive CSF amyloid beta 1-42/1-40 ratios. The prevalence of fibrils on the red blood cell surface did not significantly correlate with age in either healthy individuals or Alzheimer's disease patients. The overlap in fibril prevalence on red blood cells between Alzheimer's disease and amyloid-negative patients suggests that fibril deposition on red blood cells could occur in various neurodegenerative diseases. Quantifying red blood cell protein fibril morphology and prevalence on red blood cells could serve as a sensitive biomarker for neurodegeneration, distinguishing between healthy individuals and those with neurodegenerative diseases. Future studies that combine atomic force microscopy with immunofluorescence techniques in larger-scale studies could further identify the chemical nature of these fibrils, paving the way for a comprehensive, non-invasive biomarker platform for neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luisa Stöckli
- Department of Neurology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen CH-9007, Switzerland
| | - Ansgar Felbecker
- Department of Neurology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen CH-9007, Switzerland
| | - Peter Niraj Nirmalraj
- Transport at Nanoscale Interfaces Laboratory, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Dübendorf CH-8600, Switzerland
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3
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Kluge A, Borsche M, Streubel-Gallasch L, Gül T, Schaake S, Balck A, Prasuhn J, Campbell P, Morris HR, Schapira AH, Lohmann K, Brüggemann N, Rakovic A, Seibler P, Başak AN, Berg D, Klein C. α-Synuclein Pathology in PRKN-Linked Parkinson's Disease: New Insights from a Blood-Based Seed Amplification Assay. Ann Neurol 2024; 95:1173-1177. [PMID: 38546204 DOI: 10.1002/ana.26917] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Pathogenic variants in PRKN cause early-onset Parkinson's disease (PD), while the role of alpha-synuclein in PRKN-PD remains uncertain. One study performed a blood-based alpha-synuclein seed amplification assay (SAA) in PRKN-PD, not detecting seed amplification in 17 PRKN-PD patients. By applying a methodologically different SAA focusing on neuron-derived extracellular vesicles, we demonstrated alpha-synuclein seed amplification in 8 of 13 PRKN-PD patients, challenging the view of PRKN-PD as a non-synucleinopathy. Moreover, we performed blinded replication of the neuron-derived extracellular vesicles-dependent SAA in idiopathic PD patients and healthy controls. In conclusion, blood-based neuron-derived extracellular vesicles-dependent SAA represents a promising biomarker to elucidate the underpinnings of (monogenic) PD. ANN NEUROL 2024;95:1173-1177.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annika Kluge
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel and Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Max Borsche
- Institute of Neurogenetics, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Lübeck and University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | | | - Tuğçe Gül
- Neurodegeneration Research Laboratory (NDAL), Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Susen Schaake
- Institute of Neurogenetics, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Alexander Balck
- Institute of Neurogenetics, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Lübeck and University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Jannik Prasuhn
- Institute of Neurogenetics, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Lübeck and University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Philip Campbell
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
- UCL Movement Disorders Center, University College London, London, UK
| | - Huw R Morris
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
- UCL Movement Disorders Center, University College London, London, UK
| | - Anthony H Schapira
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
- UCL Movement Disorders Center, University College London, London, UK
| | - Katja Lohmann
- Institute of Neurogenetics, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Norbert Brüggemann
- Institute of Neurogenetics, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Lübeck and University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | | | - Philip Seibler
- Institute of Neurogenetics, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - A Nazlı Başak
- Neurodegeneration Research Laboratory (NDAL), Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Daniela Berg
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel and Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Christine Klein
- Institute of Neurogenetics, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
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4
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Furlepa M, Zhang YP, Lobanova E, Kahanawita L, Vivacqua G, Williams-Gray CH, Klenerman D. Single-molecule characterization of salivary protein aggregates from Parkinson's disease patients: a pilot study. Brain Commun 2024; 6:fcae178. [PMID: 38863577 PMCID: PMC11166177 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcae178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Saliva is a convenient and accessible biofluid that has potential as a future diagnostic tool for Parkinson's disease. Candidate diagnostic tests for Parkinson's disease to date have predominantly focused on measurements of α-synuclein in CSF, but there is a need for accurate tests utilizing more easily accessible sample types. Prior studies utilizing saliva have used bulk measurements of salivary α-synuclein to provide diagnostic insight. Aggregate structure may influence the contribution of α-synuclein to disease pathology. Single-molecule approaches can characterize the structure of individual aggregates present in the biofluid and may, therefore, provide greater insight than bulk measurements. We have employed an