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Azam HMH, Rößling RI, Geithe C, Khan MM, Dinter F, Hanack K, Prüß H, Husse B, Roggenbuck D, Schierack P, Rödiger S. MicroRNA biomarkers as next-generation diagnostic tools for neurodegenerative diseases: a comprehensive review. Front Mol Neurosci 2024; 17:1386735. [PMID: 38883980 PMCID: PMC11177777 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2024.1386735] [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: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are characterized by abnormalities within neurons of the brain or spinal cord that gradually lose function, eventually leading to cell death. Upon examination of affected tissue, pathological changes reveal a loss of synapses, misfolded proteins, and activation of immune cells-all indicative of disease progression-before severe clinical symptoms become apparent. Early detection of NDs is crucial for potentially administering targeted medications that may delay disease advancement. Given their complex pathophysiological features and diverse clinical symptoms, there is a pressing need for sensitive and effective diagnostic methods for NDs. Biomarkers such as microRNAs (miRNAs) have been identified as potential tools for detecting these diseases. We explore the pivotal role of miRNAs in the context of NDs, focusing on Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Multiple sclerosis, Huntington's disease, and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. The review delves into the intricate relationship between aging and NDs, highlighting structural and functional alterations in the aging brain and their implications for disease development. It elucidates how miRNAs and RNA-binding proteins are implicated in the pathogenesis of NDs and underscores the importance of investigating their expression and function in aging. Significantly, miRNAs exert substantial influence on post-translational modifications (PTMs), impacting not just the nervous system but a wide array of tissues and cell types as well. Specific miRNAs have been found to target proteins involved in ubiquitination or de-ubiquitination processes, which play a significant role in regulating protein function and stability. We discuss the link between miRNA, PTM, and NDs. Additionally, the review discusses the significance of miRNAs as biomarkers for early disease detection, offering insights into diagnostic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hafiz Muhammad Husnain Azam
- Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Environment and Natural Sciences, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Senftenberg, Germany
| | - Rosa Ilse Rößling
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christiane Geithe
- Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Environment and Natural Sciences, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Senftenberg, Germany
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Joint Faculty of the Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus - Senftenberg, The Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane and the University of Potsdam, Berlin, Germany
| | - Muhammad Moman Khan
- Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Environment and Natural Sciences, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Senftenberg, Germany
| | - Franziska Dinter
- Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Environment and Natural Sciences, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Senftenberg, Germany
- PolyAn GmbH, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katja Hanack
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biology, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Harald Prüß
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Berlin, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Britta Husse
- Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Environment and Natural Sciences, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Senftenberg, Germany
| | - Dirk Roggenbuck
- Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Environment and Natural Sciences, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Senftenberg, Germany
| | - Peter Schierack
- Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Environment and Natural Sciences, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Senftenberg, Germany
| | - Stefan Rödiger
- Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Environment and Natural Sciences, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Senftenberg, Germany
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Joint Faculty of the Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus - Senftenberg, The Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane and the University of Potsdam, Berlin, Germany
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Jiang A, You L, Handley RR, Hawkins V, Reid SJ, Jacobsen JC, Patassini S, Rudiger SR, Mclaughlan CJ, Kelly JM, Verma PJ, Bawden CS, Gusella JF, MacDonald ME, Waldvogel HJ, Faull RLM, Lehnert K, Snell RG. Single nuclei RNA-seq reveals a medium spiny neuron glutamate excitotoxicity signature prior to the onset of neuronal death in an ovine Huntington's disease model. Hum Mol Genet 2024:ddae087. [PMID: 38776957 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddae087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative genetic disorder caused by an expansion in the CAG repeat tract of the huntingtin (HTT) gene resulting in behavioural, cognitive, and motor defects. Current knowledge of disease pathogenesis remains incomplete, and no disease course-modifying interventions are in clinical use. We have previously reported the development and characterisation of the OVT73 transgenic sheep model of HD. The 73 polyglutamine repeat is somatically stable and therefore likely captures a prodromal phase of the disease with an absence of motor symptomatology even at 5-years of age and no detectable striatal cell loss. To better understand the disease-initiating events we have undertaken a single nuclei transcriptome study of the striatum of an extensively studied cohort of 5-year-old OVT73 HD sheep and age matched wild-type controls. We have identified transcriptional upregulation of genes encoding N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA), α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) and kainate receptors in medium spiny neurons, the cell type preferentially lost early in HD. Further, we observed an upregulation of astrocytic glutamate uptake transporters and medium spiny neuron GABAA receptors, which may maintain glutamate homeostasis. Taken together, these observations support the glutamate excitotoxicity hypothesis as an early neurodegeneration cascade-initiating process but the threshold of toxicity may be regulated by several protective mechanisms. Addressing this biochemical defect early may prevent neuronal loss and avoid the more complex secondary consequences precipitated by cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Jiang
- Applied Translational Genetics Group, Centre for Brain Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, 3 Symonds Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Linya You
- Department of Human Anatomy & Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, 131 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Imaging Computing and Computer Assisted Intervention of Shanghai, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Renee R Handley
- Applied Translational Genetics Group, Centre for Brain Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, 3 Symonds Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Victoria Hawkins
- Applied Translational Genetics Group, Centre for Brain Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, 3 Symonds Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Suzanne J Reid
- Applied Translational Genetics Group, Centre for Brain Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, 3 Symonds Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Jessie C Jacobsen
- Applied Translational Genetics Group, Centre for Brain Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, 3 Symonds Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Stefano Patassini
- Applied Translational Genetics Group, Centre for Brain Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, 3 Symonds Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Skye R Rudiger
- Molecular Biology and Reproductive Technology Laboratories, South Australian Research and Development Institute, 129 Holland Road, Adelaide, SA 5350, Australia
| | - Clive J Mclaughlan
- Molecular Biology and Reproductive Technology Laboratories, South Australian Research and Development Institute, 129 Holland Road, Adelaide, SA 5350, Australia
| | - Jennifer M Kelly
- Molecular Biology and Reproductive Technology Laboratories, South Australian Research and Development Institute, 129 Holland Road, Adelaide, SA 5350, Australia
| | - Paul J Verma
- Aquatic and Livestock Sciences, South Australian Research and Development Institute, 129 Holland Road, Adelaide, SA 5350, Australia
| | - C Simon Bawden
- Molecular Biology and Reproductive Technology Laboratories, South Australian Research and Development Institute, 129 Holland Road, Adelaide, SA 5350, Australia
| | - James F Gusella
- Molecular Neurogenetics Unit, Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, 185 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA 02114, United States
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Marcy E MacDonald
- Molecular Neurogenetics Unit, Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, 185 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA 02114, United States
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Henry J Waldvogel
- Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Richard L M Faull
- Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Klaus Lehnert
- Applied Translational Genetics Group, Centre for Brain Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, 3 Symonds Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Russell G Snell
- Applied Translational Genetics Group, Centre for Brain Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, 3 Symonds Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
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Zhang ML, Li HB, Jin Y. Application and perspective of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing technology in human diseases modeling and gene therapy. Front Genet 2024; 15:1364742. [PMID: 38666293 PMCID: PMC11043577 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1364742] [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: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeat (CRISPR) mediated Cas9 nuclease system has been extensively used for genome editing and gene modification in eukaryotic cells. CRISPR/Cas9 technology holds great potential for various applications, including the correction of genetic defects or mutations within the human genome. The application of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing system in human disease research is anticipated to solve a multitude of intricate molecular biology challenges encountered in life science research. Here, we review the fundamental principles underlying CRISPR/Cas9 technology and its recent application in neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular diseases, autoimmune related diseases, and cancer, focusing on the disease modeling and gene therapy potential of CRISPR/Cas9 in these diseases. Finally, we provide an overview of the limitations and future prospects associated with employing CRISPR/Cas9 technology for diseases study and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man-Ling Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory for Pathogenesis and Diagnosis of Rheumatic and Autoimmune Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Hong-Bin Li
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory for Pathogenesis and Diagnosis of Rheumatic and Autoimmune Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Yong Jin
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory for Pathogenesis and Diagnosis of Rheumatic and Autoimmune Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
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Han B, Liang W, Li XJ, Li S, Yan S, Tu Z. Large animal models for Huntington's disease research. Zool Res 2024; 45:275-283. [PMID: 38485497 PMCID: PMC11017086 DOI: 10.24272/j.issn.2095-8137.2023.199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is a hereditary neurodegenerative disorder for which there is currently no effective treatment available. Consequently, the development of appropriate disease models is critical to thoroughly investigate disease progression. The genetic basis of HD involves the abnormal expansion of CAG repeats in the huntingtin ( HTT) gene, leading to the expansion of a polyglutamine repeat in the HTT protein. Mutant HTT carrying the expanded polyglutamine repeat undergoes misfolding and forms aggregates in the brain, which precipitate selective neuronal loss in specific brain regions. Animal models play an important role in elucidating the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders such as HD and in identifying potential therapeutic targets. Due to the marked species differences between rodents and larger animals, substantial efforts have been directed toward establishing large animal models for HD research. These models are pivotal for advancing the discovery of novel therapeutic targets, enhancing effective drug delivery methods, and improving treatment outcomes. We have explored the advantages of utilizing large animal models, particularly pigs, in previous reviews. Since then, however, significant progress has been made in developing more sophisticated animal models that faithfully replicate the typical pathology of HD. In the current review, we provide a comprehensive overview of large animal models of HD, incorporating recent findings regarding the establishment of HD knock-in (KI) pigs and their genetic therapy. We also explore the utilization of large animal models in HD research, with a focus on sheep, non-human primates (NHPs), and pigs. Our objective is to provide valuable insights into the application of these large animal models for the investigation and treatment of neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bofeng Han
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau CNS Regeneration Institute of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University)-Ministry of Education, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China
| | - Weien Liang
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau CNS Regeneration Institute of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University)-Ministry of Education, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China
| | - Xiao-Jiang Li
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau CNS Regeneration Institute of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University)-Ministry of Education, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China
| | - Shihua Li
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau CNS Regeneration Institute of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University)-Ministry of Education, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China
| | - Sen Yan
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau CNS Regeneration Institute of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University)-Ministry of Education, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China. E-mail:
| | - Zhuchi Tu
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau CNS Regeneration Institute of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University)-Ministry of Education, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China. E-mail:
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Handley RR, Reid SJ, Burch Z, Jacobsen JC, Gillis T, Correia K, Rudiger SR, McLaughlin CJ, Bawden CS, MacDonald ME, Wheeler VC, Snell RG. Somatic CAG Repeat Stability in a Transgenic Sheep Model of Huntington's Disease. J Huntingtons Dis 2024; 13:33-40. [PMID: 38393920 DOI: 10.3233/jhd-231516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Somatic instability of the huntingtin (HTT) CAG repeat mutation modifies age-at-onset of Huntington's disease (HD). Understanding the mechanism and pathogenic consequences of instability may reveal therapeutic targets. Using small-pool PCR we analyzed CAG instability in the OVT73 sheep model which expresses a full-length human cDNA HTT transgene. Analyses of five- and ten-year old sheep revealed the transgene (CAG)69 repeat was remarkably stable in liver, striatum, and other brain tissues. As OVT73 sheep at ten years old have minimal cell death and behavioral changes, our findings support instability of the HTT expanded-CAG repeat as being required for the progression of HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renee R Handley
- Centre for Brain Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Suzanne J Reid
- Centre for Brain Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Zoe Burch
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jessie C Jacobsen
- Centre for Brain Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Tammy Gillis
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kevin Correia
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Skye R Rudiger
- Molecular Biology and Reproductive Technology, Laboratories, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Clive J McLaughlin
- Molecular Biology and Reproductive Technology, Laboratories, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - C Simon Bawden
- Molecular Biology and Reproductive Technology, Laboratories, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Marcy E MacDonald
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Vanessa C Wheeler
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Russell G Snell
- Centre for Brain Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Akyol S, Ashrafi N, Yilmaz A, Turkoglu O, Graham SF. Metabolomics: An Emerging "Omics" Platform for Systems Biology and Its Implications for Huntington Disease Research. Metabolites 2023; 13:1203. [PMID: 38132886 PMCID: PMC10744751 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13121203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is a progressive, fatal neurodegenerative disease characterized by motor, cognitive, and psychiatric symptoms. The precise mechanisms of HD progression are poorly understood; however, it is known that there is an expansion of the trinucleotide cytosine-adenine-guanine (CAG) repeat in the Huntingtin gene. Important new strategies are of paramount importance to identify early biomarkers with predictive value for intervening in disease progression at a stage when cellular dysfunction has not progressed irreversibly. Metabolomics is the study of global metabolite profiles in a system (cell, tissue, or organism) under certain conditions and is becoming an essential tool for the systemic characterization of metabolites to provide a snapshot of the functional and pathophysiological states of an organism and support disease diagnosis and biomarker discovery. This review briefly highlights the historical progress of metabolomic methodologies, followed by a more detailed review of the use of metabolomics in HD research to enable a greater understanding of the pathogenesis, its early prediction, and finally the main technical platforms in the field of metabolomics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumeyya Akyol
- NX Prenatal Inc., 4350 Brownsboro Road, Louisville KY 40207, USA;
| | - Nadia Ashrafi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oakland University-William Beaumont School of Medicine, 318 Meadow Brook Road, Rochester, MI 48309, USA; (N.A.); (A.Y.); (O.T.)
