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Hörner M, Popp S, Branchu J, Stevanin G, Darios F, Klebe S, Groh J, Martini R. Clinically approved immunomodulators ameliorate behavioral changes in a mouse model of hereditary spastic paraplegia type 11. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1299554. [PMID: 38435059 PMCID: PMC10904495 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1299554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
We have previously demonstrated that neuroinflammation by the adaptive immune system acts as a robust and targetable disease amplifier in a mouse model of Spastic Paraplegia, type 11 (SPG11), a complicated form of Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia (HSP). While we identified an impact of neuroinflammation on distinct neuropathological changes and gait performance, neuropsychological features, typical and clinically highly relevant symptoms of complicated HSPs, were not addressed. Here we show that the corresponding SPG11 mouse model shows distinct behavioral abnormalities, particularly related to social behavior thus partially reflecting the neuropsychological changes in patients. We provide evidence that some behavioral abnormalities can be mitigated by genetic inactivation of the adaptive immune system. Translating this into a clinically applicable approach, we show that treatment with the established immunomodulators fingolimod or teriflunomide significantly attenuates distinct behavioral abnormalities, with the most striking effect on social behavior. This study links neuroinflammation to behavioral abnormalities in a mouse model of SPG11 and may thus pave the way for using immunomodulators as a treatment approach for SPG11 and possibly other complicated forms of HSP with neuropsychological involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Hörner
- Section of Developmental Neurobiology, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Division of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Department of Neurology, Heidelberg University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sandy Popp
- Section of Developmental Neurobiology, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Center of Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- TSE Systems GmbH, Berlin, Germany
| | - Julien Branchu
- Institut du Cerveau – Paris Brain Institute, Inserm, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- EVerZom, Paris, France
| | - Giovanni Stevanin
- Institut du Cerveau – Paris Brain Institute, Inserm, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- INCIA, CNRS, EPHE, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Frédéric Darios
- Institut du Cerveau – Paris Brain Institute, Inserm, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Stephan Klebe
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Janos Groh
- Section of Developmental Neurobiology, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Institute of Neuronal Cell Biology, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Rudolf Martini
- Section of Developmental Neurobiology, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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El-Hage N, Haney MJ, Zhao Y, Rodriguez M, Wu Z, Liu M, Swain CJ, Yuan H, Batrakova EV. Extracellular Vesicles Released by Genetically Modified Macrophages Activate Autophagy and Produce Potent Neuroprotection in Mouse Model of Lysosomal Storage Disorder, Batten Disease. Cells 2023; 12:1497. [PMID: 37296618 PMCID: PMC10252192 DOI: 10.3390/cells12111497] [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: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the recent decades, the use of extracellular vesicles (EVs) has attracted considerable attention. Herein, we report the development of a novel EV-based drug delivery system for the transport of the lysosomal enzyme tripeptidyl peptidase-1 (TPP1) to treat Batten disease (BD). Endogenous loading of macrophage-derived EVs was achieved through transfection of parent cells with TPP1-encoding pDNA. More than 20% ID/g was detected in the brain following a single intrathecal injection of EVs in a mouse model of BD, ceroid lipofuscinosis neuronal type 2 (CLN2) mice. Furthermore, the cumulative effect of EVs repetitive administrations in the brain was demonstrated. TPP1-loaded EVs (EV-TPP1) produced potent therapeutic effects, resulting in efficient elimination of lipofuscin aggregates in lysosomes, decreased inflammation, and improved neuronal survival in CLN2 mice. In terms of mechanism, EV-TPP1 treatments caused significant activation of the autophagy pathway, including altered expression of the autophagy-related proteins LC3 and P62, in the CLN2 mouse brain. We hypothesized that along with TPP1 delivery to the brain, EV-based formulations can enhance host cellular homeostasis, causing degradation of lipofuscin aggregates through the autophagy-lysosomal pathway. Overall, continued research into new and effective therapies for BD is crucial for improving the lives of those affected by this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazira El-Hage
- Department of Immunology and Nanomedicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA; (N.E.-H.); (M.R.)
| | - Matthew J. Haney
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (M.J.H.); (Y.Z.)
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (M.L.); (C.J.S.)
| | - Yuling Zhao
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (M.J.H.); (Y.Z.)
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (M.L.); (C.J.S.)
| | - Myosotys Rodriguez
- Department of Immunology and Nanomedicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA; (N.E.-H.); (M.R.)
| | - Zhanhong Wu
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA; (Z.W.); (H.Y.)
| | - Mori Liu
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (M.L.); (C.J.S.)
| | - Carson J. Swain
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (M.L.); (C.J.S.)
| | - Hong Yuan
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA; (Z.W.); (H.Y.)
| | - Elena V. Batrakova
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (M.J.H.); (Y.Z.)
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (M.L.); (C.J.S.)
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Abdelwahab T, Stadler D, Knöpper K, Arampatzi P, Saliba AE, Kastenmüller W, Martini R, Groh J. Cytotoxic CNS-associated T cells drive axon degeneration by targeting perturbed oligodendrocytes in PLP1 mutant mice. iScience 2023; 26:106698. [PMID: 37182098 PMCID: PMC10172788 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Myelin defects lead to neurological dysfunction in various diseases and in normal aging. Chronic neuroinflammation often contributes to axon-myelin damage in these conditions and can be initiated and/or sustained by perturbed myelinating glia. We have previously shown that distinct PLP1 mutations result in neurodegeneration that is largely driven by adaptive immune cells. Here we characterize CD8+ CNS-associated T cells in myelin mutants using single-cell transcriptomics and identify population heterogeneity and disease-associated changes. We demonstrate that early sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor modulation attenuates T cell recruitment and neural damage, while later targeting of CNS-associated T cell populations is inefficient. Applying bone marrow chimerism and utilizing random X chromosome inactivation, we provide evidence that axonal damage is driven by cytotoxic, antigen specific CD8+ T cells that target mutant myelinating oligodendrocytes. These findings offer insights into neural-immune interactions and are of translational relevance for neurological conditions associated with myelin defects and neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tassnim Abdelwahab
- Department of Neurology, Section of Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - David Stadler
- Department of Neurology, Section of Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Konrad Knöpper
- Institute for Systems Immunology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Antoine-Emmanuel Saliba
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research, Helmholtz-Center for Infection Research, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Rudolf Martini
- Department of Neurology, Section of Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Janos Groh
- Department of Neurology, Section of Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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Peviani M, Das S, Patel J, Jno‐Charles O, Kumar R, Zguro A, Mathews TD, Cabras P, Milazzo R, Cavalca E, Poletti V, Biffi A. An innovative hematopoietic stem cell gene therapy approach benefits CLN1 disease in the mouse model. EMBO Mol Med 2023; 15:e15968. [PMID: 36876653 PMCID: PMC10086581 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202215968] [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: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) can establish a long-lasting microglia-like progeny in the central nervous system of properly myeloablated hosts. We exploited this approach to treat the severe CLN1 neurodegenerative disorder, which is the most aggressive form of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses due to palmitoyl-protein thioesterase-1 (PPT1) deficiency. We here provide the first evidence that (i) transplantation of wild-type HSPCs exerts partial but long-lasting mitigation of CLN1 symptoms; (ii) transplantation of HSPCs over-expressing hPPT1 by lentiviral gene transfer enhances the therapeutic benefit of HSPCs transplant, with first demonstration of such a dose-effect benefit for a purely neurodegenerative condition like CLN1 disease; (iii) transplantation of hPPT1 over-expressing HSPCs by a novel intracerebroventricular (ICV) approach is sufficient to transiently ameliorate CLN1-symptoms in the absence of hematopoietic tissue engraftment of the transduced cells; and (iv) combinatorial transplantation of transduced HSPCs intravenously and ICV results in a robust therapeutic benefit, particularly on symptomatic animals. Overall, these findings provide first evidence of efficacy and feasibility of this novel approach to treat CLN1 disease and possibly other neurodegenerative conditions, paving the way for its future clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Peviani
- Gene Therapy ProgramDana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders CenterBostonMAUSA
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR‐TIGET), San Raffaele Scientific InstituteMilanItaly
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “L. Spallanzani”University of PaviaPaviaItaly
| | - Sabyasachi Das
- Gene Therapy ProgramDana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders CenterBostonMAUSA
| | - Janki Patel
- Gene Therapy ProgramDana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders CenterBostonMAUSA
| | - Odella Jno‐Charles
- Gene Therapy ProgramDana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders CenterBostonMAUSA
| | - Rajesh Kumar
- Gene Therapy ProgramDana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders CenterBostonMAUSA
| | - Ana Zguro
- Gene Therapy ProgramDana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders CenterBostonMAUSA
| | - Tyler D Mathews
- Gene Therapy ProgramDana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders CenterBostonMAUSA
| | - Paolo Cabras
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “L. Spallanzani”University of PaviaPaviaItaly
| | - Rita Milazzo
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR‐TIGET), San Raffaele Scientific InstituteMilanItaly
| | - Eleonora Cavalca
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR‐TIGET), San Raffaele Scientific InstituteMilanItaly
| | - Valentina Poletti
- Gene Therapy ProgramDana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders CenterBostonMAUSA
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Alessandra Biffi
- Gene Therapy ProgramDana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders CenterBostonMAUSA
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
- Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplant Division, Woman's and Child Health DepartmentUniversity of PadovaPadovaItaly
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Recent Insight into the Genetic Basis, Clinical Features, and Diagnostic Methods for Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105729. [PMID: 35628533 PMCID: PMC9145894 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (NCLs) are a group of rare, inherited, neurodegenerative lysosomal storage disorders that affect children and adults. They are traditionally grouped together, based on shared clinical symptoms and pathological ground. To date, 13 autosomal recessive gene variants, as well as one autosomal dominant gene variant, of NCL have been described. These genes encode a variety of proteins, whose functions have not been fully defined; most are lysosomal enzymes, transmembrane proteins of the lysosome, or other organelles. Common symptoms of NCLs include the progressive loss of vision, mental and motor deterioration, epileptic seizures, premature death, and, in rare adult-onset cases, dementia. Depending on the mutation, these symptoms can vary, with respect to the severity and onset of symptoms by age. Currently, all forms of NCL are fatal, and no curative treatments are available. Herein, we provide an overview to summarize the current knowledge regarding the pathophysiology, genetics, and clinical manifestation of these conditions, as well as the approach to diagnosis.
