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Jia D, Zhao M, Zhang X, Cheng X, Wei Q, Lou L, Zhao Y, Jin Q, Chen M, Zhang D. Transcriptomic analysis reveals the critical role of chemokine signaling in the anti-atherosclerosis effect of Xuefu Zhuyu decoction. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 332:118245. [PMID: 38679399 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The process of atherosclerosis (AS) is complicated. Transcriptomics technology can assist in discovering the underlying mechanisms and exploring the key targets of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) against atherosclerosis. AIM This study aimed to investigate targets and signaling pathways significantly related to AS and the potential intervention targets of Xuefu Zhuyu decoction by transcriptomics. MATERIALS AND METHODS AS models were established by subjecting ApoE-/-mice to an 8-week high-fat diet. Structural changes and plaque formation in the aortic root were observed using hematoxylin-eosin staining (HE staining), while Oil Red O staining was employed to visualize lipid deposition within the aortic root plaque. Movat staining and immunohistochemical staining were conducted to examine the components present in the aortic root plaque. Macrophage content within the plaque was observed through immunofluorescence. Additionally, mRNA sequencing was performed on aortic tissues to identify differentially expressed genes. Enrichment analysis was performed using GO and KEGG analysis. Visualization of the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was achieved using Cytoscape 3.7.1 and STRING. Western blotting (WB) was employed to assess the protein expression of major differentially expressed genes in the aortic tissue. The drug freeze-dried powder of Xuefu Zhuyu decoction was prepared and the RAW264.7 cells were induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to build an in vitro model. Real-time quantitative PCR was employed to measure the mRNA expression of major differential genes. RESULTS After ApoE-/- mice were fed with an 8-week high-fat diet, observable changes included the thinning of the aortic root wall, the accumulation of foam cells within the plaque, and the formation of cholesterol crystals in the model group. Treatment with Xuefu Zhuyu (XFZY) decoction for 12 weeks significantly reduced the lipid deposition and the number of macrophages (P < 0.05) and significantly increased the collagen content within the plaque (P < 0.01). Enrichment analysis revealed a high enrichment of the Cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction pathway and Chemokine signaling pathway. Noteworthy genes involved in this response included Ccl12, Ccl22, Cx3cr1, Ccr7, Ccr2, Tnfrsf25, and Gdf5. Xuefu Zhuyu decoction significantly downregulated the expression of CX3CL1 and CX3CR1 (P < 0.05) and upregulated the expression of GDF5 (P < 0.01). Compared with control group, in cell models, the mRNA expressions of Ccl12, Ccl22, and Ccr2 were significantly upregulated (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). Xuefu Zhuyu decoction significantly downregulated the expression of Ccl12, Ccl22, Cx3cr1, Ccr7 and Ccr2 (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). CONCLUSION Xuefu Zhuyu decoction demonstrates effective regulation of plaque components, retarding plaque progression and preserving plaque stability by modulating lipid metabolism and inflammatory responses. Subsequent transcriptome analysis identified the Cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction and Chemokine signaling pathway as potential key pathways for the therapeutic effects of Xuefu Zhuyu decoction. This insight not only provides crucial avenues for further exploration into the mechanisms underlying Xuefu Zhuyu decoction but also offers valuable perspectives and hypotheses for enhancing disease prevention and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongdong Jia
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China; The Affiliated Mental Health Center of Jiangnan University, Wuxi Central Rehabilitation Hospital, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214151, China.
| | - Mengzhu Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Xinyue Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China; Department of Research and Teaching, Beijing Hepingli Hospital, Beijing, 100010, China.
| | - Xu Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Qiong Wei
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Lixia Lou
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Yizhou Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Qiushuo Jin
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Meng Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Dongmei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China.
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Rodriguez C, Chocarro L, Echaide M, Ausin K, Escors D, Kochan G. Fractalkine in Health and Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8007. [PMID: 39125578 PMCID: PMC11311528 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25158007] [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: 06/18/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
CX3CL1 is one of the 50 up-to-date identified and characterized chemokines. While other chemokines are produced as small, secreted proteins, CX3CL1 (fractalkine) is synthetized as a transmembrane protein which also leads to a soluble form produced as a result of proteolytic cleavage. The membrane-bound protein and the soluble forms exhibit different biological functions. While the role of the fractalkine/CX3CR1 signaling axis was described in the nervous system and was also related to the migration of leukocytes to sites of inflammation, its actions are controversial in cancer progression and anti-tumor immunity. In the present review, we first describe the known biology of fractalkine concerning its action through its cognate receptor, but also its role in the activation of different integrins. The second part of this review is dedicated to its role in cancer where we discuss its role in anti-cancer or procarcinogenic activities.
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Grants
- FIS PI23/00196 Instituto de Salud Carlos III-FEDER
- FIS PI20/00010 Instituto de Salud Carlos III-FEDER
- BMED 036-2023 Departamento de Salud del Gobierno de Navarra-FEDER, Spain
- LINTERNA, Ref. 0011-1411-2020-000033 Departamento de Industria, Gobierno de Navarra, Spain
- ARNMUNE, 0011-1411-2023-000111 Departamento de Industria, Gobierno de Navarra, Spain
- ISOLDA project, under grant agreement ID: 848166. Horizon 2020, European Union
- PFIS, FI21/00080 Instituto de Salud Carlos III-FEDER
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - David Escors
- Oncoimmunology Unit, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), Navarrabiomed-Fundación Miguel Servet, Universidad Pública de Navarra (UPNA), Hospital Universitario de Navarra (HUN), 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (C.R.); (L.C.); (M.E.); (K.A.)
| | - Grazyna Kochan
- Oncoimmunology Unit, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), Navarrabiomed-Fundación Miguel Servet, Universidad Pública de Navarra (UPNA), Hospital Universitario de Navarra (HUN), 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (C.R.); (L.C.); (M.E.); (K.A.)