| | - Ali Yilmaz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oakland University-William Beaumont School of Medicine, 318 Meadow Brook Road, Rochester, MI 48309, USA; (N.A.); (A.Y.); (O.T.)
- Metabolomics Division, Beaumont Research Institute, 3811 W. 13 Mile Road, Royal Oak, MI 48073, USA
| | - Onur Turkoglu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oakland University-William Beaumont School of Medicine, 318 Meadow Brook Road, Rochester, MI 48309, USA; (N.A.); (A.Y.); (O.T.)
| | - Stewart F. Graham
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oakland University-William Beaumont School of Medicine, 318 Meadow Brook Road, Rochester, MI 48309, USA; (N.A.); (A.Y.); (O.T.)
- Metabolomics Division, Beaumont Research Institute, 3811 W. 13 Mile Road, Royal Oak, MI 48073, USA
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Jiang A, Handley RR, Lehnert K, Snell RG. From Pathogenesis to Therapeutics: A Review of 150 Years of Huntington's Disease Research. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13021. [PMID: 37629202 PMCID: PMC10455900 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241613021] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is a debilitating neurodegenerative genetic disorder caused by an expanded polyglutamine-coding (CAG) trinucleotide repeat in the huntingtin (HTT) gene. HD behaves as a highly penetrant dominant disorder likely acting through a toxic gain of function by the mutant huntingtin protein. Widespread cellular degeneration of the medium spiny neurons of the caudate nucleus and putamen are responsible for the onset of symptomology that encompasses motor, cognitive, and behavioural abnormalities. Over the past 150 years of HD research since George Huntington published his description, a plethora of pathogenic mechanisms have been proposed with key themes including excitotoxicity, dopaminergic imbalance, mitochondrial dysfunction, metabolic defects, disruption of proteostasis, transcriptional dysregulation, and neuroinflammation. Despite the identification and characterisation of the causative gene and mutation and significant advances in our understanding of the cellular pathology in recent years, a disease-modifying intervention has not yet been clinically approved. This review includes an overview of Huntington's disease, from its genetic aetiology to clinical presentation and its pathogenic manifestation. An updated view of molecular mechanisms and the latest therapeutic developments will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Jiang
- Applied Translational Genetics Group, Centre for Brain Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand; (R.R.H.); (K.L.); (R.G.S.)
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Spick M, Hancox TPM, Chowdhury NR, Middleton B, Skene DJ, Morton AJ. Metabolomic Analysis of Plasma in Huntington's Disease Transgenic Sheep (Ovis aries) Reveals Progressive Circadian Rhythm Dysregulation. J Huntingtons Dis 2023; 12:31-42. [PMID: 36617787 DOI: 10.3233/jhd-220552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Metabolic abnormalities have long been predicted in Huntington's disease (HD) but remain poorly characterized. Chronobiological dysregulation has been described in HD and may include abnormalities in circadian-driven metabolism. OBJECTIVE Here we investigated metabolite profiles in the transgenic sheep model of HD (OVT73) at presymptomatic ages. Our goal was to understand changes to the metabolome as well as potential metabolite rhythm changes associated with HD. METHODS We used targeted liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS) metabolomics to analyze metabolites in plasma samples taken from female HD transgenic and normal (control) sheep aged 5 and 7 years. Samples were taken hourly across a 27-h period. The resulting dataset was investigated by machine learning and chronobiological analysis. RESULTS The metabolic profiles of HD and control sheep were separable by machine learning at both ages. We found both absolute and rhythmic differences in metabolites in HD compared to control sheep at 5 years of age. An increase in both the number of disturbed metabolites and the magnitude of change of acrophase (the time at which the rhythms peak) was seen in samples from 7-year-old HD compared to control sheep. There were striking similarities between the dysregulated metabolites identified in HD sheep and human patients (notably of phosphatidylcholines, amino acids, urea, and threonine). CONCLUSION This work provides the first integrated analysis of changes in metabolism and circadian rhythmicity of metabolites in a large animal model of presymptomatic HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matt Spick
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Thomas P M Hancox
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
| | - Namrata R Chowdhury
- Chronobiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Benita Middleton
- Chronobiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Debra J Skene
- Chronobiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - A Jennifer Morton
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, UK
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Morton AJ. Sleep and Circadian Rhythm Dysfunction in Animal Models of Huntington's Disease. J Huntingtons Dis 2023; 12:133-148. [PMID: 37334613 PMCID: PMC10473141 DOI: 10.3233/jhd-230574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Sleep and circadian disruption affects most individuals with Huntington's disease (HD) at some stage in their lives. Sleep and circadian dysregulation are also present in many mouse and the sheep models of HD. Here I review evidence for sleep and/or circadian dysfunction in HD transgenic animal models and discuss two key questions: 1) How relevant are such findings to people with HD, and 2) Whether or not therapeutic interventions that ameliorate deficits in animal models of HD might translate to meaningful therapies for people with HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Jennifer Morton
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Sapp E, Boudi A, Reid SJ, Trombetta BA, Kivisäkk P, Taghian T, Arnold SE, Howland D, Gray-Edwards H, Kegel-Gleason KB, DiFiglia M. Levels of Synaptic Proteins in Brain and Neurofilament Light Chain in Cerebrospinal Fluid and Plasma of OVT73 Huntington's Disease Sheep Support a Prodromal Disease State. J Huntingtons Dis 2023; 12:201-213. [PMID: 37661892 DOI: 10.3233/jhd-230590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Synaptic changes occur early in patients with Huntington's disease (HD) and in mouse models of HD. An analysis of synaptic changes in HD transgenic sheep (OVT73) is fitting since they have been shown to have some phenotypes. They also have larger brains, longer lifespan, and greater motor and cognitive capacities more aligned with humans, and can provide abundant biofluids for in vivo monitoring of therapeutic interventions. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to determine if there were differences between 5- and 10-year-old OVT73 and wild-type (WT) sheep in levels of synaptic proteins in brain and in neurofilament light chain (NfL) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma. METHODS Mutant huntingtin (mHTT) and other proteins were measured by western blot assay in synaptosomes prepared from caudate, motor, and piriform cortex in 5-year-old and caudate, putamen, motor; and piriform cortex in 10-year-old WT and OVT73 sheep. Levels of NfL, a biomarker for neuronal damage increased in many neurological disorders including HD, were examined in CSF and plasma samples from 10-year-old WT and OVT73 sheep using the Simoa NfL Advantage kit. RESULTS Western blot analysis showed mHTT protein expression in synaptosomes from OVT73 sheep was 23% of endogenous sheep HTT levels at both ages. Significant changes were detected in brain levels of PDE10A, SCN4B, DARPP32, calmodulin, SNAP25, PSD95, VGLUT 1, VAMP1, and Na+/K+-ATPase, which depended on age and brain region. There was no difference in NfL levels in CSF and plasma in OVT73 sheep compared to age-matched WT sheep. CONCLUSIONS These results show that synaptic changes occur in brain of 5- and 10-year-old OVT73 sheep, but levels of NfL in biofluids are unaffected. Altogether, the data support a prodromal disease state in OVT73 sheep that involves the caudate, putamen and cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Sapp
- Department of Neurology, Mass General Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Adel Boudi
- Department of Neurology, Mass General Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Suzanne J Reid
- Centre for Brain Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Bianca A Trombetta
- Department of Neurology, Alzheimer's Clinical and Translational Research Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Pia Kivisäkk
- Department of Neurology, Alzheimer's Clinical and Translational Research Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Toloo Taghian
- Department of Radiology and Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Steven E Arnold
- Department of Neurology, Alzheimer's Clinical and Translational Research Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Heather Gray-Edwards
- Department of Radiology and Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Kimberly B Kegel-Gleason
- Department of Neurology, Mass General Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marian DiFiglia
- Department of Neurology, Mass General Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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11
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McBride SD, Ober J, Dylak J, Schneider W, Morton AJ. Oculomotor Abnormalities in a Sheep (Ovis aries) Model of Huntington's Disease: Towards a Biomarker for Assessing Therapeutic Efficacy. J Huntingtons Dis 2023; 12:189-200. [PMID: 37718849 DOI: 10.3233/jhd-230584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Huntington's disease (HD) is characterized by a loss of control of motor function that causes the presence of abnormal eye movements at early stages. OBJECTIVE To determine if, compared to normal sheep, HD sheep have abnormal eye movements. METHODS We measured eye movements in a transgenic sheep (Ovis aries) model of HD using a purpose-built, head-mounted sheep oculometer. This allows us to measure saccades without the need for either behavioral training or head fixation. At the age of testing (6 years old), the HD sheep were pre-manifest. We used 21 sheep (11 HD, 10 normal). RESULTS We found small but significant differences in eye movements between normal (control) and HD sheep during vestibular ocular reflex (VOR)- and vestibular post-rotational nystagmus (PRN)-based tests. CONCLUSIONS Two measures were identified that could distinguish normal from HD sheep; the number of PRN oscillations when tested in the dark and the gain (eye movement to head movement ratio) during the VOR when tested in the light. To our knowledge, this is the first study in which eye movements have been quantified in sheep. It demonstrates the feasibility of measuring and quantifying human-relevant eye movements in this species. The HD-relevant deficits show that even in 'premanifest' sheep there are measurable signs of neurological dysfunction that are characterized by loss of control of eye movements.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jan Ober
- Ober Consulting Sp. z o.o., Poznań, Poland
| | | | | | - A Jennifer Morton
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, UK
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12
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Jia Q, Li S, Li XJ, Yin P. Neuroinflammation in Huntington's disease: From animal models to clinical therapeutics. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1088124. [PMID: 36618375 PMCID: PMC9815700 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1088124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by preferential loss of neurons in the striatum in patients, which leads to motor and cognitive impairments and death that often occurs 10-15 years after the onset of symptoms. The expansion of a glutamine repeat (>36 glutamines) in the N-terminal region of huntingtin (HTT) has been defined as the cause of HD, but the mechanism underlying neuronal death remains unclear. Multiple mechanisms, including inflammation, may jointly contribute to HD pathogenesis. Altered inflammation response is evident even before the onset of classical symptoms of HD. In this review, we summarize the current evidence on immune and inflammatory changes, from HD animal models to clinical phenomenon of patients with HD. The understanding of the impact of inflammation on HD would help develop novel strategies to treat HD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Peng Yin
- *Correspondence: Xiao-Jiang Li, ; Peng Yin,
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Taghian T, Gallagher J, Batcho E, Pullan C, Kuchel T, Denney T, Perumal R, Moore S, Muirhead R, Herde P, Johns D, Christou C, Taylor A, Passler T, Pulaparthi S, Hall E, Chandra S, O’Neill CA, Gray-Edwards H. Brain Alterations in Aged OVT73 Sheep Model of Huntington's Disease: An MRI Based Approach. J Huntingtons Dis 2022; 11:391-406. [PMID: 36189602 PMCID: PMC9837686 DOI: 10.3233/jhd-220526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Huntington's disease (HD) is a fatal neurodegenerative autosomal dominant disorder with prevalence of 1 : 20000 that has no effective treatment to date. Translatability of candidate therapeutics could be enhanced by additional testing in large animal models because of similarities in brain anatomy, size, and immunophysiology. These features enable realistic pre-clinical studies of biodistribution, efficacy, and toxicity. OBJECTIVE AND METHODS Here we non-invasively characterized alterations in brain white matter microstructure, neurochemistry, neurological status, and mutant Huntingtin protein (mHTT) levels in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of aged OVT73 HD sheep. RESULTS Similar to HD patients, CSF mHTT differentiates HD from normal sheep. Our results are indicative of a decline in neurological status, and alterations in brain white matter diffusion and spectroscopy metric that are more severe in aged female HD sheep. Longitudinal analysis of aged female HD sheep suggests that the decline is detectable over the course of a year. In line with reports of HD human studies, white matter alterations in corpus callosum correlates with a decline in gait of HD sheep. Moreover, alterations in the occipital cortex white matter correlates with a decline in clinical rating score. In addition, the marker of energy metabolism in striatum of aged HD sheep, shows a correlation with decline of clinical rating score and eye coordination. CONCLUSION This data suggests that OVT73 HD sheep can serve as a pre-manifest large animal model of HD providing a platform for pre-clinical testing of HD therapeutics and non-invasive tracking of the efficacy of the therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toloo Taghian