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Seizures in PPT1 Knock-In Mice Are Associated with Inflammatory Activation of Microglia. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105586. [PMID: 35628400 PMCID: PMC9144763 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (INCL), the most severe form of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses, is caused by mutations in the lysosomal enzyme palmitoyl protein thioesterase 1 (PPT1). Typical symptoms of this disease include progressive psychomotor developmental retardation, visual failure, seizures, and premature death. Here, we investigated seizure activity and relevant pathological changes in PPT1 knock-in mice (PPT1 KI). The behavior studies in this study demonstrated that PPT1 KI mice had no significant seizure activity until 7 months of age, and local field potentials also displayed epileptiform activity at the same age. The expression levels of Iba-1 and CD68 demonstrated, by Western blot analysis, the inflammatory cytokine TNF-α content measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and the number of microglia demonstrated by immunohistochemistry (IHC) were significantly increased at age of 7 months, all of which indicate microglia activation at an age of seizure onset. The increased expression of GFAP were seen at an earlier age of 4 months, and such an increase reached its peak at age of 6 months, indicating that astrocyte activation precedes microglia. The purinergic P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) is an ATP-sensitive ionic channel that is highly expressed in microglia and is fundamental to microglial activation, proliferation, cytokines release and epilepsy. We show that the ATP concentration in hippocampal tissue in PPT1 KI mice was increased using an enhanced ATP assay kit and demonstrated that the antagonist of P2X7R, A-438079, significantly reduced seizures in PPT1 KI mice. In contrast to glial cell activation and proliferation, a significant reduction in synaptic proteins GABAAR was seen in PPT1 KI mice. These results indicate that seizure in PPT1 KI mice may be associated with microglial activation involved in ATP-sensitive P2X7R signaling and impaired inhibitory neurotransmission.
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Hörner M, Groh J, Klein D, Ilg W, Schöls L, Santos SD, Bergmann A, Klebe S, Cauhape M, Branchu J, El Hachimi KH, Stevanin G, Darios F, Martini R. CNS-associated T-lymphocytes in a mouse model of Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia type 11 (SPG11) are therapeutic targets for established immunomodulators. Exp Neurol 2022; 355:114119. [DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2022.114119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Bartsch U, Storch S. Experimental Therapeutic Approaches for the Treatment of Retinal Pathology in Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinoses. Front Neurol 2022; 13:866983. [PMID: 35509995 PMCID: PMC9058077 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.866983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (NCLs) are a group of childhood-onset neurodegenerative lysosomal storage disorders mainly affecting the brain and the retina. In the NCLs, disease-causing mutations in 13 different ceroid lipofuscinoses genes (CLN) have been identified. The clinical symptoms include seizures, progressive neurological decline, deterioration of motor and language skills, and dementia resulting in premature death. In addition, the deterioration and loss of vision caused by progressive retinal degeneration is another major hallmark of NCLs. To date, there is no curative therapy for the treatment of retinal degeneration and vision loss in patients with NCL. In this review, the key findings of different experimental approaches in NCL animal models aimed at attenuating progressive retinal degeneration and the decline in retinal function are discussed. Different approaches, including experimental enzyme replacement therapy, gene therapy, cell-based therapy, and immunomodulation therapy were evaluated and showed encouraging therapeutic benefits. Recent experimental ocular gene therapies in NCL animal models with soluble lysosomal enzyme deficiencies and transmembrane protein deficiencies have shown the strong potential of gene-based approaches to treat retinal dystrophies in NCLs. In CLN3 and CLN6 mouse models, an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector-mediated delivery of CLN3 and CLN6 to bipolar cells has been shown to attenuate the retinal dysfunction. Therapeutic benefits of ocular enzyme replacement therapies were evaluated in CLN2 and CLN10 animal models. Since brain-targeted gene or enzyme replacement therapies will most likely not attenuate retinal neurodegeneration, there is an unmet need for treatment options additionally targeting the retina in patients with NCL. The long-term benefits of these therapeutic interventions aimed at attenuating retinal degeneration and vision loss in patients with NCL remain to be investigated in future clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Udo Bartsch
- Department of Ophthalmology, Experimental Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stephan Storch
- University Children's Research@Kinder-UKE, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- *Correspondence: Stephan Storch
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Meiman EJ, Kick GR, Jensen CA, Coates JR, Katz ML. Characterization of neurological disease progression in a canine model of CLN5 neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis. Dev Neurobiol 2022; 82:326-344. [PMID: 35427439 PMCID: PMC9119968 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Golden Retriever dogs with a frameshift variant in CLN5 (c.934_935delAG) suffer from a progressive neurodegenerative disorder analogous to the CLN5 form of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL). Five littermate puppies homozygous for the deletion allele were identified prior to the onset of disease signs. Studies were performed to characterize the onset and progression of the disease in these dogs. Neurological signs that included restlessness, unwillingness to cooperate with the handlers, and proprioceptive deficits first became apparent at approximately 12 months of age. The neurological signs progressed over time and by 21 to 23 months of age included general proprioceptive ataxia, menace response deficits, aggressive behaviors, cerebellar ataxia, intention tremors, decreased visual tracking, seizures, cognitive decline, and impaired prehension. Due to the severity of these signs, the dogs were euthanized between 21 and 23 months of age. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed pronounced progressive global brain atrophy with a more than sevenfold increase in the volume of the ventricular system between 9.5 and 22.5 months of age. Accompanying this atrophy were pronounced accumulations of autofluorescent inclusions throughout the brain and spinal cord. Ultrastructurally, the contents of these inclusions were found to consist primarily of membrane‐like aggregates. Inclusions with similar fluorescence properties were present in cardiac muscle. Similar to other forms of NCL, the affected dogs had low plasma carnitine concentrations, suggesting impaired carnitine biosynthesis. These data on disease progression will be useful in future studies using the canine model for therapeutic intervention studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth J. Meiman
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine University of Missouri Columbia MO 65211 USA
| | - Grace Robinson Kick
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Laboratory University of Missouri Columbia MO 65212 USA
| | - Cheryl A. Jensen
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Laboratory University of Missouri Columbia MO 65212 USA
| | - Joan R. Coates
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine University of Missouri Columbia MO 65211 USA
| | - Martin L. Katz
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Laboratory University of Missouri Columbia MO 65212 USA
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Simonati A, Williams RE. Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis: The Multifaceted Approach to the Clinical Issues, an Overview. Front Neurol 2022; 13:811686. [PMID: 35359645 PMCID: PMC8961688 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.811686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The main aim of this review is to summarize the current state-of-art in the field of childhood Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (NCL), a group of rare neurodegenerative disorders. These are genetic diseases associated with the formation of toxic endo-lysosomal storage. Following a brief historical review of the evolution of NCL definition, a clinically-oriented approach is used describing how the early symptoms and signs affecting motor, visual, cognitive domains, and including seizures, may lead clinicians to a rapid molecular diagnosis, avoiding the long diagnostic odyssey commonly observed. We go on to focus on recent advances in NCL research and summarize contributions to knowledge of the pathogenic mechanisms underlying NCL. We describe the large variety of experimental models which have aided this research, as well as the most recent technological developments which have shed light on the main mechanisms involved in the cellular pathology, such as apoptosis and autophagy. The search for innovative therapies is described. Translation of experimental data into therapeutic approaches is being established for several of the NCLs, and one drug is now commercially available. Lastly, we show the importance of palliative care and symptomatic treatments which are still the main therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Simonati
- Departments of Surgery, Dentistry, Paediatrics, and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, AOUI-VR, Verona, Italy
- *Correspondence: Alessandro Simonati
| | - Ruth E. Williams
- Department of Children's Neuroscience, Evelina London Children's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Ruth E. Williams
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Francelle L, Mazzulli JR. Neuroinflammation in aucher disease, neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis, and commonalities with Parkinson’s disease. Brain Res 2022; 1780:147798. [PMID: 35063468 PMCID: PMC9126024 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2022.147798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs) are rare genetic disorders caused by a disruption in cellular clearance, resulting in pathological storage of undegraded lysosomal substrates. Recent clinical and genetic studies have uncovered links between multiple LSDs and common neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease (PD). Here, we review recent literature describing the role of glia cells and neuroinflammation in PD and LSDs, including Gaucher disease (GD) and neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL), and highlight converging inflammation pathways that lead to neuron loss. Recent data indicates that lysosomal dysfunction and accumulation of storage materials can initiate the activation of glial cells, through interaction with cell surface or cytosolic pattern recognition receptors that detect pathogenic aggregates of cellular debris. Activated glia cells could act to protect neurons through the elimination of toxic protein or lipid aggregates early in the disease process. However prolonged glial activation that occurs over several decades in chronic-age related neurodegeneration could induce the inappropriate elimination of synapses, leading to neuron loss. These studies provide mechanistic insight into the relationship between lysosomal dysfunction and glial activation, and offer novel therapeutic pathways for the treatment of PD and LSDs focused on reducing neuroinflammation and mitigating cell loss.