antibody-based single-molecule pulldown assay to quantify salivary α-synuclein and amyloid-β peptide aggregate numbers and subsequently super-resolved captured aggregates using direct Stochastic Optical Reconstruction Microscopy to describe their morphological features. We show that the salivary α-synuclein aggregate/amyloid-β aggregate ratio is increased almost 2-fold in patients with Parkinson's disease (n = 20) compared with controls (n = 20, P < 0.05). Morphological information also provides insight, with saliva from patients with Parkinson's disease containing a greater proportion of larger and more fibrillar amyloid-β aggregates than control saliva (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the combination of count and morphology data provides greater diagnostic value than either measure alone, distinguishing between patients with Parkinson's disease (n = 17) and controls (n = 18) with a high degree of accuracy (area under the curve = 0.87, P < 0.001) and a larger dynamic range. We, therefore, demonstrate for the first time the application of highly sensitive single-molecule imaging techniques to saliva. In addition, we show that aggregates present within saliva retain relevant structural information, further expanding the potential utility of saliva-based diagnostic methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Furlepa
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1EW, UK
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0PY, UK
| | - Yu P Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1EW, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0XY, UK
| | - Evgeniia Lobanova
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1EW, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0XY, UK
| | - Lakmini Kahanawita
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0PY, UK
| | - Giorgio Vivacqua
- Microscopic and Ultrastructural Anatomy Research Unit-Integrated Research Centre (PRABB), Campus Biomedico University of Rome, 00128 Rome, Italy
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AH, UK
| | | | - David Klenerman
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1EW, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0XY, UK
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5
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Hong X, Zheng Y, Hou J, Jiang T, Lu Y, Wang W, Zhou S, Ye Q, Xie C, Li J. Detection of elevated levels of PINK1 in plasma from patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2024; 16:1369014. [PMID: 38711597 PMCID: PMC11070528 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2024.1369014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Backgrounds Numerous lines of evidence support the intricate interplay between Parkinson's disease (PD) and the PINK1-dependent mitophagy process. This study aimed to evaluate differences in plasma PINK1 levels among idiopathic PD, PD syndromes (PDs), and healthy controls. Methods A total of 354 participants were included, consisting of 197 PD patients, 50 PDs patients, and 107 healthy controls were divided into two cohorts, namely the modeling cohort (cohort 1) and the validated cohort (cohort 2). An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)-based analysis was performed on PINK1 and α-synuclein oligomer (Asy-no). The utilization of the area under the curve (AUC) within the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves served as a robust and comprehensive approach to evaluate and quantify the predictive efficacy of plasma biomarkers alone, as well as combined models, in distinguishing PD patients from controls. Results PINK1 and Asy-no were elevated in the plasma of PD and PDs patients compared to healthy controls. The AUCs of PINK1 (0.771) and Asy-no (0.787) were supposed to be potentially eligible plasma biomarkers differentiating PD from controls but could not differentiate PD from PDs. Notably, the PINK + Asy-no + Clinical RBD model showed the highest performance in the modeling cohort and was comparable with the PINK1 + Clinical RBD in the validation cohort. Moreover, there is no significant correlation between PINK1 and UPDRS, MMSE, HAMD, HAMA, RBDQ-HK, and ADL scores. Conclusion These findings suggest that elevated PINK1 in plasma holds the potential to serve as a non-invasive tool for distinguishing PD patients from controls. Moreover, the outcomes of our investigation lend support to the plausibility of implementing a feasible blood test in future clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianchai Hong
- Department of Neurology Nursing Unit 362 Ward, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yi Zheng
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jialong Hou
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yao Lu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Department of Neurology, Yuhuan City People's Hospital, Taizhou, China
| | - Wenwen Wang
- The Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Shuoting Zhou
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Qianqian Ye
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Chenglong Xie
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Alzheimer's Disease of Zhejiang Province, Wenzhou City, China
- Institute of Aging, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Oujiang Laboratory, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jia Li
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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6