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA,
Department of Radiology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Jillian Gallagher
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Erin Batcho
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Caitlin Pullan
- South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Gillies Plains, SA, Australia
| | - Tim Kuchel
- South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Gillies Plains, SA, Australia
| | - Thomas Denney
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Raj Perumal
- South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Gillies Plains, SA, Australia
| | - Shamika Moore
- South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Gillies Plains, SA, Australia
| | - Robb Muirhead
- South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Gillies Plains, SA, Australia
| | - Paul Herde
- South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Gillies Plains, SA, Australia
| | - Daniel Johns
- South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Gillies Plains, SA, Australia
| | - Chris Christou
- South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Gillies Plains, SA, Australia
| | - Amanda Taylor
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Thomas Passler
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Sanjana Pulaparthi
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Erin Hall
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Sundeep Chandra
- Sana Biotechnology, South San Francisco, CA, USA,Bio Marin Pharmaceutical Inc., San Rafael, CA, USA
| | | | - Heather Gray-Edwards
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA,
Department of Radiology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA,Correspondence to: Heather L. Gray-Edwards, DVM, PhD, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Department of Radiology and Horae Gene Therapy Center, 368 Plantation Street, ASC6-2055, Worcester, MA 01605, USA. Tel.: +1 508 856 4051; Fax: +1 508 856 1552; E-mail:
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14
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Sun Y, Tong H, Yang T, Liu L, Li XJ, Li S. Insights into White Matter Defect in Huntington's Disease. Cells 2022; 11:3381. [PMID: 36359783 PMCID: PMC9656068 DOI: 10.3390/cells11213381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is an autosomal-dominant inherited progressive neurodegenerative disorder. It is caused by a CAG repeat expansion in the Huntingtin gene that is translated to an expanded polyglutamine (PolyQ) repeat in huntingtin protein. HD is characterized by mood swings, involuntary movement, and cognitive decline in the late disease stage. HD patients often die 15-20 years after disease onset. Currently, there is no cure for HD. Due to the striking neuronal loss in HD, most studies focused on the investigation of the predominantly neuronal degeneration in specific brain regions. However, the pathology of the white matter area in the brains of HD patients was also reported by clinical imaging studies, which showed white matter abnormalities even before the clinical onset of HD. Since oligodendrocytes form myelin sheaths around the axons in the brain, white matter lesions are likely attributed to alterations in myelin and oligodendrocyte-associated changes in HD. In this review, we summarized the evidence for white matter, myelin, and oligodendrocytes alterations that were previously observed in HD patients and animal models. We also discussed potential mechanisms for white matter changes and possible treatment to prevent glial dysfunction in HD.
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15
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Davies ES, Morphew RM, Cutress D, Morton AJ, McBride S. Characterization of microtubule-associated protein tau isoforms and Alzheimer's disease-like pathology in normal sheep (Ovis aries): relevance to their potential as a model of Alzheimer's disease. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:560. [PMID: 36269420 PMCID: PMC9587068 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04572-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that accounts for up to 80% of all dementias. Characterised by deteriorations of memory and cognitive function, the key neuropathological features are accumulations of β-amyloid and hyperphosphorylated tau, as 'plaques' and 'tangles', respectively. Despite extensive study, however, the exact mechanism underlying aggregate formation in Alzheimer's disease remains elusive, as does the contribution of these aggregates to disease progression. Importantly, a recent evaluation of current Alzheimer's disease animal models suggested that rodent models are not able to fully recapitulate the pathological intricacies of the disease as it occurs in humans. Therefore, increasing attention is being paid to species that might make good alternatives to rodents for studying the molecular pathology of Alzheimer's disease. The sheep (Ovis aries) is one such species, although to date, there have been few molecular studies relating to Alzheimer's disease in sheep. Here, we investigated the Alzheimer's disease relevant histopathological characteristics of 22 sheep, using anti-β-amyloid (Abcam 12267 and mOC64) and phosphorylation specific anti-tau (AT8 and S396) antibodies. We identified numerous intraneuronal aggregates of both β-amyloid and tau that are consistent with early Alzheimer's disease-like pathology. We confirmed the expression of two 3-repeat (1N3R, 2N3R) and two 4-repeat (1N4R, 2N4R) tau isoforms in the ovine brain, which result from the alternative splicing of two tau exons. Finally, we investigated the phosphorylation status of the serine396 residue in 30 sheep, and report that the phosphorylation of this residue begins in sheep aged as young as 2 years. Together, these data show that sheep exhibit naturally occurring β-amyloid and tau pathologies, that reflect those that occur in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease. This is an important step towards the validation of the sheep as a feasible large animal species in which to model Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma S. Davies
- Department of Life Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Aberystwyth, UK
| | | | - David Cutress
- Department of Life Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Aberystwyth, UK
| | - A. Jennifer Morton
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Sebastian McBride
- Department of Life Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Aberystwyth, UK
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16
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Weiss AR, Liguore WA, Brandon K, Wang X, Liu Z, Domire JS, Button D, Srinivasan S, Kroenke CD, McBride JL. A novel rhesus macaque model of Huntington's disease recapitulates key neuropathological changes along with motor and cognitive decline. eLife 2022; 11:e77568. [PMID: 36205397 PMCID: PMC9545527 DOI: 10.7554/elife.77568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
We created a new nonhuman primate model of the genetic neurodegenerative disorder Huntington's disease (HD) by injecting a mixture of recombinant adeno-associated viral vectors, serotypes AAV2 and AAV2.retro, each expressing a fragment of human mutant HTT (mHTT) into the caudate and putamen of adult rhesus macaques. This modeling strategy results in expression of mutant huntingtin protein (mHTT) and aggregate formation in the injected brain regions, as well as dozens of other cortical and subcortical brain regions affected in human HD patients. We queried the disruption of cortico-basal ganglia circuitry for 30 months post-surgery using a variety of behavioral and imaging readouts. Compared to controls, mHTT-treated macaques developed working memory decline and progressive motor impairment. Multimodal imaging revealed circuit-wide white and gray matter degenerative processes in several key brain regions affected in HD. Taken together, we have developed a novel macaque model of HD that may be used to develop disease biomarkers and screen promising therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison R Weiss
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research CenterBeavertonUnited States
| | - William A Liguore
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research CenterBeavertonUnited States
| | - Kristin Brandon
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research CenterBeavertonUnited States
| | - Xiaojie Wang
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research CenterBeavertonUnited States
- Advanced Imaging Research Center, Oregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandUnited States
| | - Zheng Liu
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research CenterBeavertonUnited States
- Advanced Imaging Research Center, Oregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandUnited States
| | - Jacqueline S Domire
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research CenterBeavertonUnited States
| | - Dana Button
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research CenterBeavertonUnited States
| | - Sathya Srinivasan
- Imaging and Morphology Support Core, Oregon National Primate Research CenterBeavertonUnited States
| | - Christopher D Kroenke
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research CenterBeavertonUnited States
- Advanced Imaging Research Center, Oregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandUnited States
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandUnited States
| | - Jodi L McBride
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research CenterBeavertonUnited States
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandUnited States
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17
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van der Bent ML, Evers MM, Vallès A. Emerging Therapies for Huntington's Disease - Focus on N-Terminal Huntingtin and Huntingtin Exon 1. Biologics 2022; 16:141-160. [PMID: 36213816 PMCID: PMC9532260 DOI: 10.2147/btt.s270657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Huntington's disease is a devastating heritable neurodegenerative disorder that is caused by the presence of a trinucleotide CAG repeat expansion in the Huntingtin gene, leading to a polyglutamine tract in the protein. Various mechanisms lead to the production of N-terminal Huntingtin protein fragments, which are reportedly more toxic than the full-length protein. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the production and toxicity of N-terminal Huntingtin protein fragments. Further, we expand on various therapeutic strategies targeting N-terminal Huntingtin on the protein, RNA and DNA level. Finally, we compare the therapeutic approaches that are clinically most advanced, including those that do not target N-terminal Huntingtin, discussing differences in mode of action and translational applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Melvin M Evers
- uniQure biopharma B.V., Department of Research and Development, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Astrid Vallès
- uniQure biopharma B.V., Department of Research and Development, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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18
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The Sheep as a Large Animal Model for the Investigation and Treatment of Human Disorders. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11091251. [PMID: 36138730 PMCID: PMC9495394 DOI: 10.3390/biology11091251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary We review the value of large animal models for improving the translation of biomedical research for human application, focusing primarily on sheep. Abstract An essential aim of biomedical research is to translate basic science information obtained from preclinical research using small and large animal models into clinical practice for the benefit of humans. Research on rodent models has enhanced our understanding of complex pathophysiology, thus providing potential translational pathways. However, the success of translating drugs from pre-clinical to clinical therapy has been poor, partly due to the choice of experimental model. The sheep model, in particular, is being increasingly applied to the field of biomedical research and is arguably one of the most influential models of human organ systems. It has provided essential tools and insights into cardiovascular disorder, orthopaedic examination, reproduction, gene therapy, and new insights into neurodegenerative research. Unlike the widely adopted rodent model, the use of the sheep model has an advantage over improving neuroscientific translation, in particular due to its large body size, gyrencephalic brain, long lifespan, more extended gestation period, and similarities in neuroanatomical structures to humans. This review aims to summarise the current status of sheep to model various human diseases and enable researchers to make informed decisions when considering sheep as a human biomedical model.