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Domowicz MS, Chan WC, Claudio-Vázquez P, Gonzalez T, Schwartz NB. Brain transcriptome analysis of a CLN2 mouse model as a function of disease progression. J Neuroinflammation 2021; 18:262. [PMID: 34749772 PMCID: PMC8576919 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-021-02302-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses, (NCLs or Batten disease) are a group of inherited, early onset, fatal neurodegenerative diseases associated with mutations in 13 genes. All forms of the disease are characterized by lysosomal accumulation of fluorescent storage material, as well as profound neurodegeneration, but the relationship of the various genes’ function to a single biological process is not obvious. In this study, we used a well-characterized mouse model of classical late infantile NCL (cLINCL) in which the tripeptidyl peptidase 1 (Tpp1) gene is disrupted by gene targeting, resulting in loss of detectable TPP1 activity and leading to progressive neurological phenotypes including ataxia, increased motor deficiency, and early death. Methods In order to identify genes and pathways that may contribute to progression of the neurodegenerative process, we analyzed forebrain/midbrain and cerebellar transcriptional differences at 1, 2, 3 and 4 months of age in control and TPP1-deficient mice by global RNA-sequencing. Results Progressive neurodegenerative inflammatory responses involving microglia, astrocytes and endothelial cells were observed, accompanied by activation of leukocyte extravasation signals and upregulation of nitric oxide production and reactive oxygen species. Several astrocytic (i.e., Gfap, C4b, Osmr, Serpina3n) and microglial (i.e., Ctss, Itgb2, Itgax, Lyz2) genes were identified as strong markers for assessing disease progression as they showed increased levels of expression in vivo over time. Furthermore, transient increased expression of choroid plexus genes was observed at 2 months in the lateral and fourth ventricle, highlighting an early role for the choroid plexus and cerebrospinal fluid in the disease pathology. Based on these gene expression changes, we concluded that neuroinflammation starts, for the most part, after 2 months in the Tpp1−/− brain and that activation of microglia and astrocytes occur more rapidly in cerebellum than in the rest of the brain; confirming increased severity of inflammation in this region. Conclusions These findings have led to a better understanding of cLINCL pathological onset and progression, which may aid in development of future therapeutic treatments for this disease. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12974-021-02302-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam S Domowicz
- Department of Pediatrics, Biological Sciences Division, The University of Chicago Medical Center, 5841 S. Maryland Avenue, MC 5058, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Wen-Ching Chan
- Center for Research Informatics, Biological Sciences Division, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Patricia Claudio-Vázquez
- Department of Pediatrics, Biological Sciences Division, The University of Chicago Medical Center, 5841 S. Maryland Avenue, MC 5058, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Tatiana Gonzalez
- Department of Pediatrics, Biological Sciences Division, The University of Chicago Medical Center, 5841 S. Maryland Avenue, MC 5058, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Nancy B Schwartz
- Department of Pediatrics, Biological Sciences Division, The University of Chicago Medical Center, 5841 S. Maryland Avenue, MC 5058, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences Division, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
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13
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[Therapeutic accessibility of the retina in systemic immunomodulatory approaches in mouse models for neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis : Comments on Bartsch et al., Der Ophthalmologe 02/2021]. Ophthalmologe 2021; 118:767-768. [PMID: 34076735 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-021-01418-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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14
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Groh J, Knöpper K, Arampatzi P, Yuan X, Lößlein L, Saliba AE, Kastenmüller W, Martini R. Accumulation of cytotoxic T cells in the aged CNS leads to axon degeneration and contributes to cognitive and motor decline. NATURE AGING 2021; 1:357-367. [PMID: 37117598 DOI: 10.1038/s43587-021-00049-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
Aging is a major risk factor for the development of nervous system functional decline, even in the absence of diseases or trauma. The axon-myelin units and synaptic terminals are some of the neural structures most vulnerable to aging-related deterioration1-6, but the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. In the peripheral nervous system, macrophages-important representatives of the innate immune system-are prominent drivers of structural and functional decline of myelinated fibers and motor endplates during aging7. Similarly, in the aging central nervous system (CNS), microglial cells promote damage of myelinated axons and synapses8-20. Here we examine the role of cytotoxic CD8+ T lymphocytes, a type of adaptive immune cells previously identified as amplifiers of axonal perturbation in various models of genetically mediated CNS diseases21 but understudied in the aging CNS22-25. We show that accumulation of CD8+ T cells drives axon degeneration in the normal aging mouse CNS and contributes to age-related cognitive and motor decline. We characterize CD8+ T-cell population heterogeneity in the adult and aged mouse brain by single-cell transcriptomics and identify aging-related changes. Mechanistically, we provide evidence that CD8+ T cells drive axon degeneration in a T-cell receptor- and granzyme B-dependent manner. Cytotoxic neural damage is further aggravated by systemic inflammation in aged but not adult mice. We also find increased densities of T cells in white matter autopsy material from older humans. Our results suggest that targeting CD8+ CNS-associated T cells in older adults might mitigate aging-related decline of brain structure and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janos Groh
- Department of Neurology, Section of Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
| | - Konrad Knöpper
- Institute for Systems Immunology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Xidi Yuan
- Department of Neurology, Section of Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Lena Lößlein
- Department of Neurology, Section of Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Antoine-Emmanuel Saliba
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research, Helmholtz-Center for Infection Research, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Rudolf Martini
- Department of Neurology, Section of Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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15
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Groh J, Berve K, Martini R. Immune modulation attenuates infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis in mice before and after disease onset. Brain Commun 2021; 3:fcab047. [PMID: 33977263 PMCID: PMC8098642 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcab047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeting neuroinflammation in models for infantile and juvenile forms of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL, CLN disease) with the clinically established immunomodulators fingolimod and teriflunomide significantly attenuates the neurodegenerative phenotype when applied preventively, i.e. before the development of substantial neural damage and clinical symptoms. Here, we show that in a mouse model for the early onset and rapidly progressing CLN1 form, more complex clinical phenotypes like disturbed motor coordination and impaired visual acuity are also ameliorated by immunomodulation. Moreover, we show that the disease outcome can be attenuated even when fingolimod and teriflunomide treatment starts after disease onset, i.e. when neurodegeneration is ongoing and clinical symptoms are detectable. In detail, treatment with either drug led to a reduction in T-cell numbers and microgliosis in the CNS, although not to the same extent as upon preventive treatment. Pharmacological immunomodulation was accompanied by a reduction of axonal damage, neuron loss and astrogliosis in the retinotectal system and by reduced brain atrophy. Accordingly, the frequency of myoclonic jerks and disturbed motor coordination were attenuated. Overall, disease alleviation was remarkably substantial upon therapeutic treatment with both drugs, although less robust than upon preventive treatment. To test the relevance of putative immune-independent mechanisms of action in this model, we treated CLN1 mice lacking mature T- and B-lymphocytes. Immunodeficient CLN1 mice showed, as previously reported, an improved neurological phenotype in comparison with genuine CLN1 mice which could not be further alleviated by either of the drugs, reflecting a predominantly immune-related therapeutic mechanism of action. The present study supports and strengthens our previous view that repurposing clinically approved immunomodulators may alleviate the course of CLN1 disease in human patients, even though diagnosis usually occurs when symptoms have already emerged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janos Groh
- Section of Developmental Neurobiology, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Kristina Berve
- Section of Developmental Neurobiology, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Rudolf Martini
- Section of Developmental Neurobiology, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
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16
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Bassal M, Liu J, Jankowiak W, Saftig P, Bartsch U. Rapid and Progressive Loss of Multiple Retinal Cell Types in Cathepsin D-Deficient Mice-An Animal Model of CLN10 Disease. Cells 2021; 10:696. [PMID: 33800998 PMCID: PMC8003850 DOI: 10.3390/cells10030696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Vision loss is among the characteristic symptoms of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL), a fatal neurodegenerative lysosomal storage disorder. Here, we performed an in-depth analysis of retinal degeneration at the molecular and cellular levels in mice lacking the lysosomal aspartyl protease cathepsin D, an animal model of congenital CLN10 disease. We observed an early-onset accumulation of storage material as indicated by elevated levels of saposin D and subunit C of the mitochondrial ATP synthase. The accumulation of storage material was accompanied by reactive astrogliosis and microgliosis, elevated expression of the autophagy marker sequestosome 1/p62 and a dysregulated expression of several lysosomal proteins. The number of cone photoreceptor cells was reduced as early as at postnatal day 5. At the end stage of the disease, the outer nuclear layer was almost atrophied, and all cones were lost. A significant loss of rod and cone bipolar cells, amacrine cells and ganglion cells was found at advanced stages of the disease. Results demonstrate that cathepsin D deficiency results in an early-onset and rapidly progressing retinal dystrophy that involves all retinal cell types. Data of the present study will serve as a reference for studies aimed at developing treatments for retinal degeneration in CLN10 disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Bassal
- Department of Ophthalmology, Experimental Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (M.B.); (J.L.); (W.J.)
| | - Junling Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Experimental Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (M.B.); (J.L.); (W.J.)
| | - Wanda Jankowiak
- Department of Ophthalmology, Experimental Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (M.B.); (J.L.); (W.J.)
| | - Paul Saftig
- Institute of Biochemistry, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, 24118 Kiel, Germany;
| | - Udo Bartsch
- Department of Ophthalmology, Experimental Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (M.B.); (J.L.); (W.J.)
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17
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Behnke V, Langmann T. [Neuroinflammation in neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis]. Ophthalmologe 2021; 118:98-105. [PMID: 33411040 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-020-01301-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Retinal degeneration and neuroinflammation are often early hallmarks of different subtypes of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL) in patients and genetic animal models. OBJECTIVE This article gives a summary of recently published research articles and novel concepts in the field of NCL-related neuroinflammation. MATERIAL AND METHODS A search was carried out in PubMed for relevant publications and the results as well as own NCL-related research are discussed. RESULTS Microglia and other glial cells are chronically activated and show various dysfunctions in the central nervous system (CNS) and retina of NCL patients and animal models. This is accompanied by significant changes in the transcriptome and proteome. In NCL there is also involvement of the adaptive immune response, as demonstrated by the influx of autoantibodies and activated T cells. CONCLUSION A deeper understanding of the molecular processes that contribute to neuroinflammation and ultimately lead to neuronal cell death is an important basis for the discovery of possible biomarkers and the development of immunotherapies in NCL.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Behnke
- Lehrstuhl für Experimentelle Immunologie des Auges, Zentrum für Augenheilkunde, Medizinische Fakultät und Uniklinik Köln, Joseph-Stelzmann-Str. 9, 50931, Köln, Deutschland
| | - T Langmann
- Lehrstuhl für Experimentelle Immunologie des Auges, Zentrum für Augenheilkunde, Medizinische Fakultät und Uniklinik Köln, Joseph-Stelzmann-Str. 9, 50931, Köln, Deutschland. .,Zentrum für Molekulare Medizin, Köln, Deutschland.