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Hatano T, Okuzumi A, Matsumoto G, Tsunemi T, Hattori N. α-Synuclein: A Promising Biomarker for Parkinson's Disease and Related Disorders. J Mov Disord 2024; 17:127-137. [PMID: 38589016 PMCID: PMC11082597 DOI: 10.14802/jmd.24075] [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] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the SNCA gene, which encodes α-synuclein (α-syn), play a key role in the development of genetic Parkinson's disease (PD). α-Syn is a major component of Lewy bodies in PD and glial cytoplasmic inclusions in multiple system atrophy (MSA). Rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder patients often progress to PD, dementia with Lewy bodies, or MSA, which are collectively known as α-synucleinopathies. The loss of dopaminergic neurons with Lewy bodies precedes motor dysfunction in these diseases, but the mechanisms of neurodegeneration due to α-syn aggregation are poorly understood. Monitoring α-syn aggregation in vivo could serve as a diagnostic biomarker and help elucidate pathogenesis, necessitating a simple and accurate detection method. Seed amplification assays (SAAs), such as real-time quaking-induced conversion and protein misfolding cyclic amplification, are used to detect small amounts of abnormally structured α-syn protofibrils, which are central to aggregation. These methods are promising for the early diagnosis of α-synucleinopathy. Differences in α-syn filament structures between α-synucleinopathies, as observed through transmission electron microscopy and cryo-electron microscopy, suggest their role in the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration. SAAs may differentiate between subtypes of α-synucleinopathy and other diseases. Efforts are also being made to identify α-syn from blood using various methods. This review introduces body fluid α-syn biomarkers based on pathogenic α-syn seeds, which are expected to redefine α-synucleinopathy diagnosis and staging, improving clinical research accuracy and facilitating biomarker development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taku Hatano
- Department of Neurology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ayami Okuzumi
- Department of Neurology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Gen Matsumoto
- Department of Histology and Cell Biology, Nagasaki University School of Medicine, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Taiji Tsunemi
- Department of Neurology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nobutaka Hattori
- Department of Neurology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Neurodegenerative Disorders Collaboration Laboratory, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Saitama, Japan
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7
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Chan DKY, Chan LKM. Parkinson's disease and delirium: unveiling the new insights and their impact. Age Ageing 2024; 53:afae065. [PMID: 38557669 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afae065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel K Y Chan
- Department of Aged Care and Rehabilitation, Bankstown Hospital, Eldridge Rd, Bankstown, NSW 2200, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Anzac Pde, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Luke K M Chan
- Department of Anaesthesia, Cocnord Hospital, Hospital Rd, Concord, Sydney, NSW 2139, Australia
- Faculty of Health, Griffith University, Gold Coast campus, Southport, Gold Coast, QLD 4215, Australia
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8
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Wang B, Kobeissy F, Golpich M, Cai G, Li X, Abedi R, Haskins W, Tan W, Benner SA, Wang KKW. Aptamer Technologies in Neuroscience, Neuro-Diagnostics and Neuro-Medicine Development. Molecules 2024; 29:1124. [PMID: 38474636 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29051124] [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: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Aptamers developed using in vitro Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment (SELEX) technology are single-stranded nucleic acids 10-100 nucleotides in length. Their targets, often with specificity and high affinity, range from ions and small molecules to proteins and other biological molecules as well as larger systems, including cells, tissues, and animals. Aptamers often rival conventional antibodies with improved performance, due to aptamers' unique biophysical and biochemical properties, including small size, synthetic accessibility, facile modification, low production cost, and low immunogenicity. Therefore, there is sustained interest in engineering and adapting aptamers for many applications, including diagnostics and therapeutics. Recently, aptamers have shown promise as early diagnostic biomarkers and in precision medicine for neurodegenerative and neurological diseases. Here, we critically review neuro-targeting aptamers and their potential applications in neuroscience research, neuro-diagnostics, and neuro-medicine. We also discuss challenges that must be overcome, including delivery across the blood-brain barrier, increased affinity, and improved in vivo stability and in vivo pharmacokinetic properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bang Wang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
- The Foundation for Applied Molecular Evolution, 1501 NW 68th Terrace, Gainesville, FL 32605, USA
| | - Firas Kobeissy
- Center for Neurotrauma, MultiOmics and Biomarkers (CNMB), Department of Neurobiology, Neuroscience Institute, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
- Brain Rehabilitation Research Center, Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, 1601 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
- Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation (CVNR), Atlanta VA Health Care System, 1670 Clairmont Rd, Decatur, GA 30033, USA
| | - Mojtaba Golpich
- Center for Neurotrauma, MultiOmics and Biomarkers (CNMB), Department of Neurobiology, Neuroscience Institute, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA
| | - Guangzheng Cai
- Center for Neurotrauma, MultiOmics and Biomarkers (CNMB), Department of Neurobiology, Neuroscience Institute, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA
| | - Xiaowei Li
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Reem Abedi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107-2020, Lebanon