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19
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Lawlor M, Zigo M, Kerns K, Cho IK, Easley IV CA, Sutovsky P. Spermatozoan Metabolism as a Non-Traditional Model for the Study of Huntington’s Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137163. [PMID: 35806166 PMCID: PMC9266437 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington’s Disease (HD) is a fatal autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disease manifested through motor dysfunction and cognitive deficits. Decreased fertility is also observed in HD animal models and HD male patients, due to altered spermatogenesis and sperm function, thus resulting in reduced fertilization potential. Although some pharmaceuticals are currently utilized to mitigate HD symptoms, an effective treatment that remedies the pathogenesis of the disease is yet to be approved by the FDA. Identification of genes and relevant diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic target pathways including glycolysis and mitochondrial complex-I-dependent respiration may be advantageous for early diagnosis, management, and treatment of the disease. This review addresses the HD pathway in neuronal and sperm metabolism, including relevant gene and protein expression in both neurons and spermatozoa, indicated in the pathogenesis of HD. Furthermore, zinc-containing and zinc-interacting proteins regulate and/or are regulated by zinc ion homeostasis in both neurons and spermatozoa. Therefore, this review also aims to explore the comparative role of zinc in both neuronal and sperm function. Ongoing studies aim to characterize the products of genes implicated in HD pathogenesis that are expressed in both neurons and spermatozoa to facilitate studies of future treatment avenues in HD and HD-related male infertility. The emerging link between zinc homeostasis and the HD pathway could lead to new treatments and diagnostic methods linking genetic sperm defects with somatic comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan Lawlor
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (M.L.); (M.Z.); (K.K.)
| | - Michal Zigo
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (M.L.); (M.Z.); (K.K.)
| | - Karl Kerns
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (M.L.); (M.Z.); (K.K.)
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - In Ki Cho
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA; (I.K.C.); (C.A.E.IV)
- Regenerative Bioscience Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Charles A. Easley IV
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA; (I.K.C.); (C.A.E.IV)
- Regenerative Bioscience Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Peter Sutovsky
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (M.L.); (M.Z.); (K.K.)
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(573)-882-3329
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20
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Molecular Pathophysiological Mechanisms in Huntington's Disease. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10061432. [PMID: 35740453 PMCID: PMC9219859 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10061432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington’s disease is an inherited neurodegenerative disease described 150 years ago by George Huntington. The genetic defect was identified in 1993 to be an expanded CAG repeat on exon 1 of the huntingtin gene located on chromosome 4. In the following almost 30 years, a considerable amount of research, using mainly animal models or in vitro experiments, has tried to unravel the complex molecular cascades through which the transcription of the mutant protein leads to neuronal loss, especially in the medium spiny neurons of the striatum, and identified excitotoxicity, transcriptional dysregulation, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, impaired proteostasis, altered axonal trafficking and reduced availability of trophic factors to be crucial contributors. This review discusses the pathogenic cascades described in the literature through which mutant huntingtin leads to neuronal demise. However, due to the ubiquitous presence of huntingtin, astrocytes are also dysfunctional, and neuroinflammation may additionally contribute to Huntington’s disease pathology. The quest for therapies to delay the onset and reduce the rate of Huntington’s disease progression is ongoing, but is based on findings from basic research.
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21
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Gerussi T, Graïc JM, Grandis A, Peruffo A, Cozzi B. The orbitofrontal cortex of the sheep. Topography, organization, neurochemistry, digital tensor imaging and comparison with the chimpanzee and human. Brain Struct Funct 2022; 227:1871-1891. [PMID: 35347401 PMCID: PMC9098624 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-022-02479-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Areas dedicated to higher brain functions such as the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) are thought to be unique to hominidae. The OFC is involved in social behavior, reward and punishment encoding and emotional control. Here, we focused on the putative corresponding area in the sheep to assess its homology to the OFC in humans. We used classical histology in five sheep (Ovis aries) and four chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) as a six-layered-cortex primate, and Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) in three sheep and five human brains. Nissl’s staining exhibited a certain alteration in cortical lamination since no layer IV was found in the sheep. A reduction of the total cortical thickness was also evident together with a reduction of the prevalence of layer one and an increased layer two on the total thickness. Tractography of the sheep OFC, on the other hand, revealed similarities both with human tracts and those described in the literature, as well as a higher number of cortico-cortical fibers connecting the OFC with the visual areas in the right hemisphere. Our results evidenced the presence of the basic components necessary for complex abstract thought in the sheep and a pronounced laterality, often associated with greater efficiency of a certain function, suggested an evolutionary adaptation of this prey species.
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22
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New pathogenic insights from large animal models of neurodegenerative diseases. Protein Cell 2022; 13:707-720. [PMID: 35334073 PMCID: PMC9233730 DOI: 10.1007/s13238-022-00912-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal models are essential for investigating the pathogenesis and developing the treatment of human diseases. Identification of genetic mutations responsible for neurodegenerative diseases has enabled the creation of a large number of small animal models that mimic genetic defects found in the affected individuals. Of the current animal models, rodents with genetic modifications are the most commonly used animal models and provided important insights into pathogenesis. However, most of genetically modified rodent models lack overt neurodegeneration, imposing challenges and obstacles in utilizing them to rigorously test the therapeutic effects on neurodegeneration. Recent studies that used CRISPR/Cas9-targeted large animal (pigs and monkeys) have uncovered important pathological events that resemble neurodegeneration in the patient’s brain but could not be produced in small animal models. Here we highlight the unique nature of large animals to model neurodegenerative diseases as well as the limitations and challenges in establishing large animal models of neurodegenerative diseases, with focus on Huntington disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Parkinson diseases. We also discuss how to use the important pathogenic insights from large animal models to make rodent models more capable of recapitulating important pathological features of neurodegenerative diseases.
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23
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Murray SJ, Mitchell NL. The Translational Benefits of Sheep as Large Animal Models of Human Neurological Disorders. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:831838. [PMID: 35242840 PMCID: PMC8886239 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.831838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The past two decades have seen a considerable rise in the use of sheep to model human neurological disorders. While each animal model has its merits, sheep have many advantages over small animal models when it comes to studies on the brain. In particular, sheep have brains more comparable in size and structure to the human brain. They also have much longer life spans and are docile animals, making them useful for a wide range of in vivo studies. Sheep are amenable to regular blood and cerebrospinal fluid sampling which aids in biomarker discovery and monitoring of treatment efficacy. Several neurological diseases have been found to occur naturally in sheep, however sheep can also be genetically engineered or experimentally manipulated to recapitulate disease or injury. Many of these types of sheep models are currently being used for pre-clinical therapeutic trials, particularly gene therapy, with studies from several models culminating in potential treatments moving into clinical trials. This review will provide an overview of the benefits of using sheep to model neurological conditions, and highlight naturally occurring and experimentally induced sheep models that have demonstrated translational validity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha J Murray
- Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Lincoln University, Canterbury, New Zealand
| | - Nadia L Mitchell
- Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Lincoln University, Canterbury, New Zealand
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24
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Karwacka M, Olejniczak M. Advances in Modeling Polyglutamine Diseases Using Genome Editing Tools. Cells 2022; 11:cells11030517. [PMID: 35159326 PMCID: PMC8834129 DOI: 10.3390/cells11030517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Polyglutamine (polyQ) diseases, including Huntington’s disease, are a group of late-onset progressive neurological disorders caused by CAG repeat expansions. Although recently, many studies have investigated the pathological features and development of polyQ diseases, many questions remain unanswered. The advancement of new gene-editing technologies, especially the CRISPR-Cas9 technique, has undeniable value for the generation of relevant polyQ models, which substantially support the research process. Here, we review how these tools have been used to correct disease-causing mutations or create isogenic cell lines with different numbers of CAG repeats. We characterize various cellular models such as HEK 293 cells, patient-derived fibroblasts, human embryonic stem cells (hESCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and animal models generated with the use of genome-editing technology.
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25
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Benatti HR, Gray-Edwards HL. Adeno-Associated Virus Delivery Limitations for Neurological Indications. Hum Gene Ther 2022; 33:1-7. [PMID: 35049369 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2022.29196.hrb] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hector Ribeiro Benatti
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Heather L Gray-Edwards
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Radiology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
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26
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Klonarakis M, De Vos M, Woo E, Ralph L, Thacker JS, Gil-Mohapel J. The three sisters of fate: Genetics, pathophysiology and outcomes of animal models of neurodegenerative diseases. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 135:104541. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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27
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Yang W, Chen X, Li S, Li XJ. Genetically modified large animal models for investigating neurodegenerative diseases. Cell Biosci 2021; 11:218. [PMID: 34933675 PMCID: PMC8690884 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-021-00729-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases represent a large group of neurological disorders including Alzheimer’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and Huntington’s disease. Although this group of diseases show heterogeneous clinical and pathological phenotypes, they share important pathological features characterized by the age-dependent and progressive degeneration of nerve cells that is caused by the accumulation of misfolded proteins. The association of genetic mutations with neurodegeneration diseases has enabled the establishment of various types of animal models that mimic genetic defects and have provided important insights into the pathogenesis. However, most of genetically modified rodent models lack the overt and selective neurodegeneration seen in the patient brains, making it difficult to use the small animal models to validate the effective treatment on neurodegeneration. Recent studies of pig and monkey models suggest that large animals can more faithfully recapitulate pathological features of neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we discuss the important differences in animal models for modeling pathological features of neurodegenerative diseases, aiming to assist the use of animal models to better understand the pathogenesis and to develop effective therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weili Yang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
| | - Xiusheng Chen
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Shihua Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Xiao-Jiang Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
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28
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Mckean NE, Handley RR, Snell RG. A Review of the Current Mammalian Models of Alzheimer's Disease and Challenges That Need to Be Overcome. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:13168. [PMID: 34884970 PMCID: PMC8658123 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222313168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the looming health crises of the near future. Increasing lifespans and better medical treatment for other conditions mean that the prevalence of this disease is expected to triple by 2050. The impact of AD includes both the large toll on individuals and their families as well as a large financial cost to society. So far, we have no way to prevent, slow, or cure the disease. Current medications can only alleviate some of the symptoms temporarily. Many animal models of AD have been created, with the first transgenic mouse model in 1995. Mouse models have been beset by challenges, and no mouse model fully captures the symptomatology of AD without multiple genetic mutations and/or transgenes, some of which have never been implicated in human AD. Over 25 years later, many mouse models have been given an AD-like disease and then 'cured' in the lab, only for the treatments to fail in clinical trials. This review argues that small animal models are insufficient for modelling complex disorders such as AD. In order to find effective treatments for AD, we need to create large animal models with brains and lifespan that are closer to humans, and underlying genetics that already predispose them to AD-like phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Elizabeth Mckean
- Applied Translational Genetics Group, School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, 3a Symonds Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand; (N.E.M.); (R.R.H.)
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Renee Robyn Handley
- Applied Translational Genetics Group, School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, 3a Symonds Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand; (N.E.M.); (R.R.H.)