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18
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White KA, Nelvagal HR, Poole TA, Lu B, Johnson TB, Davis S, Pratt MA, Brudvig J, Assis AB, Likhite S, Meyer K, Kaspar BK, Cooper JD, Wang S, Weimer JM. Intracranial delivery of AAV9 gene therapy partially prevents retinal degeneration and visual deficits in CLN6-Batten disease mice. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2021; 20:497-507. [PMID: 33665223 PMCID: PMC7887332 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2020.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Batten disease is a family of rare, fatal, neuropediatric diseases presenting with memory/learning decline, blindness, and loss of motor function. Recently, we reported the use of an AAV9-mediated gene therapy that prevents disease progression in a mouse model of CLN6-Batten disease (Cln6 nclf ), restoring lifespans in treated animals. Despite the success of our viral-mediated gene therapy, the dosing strategy was optimized for delivery to the brain parenchyma and may limit the therapeutic potential to other disease-relevant tissues, such as the eye. Here, we examine whether cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) delivery of scAAV9.CB.CLN6 is sufficient to ameliorate visual deficits in Cln6 nclf mice. We show that intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) delivery of scAAV9.CB.CLN6 completely prevents hallmark Batten disease pathology in the visual processing centers of the brain, preserving neurons of the superior colliculus, thalamus, and cerebral cortex. Importantly, i.c.v.-delivered scAAV9.CB.CLN6 also expresses in many cells throughout the central retina, preserving many photoreceptors typically lost in Cln6 nclf mice. Lastly, scAAV9.CB.CLN6 treatment partially preserved visual acuity in Cln6 nclf mice as measured by optokinetic response. Taken together, we report the first instance of CSF-delivered viral gene reaching and rescuing pathology in both the brain parenchyma and retinal neurons, thereby partially slowing visual deterioration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine A White
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA
| | - Hemanth R Nelvagal
- Pediatric Storage Disorders Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Timothy A Poole
- Pediatric Storage Disorders Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Bin Lu
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Tyler B Johnson
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA.,Amicus Therapeutics, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Samantha Davis
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA
| | - Melissa A Pratt
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA
| | - Jon Brudvig
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA
| | - Ana B Assis
- Department of Pediatrics, The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Shibi Likhite
- Nationwide Children's Hospital. He was involved in AAV9 construct development
| | - Kathrin Meyer
- The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Brian K Kaspar
- The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Jonathan D Cooper
- Pediatric Storage Disorders Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Shaomei Wang
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA
| | - Jill M Weimer
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA.,Amicus Therapeutics, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD 57069, USA
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19
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Berve K, West BL, Martini R, Groh J. Sex- and region-biased depletion of microglia/macrophages attenuates CLN1 disease in mice. J Neuroinflammation 2020; 17:323. [PMID: 33115477 PMCID: PMC7594417 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-020-01996-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (CLN diseases) are fatal lysosomal storage diseases causing neurodegeneration in the CNS. We have previously shown that neuroinflammation comprising innate and adaptive immune reactions drives axonal damage and neuron loss in the CNS of palmitoyl protein thioesterase 1-deficient (Ppt1-/-) mice, a model of the infantile form of the diseases (CLN1). Therefore, we here explore whether pharmacological targeting of innate immune cells modifies disease outcome in CLN1 mice. METHODS We applied treatment with PLX3397 (150 ppm in the chow), a potent inhibitor of the colony stimulating factor-1 receptor (CSF-1R) to target innate immune cells in CLN1 mice. Experimental long-term treatment was non-invasively monitored by longitudinal optical coherence tomography and rotarod analysis, as well as analysis of visual acuity, myoclonic jerks, and survival. Treatment effects regarding neuroinflammation, neural damage, and neurodegeneration were subsequently analyzed by histology and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS We show that PLX3397 treatment attenuates neuroinflammation in CLN1 mice by depleting pro-inflammatory microglia/macrophages. This leads to a reduction of T lymphocyte recruitment, an amelioration of axon damage and neuron loss in the retinotectal system, as well as reduced thinning of the inner retina and total brain atrophy. Accordingly, long-term treatment with the inhibitor also ameliorates clinical outcomes in CLN1 mice, such as impaired motor coordination, visual acuity, and myoclonic jerks. However, we detected a sex- and region-biased efficacy of CSF-1R inhibition, with male microglia/macrophages showing higher responsiveness toward depletion, especially in the gray matter of the CNS. This results in a better treatment outcome in male Ppt1-/- mice regarding some histopathological and clinical readouts and reflects heterogeneity of innate immune reactions in the diseased CNS. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate a detrimental impact of innate immune reactions in the CNS of CLN1 mice. These findings provide insights into CLN pathogenesis and may guide in the design of immunomodulatory treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Berve
- Department of Neurology, Section of Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Present address: Theodor-Kocher-Institute, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Rudolf Martini
- Department of Neurology, Section of Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Janos Groh
- Department of Neurology, Section of Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
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20
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Nelvagal HR, Hurtado ML, Eaton SL, Kline RA, Lamont DJ, Sands MS, Wishart TM, Cooper JD. Comparative proteomic profiling reveals mechanisms for early spinal cord vulnerability in CLN1 disease. Sci Rep 2020; 10:15157. [PMID: 32938982 PMCID: PMC7495486 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-72075-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
CLN1 disease is a fatal inherited neurodegenerative lysosomal storage disease of early childhood, caused by mutations in the CLN1 gene, which encodes the enzyme Palmitoyl protein thioesterase-1 (PPT-1). We recently found significant spinal pathology in Ppt1-deficient (Ppt1−/−) mice and human CLN1 disease that contributes to clinical outcome and precedes the onset of brain pathology. Here, we quantified this spinal pathology at 3 and 7 months of age revealing significant and progressive glial activation and vulnerability of spinal interneurons. Tandem mass tagged proteomic analysis of the spinal cord of Ppt1−/−and control mice at these timepoints revealed a significant neuroimmune response and changes in mitochondrial function, cell-signalling pathways and developmental processes. Comparing proteomic changes in the spinal cord and cortex at 3 months revealed many similarly affected processes, except the inflammatory response. These proteomic and pathological data from this largely unexplored region of the CNS may help explain the limited success of previous brain-directed therapies. These data also fundamentally change our understanding of the progressive, site-specific nature of CLN1 disease pathogenesis, and highlight the importance of the neuroimmune response. This should greatly impact our approach to the timing and targeting of future therapeutic trials for this and similar disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hemanth R Nelvagal
- Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine, 660 S Euclid Ave, St Louis, MO, 63110, USA.,Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Maica Llavero Hurtado
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, UK
| | - Samantha L Eaton
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, UK
| | - Rachel A Kline
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, UK
| | - Douglas J Lamont
- FingerPrints Proteomics Facility, College of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Mark S Sands
- Department of Genetics, Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine, 660 S Euclid Ave, St Louis, MO, 63110, USA.,Department of Medicine, Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine, 660 S Euclid Ave, St Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Thomas M Wishart
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, UK
| | - Jonathan D Cooper
- Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine, 660 S Euclid Ave, St Louis, MO, 63110, USA. .,Department of Genetics, Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine, 660 S Euclid Ave, St Louis, MO, 63110, USA. .,Department of Neurology, Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine, 660 S Euclid Ave, St Louis, MO, 63110, USA. .,Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
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21
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Nelvagal HR, Dearborn JT, Ostergaard JR, Sands MS, Cooper JD. Spinal manifestations of CLN1 disease start during the early postnatal period. Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol 2020; 47:251-267. [PMID: 32841420 PMCID: PMC7867600 DOI: 10.1111/nan.12658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Aim To understand the progression of CLN1 disease and develop effective therapies we need to characterize early sites of pathology. Therefore, we performed a comprehensive evaluation of the nature and timing of early CLN1 disease pathology in the spinal cord, which appears especially vulnerable, and how this may affect behaviour. Methods We measured the spinal volume and neuronal number, and quantified glial activation, lymphocyte infiltration and oligodendrocyte maturation, as well as cytokine profile analysis during the early stages of pathology in Ppt1‐deficient (Ppt1−/−) mouse spinal cords. We then performed quantitative gait analysis and open‐field behaviour tests to investigate the behavioural correlates during this period. Results We detected significant microglial activation in Ppt1−/− spinal cords at 1 month. This was followed by astrocytosis, selective interneuron loss, altered spinal volumes and oligodendrocyte maturation at 2 months, before significant storage material accumulation and lymphocyte infiltration at 3 months. The same time course was apparent for inflammatory cytokine expression that was altered as early as one month. There was a transient early period at 2 months when Ppt1−/− mice had a significantly altered gait that resembles the presentation in children with CLN1 disease. This occurred before an anticipated decline in overall locomotor performance across all ages. Conclusion These data reveal disease onset 2 months (25% of life‐span) earlier than expected, while spinal maturation is still ongoing. Our multi‐disciplinary data provide new insights into the spatio‐temporal staging of CLN1 pathogenesis during ongoing postnatal maturation, and highlight the need to deliver therapies during the presymptomatic period.
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Affiliation(s)
- H R Nelvagal
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - J T Dearborn
- Department of Medicine, Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - J R Ostergaard
- Centre for Rare Diseases, Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - M S Sands
- Department of Medicine, Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA.,Department of Genetics, Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - J D Cooper
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA.,Department of Genetics, Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA.,Department of Neurology, Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
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22
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Nelvagal HR, Lange J, Takahashi K, Tarczyluk-Wells MA, Cooper JD. Pathomechanisms in the neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2020; 1866:165570. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2019.165570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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23
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Katz ML, Buckley RM, Biegen V, O'Brien DP, Johnson GC, Warren WC, Lyons LA. Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis in a Domestic Cat Associated with a DNA Sequence Variant That Creates a Premature Stop Codon in CLN6. G3 (BETHESDA, MD.) 2020; 10:2741-2751. [PMID: 32518081 PMCID: PMC7407459 DOI: 10.1534/g3.120.401407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
A neutered male domestic medium-haired cat presented at a veterinary neurology clinic at 20 months of age due to progressive neurological signs that included visual impairment, focal myoclonus, and frequent severe generalized seizures that were refractory to treatment with phenobarbital. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed diffuse global brain atrophy. Due to the severity and frequency of its seizures, the cat was euthanized at 22 months of age. Microscopic examination of the cerebellum, cerebral cortex and brainstem revealed pronounced intracellular accumulations of autofluorescent storage material and inflammation in all 3 brain regions. Ultrastructural examination of the storage material indicated that it consisted almost completely of tightly-packed membrane-like material. The clinical signs and neuropathology strongly suggested that the cat suffered from a form of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL). Whole exome sequence analysis was performed on genomic DNA from the affected cat. Comparison of the sequence data to whole exome sequence data from 39 unaffected cats and whole genome sequence data from an additional 195 unaffected cats revealed a homozygous variant in CLN6 that was unique to the affected cat. This variant was predicted to cause a stop gain in the transcript due to a guanine to adenine transition (ENSFCAT00000025909:c.668G > A; XM_003987007.5:c.668G > A) and was the sole loss of function variant detected. CLN6 variants in other species, including humans, dogs, and sheep, are associated with the CLN6 form of NCL. Based on the affected cat's clinical signs, neuropathology and molecular genetic analysis, we conclude that the cat's disorder resulted from the loss of function of CLN6. This study is only the second to identify the molecular genetic basis of a feline NCL. Other cats exhibiting similar signs can now be screened for the CLN6 variant. This could lead to establishment of a feline model of CLN6 disease that could be used in therapeutic intervention studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin L Katz
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Laboratory and Department of Ophthalmology,
| | | | | | | | | | - Wesley C Warren
- Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO and
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24
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Huber RJ, Hughes SM, Liu W, Morgan A, Tuxworth RI, Russell C. The contribution of multicellular model organisms to neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis research. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2019; 1866:165614. [PMID: 31783156 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2019.165614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Revised: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The NCLs (neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis) are forms of neurodegenerative disease that affect people of all ages and ethnicities but are most prevalent in children. Commonly known as Batten disease, this debilitating neurological disorder is comprised of 13 different subtypes that are categorized based on the particular gene that is mutated (CLN1-8, CLN10-14). The pathological mechanisms underlying the NCLs are not well understood due to our poor understanding of the functions of NCL proteins. Only one specific treatment (enzyme replacement therapy) is approved, which is for the treating the brain in CLN2 disease. Hence there remains a desperate need for further research into disease-modifying treatments. In this review, we present and evaluate the genes, proteins and studies performed in the social amoeba, nematode, fruit fly, zebrafish, mouse and large animals pertinent to NCL. In particular, we highlight the use of multicellular model organisms to study NCL protein function, pathology and pathomechanisms. Their use in testing novel therapeutic approaches is also presented. With this information, we highlight how future research in these systems may be able to provide new insight into NCL protein functions in human cells and aid in the development of new therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Huber
- Department of Biology, Trent University, Peterborough, Ontario K9L 0G2, Canada
| | - Stephanie M Hughes
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Biomedical Sciences, Brain Health Research Centre and Genetics Otago, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Wenfei Liu
- School of Pharmacy, University College London, London, WC1N 1AX, UK
| | - Alan Morgan
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Crown St., Liverpool L69 3BX, UK
| | - Richard I Tuxworth
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Claire Russell
- Dept. Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Royal College Street, London NW1 0TU, UK.