| | - William Haskins
- Gryphon Bio, Inc., 611 Gateway Blvd. Suite 120 #253, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Weihong Tan
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310022, China
| | - Steven A Benner
- The Foundation for Applied Molecular Evolution, 1501 NW 68th Terrace, Gainesville, FL 32605, USA
| | - Kevin K W Wang
- Center for Neurotrauma, MultiOmics and Biomarkers (CNMB), Department of Neurobiology, Neuroscience Institute, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
- Brain Rehabilitation Research Center, Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, 1601 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
- Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation (CVNR), Atlanta VA Health Care System, 1670 Clairmont Rd, Decatur, GA 30033, USA
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9
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Morris HR, Spillantini MG, Sue CM, Williams-Gray CH. The pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease. Lancet 2024; 403:293-304. [PMID: 38245249 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(23)01478-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative condition associated with the deposition of aggregated α-synuclein. Insights into the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease have been derived from genetics and molecular pathology. Biochemical studies, investigation of transplanted neurons in patients with Parkinson's disease, and cell and animal model studies suggest that abnormal aggregation of α-synuclein and spreading of pathology between the gut, brainstem, and higher brain regions probably underlie the development and progression of Parkinson's disease. At a cellular level, abnormal mitochondrial, lysosomal, and endosomal function can be identified in both monogenic and sporadic Parkinson's disease, suggesting multiple potential treatment approaches. Recent work has also highlighted maladaptive immune and inflammatory responses, possibly triggered in the gut, that accelerate the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease. Although there are currently no disease-modifying treatments for Parkinson's disease, we now have a solid basis for the development of rational neuroprotective therapies that we hope will halt the progression of this disabling neurological condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huw R Morris
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK; University College London Movement Disorders Centre, University College London, London, UK; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA.
| | - Maria Grazia Spillantini
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Carolyn M Sue
- Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Neurology, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA; Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, NSW, Australia.
| | - Caroline H Williams-Gray
- John Van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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10
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Liu Y, Wang X, Campolo G, Teng X, Ying L, Edel JB, Ivanov AP. Single-Molecule Detection of α-Synuclein Oligomers in Parkinson's Disease Patients Using Nanopores. ACS NANO 2023; 17:22999-23009. [PMID: 37947369 PMCID: PMC10690843 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c08456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
α-Synuclein (α-Syn) is an intrinsically disordered protein whose aggregation in the brain has been significantly implicated in Parkinson's disease (PD). Beyond the brain, oligomers of α-Synuclein are also found in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood, where the analysis of these aggregates may provide diagnostic routes and enable a better understanding of disease mechanisms. However, detecting α-Syn in CSF and blood is challenging due to its heterogeneous protein size and shape, and low abundance in clinical samples. Nanopore technology offers a promising route for the detection of single proteins in solution; however, the method often lacks the necessary selectivity in complex biofluids, where multiple background biomolecules are present. We address these limitations by developing a strategy that combines nanopore-based sensing with molecular carriers that can specifically capture α-Syn oligomers with sizes of less than 20 nm. We demonstrate that α-Synuclein oligomers can be detected directly in clinical samples, with minimal sample processing, by their ion current characteristics and successfully utilize this technology to differentiate cohorts of PD patients from healthy controls. The measurements indicate that detecting α-Syn oligomers present in CSF may potentially provide valuable insights into the progression and monitoring of Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaxian Liu
- Department
of Chemistry, Imperial College London, Molecular
Sciences Research Hub, London W12 0BZ, United
Kingdom
| | - Xiaoyi Wang
- Department
of Chemistry, Imperial College London, Molecular
Sciences Research Hub, London W12 0BZ, United
Kingdom
| | - Giulia Campolo
- Department
of Chemistry, Imperial College London, Molecular
Sciences Research Hub, London W12 0BZ, United
Kingdom
| | - Xiangyu Teng
- Department
of Chemistry, Imperial College London, Molecular
Sciences Research Hub, London W12 0BZ, United
Kingdom
| | - Liming Ying
- National
Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College
London, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, London W12 0BZ, United Kingdom
| | - Joshua B. Edel
- Department
of Chemistry, Imperial College London, Molecular
Sciences Research Hub, London W12 0BZ, United
Kingdom
| | - Aleksandar P. Ivanov
- Department
of Chemistry, Imperial College London, Molecular
Sciences Research Hub, London W12 0BZ, United
Kingdom
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11