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Russell Grant Snell
- Applied Translational Genetics Group, School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, 3a Symonds Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand; (N.E.M.); (R.R.H.)
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
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29
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DNA Methylation in Huntington's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222312736. [PMID: 34884540 PMCID: PMC8657460 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Methylation of cytosine in CpG dinucleotides is the major DNA modification in mammalian cells that is a key component of stable epigenetic marks. This modification, which on the one hand is reversible, while on the other hand, can be maintained through successive rounds of replication plays roles in gene regulation, genome maintenance, transgenerational epigenetic inheritance, and imprinting. Disturbed DNA methylation contributes to a wide array of human diseases from single-gene disorders to sporadic metabolic diseases or cancer. DNA methylation was also shown to affect several neurodegenerative disorders, including Huntington's disease (HD), a fatal, monogenic inherited disease. HD is caused by a polyglutamine repeat expansion in the Huntingtin protein that brings about a multifaceted pathogenesis affecting several cellular processes. Research of the last decade found complex, genome-wide DNA methylation changes in HD pathogenesis that modulate transcriptional activity and genome stability. This article reviews current evidence that sheds light on the role of DNA methylation in HD.
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30
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Howland D, Ellederova Z, Aronin N, Fernau D, Gallagher J, Taylor A, Hennebold J, Weiss AR, Gray-Edwards H, McBride J. Large Animal Models of Huntington's Disease: What We Have Learned and Where We Need to Go Next. J Huntingtons Dis 2021; 9:201-216. [PMID: 32925082 PMCID: PMC7597371 DOI: 10.3233/jhd-200425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Genetically modified rodent models of Huntington’s disease (HD) have been especially valuable to our understanding of HD pathology and the mechanisms by which the mutant HTT gene alters physiology. However, due to inherent differences in genetics, neuroanatomy, neurocircuitry and neurophysiology, animal models do not always faithfully or fully recapitulate human disease features or adequately predict a clinical response to treatment. Therefore, conducting translational studies of candidate HD therapeutics only in a single species (i.e. mouse disease models) may not be sufficient. Large animal models of HD have been shown to be valuable to the HD research community and the expectation is that the need for translational studies that span rodent and large animal models will grow. Here, we review the large animal models of HD that have been created to date, with specific commentary on differences between the models, the strengths and disadvantages of each, and how we can advance useful models to study disease pathophysiology, biomarker development and evaluation of promising therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zdenka Ellederova
- Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Neil Aronin
- Horae Gene Therapy Center and RNA Therapeutics Institute at The University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Deborah Fernau
- Horae Gene Therapy Center and RNA Therapeutics Institute at The University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Jill Gallagher
- Horae Gene Therapy Center and RNA Therapeutics Institute at The University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Amanda Taylor
- Diplomate, MedVet, American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine - Neurology, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jon Hennebold
- Oregon National Primate Research Center at The Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Alison R Weiss
- Oregon National Primate Research Center at The Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Heather Gray-Edwards
- Horae Gene Therapy Center and RNA Therapeutics Institute at The University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Jodi McBride
- Oregon National Primate Research Center at The Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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31
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Dong X, Cong S. MicroRNAs in Huntington's Disease: Diagnostic Biomarkers or Therapeutic Agents? Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:705348. [PMID: 34421543 PMCID: PMC8377808 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.705348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNA (miRNA) is a non-coding single-stranded small molecule of approximately 21 nucleotides. It degrades or inhibits the translation of RNA by targeting the 3′-UTR. The miRNA plays an important role in the growth, development, differentiation, and functional execution of the nervous system. Dysregulated miRNA expression has been associated with several pathological processes of neurodegenerative disorders, including Huntington’s disease (HD). Recent studies have suggested promising roles of miRNAs as biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for HD. Here, we review the emerging role of dysregulated miRNAs in HD and describe general biology of miRNAs, their pathophysiological implications, and their potential roles as biomarkers and therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Dong
- Department of Neurology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Shuyan Cong
- Department of Neurology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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32
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Mears ER, Handley RR, Grant MJ, Reid SJ, Day BT, Rudiger SR, McLaughlan CJ, Verma PJ, Bawden SC, Patassini S, Unwin RD, Cooper GJS, Gusella JF, MacDonald ME, Brauning R, Maclean P, Pearson JF, Waldvogel HJ, Faull RLM, Snell RG. A Multi-omic Huntington's Disease Transgenic Sheep-Model Database for Investigating Disease Pathogenesis. J Huntingtons Dis 2021; 10:423-434. [PMID: 34420978 PMCID: PMC8673501 DOI: 10.3233/jhd-210482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background: The pathological mechanism of cellular dysfunction and death in Huntington’s disease (HD) is not well defined. Our transgenic HD sheep model (OVT73) was generated to investigate these mechanisms and for therapeutic testing. One particular cohort of animals has undergone focused investigation resulting in a large interrelated multi-omic dataset, with statistically significant changes observed comparing OVT73 and control ‘omic’ profiles and reported in literature. Objective: Here we make this dataset publicly available for the advancement of HD pathogenic mechanism discovery. Methods: To enable investigation in a user-friendly format, we integrated seven multi-omic datasets from a cohort of 5-year-old OVT73 (n = 6) and control (n = 6) sheep into a single database utilising the programming language R. It includes high-throughput transcriptomic, metabolomic and proteomic data from blood, brain, and other tissues. Results: We present the ‘multi-omic’ HD sheep database as a queryable web-based platform that can be used by the wider HD research community (https://hdsheep.cer.auckland.ac.nz/). The database is supported with a suite of simple automated statistical analysis functions for rapid exploratory analyses. We present examples of its use that validates the integrity relative to results previously reported. The data may also be downloaded for user determined analysis. Conclusion: We propose the use of this online database as a hypothesis generator and method to confirm/refute findings made from patient samples and alternate model systems, to expand our understanding of HD pathogenesis. Importantly, additional tissue samples are available for further investigation of this cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily R Mears
- Centre for Brain Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Renee R Handley
- Centre for Brain Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Matthew J Grant
- Centre for Brain Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Suzanne J Reid
- Centre for Brain Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Benjamin T Day
- High Performance Sport New Zealand, Mairangi Bay, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Skye R Rudiger
- Molecular Biology and Reproductive Technology Laboratories, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Livestock Sciences Division, Rosedale, SA, Australia
| | - Clive J McLaughlan
- Molecular Biology and Reproductive Technology Laboratories, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Livestock Sciences Division, Rosedale, SA, Australia
| | - Paul J Verma
- Molecular Biology and Reproductive Technology Laboratories, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Livestock Sciences Division, Rosedale, SA, Australia
| | - Simon C Bawden
- Molecular Biology and Reproductive Technology Laboratories, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Livestock Sciences Division, Rosedale, SA, Australia
| | - Stefano Patassini
- Centre for Brain Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Centre for Advanced Discovery and Experimental Therapeutics (CADET), Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK.,Division of Cardiovascular Science, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Richard D Unwin
- Centre for Advanced Discovery and Experimental Therapeutics (CADET), Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK.,Division of Cardiovascular Science, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Stoller Biomarker Discovery Centre, Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Garth J S Cooper
- Centre for Brain Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Centre for Advanced Discovery and Experimental Therapeutics (CADET), Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK.,Division of Cardiovascular Science, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - James F Gusella
- Molecular Neurogenetics Unit, Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marcy E MacDonald
- Molecular Neurogenetics Unit, Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rudiger Brauning
- Invermay Agricultural Centre, AgResearch Ltd., Mosgiel, New Zealand
| | - Paul Maclean
- Invermay Agricultural Centre, AgResearch Ltd., Mosgiel, New Zealand
| | - John F Pearson
- Biostatistics and Computational Biology Unit, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Henry J Waldvogel
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, the University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Richard L M Faull
- Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, the University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Russell G Snell
- Centre for Brain Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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33
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Vallès A, Evers MM, Stam A, Sogorb-Gonzalez M, Brouwers C, Vendrell-Tornero C, Acar-Broekmans S, Paerels L, Klima J, Bohuslavova B, Pintauro R, Fodale V, Bresciani A, Liscak R, Urgosik D, Starek Z, Crha M, Blits B, Petry H, Ellederova Z, Motlik J, van Deventer S, Konstantinova P. Widespread and sustained target engagement in Huntington's disease minipigs upon intrastriatal microRNA-based gene therapy. Sci Transl Med 2021; 13:13/588/eabb8920. [PMID: 33827977 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abb8920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Huntingtin (HTT)-lowering therapies hold promise to slow down neurodegeneration in Huntington's disease (HD). Here, we assessed the translatability and long-term durability of recombinant adeno-associated viral vector serotype 5 expressing a microRNA targeting human HTT (rAAV5-miHTT) administered by magnetic resonance imaging-guided convention-enhanced delivery in transgenic HD minipigs. rAAV5-miHTT (1.2 × 1013 vector genome (VG) copies per brain) was successfully administered into the striatum (bilaterally in caudate and putamen), using age-matched untreated animals as controls. Widespread brain biodistribution of vector DNA was observed, with the highest concentration in target (striatal) regions, thalamus, and cortical regions. Vector DNA presence and transgene expression were similar at 6 and 12 months after administration. Expression of miHTT strongly correlated with vector DNA, with a corresponding reduction of mutant HTT (mHTT) protein of more than 75% in injected areas, and 30 to 50% lowering in distal regions. Translational pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic measures in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were largely in line with the effects observed in the brain. CSF miHTT expression was detected up to 12 months, with CSF mHTT protein lowering of 25 to 30% at 6 and 12 months after dosing. This study demonstrates widespread biodistribution, strong and durable efficiency of rAAV5-miHTT in disease-relevant regions in a large brain, and the potential of using CSF analysis to determine vector expression and efficacy in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid Vallès
- Department of Research and Development, uniQure biopharma B.V., Paasheuvelweg 25a, 1105 BP Amsterdam, Netherlands.
| | - Melvin M Evers
- Department of Research and Development, uniQure biopharma B.V., Paasheuvelweg 25a, 1105 BP Amsterdam, Netherlands.