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Mice deficient in the lysosomal enzyme palmitoyl-protein thioesterase 1 (PPT1) display a complex retinal phenotype. Sci Rep 2019; 9:14185. [PMID: 31578378 PMCID: PMC6775149 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-50726-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL) type 1 (CLN1) is a neurodegenerative storage disorder caused by mutations in the gene encoding the lysosomal enzyme palmitoyl-protein thioesterase 1 (PPT1). CLN1 patients suffer from brain atrophy, mental and motor retardation, seizures, and retinal degeneration ultimately resulting in blindness. Here, we performed an in-depth analysis of the retinal phenotype of a PPT1-deficient mouse, an animal model of this condition. Reactive astrogliosis and microgliosis were evident in mutant retinas prior to the onset of retinal cell loss. Progressive accumulation of storage material, a pronounced dysregulation of various lysosomal proteins, and accumulation of sequestosome/p62-positive aggregates in the inner nuclear layer also preceded retinal degeneration. At advanced stages of the disease, the mutant retina was characterized by a significant loss of ganglion cells, rod and cone photoreceptor cells, and rod and cone bipolar cells. Results demonstrate that PPT1 dysfunction results in early-onset pathological alterations in the mutant retina, followed by a progressive degeneration of various retinal cell types at relatively late stages of the disease. Data will serve as a reference for future work aimed at developing therapeutic strategies for the treatment of retinal degeneration in CLN1 disease.
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Kauss V, Dambrova M, Medina DL. Pharmacological approaches to tackle NCLs. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2019; 1866:165553. [PMID: 31521819 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2019.165553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Revised: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses, also collectively known as Batten disease, are a group of rare monogenic disorders caused by mutations in at least 13 different genes. They are characterized by the accumulation of lysosomal storage material and progressive neurological deterioration with dementia, epilepsy, retinopathy, motor disturbances, and early death [1]. Although the identification of disease-causing genes provides an important step for understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses, compared to other diseases, obstacles to the development of therapies for these rare diseases include less extensive physiopathology knowledge, limited number of patients to test treatments, and poor commercial interest from the industry. Current therapeutic strategies include enzyme replacement therapies, gene therapies targeting the brain and the eye, cell therapies, and pharmacological drugs that could modulate defective molecular pathways. In this review, we will focus in the emerging therapies based in the identification of small-molecules. Recent advances in high- throughput and high-content screening (HTS and HCS) using relevant cell-based assays and applying automation and imaging analysis algorithms, will allow the screening of a large number of compounds in lesser time. These approaches are particularly useful for drug repurposing for Batten disease, that takes the advantage to search for compounds that have already been tested in humans, thereby reducing significantly the resources needed for translation to clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerjans Kauss
- Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Aizkraukles 21, Riga LV-1006, Latvia; Riga Stradins University, Dzirciema 16, Riga LV-1007, Latvia
| | - Maija Dambrova
- Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Aizkraukles 21, Riga LV-1006, Latvia; Riga Stradins University, Dzirciema 16, Riga LV-1007, Latvia
| | - Diego Luis Medina
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine (TIGEM), Pozzuoli, Naples, Italy; Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Medical and Translational Science, Federico II University, Naples, Italy.
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Tarczyluk-Wells MA, Salzlechner C, Najafi AR, Lim MJ, Smith D, Platt FM, Williams BP, Cooper JD. Combined Anti-inflammatory and Neuroprotective Treatments Have the Potential to Impact Disease Phenotypes in Cln3 -/- Mice. Front Neurol 2019; 10:963. [PMID: 31572287 PMCID: PMC6749847 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Batten disease, or juvenile NCL, is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder that occurs due to mutations in the CLN3 gene. Because the function of CLN3 remains unclear, experimental therapies for JNCL have largely concentrated upon the targeting of downstream pathomechanisms. Neuron loss is preceded by localized glial activation, and in this proof-of-concept study we have investigated whether targeting this innate immune response with ibuprofen in combination with the neuroprotective agent lamotrigine improves the previously documented beneficial effects of immunosuppressants alone. Drugs were administered daily to symptomatic Cln3 -/- mice over a 3 month period, starting at 6 months of age, and their impact was assessed using both behavioral and neuropathological outcome measures. During the treatment period, the combination of ibuprofen and lamotrigine significantly improved the performance of Cln3 -/- mice on the vertical pole test, slowing the disease-associated decline, but had less of an impact upon their rotarod performance. There were also moderate and regionally dependent effects upon astrocyte activation that were most pronounced for ibuprofen alone, but there was no overt effect upon microglial activation. Administering such treatments for longer periods will enable testing for any impact upon the neuron loss that occurs later in disease progression. Given the partial efficacy of these treatments, it will be important to test further drugs of this type in order to find more effective combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta A. Tarczyluk-Wells
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Christoph Salzlechner
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Allison R. Najafi
- Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
| | - Ming J. Lim
- Guy's and St. Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, King's Health Partners Academic Health Science Centre, Evelina London Children's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David Smith
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Frances M. Platt
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Brenda P. Williams
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan D. Cooper
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
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Johnson TB, Cain JT, White KA, Ramirez-Montealegre D, Pearce DA, Weimer JM. Therapeutic landscape for Batten disease: current treatments and future prospects. Nat Rev Neurol 2019; 15:161-178. [PMID: 30783219 PMCID: PMC6681450 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-019-0138-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Batten disease (also known as neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses) constitutes a family of devastating lysosomal storage disorders that collectively represent the most common inherited paediatric neurodegenerative disorders worldwide. Batten disease can result from mutations in 1 of 13 genes. These mutations lead to a group of diseases with loosely overlapping symptoms and pathology. Phenotypically, patients with Batten disease have visual impairment and blindness, cognitive and motor decline, seizures and premature death. Pathologically, Batten disease is characterized by lysosomal accumulation of autofluorescent storage material, glial reactivity and neuronal loss. Substantial progress has been made towards the development of effective therapies and treatments for the multiple forms of Batten disease. In 2017, cerliponase alfa (Brineura), a tripeptidyl peptidase enzyme replacement therapy, became the first globally approved treatment for CLN2 Batten disease. Here, we provide an overview of the promising therapeutic avenues for Batten disease, highlighting current FDA-approved clinical trials and prospective future treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler B Johnson
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - Jacob T Cain
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - Katherine A White
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | | | - David A Pearce
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Sanford School of Medicine at the University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD, USA.
| | - Jill M Weimer
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Sanford School of Medicine at the University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD, USA.