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Zhang YP, Lobanova E, Emin D, Lobanov SV, Kouli A, Williams-Gray CH, Klenerman D. Imaging Protein Aggregates in Parkinson's Disease Serum Using Aptamer-Assisted Single-Molecule Pull-Down. Anal Chem 2023; 95:15254-15263. [PMID: 37782556 PMCID: PMC10585954 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c02515] [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: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
The formation of soluble α-synuclein (α-syn) and amyloid-β (Aβ) aggregates is associated with the development of Parkinson's disease (PD). Current methods mainly focus on the measurement of the aggregate concentration and are unable to determine their heterogeneous size and shape, which potentially also change during the development of PD due to increased protein aggregation. In this work, we introduce aptamer-assisted single-molecule pull-down (APSiMPull) combined with super-resolution fluorescence imaging of α-syn and Aβ aggregates in human serum from early PD patients and age-matched controls. Our diffraction-limited imaging results indicate that the proportion of α-syn aggregates (α-syn/(α-syn+Aβ)) can be used to distinguish PD and control groups with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.85. Further, super resolution fluorescence imaging reveals that PD serums have a higher portion of larger and rounder α-syn aggregates than controls. Little difference was observed for Aβ aggregates. Combining these two metrics, we constructed a new biomarker and achieved an AUC of 0.90. The combination of the aggregate number and morphology provides a new approach to early PD diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu P. Zhang
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
- UK
Dementia Research Institute at Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0XY, United Kingdom
| | - Evgeniia Lobanova
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
- UK
Dementia Research Institute at Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0XY, United Kingdom
| | - Derya Emin
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
- UK
Dementia Research Institute at Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0XY, United Kingdom
| | - Sergey V. Lobanov
- Medical
Research Council Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, United Kingdom
| | - Antonina Kouli
- Department
of Clinical Neurosciences, University of
Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0PY, United Kingdom
| | | | - David Klenerman
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
- UK
Dementia Research Institute at Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0XY, United Kingdom
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12
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Basha S, Mukunda DC, Rodrigues J, Gail D'Souza M, Gangadharan G, Pai AR, Mahato KK. A comprehensive review of protein misfolding disorders, underlying mechanism, clinical diagnosis, and therapeutic strategies. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 90:102017. [PMID: 37468112 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102017] [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: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Proteins are the most common biological macromolecules in living system and are building blocks of life. They are extremely dynamic in structure and functions. Due to several modifications, proteins undergo misfolding, leading to aggregation and thereby developing neurodegenerative and systemic diseases. Understanding the pathology of these diseases and the techniques used to diagnose them is therefore crucial for their effective management . There are several techniques, currently being in use to diagnose them and those will be discussed in this review. AIM/OBJECTIVES Current review aims to discuss an overview of protein aggregation and the underlying mechanisms linked to neurodegeneration and systemic diseases. Also, the review highlights protein misfolding disorders, their clinical diagnosis, and treatment strategies. METHODOLOGY Literature related to neurodegenerative and systemic diseases was explored through PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Medline databases. The keywords used for literature survey and analysis are protein aggregation, neurodegenerative disorders, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, systemic diseases, protein aggregation mechanisms, etc. DISCUSSION /CONCLUSION: This review summarises the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative and systemic disorders caused by protein misfolding and aggregation. The clinical diagnosis and therapeutic strategies adopted for the management of these diseases are also discussed to aid in a better understanding of protein misfolding disorders. Many significant concerns about the role, characteristics, and consequences of protein aggregates in neurodegenerative and systemic diseases are not clearly understood to date. Regardless of technological advancements, there are still great difficulties in the management and cure of these diseases. Therefore, for better understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of neurodegenerative and systemic diseases, more studies to identify novel drugs that may aid in their treatment and management are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaik Basha
- Department of Biophysics, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | | | - Jackson Rodrigues
- Department of Biophysics, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Meagan Gail D'Souza
- Department of Biophysics, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Gireesh Gangadharan
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Aparna Ramakrishna Pai
- Department of Neurology, Kasturba Medical College - Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Krishna Kishore Mahato
- Department of Biophysics, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India.
