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Acosta-Galeana I, Hernández-Martínez R, Reyes-Cruz T, Chiquete E, Aceves-Buendia JDJ. RNA-binding proteins as a common ground for neurodegeneration and inflammation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and multiple sclerosis. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1193636. [PMID: 37475885 PMCID: PMC10355071 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1193636] [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: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The neurodegenerative and inflammatory illnesses of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and multiple sclerosis were once thought to be completely distinct entities that did not share any remarkable features, but new research is beginning to reveal more information about their similarities and differences. Here, we review some of the pathophysiological features of both diseases and their experimental models: RNA-binding proteins, energy balance, protein transportation, and protein degradation at the molecular level. We make a thorough analysis on TDP-43 and hnRNP A1 dysfunction, as a possible common ground in both pathologies, establishing a potential link between neurodegeneration and pathological immunity. Furthermore, we highlight the putative variations that diverge from a common ground in an atemporal course that proposes three phases for all relevant molecular events.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tania Reyes-Cruz
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, División de Ciencias Biológicas y de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Erwin Chiquete
- Departamento de Neurología y Psiquiatría, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Jose de Jesus Aceves-Buendia
- Departamento de Neurología y Psiquiatría, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
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2
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Yusuff T, Chang YC, Sang TK, Jackson GR, Chatterjee S. Codon-optimized TDP-43 mediates neurodegeneration in a Drosophila model of ALS/FTLD. Front Genet 2023; 14:881638. [PMID: 36968586 PMCID: PMC10034021 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.881638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Transactive response DNA binding protein-43 (TDP-43) is known to mediate neurodegeneration associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD). The exact mechanism by which TDP-43 exerts toxicity in the brains, spinal cord, and lower motor neurons of affected patients remains unclear. In a novel Drosophila melanogaster model, we report gain-of-function phenotypes due to misexpression of insect codon-optimized version of human wild-type TDP-43 (CO-TDP-43) using both the binary GAL4/UAS system and direct promoter fusion constructs. The CO-TDP-43 model showed robust tissue specific phenotypes in the adult eye, wing, and bristles in the notum. Compared to non-codon optimized transgenic flies, the CO-TDP-43 flies produced increased amount of high molecular weight protein, exhibited pathogenic phenotypes, and showed cytoplasmic aggregation with both nuclear and cytoplasmic expression of TDP-43. Further characterization of the adult retina showed a disruption in the morphology and function of the photoreceptor neurons with the presence of acidic vacuoles that are characteristic of autophagy. Based on our observations, we propose that TDP-43 has the propensity to form toxic protein aggregates via a gain-of-function mechanism, and such toxic overload leads to activation of protein degradation pathways such as autophagy. The novel codon optimized TDP-43 model is an excellent resource that could be used in genetic screens to identify and better understand the exact disease mechanism of TDP-43 proteinopathies and find potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanzeen Yusuff
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
- Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Tanzeen Yusuff, ; Shreyasi Chatterjee,
| | - Ya-Chu Chang
- Department of Life Science, Institute of Biotechnology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
- Brain Research Center, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Kang Sang
- Department of Life Science, Institute of Biotechnology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
- Brain Research Center, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - George R. Jackson
- Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- National Parkinson’s Disease Research Education and Clinical Center, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Shreyasi Chatterjee
- Mitchell Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Tanzeen Yusuff, ; Shreyasi Chatterjee,
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Versluys L, Ervilha Pereira P, Schuermans N, De Paepe B, De Bleecker JL, Bogaert E, Dermaut B. Expanding the TDP-43 Proteinopathy Pathway From Neurons to Muscle: Physiological and Pathophysiological Functions. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:815765. [PMID: 35185458 PMCID: PMC8851062 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.815765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
TAR DNA-binding protein 43, mostly referred to as TDP-43 (encoded by the TARDBP gene) is strongly linked to the pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). From the identification of TDP-43 positive aggregates in the brains and spinal cords of ALS/FTD patients, to a genetic link between TARBDP mutations and the development of TDP-43 pathology in ALS, there is strong evidence indicating that TDP-43 plays a pivotal role in the process of neuronal degeneration. What this role is, however, remains to be determined with evidence ranging from gain of toxic properties through the formation of cytotoxic aggregates, to an inability to perform its normal functions due to nuclear depletion. To add to an already complex subject, recent studies highlight a role for TDP-43 in muscle physiology and disease. We here review the biophysical, biochemical, cellular and tissue-specific properties of TDP-43 in the context of neurodegeneration and have a look at the nascent stream of evidence that positions TDP-43 in a myogenic context. By integrating the neurogenic and myogenic pathological roles of TDP-43 we provide a more comprehensive and encompassing view of the role and mechanisms associated with TDP-43 across the various cell types of the motor system, all the way from brain to limbs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Versluys