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Etebar N, Naderpour S, Akbari S, Zali A, Akhlaghdoust M, Daghighi SM, Baghani M, Sefat F, Hamidi SH, Rahimzadegan M. Impacts of SARS-CoV-2 on brain renin angiotensin system related signaling and its subsequent complications on brain: A theoretical perspective. J Chem Neuroanat 2024; 138:102423. [PMID: 38705215 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2024.102423] [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: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Cellular ACE2 (cACE2), a vital component of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), possesses catalytic activity to maintain AngII and Ang 1-7 balance, which is necessary to prevent harmful effects of AngII/AT2R and promote protective pathways of Ang (1-7)/MasR and Ang (1-7)/AT2R. Hemostasis of the brain-RAS is essential for maintaining normal central nervous system (CNS) function. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a viral disease that causes multi-organ dysfunction. SARS-CoV-2 mainly uses cACE2 to enter the cells and cause its downregulation. This, in turn, prevents the conversion of Ang II to Ang (1-7) and disrupts the normal balance of brain-RAS. Brain-RAS disturbances give rise to one of the pathological pathways in which SARS-CoV-2 suppresses neuroprotective pathways and induces inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species. Finally, these impairments lead to neuroinflammation, neuronal injury, and neurological complications. In conclusion, the influence of RAS on various processes within the brain has significant implications for the neurological manifestations associated with COVID-19. These effects include sensory disturbances, such as olfactory and gustatory dysfunctions, as well as cerebrovascular and brain stem-related disorders, all of which are intertwined with disruptions in the RAS homeostasis of the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Negar Etebar
- Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Comprehensive Neurosurgical Center of Excellence, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Faculty of Pharmacy - Eastern Mediterranean University Famagusta, North Cyprus via Mersin 10, Turkey
| | - Saghi Naderpour
- Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Comprehensive Neurosurgical Center of Excellence, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Faculty of Pharmacy - Eastern Mediterranean University Famagusta, North Cyprus via Mersin 10, Turkey
| | - Setareh Akbari
- Neuroscience and Research Committee, School of Advanced Technology in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Zali
- Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Comprehensive Neurosurgical Center of Excellence, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Meisam Akhlaghdoust
- Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Comprehensive Neurosurgical Center of Excellence, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; USERN Office, Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Mojtaba Daghighi
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center (PSRC), The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Matin Baghani
- Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Comprehensive Neurosurgical Center of Excellence, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farshid Sefat
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK
| | - Seyed Hootan Hamidi
- Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Comprehensive Neurosurgical Center of Excellence, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Acharya BM Reddy College of Pharmacy, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Milad Rahimzadegan
- Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Comprehensive Neurosurgical Center of Excellence, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Berki P, Cserép C, Környei Z, Pósfai B, Szabadits E, Domonkos A, Kellermayer A, Nyerges M, Wei X, Mody I, Kunihiko A, Beck H, Kaikai H, Ya W, Lénárt N, Wu Z, Jing M, Li Y, Gulyás AI, Dénes Á. Microglia contribute to neuronal synchrony despite endogenous ATP-related phenotypic transformation in acute mouse brain slices. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5402. [PMID: 38926390 PMCID: PMC11208608 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49773-1] [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: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute brain slices represent a workhorse model for studying the central nervous system (CNS) from nanoscale events to complex circuits. While slice preparation inherently involves tissue damage, it is unclear how microglia, the main immune cells and damage sensors of the CNS react to this injury and shape neuronal activity ex vivo. To this end, we investigated microglial phenotypes and contribution to network organization and functioning in acute brain slices. We reveal time-dependent microglial phenotype changes influenced by complex extracellular ATP dynamics through P2Y12R and CX3CR1 signalling, which is sustained for hours in ex vivo mouse brain slices. Downregulation of P2Y12R and changes of microglia-neuron interactions occur in line with alterations in the number of excitatory and inhibitory synapses over time. Importantly, functional microglia modulate synapse sprouting, while microglial dysfunction results in markedly impaired ripple activity both ex vivo and in vivo. Collectively, our data suggest that microglia are modulators of complex neuronal networks with important roles to maintain neuronal network integrity and activity. We suggest that slice preparation can be used to model time-dependent changes of microglia-neuron interactions to reveal how microglia shape neuronal circuits in physiological and pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Péter Berki
- János Szentágothai Doctoral School of Neuroscience, Semmelweis University, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
- Laboratory of Cerebral Cortex Research, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
- Laboratory of Neuronal Network and Behaviour, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
| | - Csaba Cserép
- Momentum Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
| | - Zsuzsanna Környei
- Momentum Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
| | - Balázs Pósfai
- Momentum Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
| | - Eszter Szabadits
- Momentum Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
| | - Andor Domonkos
- Momentum Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
- Laboratory of Thalamus Research, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
| | - Anna Kellermayer
- Momentum Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
| | - Miklós Nyerges
- Momentum Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
| | - Xiaofei Wei
- Department of Neurology, The David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Istvan Mody
- Department of Neurology, The David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Araki Kunihiko
- Institute of Experimental Epileptology and Cognition Research, Medical University of Bonn, Bonn, 53127, Germany
- University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Heinz Beck
- Institute of Experimental Epileptology and Cognition Research, Medical University of Bonn, Bonn, 53127, Germany
- University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - He Kaikai
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, China
| | - Wang Ya
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, 102206, Beijing, China
| | - Nikolett Lénárt
- Momentum Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
| | - Zhaofa Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100101, Beijing, China
| | - Miao Jing
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, 102206, Beijing, China
| | - Yulong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, China
| | - Attila I Gulyás
- Laboratory of Cerebral Cortex Research, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary
| | - Ádám Dénes
- Momentum Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, H-1083, Hungary.