| | - Anouk Stam
- Department of Research and Development, uniQure biopharma B.V., Paasheuvelweg 25a, 1105 BP Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marina Sogorb-Gonzalez
- Department of Research and Development, uniQure biopharma B.V., Paasheuvelweg 25a, 1105 BP Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Cynthia Brouwers
- Department of Research and Development, uniQure biopharma B.V., Paasheuvelweg 25a, 1105 BP Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Carlos Vendrell-Tornero
- Department of Research and Development, uniQure biopharma B.V., Paasheuvelweg 25a, 1105 BP Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Seyda Acar-Broekmans
- Department of Research and Development, uniQure biopharma B.V., Paasheuvelweg 25a, 1105 BP Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Lieke Paerels
- Department of Research and Development, uniQure biopharma B.V., Paasheuvelweg 25a, 1105 BP Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jiri Klima
- Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Rumburská 89, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Bozena Bohuslavova
- Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Rumburská 89, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Roberta Pintauro
- Department of Translational Biology, IRBM Science Park S.p.A., Via Pontina km 30,600, 00071 Pomezia, Italy
| | - Valentina Fodale
- Department of Translational Biology, IRBM Science Park S.p.A., Via Pontina km 30,600, 00071 Pomezia, Italy
| | - Alberto Bresciani
- Department of Translational Biology, IRBM Science Park S.p.A., Via Pontina km 30,600, 00071 Pomezia, Italy
| | - Roman Liscak
- Department of Stereotactic Radioneurosurgery, Na Homolce Hospital, Roentgenova 37/2, 150 30, Prague 5, Czech Republic
| | - Dusan Urgosik
- Department of Stereotactic Radioneurosurgery, Na Homolce Hospital, Roentgenova 37/2, 150 30, Prague 5, Czech Republic
| | - Zdenek Starek
- Interventional Cardiac Electrophysiology, St. Anne's University Hospital, Pekařská 53, 656 91 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Crha
- Small Animal Clinic, Veterinary and Pharmaceutical University, Palackého třída 1946/1, 612 42 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Bas Blits
- Department of Research and Development, uniQure biopharma B.V., Paasheuvelweg 25a, 1105 BP Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Harald Petry
- Department of Research and Development, uniQure biopharma B.V., Paasheuvelweg 25a, 1105 BP Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Zdenka Ellederova
- Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Rumburská 89, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Motlik
- Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Rumburská 89, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Sander van Deventer
- Department of Research and Development, uniQure biopharma B.V., Paasheuvelweg 25a, 1105 BP Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Pavlina Konstantinova
- Department of Research and Development, uniQure biopharma B.V., Paasheuvelweg 25a, 1105 BP Amsterdam, Netherlands
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34
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Sugrue VJ, Zoller JA, Narayan P, Lu AT, Ortega-Recalde OJ, Grant MJ, Bawden CS, Rudiger SR, Haghani A, Bond DM, Hore RR, Garratt M, Sears KE, Wang N, Yang XW, Snell RG, Hore TA, Horvath S. Castration delays epigenetic aging and feminizes DNA methylation at androgen-regulated loci. eLife 2021; 10:e64932. [PMID: 34227937 PMCID: PMC8260231 DOI: 10.7554/elife.64932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, females generally live longer than males. Nevertheless, the mechanisms underpinning sex-dependent longevity are currently unclear. Epigenetic clocks are powerful biological biomarkers capable of precisely estimating chronological age and identifying novel factors influencing the aging rate using only DNA methylation data. In this study, we developed the first epigenetic clock for domesticated sheep (Ovis aries), which can predict chronological age with a median absolute error of 5.1 months. We have discovered that castrated male sheep have a decelerated aging rate compared to intact males, mediated at least in part by the removal of androgens. Furthermore, we identified several androgen-sensitive CpG dinucleotides that become progressively hypomethylated with age in intact males, but remain stable in castrated males and females. Comparable sex-specific methylation differences in MKLN1 also exist in bat skin and a range of mouse tissues that have high androgen receptor expression, indicating that it may drive androgen-dependent hypomethylation in divergent mammalian species. In characterizing these sites, we identify biologically plausible mechanisms explaining how androgens drive male-accelerated aging.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joseph Alan Zoller
- Department of Biostatistics, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los AngelesLos AngelesUnited States
| | - Pritika Narayan
- Applied Translational Genetics Group, School of Biological Sciences, Centre for Brain Research, The University of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | - Ake T Lu
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los AngelesLos AngelesUnited States
| | | | - Matthew J Grant
- Applied Translational Genetics Group, School of Biological Sciences, Centre for Brain Research, The University of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | - C Simon Bawden
- Livestock and Farming Systems, South Australian Research and Development InstituteRoseworthyAustralia
| | - Skye R Rudiger
- Livestock and Farming Systems, South Australian Research and Development InstituteRoseworthyAustralia
| | - Amin Haghani
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los AngelesLos AngelesUnited States
| | - Donna M Bond
- Department of Anatomy, University of OtagoDunedinNew Zealand
| | - Reuben R Hore
- Blackstone Hill Station, Becks, RD2OmakauNew Zealand
| | - Michael Garratt
- Department of Anatomy, University of OtagoDunedinNew Zealand
| | - Karen E Sears
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, UCLALos AngelesUnited States
| | - Nan Wang
- Center for Neurobehavioral Genetics, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)Los AngelesUnited States
| | - Xiangdong William Yang
- Center for Neurobehavioral Genetics, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)Los AngelesUnited States
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLALos AngelesUnited States
| | - Russell G Snell
- Applied Translational Genetics Group, School of Biological Sciences, Centre for Brain Research, The University of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
| | - Timothy A Hore
- Department of Anatomy, University of OtagoDunedinNew Zealand
| | - Steve Horvath
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los AngelesLos AngelesUnited States
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35
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Schneider WT, Vas S, Nicol AU, Morton AJ. Abnormally abrupt transitions from sleep-to-wake in Huntington's disease sheep (Ovis aries) are revealed by automated analysis of sleep/wake transition dynamics. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251767. [PMID: 33984047 PMCID: PMC8118338 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Sleep disturbance is a common and disruptive symptom of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s disease (HD). In HD patients, sleep fragmentation appears at an early stage of disease, although features of the earliest sleep abnormalities in presymptomatic HD are not fully established. Here we used novel automated analysis of quantitative electroencephalography to study transitions between wake and non-rapid eye movement sleep in a sheep model of presymptomatic HD. We found that while the number of transitions between sleep and wake were similar in normal and HD sheep, the dynamics of transitions from sleep-to-wake differed markedly between genotypes. Rather than the gradual changes in EEG power that occurs during transitioning from sleep-to-wake in normal sheep, transition into wake was abrupt in HD sheep. Furthermore, transitions to wake in normal sheep were preceded by a significant reduction in slow wave power, whereas in HD sheep this prior reduction in slow wave power was far less pronounced. This suggests an impaired ability to prepare for waking in HD sheep. The abruptness of awakenings may also have potential to disrupt sleep-dependent processes if they are interrupted in an untimely and disjointed manner. We propose that not only could these abnormal dynamics of sleep transitions be useful as an early biomarker of HD, but also that our novel methodology would be useful for studying transition dynamics in other sleep disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- William T. Schneider
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Szilvia Vas
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Alister U. Nicol
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - A. Jennifer Morton
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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36
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Vas S, Nicol AU, Kalmar L, Miles J, Morton AJ. Abnormal patterns of sleep and EEG power distribution during non-rapid eye movement sleep in the sheep model of Huntington's disease. Neurobiol Dis 2021; 155:105367. [PMID: 33848636 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2021.105367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Sleep disruption is a common invisible symptom of neurological dysfunction in Huntington's disease (HD) that takes an insidious toll on well-being of patients. Here we used electroencephalography (EEG) to examine sleep in 6 year old OVT73 transgenic sheep (Ovis aries) that we used as a presymptomatic model of HD. We hypothesized that despite the lack of overt symptoms of HD at this age, early alterations of the sleep-wake pattern and EEG powers may already be present. We recorded EEG from female transgenic and normal sheep (5/group) during two undisturbed 'baseline' nights with different lighting conditions. We then recorded continuously through a night of sleep disruption and the following 24 h (recovery day and night). On baseline nights, regardless of whether the lights were on or off, transgenic sheep spent more time awake than normal sheep particularly at the beginning of the night. Furthermore, there were significant differences between transgenic and normal sheep in both EEG power and its pattern of distribution during non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep. In particular, there was a significant decrease in delta (0.5-4 Hz) power across the night in transgenic compared to normal sheep, and the distributions of delta, theta and alpha oscillations that typically dominate the EEG in the first half of the night of normal sheep were skewed so they were predominant in the second, rather than the first half of the night in transgenic sheep. Interestingly, the effect of sleep disruption on normal sheep was also to skew the pattern of distribution of EEG powers so they looked more like that of transgenic sheep under baseline conditions. Thus it is possible that transgenic sheep exist in a state that resemble a chronic state of physiological sleep deprivation. During the sleep recovery period, normal sheep showed a significant 'rebound' increase in delta power with frontal dominance. A similar rebound was not seen in transgenic sheep, suggesting that their homeostatic response to sleep deprivation is abnormal. Although sleep abnormalities in early stage HD patients are subtle, with patients often unaware of their existence, they may contribute to impairment of neurological function that herald the onset of disease. A better understanding of the mechanisms underlying EEG abnormalities in early stage HD would give insight into how, and when, they progress into the sleep disorder. The transgenic sheep model is ideally positioned for studies of the earliest phase of disease when sleep abnormalities first emerge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Szilvia Vas
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3DY, United Kingdom.
| | - Alister U Nicol
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3DY, United Kingdom.
| | - Lajos Kalmar
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Madingley Road, Cambridge CB3 0ES, United Kingdom.
| | - Jack Miles
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3DY, United Kingdom.
| | - A Jennifer Morton
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3DY, United Kingdom.
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Alvites RD, Branquinho MV, Sousa AC, Lopes B, Sousa P, Mendonça C, Atayde LM, Maurício AC. Small Ruminants and Its Use in Regenerative Medicine: Recent Works and Future Perspectives. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10030249. [PMID: 33810087 PMCID: PMC8004958 DOI: 10.3390/biology10030249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Small ruminants such as sheep and goats have been increasingly used as animal models due to their dimensions, physiology and anatomy identical to those of humans. Their low costs, ease of accommodation, great longevity and easy handling make them advantageous animals to be used in a wide range of research work. Although there is already a lot of scientific literature describing these species, their use still lacks some standardization. The purpose of this review is to summarize the general principles related to the use of small ruminants as animal models for scientific research. Abstract Medical and translational scientific research requires the use of animal models as an initial approach to the study of new therapies and treatments, but when the objective is an exploration of translational potentialities, classical models fail to adequately mimic problems in humans. Among the larger animal models that have been explored more intensely in recent decades, small ruminants, namely sheep and goats, have emerged as excellent options. The main advantages associated to the use of these animals in research works are related to their anatomy and dimensions, larger than conventional laboratory animals, but very similar to those of humans in most physiological systems, in addition to their low maintenance and feeding costs, tendency to be docile, long life expectancies and few ethical complications raised in society. The most obvious disadvantages are the significant differences in some systems such as the gastrointestinal, and the reduced amount of data that limits the comparison between works and the validation of the characterization essays. Despite everything, recently these species have been increasingly used as animal models for diseases in different systems, and the results obtained open doors for their more frequent and advantageous use in the future. The purpose of this review is to summarize the general principles related to the use of small ruminants as animal models, with a focus on regenerative medicine, to group the most relevant works and results published recently and to highlight the potentials for the near future in medical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Damásio Alvites
- Centro de Estudos de Ciência Animal (CECA), Instituto de Ciências, Tecnologias e Agroambiente (ICETA) da Universidade do Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal; (R.D.A.); (M.V.B.); (A.C.S.); (B.L.); (P.S.); (C.M.); (L.M.A.)
- Departamento de Clínicas Veterinárias, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas de Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto (UP), Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Mariana Vieira Branquinho
- Centro de Estudos de Ciência Animal (CECA), Instituto de Ciências, Tecnologias e Agroambiente (ICETA) da Universidade do Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal; (R.D.A.); (M.V.B.); (A.C.S.); (B.L.); (P.S.); (C.M.); (L.M.A.)
- Departamento de Clínicas Veterinárias, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas de Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto (UP), Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Catarina Sousa
- Centro de Estudos de Ciência Animal (CECA), Instituto de Ciências, Tecnologias e Agroambiente (ICETA) da Universidade do Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal; (R.D.A.); (M.V.B.); (A.C.S.); (B.L.); (P.S.); (C.M.); (L.M.A.)
- Departamento de Clínicas Veterinárias, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas de Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto (UP), Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Bruna Lopes
- Centro de Estudos de Ciência Animal (CECA), Instituto de Ciências, Tecnologias e Agroambiente (ICETA) da Universidade do Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal; (R.D.A.); (M.V.B.); (A.C.S.); (B.L.); (P.S.); (C.M.); (L.M.A.)