- Department Biomolecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Pedro Ervilha Pereira
- Department Biomolecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nika Schuermans
- Department Biomolecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Boel De Paepe
- Department of Neurology and Neuromuscular Reference Center, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Head and Skin, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jan L. De Bleecker
- Department of Neurology and Neuromuscular Reference Center, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Head and Skin, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Elke Bogaert
- Department Biomolecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bart Dermaut
- Department Biomolecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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4
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Azpurua J, El-Karim EG, Tranquille M, Dubnau J. A behavioral screen for mediators of age-dependent TDP-43 neurodegeneration identifies SF2/SRSF1 among a group of potent suppressors in both neurons and glia. PLoS Genet 2021; 17:e1009882. [PMID: 34723963 PMCID: PMC8584670 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytoplasmic aggregation of Tar-DNA/RNA binding protein 43 (TDP-43) occurs in 97 percent of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), ~40% of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and in many cases of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Cytoplasmic TDP-43 inclusions are seen in both sporadic and familial forms of these disorders, including those cases that are caused by repeat expansion mutations in the C9orf72 gene. To identify downstream mediators of TDP-43 toxicity, we expressed human TDP-43 in a subset of Drosophila motor neurons. Such expression causes age-dependent deficits in negative geotaxis behavior. Using this behavioral readout of locomotion, we conducted an shRNA suppressor screen and identified 32 transcripts whose knockdown was sufficient to ameliorate the neurological phenotype. The majority of these suppressors also substantially suppressed the negative effects on lifespan seen with glial TDP-43 expression. In addition to identification of a number of genes whose roles in neurodegeneration were not previously known, our screen also yielded genes involved in chromatin regulation and nuclear/import export- pathways that were previously identified in the context of cell based or neurodevelopmental suppressor screens. A notable example is SF2, a conserved orthologue of mammalian SRSF1, an RNA binding protein with roles in splicing and nuclear export. Our identification SF2/SRSF1 as a potent suppressor of both neuronal and glial TDP-43 toxicity also provides a convergence with C9orf72 expansion repeat mediated neurodegeneration, where this gene also acts as a downstream mediator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Azpurua
- Department of Anesthesiology, Stony Brook School of Medicine, Stony Brook, New York, United States of America
| | - Enas Gad El-Karim
- Department of Anesthesiology, Stony Brook School of Medicine, Stony Brook, New York, United States of America
| | - Marvel Tranquille
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, M.S. Program, Stony Brook School of Medicine, Stony Brook, New York, United States of America
| | - Josh Dubnau
- Department of Anesthesiology, Stony Brook School of Medicine, Stony Brook, New York, United States of America
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, United States of America
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5
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Braems E, Tziortzouda P, Van Den Bosch L. Exploring the alternative: Fish, flies and worms as preclinical models for ALS. Neurosci Lett 2021; 759:136041. [PMID: 34118308 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.136041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an incurable neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of upper and lower motor neurons. In general, patients succumb to respiratory insufficiency due to respiratory muscle weakness. Despite many promising therapeutic strategies primarily identified in rodent models, patient trials remain rather unsuccessful. There is a clear need for alternative approaches, which could provide directions towards the justified use of rodents and which increase the likelihood to identify new promising clinical candidates. In the last decades, the use of fast genetic approaches and the development of high-throughput screening platforms in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, in the fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster) and in zebrafish (Danio rerio) have contributed to new insights into ALS pathomechanisms, disease modifiers and therapeutic targets. In this mini-review, we provide an overview of these alternative small animal studies, modeling the most common ALS genes and discuss the most recent preclinical discoveries. We conclude that small animal models will not replace rodent models, yet they clearly represent an important asset for preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Braems
- KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium; VIB, Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Paraskevi Tziortzouda
- KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium; VIB, Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium; VIB, Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, Leuven, Belgium.