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13
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Okuzumi A, Hatano T, Matsumoto G, Nojiri S, Ueno SI, Imamichi-Tatano Y, Kimura H, Kakuta S, Kondo A, Fukuhara T, Li Y, Funayama M, Saiki S, Taniguchi D, Tsunemi T, McIntyre D, Gérardy JJ, Mittelbronn M, Kruger R, Uchiyama Y, Nukina N, Hattori N. Propagative α-synuclein seeds as serum biomarkers for synucleinopathies. Nat Med 2023; 29:1448-1455. [PMID: 37248302 PMCID: PMC10287557 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-023-02358-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 60.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Abnormal α-synuclein aggregation is a key pathological feature of a group of neurodegenerative diseases known as synucleinopathies, which include Parkinson's disease (PD), dementia with Lewy bodies and multiple system atrophy (MSA). The pathogenic β-sheet seed conformation of α-synuclein is found in various tissues, suggesting potential as a biomarker, but few studies have been able to reliably detect these seeds in serum samples. In this study, we developed a modified assay system, called immunoprecipitation-based real-time quaking-induced conversion (IP/RT-QuIC), which enables the detection of pathogenic α-synuclein seeds in the serum of individuals with synucleinopathies. In our internal first and second cohorts, IP/RT-QuIC showed high diagnostic performance for differentiating PD versus controls (area under the curve (AUC): 0.96 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.95-0.99)/AUC: 0.93 (95% CI 0.84-1.00)) and MSA versus controls (AUC: 0.64 (95% CI 0.49-0.79)/AUC: 0.73 (95% CI 0.49-0.98)). IP/RT-QuIC also showed high diagnostic performance in differentiating individuals with PD (AUC: 0.86 (95% CI 0.74-0.99)) and MSA (AUC: 0.80 (95% CI 0.65-0.97)) from controls in a blinded external cohort. Notably, amplified seeds maintained disease-specific properties, allowing the differentiation of samples from individuals with PD versus MSA. In summary, here we present a novel platform that may allow the detection of individuals with synucleinopathies using serum samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayami Okuzumi
- Department of Neurology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taku Hatano
- Department of Neurology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Gen Matsumoto
- Department of Histology and Cell Biology, Nagasaki University School of Medicine, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Shuko Nojiri
- Medical Technology Innovation Center, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shin-Ichi Ueno
- Department of Neurology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Haruka Kimura
- Department of Neurology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Soichiro Kakuta
- Laboratory of Morphology and Image Analysis, Biomedical Research Core Facilities, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akihide Kondo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takeshi Fukuhara
- Neurodegenerative Disorders Collaboration Laboratory, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yuanzhe Li
- Department of Neurology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Manabu Funayama
- Department of Neurology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinji Saiki
- Department of Neurology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Daisuke Taniguchi
- Department of Neurology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taiji Tsunemi
- Department of Neurology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Deborah McIntyre
- Transversal Translational Medicine, Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), Strassen, Luxembourg
| | - Jean-Jacques Gérardy
- Luxembourg National Center of Pathology (NCP), Laboratoire National de Santé (LNS); Department of Cancer Research (DOCR), Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH); Luxembourg Centre of Neuropathology (LCNP), Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB), Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine (FSTM) and Department of Life Sciences and Medicine (DLSM), University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Michel Mittelbronn
- Luxembourg National Center of Pathology (NCP), Laboratoire National de Santé (LNS); Department of Cancer Research (DOCR), Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH); Luxembourg Centre of Neuropathology (LCNP), Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB), Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine (FSTM) and Department of Life Sciences and Medicine (DLSM), University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Rejko Kruger
- Transversal Translational Medicine, Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), Strassen, Luxembourg
- Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg (CHL); Translational Neuroscience, Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB), University of Luxembourg, Strassen, Luxembourg
| | - Yasuo Uchiyama
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Neuropathology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Nukina
- Laboratory of Structural Neuropathology, Graduate School of Brain Science, Doshisha University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Nobutaka Hattori
- Department of Neurology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
- Neurodegenerative Disorders Collaboration Laboratory, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Saitama, Japan.