- Departamento de Clínicas Veterinárias, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas de Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto (UP), Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Sousa
- Centro de Estudos de Ciência Animal (CECA), Instituto de Ciências, Tecnologias e Agroambiente (ICETA) da Universidade do Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal; (R.D.A.); (M.V.B.); (A.C.S.); (B.L.); (P.S.); (C.M.); (L.M.A.)
- Departamento de Clínicas Veterinárias, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas de Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto (UP), Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Carla Mendonça
- Centro de Estudos de Ciência Animal (CECA), Instituto de Ciências, Tecnologias e Agroambiente (ICETA) da Universidade do Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal; (R.D.A.); (M.V.B.); (A.C.S.); (B.L.); (P.S.); (C.M.); (L.M.A.)
- Departamento de Clínicas Veterinárias, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas de Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto (UP), Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Luís Miguel Atayde
- Centro de Estudos de Ciência Animal (CECA), Instituto de Ciências, Tecnologias e Agroambiente (ICETA) da Universidade do Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal; (R.D.A.); (M.V.B.); (A.C.S.); (B.L.); (P.S.); (C.M.); (L.M.A.)
- Departamento de Clínicas Veterinárias, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas de Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto (UP), Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Colette Maurício
- Centro de Estudos de Ciência Animal (CECA), Instituto de Ciências, Tecnologias e Agroambiente (ICETA) da Universidade do Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal; (R.D.A.); (M.V.B.); (A.C.S.); (B.L.); (P.S.); (C.M.); (L.M.A.)
- Departamento de Clínicas Veterinárias, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas de Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto (UP), Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-919-071-286 or +351-220-428-000
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Sorby-Adams AJ, Schneider WT, Goncalves RP, Knolle F, Morton AJ. Measuring executive function in sheep (Ovis aries) using visual stimuli in a semi-automated operant system. J Neurosci Methods 2020; 351:109009. [PMID: 33340554 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2020.109009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive impairment is a distinguishing feature of many neurodegenerative diseases. The intra-dimensional (ID) extra-dimensional (ED) attentional set shift task is part of a clinical battery of tests used to evaluate executive function in Huntington's and Alzheimer's disease patients. The IDED task, however, has not translated well to pre-clinical rodent models of neurological disease. NEW METHOD The ability to perform executive tasks coupled with a long lifespan makes sheep (Ovis aries) an ideal species for modelling cognitive decline in progressive neurodegenerative conditions. We describe the methodology for testing the performance of sheep in the IDED task using a semi-automated system in which visual stimuli are presented as coloured letters on computer screens. RESULTS During each stage of IDED testing, all sheep (n = 12) learned successfully to discriminate between different colours and letters. Sheep were quick to learn the rules of acquisition at each stage. They required significantly more trials to reach criterion (p < 0.05) and made more errors (p < 0.05) following stimulus reversal, with the exception of the ED shift (p > 0.05). COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHOD(S) Previous research shows that sheep can perform IDED set shifting in a walk-through maze using solid objects with two changeable dimensions (colour and shape) as the stimuli. Presenting the stimuli on computer screens provides better validity, greater task flexibility and higher throughput than the walk-through maze. CONCLUSION All sheep completed each stage of the task, with a range of abilities expected in an outbred population. The IDED task described is ideally suited as a quantifiable and clinically translatable measure of executive function in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Sorby-Adams
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - W T Schneider
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - R P Goncalves
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - F Knolle
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Department of Neurology, Klinikum recht der Isar, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - A J Morton
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
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39
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Gatto RG, Weissmann C. Diffusion Tensor Imaging in Preclinical and Human Studies of Huntington's Disease: What Have we Learned so Far? Curr Med Imaging 2020; 15:521-542. [PMID: 32008561 DOI: 10.2174/1573405614666181115113400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2018] [Revised: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 10/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Huntington's Disease is an irreversible neurodegenerative disease characterized by the progressive deterioration of specific brain nerve cells. The current evaluation of cellular and physiological events in patients with HD relies on the development of transgenic animal models. To explore such events in vivo, diffusion tensor imaging has been developed to examine the early macro and microstructural changes in brain tissue. However, the gap in diffusion tensor imaging findings between animal models and clinical studies and the lack of microstructural confirmation by histological methods has questioned the validity of this method. OBJECTIVE This review explores white and grey matter ultrastructural changes associated to diffusion tensor imaging, as well as similarities and differences between preclinical and clinical Huntington's Disease studies. METHODS A comprehensive review of the literature using online-resources was performed (Pub- Med search). RESULTS Similar changes in fractional anisotropy as well as axial, radial and mean diffusivities were observed in white matter tracts across clinical and animal studies. However, comparative diffusion alterations in different grey matter structures were inconsistent between clinical and animal studies. CONCLUSION Diffusion tensor imaging can be related to specific structural anomalies in specific cellular populations. However, some differences between animal and clinical studies could derive from the contrasting neuroanatomy or connectivity across species. Such differences should be considered before generalizing preclinical results into the clinical practice. Moreover, current limitations of this technique to accurately represent complex multicellular events at the single micro scale are real. Future work applying complex diffusion models should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodolfo Gabriel Gatto
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60607, United States
| | - Carina Weissmann
- Insituto de Fisiología Biologia Molecular y Neurociencias-IFIBYNE-CONICET, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Narayan P, Reid S, Scotter EL, McGregor AL, Mehrabi NF, Singh-Bains MK, Glass M, Faull RLM, Snell RG, Dragunow M. Inconsistencies in histone acetylation patterns among different HD model systems and HD post-mortem brains. Neurobiol Dis 2020; 146:105092. [PMID: 32979507 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2020.105092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by a CAG trinucleotide repeat expansion in exon 1 of the huntingtin gene. Emerging evidence shows that additional epigenetic factors can modify disease phenotypes. Harnessing the ability of the epigenome to modify the disease for therapeutic purposes is therefore of interest. Epigenome modifiers, such as histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi), have improved pathology in a range of HD models. Yet in clinical trials, HDACi have failed to alleviate HD symptoms in patients. This study investigated potential reasons for the lack of translation of the therapeutic benefits of HDACi from lab to clinic. We analysed histone acetylation patterns of immuno-positive nuclei from brain sections and tissue microarrays from post-mortem human control and HD cases alongside several well-established HD models (OVT73 transgenic HD sheep, YAC128 mice, and an in vitro cell model expressing 97Q mutant huntingtin). Significant increases in histone H4 acetylation were observed in post-mortem HD cases, OVT73 transgenic HD sheep and in vitro models; these changes were absent in YAC128 mice. In addition, nuclear labelling for acetyl-histone H4 levels were inversely proportional to mutant huntingtin aggregate load in HD human cortex. Our data raise concerns regarding the utility of HDACi for the treatment of HD when regions of pathology exhibit already elevated histone acetylation patterns and emphasize the importance of searching for alternative epigenetic targets in future therapeutic strategies aiming to rescue HD phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pritika Narayan
- Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand; School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand.
| | - Suzanne Reid
- Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand; School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand.
| | - Emma L Scotter
- Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand.
| | - Ailsa L McGregor
- School of Pharmacy, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand.
| | - Nasim F Mehrabi
- Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand.
| | | | - Michelle Glass
- Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand.
| | - Richard L M Faull
- Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand.
| | - Russell G Snell
- Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand; School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand.
| | - Mike Dragunow
- Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand.
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DNA methylation study of Huntington's disease and motor progression in patients and in animal models. Nat Commun 2020; 11:4529. [PMID: 32913184 PMCID: PMC7484780 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-18255-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Although Huntington's disease (HD) is a well studied Mendelian genetic disorder, less is known about its associated epigenetic changes. Here, we characterize DNA methylation levels in six different tissues from 3 species: a mouse huntingtin (Htt) gene knock-in model, a transgenic HTT sheep model, and humans. Our epigenome-wide association study (EWAS) of human blood reveals that HD mutation status is significantly (p < 10-7) associated with 33 CpG sites, including the HTT gene (p = 6.5 × 10-26). These Htt/HTT associations were replicated in the Q175 Htt knock-in mouse model (p = 6.0 × 10-8) and in the transgenic sheep model (p = 2.4 × 10-88). We define a measure of HD motor score progression among manifest HD cases based on multiple clinical assessments. EWAS of motor progression in manifest HD cases exhibits significant (p < 10-7) associations with methylation levels at three loci: near PEX14 (p = 9.3 × 10-9), GRIK4 (p = 3.0 × 10-8), and COX4I2 (p = 6.5 × 10-8). We conclude that HD is accompanied by profound changes of DNA methylation levels in three mammalian species.
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42
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Murillo-González JA, Notario B, Maldonado E, Martinez-Sanz E, Barrio MC, Herrera M. Connections between the internal and the external capsules and the globus pallidus in the sheep: A dichromate stain X-ray microtomographic study. Anat Histol Embryol 2020; 50:84-92. [PMID: 32794251 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Sheep are recognized as useful species for translational neurodegeneration research, in particular for the study of Huntington disease. There is a lack of information regarding the detailed anatomy and connections of the basal ganglia of sheep, in normal myeloarchitectonics and in tract-tracing studies. In this work, the organization of the corticostriatal projections at the level of the putamen and globus pallidus (GP) are explored. For the first time, the myeloarchitectonic pattern of connections between the internal (IC) and the external (EC) capsules with the GP have been investigated in the sheep. Formaldehyde-fixed blocks of the striatum were treated with a metallic stain containing potassium dichromate and visualized using micro-CT (µ-CT). The trivalent chromium (Cr3+), attached to myelin phospholipids, imparts a differential contrast to the grey and white matter compartments, which allows the visualization of myelinated fascicles in µ-CT images. The fascicles were classified according to their topographical location in dorsal supreme fascicles (X, Y, apex) arising from the IC and EC; pre-commissurally, basal fascicles connecting the ventral part of the EC with the lateral zone of the ventral pallidum (VP) and, post-commissurally, superior (Z1 ), middle (Z2 ) and lower (Z3 ) fascicles, connecting at different levels the EC with the GP. The results suggest that the presumptive cortical efferent and afferent fibres to the pallidum could be organized according to a dorsal to ventrolateral topography in the sheep, similar to that seen in other mammals. The proposed methodology has the potential to delineate the myeloarchitectonic patterns of nervous systems and tracts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Belen Notario
- Microcomputed Tomography Lab, Centro Nacional de Investigación sobre la Evolución Humana, CENIEH, Burgos, Spain
| | - Estela Maldonado
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Martinez-Sanz
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - M Carmen Barrio
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Herrera
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Suva LJ, Westhusin ME, Long CR, Gaddy D. Engineering bone phenotypes in domestic animals: Unique resources for enhancing musculoskeletal research. Bone 2020; 130:115119. [PMID: 31712131 PMCID: PMC8805042 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2019.115119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Larry J Suva
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, College Station, TX, 77843, United States.