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6
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Tziortzouda P, Van Den Bosch L, Hirth F. Triad of TDP43 control in neurodegeneration: autoregulation, localization and aggregation. Nat Rev Neurosci 2021; 22:197-208. [PMID: 33654312 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-021-00431-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Cytoplasmic aggregation of TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP43; also known as TARDBP or TDP-43) is a key pathological feature of several neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). TDP43 typically resides in the nucleus but can shuttle between the nucleus and the cytoplasm to exert its multiple functions, which include regulation of the splicing, trafficking and stabilization of RNA. Cytoplasmic mislocalization and nuclear loss of TDP43 have both been associated with ALS and FTD, suggesting that calibrated levels and correct localization of TDP43 - achieved through an autoregulatory loop and tightly controlled nucleocytoplasmic transport - safeguard its normal function. Furthermore, TDP43 can undergo phase transitions, including its dispersion into liquid droplets and its accumulation into irreversible cytoplasmic aggregates. Thus, autoregulation, nucleocytoplasmic transport and phase transition are all part of an intrinsic control system regulating the physiological levels and localization of TDP43, and together are essential for the cellular homeostasis that is affected in neurodegenerative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paraskevi Tziortzouda
- Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Frank Hirth
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
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7
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Layalle S, They L, Ourghani S, Raoul C, Soustelle L. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Genes in Drosophila melanogaster. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22020904. [PMID: 33477509 PMCID: PMC7831090 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating adult-onset neurodegenerative disease characterized by the progressive degeneration of upper and lower motoneurons. Most ALS cases are sporadic but approximately 10% of ALS cases are due to inherited mutations in identified genes. ALS-causing mutations were identified in over 30 genes with superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD1), chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 (C9orf72), fused in sarcoma (FUS), and TAR DNA-binding protein (TARDBP, encoding TDP-43) being the most frequent. In the last few decades, Drosophila melanogaster emerged as a versatile model for studying neurodegenerative diseases, including ALS. In this review, we describe the different Drosophila ALS models that have been successfully used to decipher the cellular and molecular pathways associated with SOD1, C9orf72, FUS, and TDP-43. The study of the known fruit fly orthologs of these ALS-related genes yielded significant insights into cellular mechanisms and physiological functions. Moreover, genetic screening in tissue-specific gain-of-function mutants that mimic ALS-associated phenotypes identified disease-modifying genes. Here, we propose a comprehensive review on the Drosophila research focused on four ALS-linked genes that has revealed novel pathogenic mechanisms and identified potential therapeutic targets for future therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Layalle
- The Neuroscience Institute of Montpellier, INSERM, University of Montpellier, 34091 Montpellier, France; (S.L.); (L.T.); (S.O.)
| | - Laetitia They
- The Neuroscience Institute of Montpellier, INSERM, University of Montpellier, 34091 Montpellier, France; (S.L.); (L.T.); (S.O.)
| | - Sarah Ourghani
- The Neuroscience Institute of Montpellier, INSERM, University of Montpellier, 34091 Montpellier, France; (S.L.); (L.T.); (S.O.)
| | - Cédric Raoul
- The Neuroscience Institute of Montpellier, INSERM, University of Montpellier, 34091 Montpellier, France; (S.L.); (L.T.); (S.O.)
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia
- Correspondence: (C.R.); (L.S.)
| | - Laurent Soustelle
- The Neuroscience Institute of Montpellier, INSERM, University of Montpellier, 34091 Montpellier, France; (S.L.); (L.T.); (S.O.)
- Correspondence: (C.R.); (L.S.)
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8
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McAlary L, Chew YL, Lum JS, Geraghty NJ, Yerbury JJ, Cashman NR. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Proteins, Proteostasis, Prions, and Promises. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:581907. [PMID: 33328890 PMCID: PMC7671971 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.581907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is characterized by the progressive degeneration of the motor neurons that innervate muscle, resulting in gradual paralysis and culminating in the inability to breathe or swallow. This neuronal degeneration occurs in a spatiotemporal manner from a point of onset in the central nervous system (CNS), suggesting that there is a molecule that spreads from cell-to-cell. There is strong evidence that the onset and progression of ALS pathology is a consequence of protein misfolding and aggregation. In line with this, a hallmark pathology of ALS is protein deposition and inclusion formation within motor neurons and surrounding glia of the proteins TAR DNA-binding protein 43, superoxide dismutase-1, or fused in sarcoma. Collectively, the observed protein aggregation, in conjunction with the spatiotemporal spread of symptoms, strongly suggests a prion-like propagation of protein aggregation occurs in ALS. In this review, we discuss the role of protein aggregation in ALS concerning protein homeostasis (proteostasis) mechanisms and prion-like propagation. Furthermore, we examine the experimental models used to investigate these processes, including in vitro assays, cultured cells, invertebrate models, and murine models. Finally, we evaluate the therapeutics that may best prevent the onset or spread of pathology in ALS and discuss what lies on the horizon for treating this currently incurable disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke McAlary
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Yee Lian Chew
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Jeremy Stephen Lum
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Nicholas John Geraghty
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Justin John Yerbury
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Neil R. Cashman
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Splicing Players Are Differently Expressed in Sporadic Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Molecular Clusters and Brain Regions. Cells 2020; 9:cells9010159. [PMID: 31936368 PMCID: PMC7017305 DOI: 10.3390/cells9010159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Splicing is a tightly orchestrated process by which the brain produces protein diversity over time and space. While this process specializes and diversifies neurons, its deregulation may be responsible for their selective degeneration. In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), splicing defects have been investigated at the singular gene level without considering the higher-order level, involving the entire splicing machinery. In this study, we analyzed the complete spectrum (396) of genes encoding splicing factors in the motor cortex (41) and spinal cord (40) samples from control and sporadic ALS (SALS) patients. A substantial number of genes (184) displayed significant expression changes in tissue types or disease states, were implicated in distinct splicing complexes and showed different topological hierarchical roles based on protein–protein interactions. The deregulation of one of these splicing factors has a central topological role, i.e., the transcription factor YBX1, which might also have an impact on stress granule formation, a pathological marker associated with ALS.