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Soelter TM, Howton TC, Clark AD, Oza VH, Lasseigne BN. Altered glia-neuron communication in Alzheimer's Disease affects WNT, p53, and NFkB Signaling determined by snRNA-seq. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:317. [PMID: 38849813 PMCID: PMC11157763 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01686-8] [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: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia and is characterized by amyloid-β plaques, tau neurofibrillary tangles, and neuronal loss. Although neuronal loss is a primary hallmark of Alzheimer's disease, it is known that non-neuronal cell populations are ultimately responsible for maintaining brain homeostasis and neuronal health through neuron-glia and glial cell crosstalk. Many signaling pathways have been proposed to be dysregulated in Alzheimer's disease, including WNT, TGFβ, p53, mTOR, NFkB, and Pi3k/Akt signaling. Here, we predict altered cell-cell communication between glia and neurons. METHODS Using public snRNA-sequencing data generated from postmortem human prefrontal cortex, we predicted altered cell-cell communication between glia (astrocytes, microglia, oligodendrocytes, and oligodendrocyte progenitor cells) and neurons (excitatory and inhibitory). We confirmed interactions in a second and third independent orthogonal dataset. We determined cell-type-specificity using Jaccard Similarity Index and investigated the downstream effects of altered interactions in inhibitory neurons through gene expression and transcription factor activity analyses of signaling mediators. Finally, we determined changes in pathway activity in inhibitory neurons. RESULTS Cell-cell communication between glia and neurons is altered in Alzheimer's disease in a cell-type-specific manner. As expected, ligands are more cell-type-specific than receptors and targets. We identified ligand-receptor pairs in three independent datasets and found involvement of the Alzheimer's disease risk genes APP and APOE across datasets. Most of the signaling mediators of these interactions were not significantly differentially expressed, however, the mediators that are also transcription factors had differential activity between AD and control. Namely, MYC and TP53, which are associated with WNT and p53 signaling, respectively, had decreased TF activity in Alzheimer's disease, along with decreased WNT and p53 pathway activity in inhibitory neurons. Additionally, inhibitory neurons had both increased NFkB signaling pathway activity and increased TF activity of NFIL3, an NFkB signaling-associated transcription factor. CONCLUSIONS Cell-cell communication between glia and neurons in Alzheimer's disease is altered in a cell-type-specific manner involving Alzheimer's disease risk genes. Signaling mediators had altered transcription factor activity suggesting altered glia-neuron interactions may dysregulate signaling pathways including WNT, p53, and NFkB in inhibitory neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tabea M Soelter
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
| | - Timothy C Howton
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
| | - Amanda D Clark
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
| | - Vishal H Oza
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
| | - Brittany N Lasseigne
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America.
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Chamera K, Curzytek K, Kamińska K, Leśkiewicz M, Basta-Kaim A. Prenatal Immune Challenge Differentiates the Effect of Aripiprazole and Risperidone on CD200-CD200R and CX3CL1-CX3CR1 Dyads and Microglial Polarization: A Study in Organotypic Cortical Cultures. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:721. [PMID: 38929704 PMCID: PMC11205240 DOI: 10.3390/life14060721] [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: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Microglia are the primary innate immune cells of the central nervous system and extensively contribute to brain homeostasis. Dysfunctional or excessive activity of microglia may be associated with several neuropsychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia. Therefore, we examined whether aripiprazole and risperidone could influence the expression of the Cd200-Cd200r and Cx3cl1-Cx3cr1 axes, which are crucial for the regulation of microglial activity and interactions of these cells with neurons. Additionally, we evaluated the impact of these drugs on microglial pro- and anti-inflammatory markers (Cd40, Il-1β, Il-6, Cebpb, Cd206, Arg1, Il-10 and Tgf-β) and cytokine release (IL-6, IL-10). The research was executed in organotypic cortical cultures (OCCs) prepared from the offspring of control rats (control OCCs) or those exposed to maternal immune activation (MIA OCCs), which allows for the exploration of schizophrenia-like disturbances in animals. All experiments were performed under basal conditions and after additional stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), following the "two-hit" hypothesis of schizophrenia. We found that MIA diminished the mRNA level of Cd200r and affected the OCCs' response to additional LPS exposure in terms of this parameter. LPS downregulated the Cx3cr1 expression and profoundly changed the mRNA levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory microglial markers in both types of OCCs. Risperidone increased Cd200 expression in MIA OCCs, while aripiprazole treatment elevated the gene levels of the Cx3cl1-Cx3cr1 dyad in control OCCs. The antipsychotics limited the LPS-generated increase in the expression of proinflammatory factors (Il-1β and Il-6) and enhanced the mRNA levels of anti-inflammatory components (Cd206 and Tgf-β) of microglial polarization, mostly in the absence of the MIA procedure. Finally, we observed a more pronounced modulating impact of aripiprazole on the expression of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines when compared to risperidone in MIA OCCs. In conclusion, our data suggest that MIA might influence microglial activation and crosstalk of microglial cells with neurons, whereas aripiprazole and risperidone could beneficially affect these changes in OCCs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Agnieszka Basta-Kaim
- Laboratory of Immunoendocrinology, Department of Experimental Neuroendocrinology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna St., 31-343 Kraków, Poland
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Zhou J, Ye W, Chen L, Li J, Zhou Y, Bai C, Luo L. Triptolide alleviates cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury via regulating the Fractalkine/CX3CR1 signaling pathway. Brain Res Bull 2024; 211:110939. [PMID: 38574865 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2024.110939] [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: 10/21/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the potential efficacy of Triptolide (TP) on cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury (CIRI) and to uncover the underlying mechanism through which TP regulates CIRI. METHODS We constructed a middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R) mouse model to simulate CIRI, and established a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated BV-2 cell model to mimic the inflammatory state during CIRI. The neurological deficits score (NS) of mice were measured for assessment of neurologic functions. Both the severity of cerebral infarction and the apoptosis level in mouse brain tissues or cells were respectively evaluated using corresponding techniques. The expression levels of Ionized calcium binding adapter molecule 1 (IBA-1), Inductible Nitric Oxide Synthase (iNOS), Arginase 1 (Arg-1), Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), Interleukin 1β (IL-1β), Cysteine histoproteinase S (CTSS), Fractalkine, chemokine C-X3-C motif receptor 1 (CX3CR1), BCL-2-associated X protein (BAX), and antiapoptotic proteins (Bcl-2) were detected using immunofluorescence, qRT-PCR as well as Western blot, respectively. RESULTS Relative to the Sham group, treatment with TP attenuated the increased NS, infarct area and apoptosis levels observed in MCAO/R mice. Upregulated expression levels of IBA-1, iNOS, Arg-1, TNF-α and IL-1β were found in MCAO/R mice, while TP suppressed iNOS, TNF-α and IL-1β expression, and enhanced Arg-1 expression in both MCAO/R mice and LPS-stimulated BV-2 cells. Besides, TP inhibited the CTSS/Fractalkine/CX3CR1 pathway activation in both MCAO/R mice and LPS-induced BV-2 cells, while overexpression of CTSS reversed such effect. Co-culturing HT-22 cells with TP+LPS-treated BV-2 cells led to enhanced cell viability and decreased apoptosis levels. However, overexpression of CTSS further aggravated HT-22 cell injury. CONCLUSION TP inhibits not only microglia polarization towards the M1 phenotype by suppressing the CTSS/Fractalkine/CX3CR1 pathway activation, but also HT-22 apoptosis by crosstalk with BV-2 cells, thereby ameliorating CIRI. These findings reveal a novel mechanism of TP in improving CIRI, and offer potential implications for addressing the preventive and therapeutic strategies of CIRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajun Zhou