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14
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Keep RF, Jones HC, Hamilton MG, Drewes LR. A year in review: brain barriers and brain fluids research in 2022. Fluids Barriers CNS 2023; 20:30. [PMID: 37085841 PMCID: PMC10120509 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-023-00429-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023] Open
Abstract
This aim of this editorial is to highlight progress made in brain barrier and brain fluid research in 2022. It covers studies on the blood-brain, blood-retina and blood-CSF barriers (choroid plexus and meninges), signaling within the neurovascular unit and elements of the brain fluid systems. It further discusses how brain barriers and brain fluid systems are impacted in CNS diseases, their role in disease progression and progress being made in treating such diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard F Keep
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, R5018 BSRB 109 Zina Pitcher Place, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-2200, USA.
| | | | - Mark G Hamilton
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Division of Neurosurgery, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Lester R Drewes
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota Medical School Duluth, Duluth, MN, 55812, USA
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15
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Kohler V, Andréasson C. Reversible protein assemblies in the proteostasis network in health and disease. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1155521. [PMID: 37021114 PMCID: PMC10067754 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1155521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
While proteins populating their native conformations constitute the functional entities of cells, protein aggregates are traditionally associated with cellular dysfunction, stress and disease. During recent years, it has become clear that large aggregate-like protein condensates formed via liquid-liquid phase separation age into more solid aggregate-like particles that harbor misfolded proteins and are decorated by protein quality control factors. The constituent proteins of the condensates/aggregates are disentangled by protein disaggregation systems mainly based on Hsp70 and AAA ATPase Hsp100 chaperones prior to their handover to refolding and degradation systems. Here, we discuss the functional roles that condensate formation/aggregation and disaggregation play in protein quality control to maintain proteostasis and why it matters for understanding health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Kohler
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Claes Andréasson
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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16
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Impaired Extracellular Proteostasis in Patients with Heart Failure. Arch Med Res 2023; 54:211-222. [PMID: 36797157 DOI: 10.1016/j.arcmed.2023.02.001] [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: 09/11/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Proteostasis impairment and the consequent increase of amyloid burden in the myocardium have been associated with heart failure (HF) development and poor prognosis. A better knowledge of the protein aggregation process in biofluids could assist the development and monitoring of tailored interventions. AIM To compare the proteostasis status and protein's secondary structures in plasma samples of patients with HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), and age-matched individuals. METHODS A total of 42 participants were enrolled in 3 groups: 14 patients with HFpEF, 14 patients with HFrEF, and 14 age-matched individuals. Proteostasis-related markers were analyzed by immunoblotting techniques. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy in Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR) was applied to assess changes in the protein's conformational profile. RESULTS Patients with HFrEF showed an elevated concentration of oligomeric proteic species and reduced clusterin levels. ATR-FTIR spectroscopy coupled with multivariate analysis allowed the discrimination of HF patients from age-matched individuals in the protein amide I absorption region (1700-1600 cm-1), reflecting changes in protein conformation, with a sensitivity of 73 and a specificity of 81%. Further analysis of FTIR spectra showed significantly reduced random coils levels in both HF phenotypes. Also, compared to the age-matched group, the levels of structures related to fibril formation were significantly increased in patients with HFrEF, whereas the β-turns were significantly increased in patients with HFpEF. CONCLUSION Both HF phenotypes showed a compromised extracellular proteostasis and different protein conformational changes, suggesting a less efficient protein quality control system.