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10
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Miguel L, Rovelet-Lecrux A, Feyeux M, Frebourg T, Nassoy P, Campion D, Lecourtois M. Detection of all adult Tau isoforms in a 3D culture model of iPSC-derived neurons. Stem Cell Res 2019; 40:101541. [PMID: 31522011 DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2019.101541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Revised: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Tauopathies are a class of neurodegenerative diseases characterized by the presence of pathological intracellular deposits of Tau proteins. Six isoforms of Tau are expressed in the adult human brain, resulting from alternative splicing of the MAPT gene. Tau splicing is developmentally regulated such that only the smallest Tau isoform is expressed in fetal brain, contrary to the adult brain showing the expression of all 6 isoforms. Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (iPSC) technology has opened up new perspectives in human disease modeling, including tauopathies. However, a major challenge to in vitro recapitulation of Tau pathology in iPSC-derived neurons is their relative immaturity. In this study, we examined the switch in Tau splicing from fetal-only to all adult Tau isoforms during the differentiation of iPSC-derived neurons in a new 3D culture system. First, we showed that iPSC-induced neurons inside Matrigel-coated alginate capsules were able to differentiate into cortical neurons. Then, using a new assay that allowed both the qualitative and the quantitative analysis of all adult MAPT mRNA isoforms individually, we demonstrated that BrainPhys-maintained neurons expressed the 6 adult MAPT mRNA transcripts from 25 weeks of maturation, making this model highly suitable for modeling Tau pathology and therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laetitia Miguel
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, Inserm U1245 and Rouen University Hospital, Department of Genetics and CNR-MAJ, F 76000, Normandy Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Rouen, France
| | - Anne Rovelet-Lecrux
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, Inserm U1245 and Rouen University Hospital, Department of Genetics and CNR-MAJ, F 76000, Normandy Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Rouen, France
| | - Maxime Feyeux
- Université de Bordeaux, Laboratoire Photonique Numérique et Nanosciences, CNRS UMR 5298, Institut d'Optique, Talence, France
| | - Thierry Frebourg
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, Inserm U1245 and Rouen University Hospital, Department of Genetics and CNR-MAJ, F 76000, Normandy Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Rouen, France; Department of Genetics, Rouen University Hospital, Rouen, France
| | - Pierre Nassoy
- Université de Bordeaux, Laboratoire Photonique Numérique et Nanosciences, CNRS UMR 5298, Institut d'Optique, Talence, France
| | - Dominique Campion
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, Inserm U1245 and Rouen University Hospital, Department of Genetics and CNR-MAJ, F 76000, Normandy Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Rouen, France; Centre Hospitalier du Rouvray, Sotteville-Lès-Rouen, France
| | - Magalie Lecourtois
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, Inserm U1245 and Rouen University Hospital, Department of Genetics and CNR-MAJ, F 76000, Normandy Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Rouen, France.
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11
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Pons M, Prieto S, Miguel L, Frebourg T, Campion D, Suñé C, Lecourtois M. Identification of TCERG1 as a new genetic modulator of TDP-43 production in Drosophila. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2018; 6:138. [PMID: 30541625 PMCID: PMC6292132 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-018-0639-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
TAR DNA-binding protein-43 (TDP-43) is a ubiquitously expressed DNA-/RNA-binding protein that has been linked to numerous aspects of the mRNA life cycle. Similar to many RNA-binding proteins, TDP-43 expression is tightly regulated through an autoregulatory negative feedback loop. Cell function and survival depend on the strict control of TDP-43 protein levels. TDP-43 has been identified as the major constituent of ubiquitin-positive inclusions in patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration (FTLD). Several observations argue for a pathogenic role of elevated TDP-43 levels in these disorders. Modulation of the cycle of TDP-43 production might therefore provide a new therapeutic strategy. Using a Drosophila model mimicking key features of the TDP-43 autoregulatory feedback loop, we identified CG42724 as a genetic modulator of TDP-43 production in vivo. We found that CG42724 protein influences qualitatively and quantitatively the TDP-43 mRNA transcript pattern. CG42724 overexpression promotes the production of transcripts that can be efficiently released into the cytoplasm for protein translation. Importantly, we showed that TCERG1, the human homolog of the Drosophila CG42724 protein, also caused an increase of TDP-43 protein steady-state levels in mammalian cells. Therefore, our data suggest the possibility that targeting TCERG1 could be therapeutic in TDP-43 proteinopathies.