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hangzhou Xixi Hospital Zhejiang University of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wei Ye
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hangzhou Xixi Hospital Zhejiang University of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ling Chen
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hangzhou Xixi Hospital Zhejiang University of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Junheng Li
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hangzhou Xixi Hospital Zhejiang University of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yijun Zhou
- Department of Liver Diseases, Affiliated Hangzhou Xixi Hospital Zhejiang University of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chunfeng Bai
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hangzhou Xixi Hospital Zhejiang University of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lian Luo
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hangzhou Xixi Hospital Zhejiang University of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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Soelter TM, Howton TC, Wilk EJ, Whitlock JH, Clark AD, Birnbaum A, Patterson DC, Cortes CJ, Lasseigne BN. Evaluation of altered cell-cell communication between glia and neurons in the hippocampus of 3xTg-AD mice at two time points. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.21.595199. [PMID: 38826305 PMCID: PMC11142088 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.21.595199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia and is characterized by progressive memory loss and cognitive decline, affecting behavior, speech, and motor abilities. The neuropathology of AD includes the formation of extracellular amyloid-β plaque and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles of phosphorylated tau, along with neuronal loss. While neuronal loss is an AD hallmark, cell-cell communication between neuronal and non-neuronal cell populations maintains neuronal health and brain homeostasis. To study changes in cell-cell communication during disease progression, we performed snRNA-sequencing of the hippocampus from female 3xTg-AD and wild-type littermates at 6 and 12 months. We inferred differential cell-cell communication between 3xTg-AD and wild-type mice across time points and between senders (astrocytes, microglia, oligodendrocytes, and OPCs) and receivers (excitatory and inhibitory neurons) of interest. We also assessed the downstream effects of altered glia-neuron communication using pseudobulk differential gene expression, functional enrichment, and gene regulatory analyses. We found that glia-neuron communication is increasingly dysregulated in 12-month 3xTg-AD mice. We also identified 23 AD-associated ligand-receptor pairs that are upregulated in the 12-month-old 3xTg-AD hippocampus. Our results suggest increased AD association of interactions originating from microglia. Signaling mediators were not significantly differentially expressed but showed altered gene regulation and TF activity. Our findings indicate that altered glia-neuron communication is increasingly dysregulated and affects the gene regulatory mechanisms in neurons of 12-month-old 3xTg-AD mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tabea M. Soelter
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Timothy C. Howton
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth J. Wilk
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Jordan H. Whitlock
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Amanda D. Clark
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Allison Birnbaum
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Dalton C. Patterson
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Constanza J. Cortes
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Brittany N. Lasseigne
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
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9
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Green TRF, Rowe RK. Quantifying microglial morphology: an insight into function. Clin Exp Immunol 2024; 216:221-229. [PMID: 38456795 PMCID: PMC11097915 DOI: 10.1093/cei/uxae023] [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: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Microglia are specialized immune cells unique to the central nervous system (CNS). Microglia have a highly plastic morphology that changes rapidly in response to injury or infection. Qualitative and quantitative measurements of ever-changing microglial morphology are considered a cornerstone of many microglia-centric research studies. The distinctive morphological variations seen in microglia are a useful marker of inflammation and severity of tissue damage. Although a wide array of damage-associated microglial morphologies has been documented, the exact functions of these distinct morphologies are not fully understood. In this review, we discuss how microglia morphology is not synonymous with microglia function, however, morphological outcomes can be used to make inferences about microglial function. For a comprehensive examination of the reactive status of a microglial cell, both histological and genetic approaches should be combined. However, the importance of quality immunohistochemistry-based analyses should not be overlooked as they can succinctly answer many research questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tabitha R F Green
- Department of Integrative Physiology, The University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Rachel K Rowe
- Department of Integrative Physiology, The University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
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10
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Young AP, Szczesniak AM, Hsu K, Kelly ME, Denovan-Wright EM. Enantiomeric Agonists of the Type 2 Cannabinoid Receptor Reduce Retinal Damage during Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy and Inhibit Hyperactive Microglia In Vitro. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2024; 7:1348-1363. [PMID: 38751621 PMCID: PMC11091991 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.4c00014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Microglia are resident immune cells of the central nervous system (CNS) and propagate inflammation following damage to the CNS, including the retina. Proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) is a condition that can emerge following retinal detachment and is characterized by severe inflammation and microglial proliferation. The type 2 cannabinoid receptor (CB2) is an emerging pharmacological target to suppress microglial-mediated inflammation when the eyes or brain are damaged. CB2-knockout mice have exacerbated inflammation and retinal pathology during experimental PVR. We aimed to assess the anti-inflammatory effects of CB2 stimulation in the context of retinal damage and also explore the mechanistic roles of CB2 in microglia function. To target CB2, we used a highly selective agonist, HU-308, as well as its enantiomer, HU-433, which is a putative selective agonist. First, β-arrestin2 and Gαi recruitment was measured to compare activation of human CB2 in an in vitro heterologous expression system. Both agonists were then utilized in a mouse model of PVR, and the effects on retinal damage, inflammation, and cell death were assessed. Finally, we used an in vitro model of microglia to determine the effects of HU-308 and HU-433 on phagocytosis, cytokine release, migration, and intracellular signaling. We observed that HU-308 more strongly recruited both β-arrestin2 and Gαi compared to HU-433. Stimulation of CB2 with either drug effectively blunted LPS- and IFNγ-mediated signaling as well as NO and TNF release from microglia. Furthermore, both drugs reduced IL-6 accumulation, total caspase-3 cleavage, and retinal pathology following the induction of PVR. Ultimately, this work supports that CB2 is a valuable target for drugs to suppress inflammation and cell death associated with infection or sterile retinopathy, although the magnitude of effector recruitment may not be predictive of anti-inflammatory capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander P. Young