| | - Mark E Westhusin
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, College Station, TX, 77843, United States
| | - Charles R Long
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, College Station, TX, 77843, United States
| | - Dana Gaddy
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, United States
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Baxa M, Levinska B, Skrivankova M, Pokorny M, Juhasova J, Klima J, Klempir J, Motlı K J, Juhas S, Ellederova Z. Longitudinal study revealing motor, cognitive and behavioral decline in a transgenic minipig model of Huntington's disease. Dis Model Mech 2019; 13:dmm.041293. [PMID: 31704691 PMCID: PMC6918771 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.041293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is an inherited devastating neurodegenerative disease with no known cure to date. Several therapeutic treatments for HD are in development, but their safety, tolerability and efficacy need to be tested before translation to bedside. The monogenetic nature of this disorder has enabled the generation of transgenic animal models carrying a mutant huntingtin (mHTT) gene causing HD. A large animal model reflecting disease progression in humans would be beneficial for testing the potential therapeutic approaches. Progression of the motor, cognitive and behavioral phenotype was monitored in transgenic Huntington's disease minipigs (TgHD) expressing the N-terminal part of human mHTT. New tests were established to investigate physical activity by telemetry, and to explore the stress-induced behavioral and cognitive changes in minipigs. The longitudinal study revealed significant differences between 6- to 8-year-old TgHD animals and their wild-type (WT) controls in a majority of the tests. The telemetric study showed increased physical activity of 4.6- to 6.5-year-old TgHD boars compared to their WT counterparts during the lunch period as well as in the afternoon. Our phenotypic study indicates progression in adult TgHD minipigs and therefore this model could be suitable for longstanding preclinical studies of HD. This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper. Summary: The transgenic minipig model of Huntington's disease demonstrates a slow-progressing motor, cognitive and behavioral phenotype with later onset in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Baxa
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic.,Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, 128 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Bozena Levinska
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic.,Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, 128 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Monika Skrivankova
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic.,Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, 128 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Matous Pokorny
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic.,Department of Circuit Theory, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Czech Technical University in Prague, 166 27 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Juhasova
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Klima
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Klempir
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic.,Department of Neurology and Centre of Clinical Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and General University Hospital in Prague, 128 21 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Motlı K
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Stefan Juhas
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Zdenka Ellederova
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic
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45
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Ardan T, Baxa M, Levinská B, Sedláčková M, Nguyen TD, Klíma J, Juhás Š, Juhásová J, Šmatlíková P, Vochozková P, Motlík J, Ellederová Z. Transgenic minipig model of Huntington's disease exhibiting gradually progressing neurodegeneration. Dis Model Mech 2019; 13:dmm.041319. [PMID: 31645369 PMCID: PMC6918760 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.041319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently developed therapeutic approaches for the treatment of Huntington's disease (HD) require preclinical testing in large animal models. The minipig is a suitable experimental animal because of its large gyrencephalic brain, body weight of 70-100 kg, long lifespan, and anatomical, physiological and metabolic resemblance to humans. The Libechov transgenic minipig model for HD (TgHD) has proven useful for proof of concept of developing new therapies. However, to evaluate the efficacy of different therapies on disease progression, a broader phenotypic characterization of the TgHD minipig is needed. In this study, we analyzed the brain tissues of TgHD minipigs at the age of 48 and 60-70 months, and compared them to wild-type animals. We were able to demonstrate not only an accumulation of different forms of mutant huntingtin (mHTT) in TgHD brain, but also pathological changes associated with cellular damage caused by mHTT. At 48 months, we detected pathological changes that included the demyelination of brain white matter, loss of function of striatal neurons in the putamen and activation of microglia. At 60-70 months, we found a clear marker of neurodegeneration: significant cell loss detected in the caudate nucleus, putamen and cortex. This was accompanied by clusters of structures accumulating in the neurites of some neurons, a sign of their degeneration that is also seen in Alzheimer's disease, and a significant activation of astrocytes. In summary, our data demonstrate age-dependent neuropathology with later onset of neurodegeneration in TgHD minipigs. Summary: Longitudinal phenotyping of the minipig model for Huntington's disease demonstrates a slow and age-dependent neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taras Ardan
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Science, 27721 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Monika Baxa
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Science, 27721 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Božena Levinská
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Science, 27721 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslava Sedláčková
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Science, 27721 Libechov, Czech Republic.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Masaryk University in Brno, Faculty of Medicine, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - The Duong Nguyen
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Science, 27721 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Klíma
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Science, 27721 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Štefan Juhás
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Science, 27721 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Juhásová
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Science, 27721 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Šmatlíková
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Science, 27721 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Vochozková
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Science, 27721 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Motlík
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Science, 27721 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Zdenka Ellederová
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Science, 27721 Libechov, Czech Republic
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Zinovieva NA, Volkova NA, Bagirov VA. Genome Editing: Current State of Research and Application to Animal Husbandry. APPL BIOCHEM MICRO+ 2019. [DOI: 10.1134/s000368381907007x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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47
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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: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [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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48
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Mondo E, Moser R, Gao G, Mueller C, Sena-Esteves M, Sapp E, Pfister E, O'Connell D, Takle K, Erger KE, Liu W, Conlon TJ, DiFiglia M, Gounis MJ, Aronin N. Selective Neuronal Uptake and Distribution of AAVrh8, AAV9, and AAVrh10 in Sheep After Intra-Striatal Administration. J Huntingtons Dis 2019; 7:309-319. [PMID: 30320596 DOI: 10.3233/jhd-180302] [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] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transgenic sheep are currently the only large animal model of Huntington's disease expressing full-length mutant human huntingtin. These transgenic sheep provide an opportunity to test adeno associated virus (AAV) therapies directly targeting the huntingtin gene. A recent study demonstrated that self-complementary (sc) AAV with artificial miRNA against human huntingtin reduced mutant human huntingtin in caudate and putamen after a single injection near the internal capsule. OBJECTIVE To identify an AAV serotype among AAVrh8, AAV9 and AAVrh10 with the highest neuronal uptake and distribution, with no obvious cell loss in the neostriatum of the sheep. METHODS We tested AAVrh8, AAV9 and AAVrh10 by stereotactic direct unilateral injection into the neostriatum of sheep, near the internal capsule. Four weeks after administration, we examined the viral spread and neuronal uptake of each serotype of AAV containing GFP. We compared single stranded (ss) and scAAVs. Further, we measured the distribution of AAVrh8 and AAV9 to a variety of tissues outside the brain. RESULTS Sc AAV9 had the best combination of neuronal uptake and distribution throughout the neostriatum. scAAVrh10 demonstrated good spread, but was not taken up by neurons. scAAVrh8 demonstrated good spread, but had less neuronal uptake than AAV9. Six hours after convection-enhanced administration to the neostriatum, both AAVrh8 and AAV9 viral genomes were detected in blood, saliva, urine, feces and wool. By four weeks, viral genomes were detected in wool only. Administration of AAVrh8, AAV9 and AAVrh10 was not associated with loss of neostriatal, medium spiny neuron number as measured by DARPP32 immunohistochemistry. CONCLUSIONS Altogether, we found scAAV9 had the best neuronal uptake and spread, showed no loss of neurons at one-month post-injection, and was not measurable in body fluids one month after injection. This information will guide future clinical experiments requiring brain injection of AAV for therapeutics for gene or miRNA deliveries in sheep transgenic for the human huntingtin gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Mondo
- Department of Medicine and RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Richard Moser
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Guangping Gao
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems and Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Christian Mueller
- Departments of Pediatrics and Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Miguel Sena-Esteves
- Departments of Neurology and Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Ellen Sapp
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Edith Pfister
- Department of Medicine and RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Denice O'Connell
- Department of Animal Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Kendra Takle
- Department of Medicine and RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Kirsten E Erger
- Department of Pediatrics and Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Wanglin Liu
- Department of Medicine and RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Thomas J Conlon
- Department of Pediatrics and Powell Gene Therapy Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | | | - Matthew J Gounis
- Department of Radiology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Neil Aronin
- Department of Medicine and RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
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Kalds P, Zhou S, Cai B, Liu J, Wang Y, Petersen B, Sonstegard T, Wang X, Chen Y. Sheep and Goat Genome Engineering: From Random Transgenesis to the CRISPR Era. Front Genet 2019; 10:750. [PMID: 31552084 PMCID: PMC6735269 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.00750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Sheep and goats are valuable livestock species that have been raised for their production of meat, milk, fiber, and other by-products. Due to their suitable size, short gestation period, and abundant secretion of milk, sheep and goats have become important model animals in agricultural, pharmaceutical, and biomedical research. Genome engineering has been widely applied to sheep and goat research. Pronuclear injection and somatic cell nuclear transfer represent the two primary procedures for the generation of genetically modified sheep and goats. Further assisted tools have emerged to enhance the efficiency of genetic modification and to simplify the generation of genetically modified founders. These tools include sperm-mediated gene transfer, viral vectors, RNA interference, recombinases, transposons, and endonucleases. Of these tools, the four classes of site-specific endonucleases (meganucleases, ZFNs, TALENs, and CRISPRs) have attracted wide attention due to their DNA double-strand break-inducing role, which enable desired DNA modifications based on the stimulation of native cellular DNA repair mechanisms. Currently, CRISPR systems dominate the field of genome editing. Gene-edited sheep and goats, generated using these tools, provide valuable models for investigations on gene functions, improving animal breeding, producing pharmaceuticals in milk, improving animal disease resistance, recapitulating human diseases, and providing hosts for the growth of human organs. In addition, more promising derivative tools of CRISPR systems have emerged such as base editors which enable the induction of single-base alterations without any requirements for homology-directed repair or DNA donor. These precise editors are helpful for revealing desirable phenotypes and correcting genetic diseases controlled by single bases. This review highlights the advances of genome engineering in sheep and goats over the past four decades with particular emphasis on the application of CRISPR/Cas9 systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Kalds
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
- Department of Animal and Poultry Production, Faculty of Environmental Agricultural Sciences, Arish University, El-Arish, Egypt
| | - Shiwei Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Bei Cai
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Jiao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Bjoern Petersen
- Institute of Farm Animal Genetics, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Neustadt, Germany
| | | | - Xiaolong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Yulin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
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50
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Fürtbauer I, Solman C, Fry A. Sheep wool cortisol as a retrospective measure of long-term HPA axis activity and its links to body mass. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2019; 68:39-46. [PMID: 30797176 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2018.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Revised: 11/29/2018] [Accepted: 12/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Hair cortisol analysis has been suggested as a powerful retrospective measure of long-term hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity in numerous mammal species. In contrast, research evaluating the use of wool as a marker of long-term HPA axis activity is still scarce, and wool differs from hair in a number of ways. Here, we assess repeatability and differences in wool cortisol concentrations (WCCs) across (i) the wool shaft, (ii) two body locations, and (iii) time, in 33 barren Welsh mountain ewes (Ovis aries). We also (iv) investigated effects of grazing-related changes in body mass on WCCs and (v) assessed effects of the washing procedure during sample preparation on WCCs. Cortisol concentrations were repeatable but differed significantly across the wool shaft indicating that, provided wool growth rate is known, a single sample per individual could be used as a retrospective cortisol "timeline." WCCs were significantly higher in shoulder than in back samples, and no correlation between these two body locations was found, highlighting the importance of sampling from the same body location for repeated measures. An increase in body mass during grazing corresponded with a decrease in WCCs, which was significantly negatively correlated with body mass (and positively with age), suggesting that WCCs can be used as a marker of body condition and nutritional status in sheep. Interestingly, we found higher WCCs in washed compared with unwashed samples and discuss implications of this finding for future work. Overall, our study revealed significant within- and between-individual differences in WCCs and highlights a number of advantages but also methodological considerations of using WCCs as a retrospective measure of long-term HPA axis activity in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Fürtbauer
- Department of Biosciences, Swansea University, Singleton Park, SA2 8PP Swansea, UK.
| | - C Solman
- Department of Biosciences, Swansea University, Singleton Park, SA2 8PP Swansea, UK
| | - A Fry
- Department of Biosciences, Swansea University, Singleton Park, SA2 8PP Swansea, UK
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