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17
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Kulenkampff K, Emin D, Staats R, Zhang YP, Sakhnini L, Kouli A, Rimon O, Lobanova E, Williams-Gray CH, Aprile FA, Sormanni P, Klenerman D, Vendruscolo M. An antibody scanning method for the detection of α-synuclein oligomers in the serum of Parkinson's disease patients. Chem Sci 2022; 13:13815-13828. [PMID: 36544716 PMCID: PMC9710209 DOI: 10.1039/d2sc00066k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Misfolded α-synuclein oligomers are closely implicated in the pathology of Parkinson's disease and related synucleinopathies. The elusive nature of these aberrant assemblies makes it challenging to develop quantitative methods to detect them and modify their behavior. Existing detection methods use antibodies to bind α-synuclein aggregates in biofluids, although it remains challenging to raise antibodies against α-synuclein oligomers. To address this problem, we used an antibody scanning approach in which we designed a panel of 9 single-domain epitope-specific antibodies against α-synuclein. We screened these antibodies for their ability to inhibit the aggregation process of α-synuclein, finding that they affected the generation of α-synuclein oligomers to different extents. We then used these antibodies to investigate the size distribution and morphology of soluble α-synuclein aggregates in serum and cerebrospinal fluid samples from Parkinson's disease patients. Our results indicate that the approach that we present offers a promising route for the development of antibodies to characterize soluble α-synuclein aggregates in biofluids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klara Kulenkampff
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of CambridgeCambridge CB2 1EWUK
| | - Derya Emin
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 1EWUK,UK Dementia Research Institute, University of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0XYUK
| | - Roxine Staats
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of CambridgeCambridge CB2 1EWUK
| | - Yu P. Zhang
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 1EWUK
| | - Laila Sakhnini
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of CambridgeCambridge CB2 1EWUK
| | - Antonina Kouli
- John Van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of CambridgeUK
| | - Oded Rimon
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of CambridgeCambridge CB2 1EWUK
| | - Evgeniia Lobanova
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 1EWUK,UK Dementia Research Institute, University of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0XYUK
| | - Caroline H. Williams-Gray
- John Van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of CambridgeUK
| | - Francesco A. Aprile
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of CambridgeCambridge CB2 1EWUK
| | - Pietro Sormanni
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of CambridgeCambridge CB2 1EWUK
| | - David Klenerman
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 1EWUK,UK Dementia Research Institute, University of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0XYUK
| | - Michele Vendruscolo
- Centre for Misfolding Diseases, Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of CambridgeCambridge CB2 1EWUK
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18
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Quantitative super-resolution imaging of pathological aggregates reveals distinct toxicity profiles in different synucleinopathies. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2205591119. [PMID: 36206368 PMCID: PMC9573094 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2205591119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein aggregation is a hallmark of major neurodegenerative disorders. Increasing data suggest that smaller aggregates cause higher toxic response than filamentous aggregates (fibrils). However, the size of small aggregates has challenged their detection within biologically relevant environments. Here, we report approaches to quantitatively super-resolve aggregates in live cells and ex vivo brain tissues. We show that Amytracker 630 (AT630), a commercial aggregate-activated fluorophore, has outstanding photophysical properties that enable super-resolution imaging of α-synuclein, tau, and amyloid-β aggregates, achieving ∼4 nm precision. Applying AT630 to AppNL-G-F mouse brain tissues or aggregates extracted from a Parkinson's disease donor, we demonstrate excellent agreement with antibodies specific for amyloid-β or α-synuclein, respectively, confirming the specificity of AT630. Subsequently, we use AT630 to reveal a linear relationship between α-synuclein aggregate size and cellular toxicity and discovered that aggregates smaller than 450 ± 60 nm (aggregate450nm) readily penetrated the plasma membrane. We determine aggregate450nm concentrations in six Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies donor samples and show that aggregates in different synucleinopathies demonstrate distinct potency in toxicity. We further show that cell-penetrating aggregates are surrounded by proteasomes, which assemble into foci to gradually process aggregates. Our results suggest that the plasma membrane effectively filters out fibrils but is vulnerable to penetration by aggregates of 450 ± 60 nm. Together, our findings present an exciting strategy to determine specificity of aggregate toxicity within heterogeneous samples. Our approach to quantitatively measure these toxic aggregates in biological environments opens possibilities to molecular examinations of disease mechanisms under physiological conditions.
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19
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Kouli A, Williams-Gray CH. Age-Related Adaptive Immune Changes in Parkinson’s Disease. JOURNAL OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE 2022; 12:S93-S104. [PMID: 35661020 PMCID: PMC9535571 DOI: 10.3233/jpd-223228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Ageing is a major risk factor for most neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s disease (PD). Progressive age-related dysregulation of the immune system is termed immunosenescence and is responsible for the weakened response to novel antigens, increased susceptibility to infections and reduced effectiveness of vaccines seen in the elderly. Immune activation, both within the brain and periphery, is heavily implicated in PD but the role of immunosenescence has not been fully explored. Studies to date provide some evidence for an attenuation in immunosenescence in PD, particularly a reduction in senescent CD8 T lymphocytes in PD cases compared to similarly aged controls. Here, we discuss recent evidence of age-related immune abnormalities in PD with a focus on T cell senescence and explore their potential role in disease pathogenesis and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonina Kouli
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, John Van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Cambridge, UK
| | - Caroline H. Williams-Gray
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, John Van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Cambridge, UK
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