- Department
of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Anna-Maria Szczesniak
- Department
of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Karolynn Hsu
- Department
of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Melanie E.M. Kelly
- Department
of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3H 4R2, Canada
- Department
of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3H 4R2, Canada
- Department
of Anesthesia, Pain Management & Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3H 4R2, Canada
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11
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Soelter TM, Howton TC, Clark AD, Oza VH, Lasseigne BN. Altered Glia-Neuron Communication in Alzheimer's Disease Affects WNT, p53, and NFkB Signaling Determined by snRNA-seq. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.11.29.569304. [PMID: 38076822 PMCID: PMC10705421 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.29.569304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Background Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia and is characterized by amyloid-β plaques, tau neurofibrillary tangles, and neuronal loss. Although neuronal loss is a primary hallmark of Alzheimer's disease, it is known that non-neuronal cell populations are ultimately responsible for maintaining brain homeostasis and neuronal health through neuron-glia and glial cell crosstalk. Many signaling pathways have been proposed to be dysregulated in Alzheimer's disease, including WNT, TGFβ, p53, mTOR, NFkB, and Pi3k/Akt signaling. Here, we predict altered cell-cell communication between glia and neurons. Methods Using public snRNA-sequencing data generated from postmortem human prefrontal cortex, we predicted altered cell-cell communication between glia (astrocytes, microglia, oligodendrocytes, and oligodendrocyte progenitor cells) and neurons (excitatory and inhibitory). We confirmed interactions in a second and third independent orthogonal dataset. We determined cell-type-specificity using Jaccard Similarity Index and investigated the downstream effects of altered interactions in inhibitory neurons through gene expression and transcription factor activity analyses of signaling mediators. Finally, we determined changes in pathway activity in inhibitory neurons. Results Cell-cell communication between glia and neurons is altered in Alzheimer's disease in a cell-type-specific manner. As expected, ligands are more cell-type-specific than receptors and targets. We identified ligand-receptor pairs in three independent datasets and found involvement of the Alzheimer's disease risk genes APP and APOE across datasets. Most of the signaling mediators of these interactions were not differentially expressed, however, the mediators that are also transcription factors had differential activity between AD and control. Namely, MYC and TP53, which are associated with WNT and p53 signaling, respectively, had decreased TF activity in Alzheimer's disease, along with decreased WNT and p53 pathway activity in inhibitory neurons. Additionally, inhibitory neurons had both increased NFkB signaling pathway activity and increased TF activity of NFIL3, an NFkB signaling-associated transcription factor. Conclusions Cell-cell communication between glia and neurons in Alzheimer's disease is altered in a cell-type-specific manner involving Alzheimer's disease risk genes. Signaling mediators had altered transcription factor activity suggesting altered glia-neuron interactions may dysregulate signaling pathways including WNT, p53, and NFkB in inhibitory neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tabea M. Soelter
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Timothy C. Howton
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Amanda D. Clark
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Vishal H. Oza
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Brittany N. Lasseigne
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
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12
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Marciante AB, Tadjalli A, Burrowes KA, Oberto JR, Luca EK, Seven YB, Nikodemova M, Watters JJ, Baker TL, Mitchell GS. Microglia regulate motor neuron plasticity via reciprocal fractalkine/adenosine signaling. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.07.592939. [PMID: 38765982 PMCID: PMC11100694 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.07.592939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Microglia are innate CNS immune cells that play key roles in supporting key CNS functions including brain plasticity. We now report a previously unknown role for microglia in regulating neuroplasticity within spinal phrenic motor neurons, the neurons driving diaphragm contractions and breathing. We demonstrate that microglia regulate phrenic long-term facilitation (pLTF), a form of respiratory memory lasting hours after repetitive exposures to brief periods of low oxygen (acute intermittent hypoxia; AIH) via neuronal/microglial fractalkine signaling. AIH-induced pLTF is regulated by the balance between competing intracellular signaling cascades initiated by serotonin vs adenosine, respectively. Although brainstem raphe neurons release the relevant serotonin, the cellular source of adenosine is unknown. We tested a model in which hypoxia initiates fractalkine signaling between phrenic motor neurons and nearby microglia that triggers extracellular adenosine accumulation. With moderate AIH, phrenic motor neuron adenosine 2A receptor activation undermines serotonin-dominant pLTF; in contrast, severe AIH drives pLTF by a unique, adenosine-dominant mechanism. Phrenic motor neuron fractalkine knockdown, cervical spinal fractalkine receptor inhibition on nearby microglia, and microglial depletion enhance serotonin-dominant pLTF with moderate AIH but suppress adenosine-dominant pLTF with severe AIH. Thus, microglia play novel functions in the healthy spinal cord, regulating hypoxia-induced neuroplasticity within the motor neurons responsible for breathing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandria B. Marciante
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, Department of Physical Therapy and McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida; Gainesville, FL, USA 32610
| | - Arash Tadjalli
- Current Address: Nova Southeastern University, College of Allopathic Medicine (NSU MD), Department of Medical Education, 3200 South University Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328-2018
| | - Kayla A. Burrowes
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, Department of Physical Therapy and McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida; Gainesville, FL, USA 32610
| | - Jose R. Oberto
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, Department of Physical Therapy and McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida; Gainesville, FL, USA 32610
| | - Edward K. Luca
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, Department of Physical Therapy and McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida; Gainesville, FL, USA 32610
| | - Yasin B. Seven
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, Department of Physical Therapy and McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida; Gainesville, FL, USA 32610
| | - Maria Nikodemova
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, Department of Physical Therapy and McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida; Gainesville, FL, USA 32610
| | - Jyoti J. Watters
- Current Address: Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2015 Linden Drive, Madison, WI 53706
| | - Tracy L. Baker
- Current Address: Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2015 Linden Drive, Madison, WI 53706
| | - Gordon S. Mitchell
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, Department of Physical Therapy and McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida; Gainesville, FL, USA 32610
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13