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12
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Miguel L, Avequin T, Pons M, Frebourg T, Campion D, Lecourtois M. FTLD/ALS-linked TDP-43 mutations do not alter TDP-43's ability to self-regulate its expression in Drosophila. Brain Res 2018; 1695:1-9. [PMID: 29778779 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2018.05.021] [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: 12/04/2017] [Revised: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
TDP-43 is a major disease-causing protein in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration (FTLD). Today, >50 missense mutations in the TARDBP/TDP-43 gene have been described in patients with FTLD/ALS. However, the functional consequences of FTLD/ALS-linked TDP-43 mutations are not fully elucidated. In the physiological state, TDP-43 expression is tightly regulated through an autoregulatory negative feedback loop. Maintaining normal TDP-43 protein levels is critical for proper physiological functions of the cells. In the present study, we investigated whether the FTLD/ALS-associated mutations could interfere with TDP-43 protein's capacity to modulate its own protein levels using Drosophila as an experimental model. Our data show that FTLD/ALS-associated mutant proteins regulate TDP-43 production with the same efficiency as the wild-type form of the protein. Thus, FTLD/ALS-linked TDP-43 mutations do not alter TDP-43's ability to self-regulate its expression and consequently of the homeostasis of TDP-43 protein levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laetitia Miguel
- Normandie University, UNIROUEN, Inserm, U1245, IRIB, Rouen, France
| | - Tracey Avequin
- Normandie University, UNIROUEN, Inserm, U1245, IRIB, Rouen, France
| | - Marine Pons
- Normandie University, UNIROUEN, Inserm, U1245, IRIB, Rouen, France
| | - Thierry Frebourg
- Normandie University, UNIROUEN, Inserm, U1245, IRIB, Rouen, France; Department of Genetics, Rouen University Hospital, 76301 Rouen, France
| | - Dominique Campion
- Normandie University, UNIROUEN, Inserm, U1245, IRIB, Rouen, France; Centre Hospitalier du Rouvray, Sotteville-Lès-Rouen, France
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Olesnicky EC, Wright EG. Drosophila as a Model for Assessing the Function of RNA-Binding Proteins during Neurogenesis and Neurological Disease. J Dev Biol 2018; 6:E21. [PMID: 30126171 PMCID: PMC6162566 DOI: 10.3390/jdb6030021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2018] [Revised: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
An outstanding question in developmental neurobiology is how RNA processing events contribute to the regulation of neurogenesis. RNA processing events are increasingly recognized as playing fundamental roles in regulating multiple developmental events during neurogenesis, from the asymmetric divisions of neural stem cells, to the generation of complex and diverse neurite morphologies. Indeed, both asymmetric cell division and neurite morphogenesis are often achieved by mechanisms that generate asymmetric protein distributions, including post-transcriptional gene regulatory mechanisms such as the transport of translationally silent messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and local translation of mRNAs within neurites. Additionally, defects in RNA splicing have emerged as a common theme in many neurodegenerative disorders, highlighting the importance of RNA processing in maintaining neuronal circuitry. RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) play an integral role in splicing and post-transcriptional gene regulation, and mutations in RBPs have been linked with multiple neurological disorders including autism, dementia, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), Fragile X syndrome (FXS), and X-linked intellectual disability disorder. Despite their widespread nature and roles in neurological disease, the molecular mechanisms and networks of regulated target RNAs have been defined for only a small number of specific RBPs. This review aims to highlight recent studies in Drosophila that have advanced our knowledge of how RBP dysfunction contributes to neurological disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenia C Olesnicky
- Department of Biology, University of Colorado Colorado Springs, 1420 Austin Bluffs Parkway, Colorado Springs, CO 80918, USA.
| | - Ethan G Wright
- Department of Biology, University of Colorado Colorado Springs, 1420 Austin Bluffs Parkway, Colorado Springs, CO 80918, USA.
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