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Wu R, Chen B, Jia X, Qiu Y, Liu M, Huang C, Feng J, Wu Q. Interleukin-1β influences functional regeneration following nerve injury in mice through nuclear factor-κB signaling pathway. Immunology 2019; 156:235-248. [PMID: 30418673 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2018] [Revised: 10/10/2018] [Accepted: 11/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This study focuses on investigating the role of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in functional regeneration following nerve injury in mice. A microarray-based mRNA profiling study was used to analyze the expression level of IL-1β in peripheral nerve regeneration. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot were applied to assess the IL-1β expressions of C57BL/6J-crush and C57BL/6J-crush+IL-1β mice at different post-injury time-points after the standard sciatic nerve crush injury. The outcomes of nerve regeneration were evaluated by behavioral tests. IL-1β was found to be up-regulated in peripheral nerve regeneration and significantly raised on the 3rd day and returned to normal levels on the 14th day after nerve injury. Compared with C57BL/6J-crush+IL-1β mice, the nerve regeneration of C57BL/6J-crush mice was worse after nerve crush injury. IL-1β increased mechanical sensitivity and stimulated amplitude. IL-1β could benefit the recovery of sciatic nerve crush injury by facilitating nerve regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruoyu Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Bi Chen
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Microsurgery on Extremities, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiang Jia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Qiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengyu Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Chengsheng Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingkai Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
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Kohlschütter A, Schulz A, Bartsch U, Storch S. Current and Emerging Treatment Strategies for Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinoses. CNS Drugs 2019; 33:315-325. [PMID: 30877620 PMCID: PMC6440934 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-019-00620-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses comprise a group of neurodegenerative lysosomal storage disorders caused by mutations in at least 13 different genes and primarily affect the brain and the retina of children or young adults. The disorders are characterized by progressive neurological deterioration with dementia, epilepsy, loss of vision, motor disturbances, and early death. While various therapeutic strategies are currently being explored as treatment options for these fatal disorders, there is presently only one clinically approved drug that has been shown to effectively attenuate the progression of a specific form of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis, CLN2 disease (cerliponase alfa, a lysosomal enzyme infused into the brain ventricles of patients with CLN2 disease). Therapeutic approaches for the treatment of other forms of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis include the administration of immunosuppressive agents to antagonize neuroinflammation associated with neurodegeneration, the use of various small molecules, stem cell therapy, and gene therapy. An important aspect of future work aimed at developing therapies for neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses is the need for treatments that effectively attenuate neurodegeneration in both the brain and the retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfried Kohlschütter
- Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Angela Schulz
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Udo Bartsch
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Department of Ophthalmology, Experimental Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stephan Storch
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Department of Pediatrics, Section Biochemistry, University Medical Center Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
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Groh J, Friedman HC, Orel N, Ip CW, Fischer S, Spahn I, Schäffner E, Hörner M, Stadler D, Buttmann M, Varallyay C, Solymosi L, Sendtner M, Peterson AC, Martini R. Pathogenic inflammation in the CNS of mice carrying human PLP1 mutations. Hum Mol Genet 2018; 25:4686-4702. [PMID: 28173160 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddw296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Revised: 08/12/2016] [Accepted: 08/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Progressive forms of multiple sclerosis lead to chronic disability, substantial decline in quality of life and reduced longevity. It is often suggested that they occur independently of inflammation. Here we investigated the disease progression in mouse models carrying PLP1 point mutations previously found in patients displaying clinical features of multiple sclerosis. These mouse models show loss-of-function of PLP1 associated with neuroinflammation; the latter leading to clinically relevant axonal degeneration, neuronal loss and brain atrophy as demonstrated by inactivation of the recombination activating gene 1. Moreover, these pathological hallmarks were substantially amplified when we attenuated immune regulation by inactivation of the programmed cell death-1 gene. Our observations support the view that primary oligodendroglial abnormalities can evoke pathogenically relevant neuroinflammation that drives neurodegeneration, as observed in some forms of multiple sclerosis but also in other, genetically-mediated neurodegenerative disorders of the human nervous system. As many potent immunomodulatory drugs have emerged during the last years, it is tempting to consider immunomodulation as a treatment option not only for multiple sclerosis, but also for so far non-treatable, genetically-mediated disorders of the nervous system accompanied by pathogenic neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janos Groh
- Department of Neurology, Section of Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, D-97080 Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Hana C Friedman
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Ludmer Research and Training Building, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Nadiya Orel
- Institute of Clinical Neurobiology, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Chi Wang Ip
- Department of Neurology, Section of Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, D-97080 Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Fischer
- Department of Neurology, Section of Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, D-97080 Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Irene Spahn
- Department of Neurology, Section of Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, D-97080 Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Erik Schäffner
- Department of Neurology, Section of Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, D-97080 Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Michaela Hörner
- Department of Neurology, Section of Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, D-97080 Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - David Stadler
- Department of Neurology, Section of Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, D-97080 Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Mathias Buttmann
- Department of Neurology, Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Csanad Varallyay
- Division of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - László Solymosi
- Division of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Michael Sendtner
- Institute of Clinical Neurobiology, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Alan C Peterson
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Ludmer Research and Training Building, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Rudolf Martini
- Department of Neurology, Section of Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, D-97080 Wuerzburg, Germany
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Nelvagal HR, Cooper JD. Translating preclinical models of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis: progress and prospects. Expert Opin Orphan Drugs 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/21678707.2017.1360182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hemanth R. Nelvagal
- Pediatric Storage Disorders Laboratory, Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Jonathan D. Cooper
- Pediatric Storage Disorders Laboratory, Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Torrance, CA, USA
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Cooper JD, Nelvagal HR. Progress toward Fulfilling the Potential of Immunomodulation in Childhood Neurodegeneration? Mol Ther 2017. [PMID: 28625570 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2017.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan D Cooper
- Department of Pediatrics, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, 1124 W Carson St., Torrance, CA 90502, USA.
| | - Hemanth R Nelvagal
- Department of Pediatrics, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, 1124 W Carson St., Torrance, CA 90502, USA
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Groh J, Martini R. Neuroinflammation as modifier of genetically caused neurological disorders of the central nervous system: Understanding pathogenesis and chances for treatment. Glia 2017; 65:1407-1422. [PMID: 28568966 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2017] [Revised: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Genetically caused neurological disorders of the central nervous system (CNS) are usually orphan diseases with poor or even fatal clinical outcome and few or no treatments that will improve longevity or at least quality of life. Neuroinflammation is common to many of these disorders, despite the fact that a plethora of distinct mutations and molecular changes underlie the disorders. In this article, data from corresponding animal models are analyzed to define the roles of innate and adaptive inflammation as modifiers and amplifiers of disease. We describe both common and distinct patterns of neuroinflammation in genetically mediated CNS disorders and discuss the contrasting mechanisms that lead to adverse versus neuroprotective effects. Moreover, we identify the juxtaparanode as a neuroanatomical compartment commonly associated with inflammatory cells and ongoing axonopathic changes, in models of diverse diseases. The identification of key immunological effector pathways that amplify neuropathic features should lead to realistic possibilities for translatable therapeutic interventions using existing immunomodulators. Moreover, evidence emerges that neuroinflammation is not only able to modify primary neural damage-related symptoms but also may lead to unexpected clinical outcomes such as neuropsychiatric syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janos Groh
- Department of Neurology, Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 11, Würzburg, D-97080, Germany
| | - Rudolf Martini
- Department of Neurology, Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 11, Würzburg, D-97080, Germany
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Fingolimod and Teriflunomide Attenuate Neurodegeneration in Mouse Models of Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis. Mol Ther 2017; 25:1889-1899. [PMID: 28506594 PMCID: PMC5542710 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2017.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2017] [Revised: 04/21/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
CLN diseases are rare lysosomal storage diseases characterized by progressive axonal degeneration and neuron loss in the CNS, manifesting in disability, blindness, and premature death. We have previously demonstrated that, in animal models of infantile and juvenile forms of CLN disease (CLN1 and CLN3, respectively), secondary neuroinflammation in the CNS substantially amplifies neural damage, opening the possibility that immunomodulatory treatment might improve disease outcome. First, we recapitulated the inflammatory phenotype, originally seen in mice in autopsies of CLN patients. We then treated mouse models of CLN1 and CLN3 disease with the clinically approved immunomodulatory compounds fingolimod (0.5 mg/kg/day) and teriflunomide (10 mg/kg/day) by consistent supply in the drinking water for 5 months. The treatment was well tolerated and reduced T cell numbers and microgliosis in the CNS of both models. Moreover, axonal damage, neuron loss, retinal thinning, and brain atrophy were substantially attenuated in both models, along with reduced frequency of myoclonic jerks in Ppt1−/− mice. Based on these findings, and because side effects were not detected, we suggest that clinically approved immune modulators such as fingolimod and teriflunomide may be suitable to attenuate progression of CLN1 and CLN3 disease and, possibly, other orphan diseases with pathogenically relevant neuroinflammation.
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36
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Hersrud SL, Kovács AD, Pearce DA. Antigen presenting cell abnormalities in the Cln3(-/-) mouse model of juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 2016; 1862:1324-36. [PMID: 27101989 PMCID: PMC4899816 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2016.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Revised: 03/10/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Mutations of the CLN3 gene lead to juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (JNCL), an autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disorder that causes progressive neurodegeneration in children and adolescents. There is evidence of immune system involvement in pathology that has been only minimally investigated. We characterized bone marrow stem cell-derived antigen presenting cells (APCs), peritoneal macrophages, and leukocytes from spleen and blood, harvested from the Cln3(-/-) mouse model of JNCL. We detected dramatically elevated CD11c surface levels and increased total CD11c protein in Cln3(-/-) cell samples compared to wild type. This phenotype was specific to APCs and also to a loss of CLN3, as surface levels did not differ from wild type in other leukocyte subtypes nor in cells from two other NCL mouse models. Subcellularly, CD11c was localized to lipid rafts, indicating that perturbation of surface levels is attributable to derangement of raft dynamics, which has previously been shown in Cln3 mutant cells. Interrogation of APC function revealed that Cln3(-/-) cells have increased adhesiveness to CD11c ligands as well as an abnormal secretory pattern that closely mimics what has been previously reported for Cln3 mutant microglia. Our results show that CLN3 deficiency alters APCs, which can be a major contributor to the autoimmune response in JNCL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha L Hersrud
- Sanford Children's Health Research Center, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, United States; Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57105, United States
| | - Attila D Kovács
- Sanford Children's Health Research Center, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, United States; Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57105, United States
| | - David A Pearce
- Sanford Children's Health Research Center, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, United States; Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD 57105, United States.