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Pinho TS, Cibrão JR, Silva D, Barata-Antunes S, Campos J, Afonso JL, Sampaio-Marques B, Ribeiro C, Macedo AS, Martins P, Cunha CB, Lanceros-Mendez S, Salgado AJ. In vitro neuronal and glial response to magnetically stimulated piezoelectric poly(hydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV)/cobalt ferrite (CFO) microspheres. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2024; 159:213798. [PMID: 38364446 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2024.213798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Polymer biomaterials are being considered for tissue regeneration due to the possibility of resembling different extracellular matrix characteristics. However, most current scaffolds cannot respond to physical-chemical modifications of the cell microenvironment. Stimuli-responsive materials, such as electroactive smart polymers, are increasingly gaining attention once they can produce electrical potentials without external power supplies. The presence of piezoelectricity in human tissues like cartilage and bone highlights the importance of electrical stimulation in physiological conditions. Although poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) is one of the piezoelectric polymers with the highest piezoelectric response, it is not biodegradable. Poly(hydroxybutyrate-co-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) is a promising copolymer of poly(hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) for tissue engineering and regeneration applications. It offers biodegradability, piezoelectric properties, biocompatibility, and bioactivity, making it a superior option to PVDF for biomedical purposes requiring biodegradability. Magnetoelectric polymer composites can be made by combining magnetostrictive particles and piezoelectric polymers to further tune their properties for tissue regeneration. These composites convert magnetic stimuli into electrical stimuli, generating local electrical potentials for various applications. Cobalt ferrites (CFO) and piezoelectric polymers have been combined and processed into different morphologies, maintaining biocompatibility for tissue engineering. The present work studied how PHBV/CFO microspheres affected neural and glial response in spinal cord cultures. It is expected that the electrical signals generated by these microspheres due to their magnetoelectric nature could aid in tissue regeneration and repair. PHBV/CFO microspheres were not cytotoxic and were able to impact neurite outgrowth and promote neuronal differentiation. Furthermore, PHBV/CFO microspheres led to microglia activation and induced the release of several bioactive molecules. Importantly, magnetically stimulated microspheres ameliorated cell viability after an in vitro ROS-induced lesion of spinal cord cultures, which suggests a beneficial effect on tissue regeneration and repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany S Pinho
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057/4805-017 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal; Stemmatters, Biotecnologia e Medicina Regenerativa SA, 4805-017 Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Jorge Ribeiro Cibrão
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057/4805-017 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Deolinda Silva
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057/4805-017 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal; Stemmatters, Biotecnologia e Medicina Regenerativa SA, 4805-017 Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Sandra Barata-Antunes
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057/4805-017 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal; Stemmatters, Biotecnologia e Medicina Regenerativa SA, 4805-017 Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Jonas Campos
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057/4805-017 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - João L Afonso
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057/4805-017 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Belém Sampaio-Marques
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057/4805-017 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Clarisse Ribeiro
- Physics Centre of Minho and Porto Universities (CF-UM-UP), University of Minho, 4710-058 Braga, Portugal; LaPMET - Laboratory of Physics for Materials and Emergent Technologies, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - André S Macedo
- Physics Centre of Minho and Porto Universities (CF-UM-UP), University of Minho, 4710-058 Braga, Portugal; LaPMET - Laboratory of Physics for Materials and Emergent Technologies, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Pedro Martins
- Physics Centre of Minho and Porto Universities (CF-UM-UP), University of Minho, 4710-058 Braga, Portugal; LaPMET - Laboratory of Physics for Materials and Emergent Technologies, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Cristiana B Cunha
- Stemmatters, Biotecnologia e Medicina Regenerativa SA, 4805-017 Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Senentxu Lanceros-Mendez
- Physics Centre of Minho and Porto Universities (CF-UM-UP), University of Minho, 4710-058 Braga, Portugal; LaPMET - Laboratory of Physics for Materials and Emergent Technologies, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal.; BCMaterials, Basque Center for Materials, Applications and Nanostructures, UPV/EHU Science Park, 48940 Leioa, Spain; Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
| | - António J Salgado
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057/4805-017 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.
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14
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Savant R, Pradhan RK, Bhagat S, Mythri RB, Varghese AM, Vengalil S, Nalini A, Sathyaprabha TN, Raju TR, Vijayalakshmi K. Enhanced levels of fractalkine and HSP60 in cerebrospinal fluid of sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients. Int J Neurosci 2024:1-11. [PMID: 38625841 DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2024.2344581] [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: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a multifactorial neurodegenerative disorder with a significant contribution of non-cell autonomous mechanisms to motor neuronal degeneration. Amongst a plethora of molecules, fractalkine (C-X3-C motif chemokine ligand 1), and Heat Shock Protein 60 (HSP60), are key modulators of microglial activation. The contribution of these molecules in Sporadic ALS (SALS) remains unexplored. To investigate this, fractalkine levels were estimated in Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of SALS patients (ALS-CSF; n = 44) by Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) and correlated with clinical parameters including disease severity and duration. CSF HSP60 levels were estimated by Western blotting (ALS-CSF; n = 19). Also, CSF levels of Chitotriosidase-1 (CHIT-1), a microglia-specific neuroinflammatory molecule, were measured and its association, if any, with fractalkine and HSP60 was investigated. Both fractalkine and HSP60 levels were significantly elevated in ALS-CSF. Similar to our earlier observation, CHIT-1 levels were also upregulated. Fractalkine showed a moderate negative correlation with the ALS-Functional Rating Scale (ALSFRS) score indicating its significant rise in mild cases which plateaued in cases with high disease severity. However, no obvious correlation was found between fractalkine, HSP60, and CHIT-1. Our study hints that high fractalkine levels in mild cases might be conferring neuroprotection by combating microglial activation and highlights its importance as a novel therapeutic target for SALS. On the other hand, significantly enhanced levels of HSP60, a pro-inflammatory molecule, hint towards its role in accentuating microgliosis, although, it doesn't act synergistically with CHIT-1. Our study suggests that fractalkine and HSP60 act independently of CHIT-1 to suppress and accentuate neuroinflammation, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashmi Savant
- Department of Neurophysiology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Raj Kumar Pradhan
- Department of Neurophysiology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Savita Bhagat
- Department of Neurophysiology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Rajeswara Babu Mythri
- Department of Neurophysiology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Anu Mary Varghese
- Department of Neurophysiology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Seena Vengalil
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Atchayaram Nalini
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Talakad N Sathyaprabha
- Department of Neurophysiology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Trichur R Raju
- A.S. Paintal Distinguished Scientific Chair National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, India
| | - K Vijayalakshmi
- Department of Neurophysiology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
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15
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Szukiewicz D. CX3CL1 (Fractalkine)-CX3CR1 Axis in Inflammation-Induced Angiogenesis and Tumorigenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4679. [PMID: 38731899 PMCID: PMC11083509 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094679] [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: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The chemotactic cytokine fractalkine (FKN, chemokine CX3CL1) has unique properties resulting from the combination of chemoattractants and adhesion molecules. The soluble form (sFKN) has chemotactic properties and strongly attracts T cells and monocytes. The membrane-bound form (mFKN) facilitates diapedesis and is responsible for cell-to-cell adhesion, especially by promoting the strong adhesion of leukocytes (monocytes) to activated endothelial cells with the subsequent formation of an extracellular matrix and angiogenesis. FKN signaling occurs via CX3CR1, which is the only known member of the CX3C chemokine receptor subfamily. Signaling within the FKN-CX3CR1 axis plays an important role in many processes related to inflammation and the immune response, which often occur simultaneously and overlap. FKN is strongly upregulated by hypoxia and/or inflammation-induced inflammatory cytokine release, and it may act locally as a key angiogenic factor in the highly hypoxic tumor microenvironment. The importance of the FKN/CX3CR1 signaling pathway in tumorigenesis and cancer metastasis results from its influence on cell adhesion, apoptosis, and cell migration. This review presents the role of the FKN signaling pathway in the context of angiogenesis in inflammation and cancer. The mechanisms determining the pro- or anti-tumor effects are presented, which are the cause of the seemingly contradictory results that create confusion regarding the therapeutic goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dariusz Szukiewicz
- Department of Biophysics, Physiology & Pathophysiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-004 Warsaw, Poland
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16
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Kim KJ, Hwang J, Lee KW, Kim J, Han Y, Namgung U. Neuron-Microglia Interaction is Involved in Anti-inflammatory Response by Vagus Nerve Stimulation in the Prefrontal Cortex of Rats Injected with Polyinosinic:Polycytidylic Acid. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04054-2. [PMID: 38383920 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04054-2] [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: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Injection of polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (poly(I:C)) into experimental animals induces neuroimmunological responses and thus has been used for the study of neurological disorders such as anxiety, depression, and chronic fatigue. Here, we investigated the effects of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) on poly(I:C)-induced neuroinflammation and associated behavioral consequences in rats. The microglia in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) displayed the activated form of morphology in poly(I:C)-injected rats and changed to a normal shape after acute VNS (aVNS). Production of phospho-NF-κB, phospho-IκB, IL-1β, and cleaved caspase 3 was elevated by poly(I:C) and downregulated by aVNS. In contrast, phospho-Akt levels were decreased by poly(I:C) and increased by aVNS. Neuronal production of fractalkine (CX3CL1) in the PFC was markedly reduced by poly(I:C), but recovered by aVNS. Fractalkine interaction with its receptor CX3CR1 was highly elevated by VNS. We further demonstrated that the pharmacological blockade of CX3CR1 activity counteracted the production of IL-1β, phospho-Akt, and cleaved form of caspase 3 that was modulated by VNS, suggesting the anti-inflammatory effects of fractalkine-CX3CR1 signaling as a mediator of neuron-microglia interaction. Behavioral assessments of pain and temperature sensations by von Frey and hot/cold plate tests showed significant improvement by chronic VNS (cVNS) and forced swimming and marble burying tests revealed that the depressive-like behaviors caused by poly(I:C) injection were rescued by cVNS. We also found that the recognition memory which was impaired by poly(I:C) administration was improved by cVNS. This study suggests that VNS may play a role in regulating neuroinflammation and somatosensory and cognitive functions in poly(I:C)-injected animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki-Joong Kim
- Department of Korean Medicine, Institute of Bioscience and Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, Daehak‑ro 62, Daejeon, 34520, South Korea
| | - Jinyeon Hwang
- Department of Korean Medicine, Institute of Bioscience and Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, Daehak‑ro 62, Daejeon, 34520, South Korea
| | - Kang-Woo Lee
- Department of Korean Medicine, Institute of Bioscience and Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, Daehak‑ro 62, Daejeon, 34520, South Korea
| | - Jieun Kim
- Department of Korean Medicine, Institute of Bioscience and Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, Daehak‑ro 62, Daejeon, 34520, South Korea
| | - Yunha Han
- Department of Korean Medicine, Institute of Bioscience and Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, Daehak‑ro 62, Daejeon, 34520, South Korea
| | - Uk Namgung
- Department of Korean Medicine, Institute of Bioscience and Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, Daehak‑ro 62, Daejeon, 34520, South Korea.
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17
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Ge Y, Yang J, Chen J, Dai M, Dou X, Yao S, Yao C, Lin Y. Absence in CX3CR1 receptor signaling promotes post-ischemic stroke cognitive function recovery through suppressed microglial pyroptosis in mice. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14551. [PMID: 38421089 PMCID: PMC10850801 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14551] [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: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) is a major source of morbidity and mortality after stroke, but the pathological mechanisms remain unclear. Previous studies have demonstrated that the CX3CR1 receptor plays a crucial role in maintaining an early protective microenvironment after stroke, but whether it persistently influences cognitive dysfunction in the chronic phase requires further investigation. METHODS Mouse was used to establish a middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO)/reperfusion model to study PSCI. Cognitive function was assessed by the Morris water maze (MWM) and the novel object recognition test. Neurogenesis was assessed by immunofluorescence staining with Nestin+ /Ki67+ and DCX+ /BrdU+ double-positive cells. The cerebral damage was monitored by [18 F]-DPA-714 positron emission tomography, Nissel, and TTC staining. The pyroptosis was histologically, biochemically, and electron microscopically examined. RESULTS Upon MCAO, at 28 to 35 days, CX3CR1 knockout (CX3CR1-/- ) mice had better cognitive behavioral performance both in MWM and novel object recognition test than their CX3CR1+/- counterparts. Upon MCAO, at 7 days, CX3CR1-/- mice increased the numbers of Nestin+ /Ki67+ and DCX+ /BrdU+ cells, and meanwhile it decreased the protein expression of GSDMD, NLRP3 inflammasome subunit, caspase-1, mature IL-1β/IL-18, and p-P65 in the hippocampus as compared with CX3CR1+/- mice. In addition, CX3CR1-/- mice could reverse infarct volume in the hippocampus region post-stroke. CONCLUSION Our study demonstrated that CX3CR1 gene deletion was beneficial to PSCI recovery. The mechanism might lie in inhibited pyroptosis and enhanced neurogenesis. CX3CR1 receptor may serve as a therapeutic target for improving the PSCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangyang Ge
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Juexi Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Jiayi Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Maosha Dai
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Xiaoke Dou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Shanglong Yao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Chenye Yao
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Yun Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