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37
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Geraets RD, Koh SY, Hastings ML, Kielian T, Pearce DA, Weimer JM. Moving towards effective therapeutic strategies for Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2016; 11:40. [PMID: 27083890 PMCID: PMC4833901 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-016-0414-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2015] [Accepted: 03/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinoses (NCLs) are a family of autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disorders that annually affect 1:100,000 live births worldwide. This family of diseases results from mutations in one of 14 different genes that share common clinical and pathological etiologies. Clinically, the diseases are subcategorized into infantile, late-infantile, juvenile and adult forms based on their age of onset. Though the disease phenotypes may vary in their age and order of presentation, all typically include progressive visual deterioration and blindness, cognitive impairment, motor deficits and seizures. Pathological hallmarks of NCLs include the accumulation of storage material or ceroid in the lysosome, progressive neuronal degeneration and massive glial activation. Advances have been made in genetic diagnosis and counseling for families. However, comprehensive treatment programs that delay or halt disease progression have been elusive. Current disease management is primarily targeted at controlling the symptoms rather than "curing" the disease. Recognizing the growing need for transparency and synergistic efforts to move the field forward, this review will provide an overview of the therapeutic approaches currently being pursued in preclinical and clinical trials to treat different forms of NCL as well as provide insight to novel therapeutic approaches in development for the NCLs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan D. Geraets
- />Children’s Health Research Center, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD USA
- />Sanford School of Medicine at the University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD USA
| | - Seung yon Koh
- />Children’s Health Research Center, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD USA
| | - Michelle L. Hastings
- />Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL USA
| | - Tammy Kielian
- />Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE USA
| | - David A. Pearce
- />Children’s Health Research Center, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD USA
- />Sanford School of Medicine at the University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD USA
| | - Jill M. Weimer
- />Children’s Health Research Center, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD USA
- />Sanford School of Medicine at the University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD USA
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Groh J, Ribechini E, Stadler D, Schilling T, Lutz MB, Martini R. Sialoadhesin promotes neuroinflammation-related disease progression in two mouse models of CLN disease. Glia 2016; 64:792-809. [PMID: 26775238 DOI: 10.1002/glia.22962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2015] [Revised: 12/15/2015] [Accepted: 12/17/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
CLN diseases are mostly fatal lysosomal storage diseases that lead to neurodegeneration in the CNS. We have previously shown that CD8+ T-lymphocytes contribute to axonal perturbation and neuron loss in the CNS of Ppt1(-/-) mice, a model of CLN1 disease. We now investigated the role of the inflammation-related cell adhesion molecule sialoadhesin (Sn) in Ppt1(-/-) and Cln3(-/-) mice, a model of the most frequent form, CLN3 disease. Microglia/macrophages in the CNS of both models showed an upregulation of Sn and markers for proinflammatory M1 polarization and antigen presentation. Sn+ microglia/macrophages associated with SMI32+ axonal spheroids and CD8+ T-lymphocytes. To analyze their pathogenic impact, we crossbred both models with Sn-deficient mice and scored axonal degeneration and neuronal integrity using immunohistochemistry, electron microscopy and optical coherence tomography. Degenerative alterations in the retinotectal pathway of Ppt1(-/-)Sn(-/-) and Cln3(-/-)Sn(-/-) mice were significantly reduced. Ppt1(-/-)Sn(-/-) mice also showed a substantially improved clinical phenotype and extended lifespan, attenuated numbers of M1-polarized microglia/macrophages and reduced expression levels of proinflammatory cytokines. This was accompanied by an increased frequency of CD8+CD122+ T-lymphocytes in the CNS of Ppt1(-/-)Sn(-/-) mice, the regulatory phenotype of which was demonstrated by impaired survival of CD8+CD122- effector T-lymphocytes in co-culture experiments. We show for the first time that increased Sn expression on microglia/macrophages contributes to neural perturbation in two distinct models of CLN disease. Our data also indicate that a rarely described CD8+CD122+ T-cell population can regulate the corresponding diseases. These studies provide insights into CLN pathogenesis and may guide in designing immuno-regulatory treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janos Groh
- Department of Neurology, Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Eliana Ribechini
- Institute of Virology and Immunobiology, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - David Stadler
- Department of Neurology, Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Tim Schilling
- Department of Neurology, Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Manfred B Lutz
- Institute of Virology and Immunobiology, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Rudolf Martini
- Department of Neurology, Developmental Neurobiology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
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Tikka S, Monogioudi E, Gotsopoulos A, Soliymani R, Pezzini F, Scifo E, Uusi-Rauva K, Tyynelä J, Baumann M, Jalanko A, Simonati A, Lalowski M. Proteomic Profiling in the Brain of CLN1 Disease Model Reveals Affected Functional Modules. Neuromolecular Med 2015; 18:109-33. [PMID: 26707855 DOI: 10.1007/s12017-015-8382-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Accepted: 12/15/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (NCL) are the most commonly inherited progressive encephalopathies of childhood. Pathologically, they are characterized by endolysosomal storage with different ultrastructural features and biochemical compositions. The molecular mechanisms causing progressive neurodegeneration and common molecular pathways linking expression of different NCL genes are largely unknown. We analyzed proteome alterations in the brains of a mouse model of human infantile CLN1 disease-palmitoyl-protein thioesterase 1 (Ppt1) gene knockout and its wild-type age-matched counterpart at different stages: pre-symptomatic, symptomatic and advanced. For this purpose, we utilized a combination of laser capture microdissection-based quantitative liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (MS) and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight MS imaging to quantify/visualize the changes in protein expression in disease-affected brain thalamus and cerebral cortex tissue slices, respectively. Proteomic profiling of the pre-symptomatic stage thalamus revealed alterations mostly in metabolic processes and inhibition of various neuronal functions, i.e., neuritogenesis. Down-regulation in dynamics associated with growth of plasma projections and cellular protrusions was further corroborated by findings from RNA sequencing of CLN1 patients' fibroblasts. Changes detected at the symptomatic stage included: mitochondrial functions, synaptic vesicle transport, myelin proteome and signaling cascades, such as RhoA signaling. Considerable dysregulation of processes related to mitochondrial cell death, RhoA/Huntington's disease signaling and myelin sheath breakdown were observed at the advanced stage of the disease. The identified changes in protein levels were further substantiated by bioinformatics and network approaches, immunohistochemistry on brain tissues and literature knowledge, thus identifying various functional modules affected in the CLN1 childhood encephalopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saara Tikka
- Medicum, Biochemistry/Developmental Biology, Meilahti Clinical Proteomics Core Facility, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 63 (Haartmaninkatu 8), Room C214a, 00014, Helsinki, Finland.,Folkhälsan Institute of Genetics, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Evanthia Monogioudi
- Folkhälsan Institute of Genetics, 00014, Helsinki, Finland.,Joint Research Centre, Directorate D-Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements, Standards for Innovation and Sustainable Development, Geel, Belgium
| | - Athanasios Gotsopoulos
- Brain and Mind Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Computational Science (BECS), Aalto University School of Science, 02150, Espoo, Finland
| | - Rabah Soliymani
- Medicum, Biochemistry/Developmental Biology, Meilahti Clinical Proteomics Core Facility, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 63 (Haartmaninkatu 8), Room C214a, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Francesco Pezzini
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Enzo Scifo
- Medicum, Biochemistry/Developmental Biology, Meilahti Clinical Proteomics Core Facility, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 63 (Haartmaninkatu 8), Room C214a, 00014, Helsinki, Finland.,Doctoral Program Brain & Mind, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, CAMH, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Kristiina Uusi-Rauva
- Folkhälsan Institute of Genetics, 00014, Helsinki, Finland.,Genomics and Biomarkers, National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), P.O. Box 30, 00271, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jaana Tyynelä
- Medicum, Biochemistry/Developmental Biology, Meilahti Clinical Proteomics Core Facility, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 63 (Haartmaninkatu 8), Room C214a, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Marc Baumann
- Medicum, Biochemistry/Developmental Biology, Meilahti Clinical Proteomics Core Facility, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 63 (Haartmaninkatu 8), Room C214a, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anu Jalanko
- Institute for Molecular Medicine (FIMM), University of Helsinki, 00014, Helsinki, Finland.,Genomics and Biomarkers, National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), P.O. Box 30, 00271, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Alessandro Simonati
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Maciej Lalowski
- Medicum, Biochemistry/Developmental Biology, Meilahti Clinical Proteomics Core Facility, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 63 (Haartmaninkatu 8), Room C214a, 00014, Helsinki, Finland. .,Folkhälsan Institute of Genetics, 00014, Helsinki, Finland.
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Cooper JD, Tarczyluk MA, Nelvagal HR. Towards a new understanding of NCL pathogenesis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2015; 1852:2256-61. [PMID: 26026924 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2015.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2015] [Revised: 05/20/2015] [Accepted: 05/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinoses (NCLs, Batten disease) are a group of inherited neurodegenerative disorders that have been traditionally grouped together on the basis of certain shared clinical and pathological features. However, as the number of genes that appear to cause new forms of NCL continues to grow, it is timely to reassess our understanding of the pathogenesis of these disorders and what groups them together. The various NCL subtypes do indeed share features of a build-up of autofluorescent storage material, progressive neuron loss and activation of the innate immune system. The characterisation of animal models has highlighted the selective nature of neuron loss and its intimate relationship with glial activation, rather than the generalised build-up of storage material. More recent data provide evidence for the pathway-dependent nature of pathology, the contribution of glial dysfunction, and the involvement of new brain regions previously thought to be unaffected, and it is becoming apparent that pathology extends beyond the brain. These data have important implications, not just for therapy, but also for our understanding of these disorders. However, looking beneath these broadly similar pathological themes evidence emerges for marked differences in the nature and extent of these events in different forms of NCL. Indeed, given the widely different nature of the mutated gene products it is perhaps more surprising that these disorders resemble each other as much as they do. Such data raise the question whether we should rethink the collective grouping of these gene deficiencies together, or whether it would be better to consider them as separate entities. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Current Research on the Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinoses (Batten Disease).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan D Cooper
- Pediatric Storage Disorders Laboratory (PSDL), Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, James Black Centre, 125 Coldharbour Lane, London SE5 9NU, UK.
| | - Marta A Tarczyluk
- Pediatric Storage Disorders Laboratory (PSDL), Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, James Black Centre, 125 Coldharbour Lane, London SE5 9NU, UK
| | - Hemanth R Nelvagal
- Pediatric Storage Disorders Laboratory (PSDL), Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, James Black Centre, 125 Coldharbour Lane, London SE5 9NU, UK
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An anti-neuroinflammatory that targets dysregulated glia enhances the efficacy of CNS-directed gene therapy in murine infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis. J Neurosci 2014; 34:13077-82. [PMID: 25253854 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2518-14.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (INCL) is an inherited neurodegenerative lysosomal storage disease (LSD) caused by a deficiency in palmitoyl protein thioesterase-1 (PPT1). Studies in Ppt1(-/-) mice demonstrate that glial activation is central to the pathogenesis of INCL. Astrocyte activation precedes neuronal loss, while cytokine upregulation associated with microglial reactivity occurs before and concurrent with neurodegeneration. Therefore, we hypothesized that cytokine cascades associated with neuroinflammation are important therapeutic targets for the treatment of INCL. MW01-2-151SRM (MW151) is a blood-brain barrier penetrant, small-molecule anti-neuroinflammatory that attenuates glial cytokine upregulation in models of neuroinflammation such as traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer's disease, and kainic acid toxicity. Thus, we used MW151, alone and in combination with CNS-directed, AAV-mediated gene therapy, as a possible treatment for INCL. MW151 alone decreased seizure susceptibility. When combined with AAV-mediated gene therapy, treated INCL mice had increased life spans, improved motor performance, and eradication of seizures. Combination-treated INCL mice also had decreased brain atrophy, astrocytosis, and microglial activation, as well as intermediary effects on cytokine upregulation. These data suggest that MW151 can attenuate seizure susceptibility but is most effective when used in conjunction with a therapy that targets the primary genetic defect.
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Shyng C, Sands MS. Astrocytosis in infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis: friend or foe? Biochem Soc Trans 2014; 42:1282-5. [PMID: 25233404 DOI: 10.1042/bst20140188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (INCL; infantile Batten disease) is an inherited paediatric neurodegenerative disease. INCL is caused by a deficiency in the lysosomal enzyme palmitoyl-protein thioesterase-1 (PPT1) and is thus classified as a lysosomal storage disease. Pathological examination of both human and murine INCL brains reveals progressive, widespread neuroinflammation. In fact, astrocyte activation appears to be the first histological sign of disease. However, the role of astrocytosis in INCL was poorly understood. The hallmark of astrocyte activation is the up-regulation of intermediate filaments, such as glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and vimentin. The role of astrocytosis in INCL was studied in a murine model lacking PPT1 and the intermediate filaments GFAP and vimentin (triple-knockout). This murine model of INCL with attenuated astrocytosis had an exacerbated pathological and clinical phenotype. The triple-knockout mouse had a significantly shortened lifespan, and accelerated cellular and humoural neuroinflammatory response compared with the parental PPT1(-/-) mouse. The data obtained from the triple-knockout mouse strongly suggest that astrocyte activation plays a beneficial role in early INCL disease progression. A more thorough understanding of the glial responses to lysosomal enzyme deficiencies and the accumulation of undergraded substrates will be crucial to developing effective therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Shyng
- *Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 South Euclid Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110, U.S.A
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Groh J, Stadler D, Buttmann M, Martini R. Non-invasive assessment of retinal alterations in mouse models of infantile and juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis by spectral domain optical coherence tomography. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2014; 2:54. [PMID: 24887158 PMCID: PMC4035096 DOI: 10.1186/2051-5960-2-54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2014] [Accepted: 04/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses constitute a group of fatal inherited lysosomal storage diseases that manifest in profound neurodegeneration in the CNS. Visual impairment usually is an early symptom and selective degeneration of retinal neurons has been described in patients suffering from distinct disease subtypes. We have previously demonstrated that palmitoyl protein thioesterase 1 deficient (Ppt1-/-) mice, a model of the infantile disease subtype, exhibit progressive axonal degeneration in the optic nerve and loss of retinal ganglion cells, faithfully reflecting disease severity in the CNS. Here we performed spectral domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) in Ppt1-/- and ceroid lipofuscinosis neuronal 3 deficient (Cln3-/-) mice, which are models of infantile and juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis, respectively, in order to establish a non-invasive method to assess retinal alterations and monitor disease severity in vivo. Results Blue laser autofluorescence imaging revealed increased accumulation of autofluorescent storage material in the inner retinae of 7-month-old Ppt1-/- and of 16-month-old Cln3-/- mice in comparison with age-matched control littermates. Additionally, optical coherence tomography demonstrated reduced thickness of retinae in knockout mice in comparison with age-matched control littermates. High resolution scans and manual measurements allowed for separation of different retinal composite layers and revealed a thinning of layers in the inner retinae of both mouse models at distinct ages. OCT measurements correlated well with subsequent histological analysis of the same retinae. Conclusions These results demonstrate the feasibility of OCT to assess neurodegenerative disease severity in mouse models of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis and might have important implications for diagnostic evaluation of disease progression and therapeutic efficacy in patients. Moreover, the non-invasive method allows for longitudinal studies in experimental models, reducing the number of animals used for research.
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Burkovetskaya M, Karpuk N, Xiong J, Bosch M, Boska MD, Takeuchi H, Suzumura A, Kielian T. Evidence for aberrant astrocyte hemichannel activity in Juvenile Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (JNCL). PLoS One 2014; 9:e95023. [PMID: 24736558 PMCID: PMC3988164 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0095023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2013] [Accepted: 03/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Juvenile Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (JNCL) is a lysosomal storage disease caused by an autosomal recessive mutation in CLN3 that leads to vision loss, progressive cognitive and motor decline, and premature death. Morphological evidence of astrocyte activation occurs early in the disease process and coincides with regions where neuronal loss eventually ensues. However, the consequences of CLN3 mutation on astrocyte function remain relatively ill-defined. Astrocytes play a critical role in CNS homeostasis, in part, by their ability to regulate the extracellular milieu via the formation of extensive syncytial networks coupled by gap junction (GJ) channels. In contrast, unopposed hemichannels (HCs) have been implicated in CNS pathology by allowing the non-discriminant passage of molecules between the intracellular and extracellular milieus. Here we examined acute brain slices from CLN3 mutant mice (CLN3Δex7/8) to determine whether CLN3 loss alters the balance of GJ and HC activity. CLN3Δex7/8 mice displayed transient increases in astrocyte HC opening at postnatal day 30 in numerous brain regions, compared to wild type (WT) animals; however, HC activity steadily decreased at postnatal days 60 and 90 in CLN3Δex7/8 astrocytes to reach levels lower than WT cells. This suggested a progressive decline in astrocyte function, which was supported by significant reductions in glutamine synthetase, GLAST, and connexin expression in CLN3Δex7/8 mice compared to WT animals. Based on the early increase in astrocyte HC activity, CLN3Δex7/8 mice were treated with the novel carbenoxolone derivative INI-0602 to inhibit HCs. Administration of INI-0602 for a one month period significantly reduced lysosomal ceroid inclusions in the brains of CLN3Δex7/8 mice compared to WT animals, which coincided with significant increases in astrocyte GJ communication and normalization of astrocyte resting membrane potential to WT levels. Collectively, these findings suggest that alterations in astrocyte communication may impact the progression of JNCL and could offer a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Burkovetskaya
- Departments of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Nikolay Karpuk
- Departments of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Juan Xiong
- Departments of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Megan Bosch
- Departments of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Michael D. Boska
- Department of Radiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
| | - Hideyuki Takeuchi
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Akio Suzumura
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Tammy Kielian
- Departments of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Estrada V, Brazda N, Schmitz C, Heller S, Blazyca H, Martini R, Müller HW. Long-lasting significant functional improvement in chronic severe spinal cord injury following scar resection and polyethylene glycol implantation. Neurobiol Dis 2014; 67:165-79. [PMID: 24713436 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2014.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2014] [Revised: 03/17/2014] [Accepted: 03/28/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
We identified a suitable biomatrix that improved axon regeneration and functional outcome after partial (moderate) and complete (severe) chronic spinal cord injury (SCI) in rat. Five weeks after dorsal thoracic hemisection injury the lesion scar was resected via aspiration and the resulting cavity was filled with different biopolymers such as Matrigel™, alginate-hydrogel and polyethylene glycol 600 (PEG) all of which have not previously been used as sole graft-materials in chronic SCI. Immunohistological staining revealed marked differences between these compounds regarding axon regeneration, invasion/elongation of astrocytes, fibroblasts, endothelial and Schwann cells, revascularization, and collagen deposition. According to axon regeneration-supporting effects, the biopolymers could be ranked in the order PEG>>alginate-hydrogel>Matrigel™. Even after complete chronic transection, the PEG-bridge allowed long-distance axon regeneration through the grafted area and for, at least, 1cm beyond the lesion/graft border. As revealed by electron microscopy, bundles of regenerating axons within the matrix area received myelin ensheathment from Schwann cells. The beneficial effects of PEG-implantation into the resection-cavity were accompanied by long-lasting significant locomotor improvement over a period of 8months. Following complete spinal re-transection at the rostral border of the PEG-graft the locomotor recovery was aborted, suggesting a functional role of regenerated axons in the initial locomotor improvement. In conclusion, scar resection and subsequent implantation of PEG into the generated cavity leads to tissue recovery, axon regeneration, myelination and functional improvement that have not been achieved before in severe chronic SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Estrada
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Heinrich-Heine-University Medical Center Düsseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Nicole Brazda
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Heinrich-Heine-University Medical Center Düsseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Christine Schmitz
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Heinrich-Heine-University Medical Center Düsseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Silja Heller
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Heinrich-Heine-University Medical Center Düsseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Heinrich Blazyca
- Department of Neurology, Developmental Neurobiology, University Medical Center Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 11, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Rudolf Martini
- Department of Neurology, Developmental Neurobiology, University Medical Center Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 11, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Hans Werner Müller
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Heinrich-Heine-University Medical Center Düsseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany.
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NCL disease mechanisms. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2013; 1832:1882-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2013.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2012] [Revised: 05/08/2013] [Accepted: 05/09/2013] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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Progressive retinal degeneration and glial activation in the CLN6 (nclf) mouse model of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis: a beneficial effect of DHA and curcumin supplementation. PLoS One 2013; 8:e75963. [PMID: 24124525 PMCID: PMC3790850 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0075963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2013] [Accepted: 08/19/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL) is a group of neurodegenerative lysosomal storage disorders characterized by vision loss, mental and motor deficits, and spontaneous seizures. Neuropathological analyses of autopsy material from NCL patients and animal models revealed brain atrophy closely associated with glial activity. Earlier reports also noticed loss of retinal cells and reactive gliosis in some forms of NCL. To study this phenomenon in detail, we analyzed the ocular phenotype of CLN6nclf mice, an established mouse model for variant-late infantile NCL. Retinal morphometry, immunohistochemistry, optokinetic tracking, electroretinography, and mRNA expression were used to characterize retinal morphology and function as well as the responses of Müller cells and microglia. Our histological data showed a severe and progressive degeneration in the CLN6nclf retina co-inciding with reactive Müller glia. Furthermore, a prominent phenotypic transformation of ramified microglia to phagocytic, bloated, and mislocalized microglial cells was identified in CLN6nclf retinas. These events overlapped with a rapid loss of visual perception and retinal function. Based on the strong microglia reactivity we hypothesized that dietary supplementation with immuno-regulatory compounds, curcumin and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), could ameliorate microgliosis and reduce retinal degeneration. Our analyses showed that treatment of three-week-old CLN6nclf mice with either 5% DHA or 0.6% curcumin for 30 weeks resulted in a reduced number of amoeboid reactive microglia and partially improved retinal function. DHA-treatment also improved the morphology of CLN6nclf retinas with a preserved thickness of the photoreceptor layer in most regions of the retina. Our results suggest that microglial reactivity closely accompanies disease progression in the CLN6nclf retina and both processes can be attenuated with dietary supplemented immuno-modulating compounds.
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