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Tiberi A, Borgonovo G, Testa G, Pacifico P, Jacob A, Di Caprio M, Totaro V, Calvello M, Cattaneo A, Capsoni S. Reversal of neurological deficits by painless nerve growth factor in a mouse model of Rett syndrome. Brain 2024; 147:122-134. [PMID: 37633263 PMCID: PMC10766238 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awad282] [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: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome is a rare genetic neurodevelopmental disease, affecting 1 in over 10 000 females born worldwide, caused by de novo mutations in the X-chromosome-located methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2) gene. Despite the great effort put forth by the scientific community, a therapy for this devastating disease is still needed. Here, we tested the therapeutic effects of a painless mutein of the nerve growth factor (NGF), called human NGF painless (hNGFp), via a non-invasive intranasal delivery in female MeCP2+/- mice. Of note, previous work had demonstrated a broad biodistribution of hNGFp in the mouse brain by the nasal delivery route. We report that (i) the long-term lifelong treatment of MeCP2+/- mice with hNGFp, starting at 2 months of age, increased the chance of survival while also greatly improving behavioural parameters. Furthermore, when we assessed the phenotypic changes brought forth by (ii) a short-term 1-month-long hNGFp-treatment, starting at 3 months of age (right after the initial presentation of symptoms), we observed the rescue of a well known neuronal target population of NGF, cholinergic neurons in the medial septum. Moreover, we reveal a deficit in microglial morphology in MeCP2+/- mice, completely reversed in treated animals. This effect on microglia is in line with reports showing microglia to be a TrkA-dependent non-neuronal target cell population of NGF in the brain. To understand the immunomodulatory activity of hNGFp, we analysed the cytokine profile after hNGFp treatment in MeCP2+/- mice, to discover that the treatment recovered the altered expression of key neuroimmune-communication molecules, such as fractalkine. The overall conclusion is that hNGFp delivered intranasally can ameliorate symptoms in the MeCP2+/- model of Rett syndrome, by exerting strong neuroprotection with a dual mechanism of action: directly on target neurons and indirectly via microglia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexia Tiberi
- Institute of Neuroscience, CNR, 56124 Pisa, Italy
- Bio@SNS Laboratory of Biology, Scuola Normale Superiore, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Giulia Borgonovo
- Bio@SNS Laboratory of Biology, Scuola Normale Superiore, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Giovanna Testa
- Bio@SNS Laboratory of Biology, Scuola Normale Superiore, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Paola Pacifico
- Bio@SNS Laboratory of Biology, Scuola Normale Superiore, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Ajesh Jacob
- Bio@SNS Laboratory of Biology, Scuola Normale Superiore, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Valentino Totaro
- Bio@SNS Laboratory of Biology, Scuola Normale Superiore, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Antonino Cattaneo
- Bio@SNS Laboratory of Biology, Scuola Normale Superiore, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Rita Levi-Montalcini European Brain Research Institute (EBRI), 00161 Roma, Italy
| | - Simona Capsoni
- Bio@SNS Laboratory of Biology, Scuola Normale Superiore, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Section of Human Physiology, Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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19
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Gu Y, Li Z, Li H, Yi X, Liu X, Zhang Y, Gong S, Yu T, Li L. Exploring the efficacious constituents and underlying mechanisms of sini decoction for sepsis treatment through network pharmacology and multi-omics. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 123:155212. [PMID: 38029626 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traditional Chinese medicine prescription sini decoction (SND) can alleviate inflammation, improve microcirculation, and modulate immune status in sepsis patients. However, its underlying mechanisms remain unclear, and therapeutic effects may vary among individuals. PURPOSE Through a comprehensive and systematic network pharmacology analysis, the purpose of this study is to investigate the therapeutic mechanisms of SND in treating sepsis. METHODS An analysis of WGCNA identified CX3CR1 as a key gene influencing sepsis prognosis. A drug-active component-target network for SND was created using the traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology (TCMSP) database and Cytoscape software. Shared targets between SND and CX3CR1 high-expression gene modules were found through the GEO database. Gene module functionality was analyzed using GO, KEGG, GSEA, and GSVA. Unsupervised clustering of sepsis patients was performed based on the ferroptosis gene set, and immune cell interactions and mechanisms were explored using CIBERSORT, single-cell sequencing, and intercellular communication analysis. RESULTS This study demonstrates that high expression of CX3CR1 improves survival rates in sepsis patients and is associated with immune cell signaling pathways. SND contains 116 active components involved in oxidative stress and lipid metabolism pathways. HMOX1, a co-expressed gene in SND and CX3CR1 high-expression gene module, plays a crucial role in sepsis survival. Unsupervised clustering analysis classified sepsis patients into three clusters based on the ferroptosis gene set, revealing differences in immune cell expression and involvement in heme metabolism pathways. Notably, intercellular interactions among immune cells primarily occur through paracrine and autocrine mechanisms in MIF, GALECTIN, and IL16 signaling pathways, modulating the immune-inflammatory microenvironment in sepsis. CONCLUSIONS This study identifies CX3CR1 as a crucial molecule impacting sepsis prognosis through WGCNA analysis. It reveals that SND's active component, quercetin and kaempferol, target HMOX1 via related pathways to regulate heme metabolism, reduce inflammation, inhibit ferroptosis, and improve immune function, ultimately improving sepsis prognosis. These findings offer a solid pharmacological foundation and potential therapeutic targets for SND in treating sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Gu
- Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510289, PR China
| | - Ziying Li
- Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510289, PR China
| | - Han Li
- Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, PR China
| | - Xiaoling Yi
- Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510289, PR China
| | - Xun Liu
- Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510289, PR China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510289, PR China
| | - Shu Gong
- Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, PR China.
| | - Tao Yu
- Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510289, PR China.
| | - Li Li
- Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510289, PR China.
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20
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Abstract
For our immune system to contain or eliminate malignant solid tumours, both myeloid and lymphoid haematopoietic cells must not only extravasate from the bloodstream into the tumour tissue but also further migrate to various specialized niches of the tumour microenvironment to functionally interact with each other, with non-haematopoietic stromal cells and, ultimately, with cancer cells. These interactions regulate local immune cell survival, proliferative expansion, differentiation and their execution of pro-tumour or antitumour effector functions, which collectively determine the outcome of spontaneous or therapeutically induced antitumour immune responses. None of these interactions occur randomly but are orchestrated and critically depend on migratory guidance cues provided by chemokines, a large family of chemotactic cytokines, and their receptors. Understanding the functional organization of the tumour immune microenvironment inevitably requires knowledge of the multifaceted roles of chemokines in the recruitment and positioning of its cellular constituents. Gaining such knowledge will not only generate new insights into the mechanisms underlying antitumour immunity or immune tolerance but also inform the development of biomarkers (or 'biopatterns') based on spatial tumour tissue analyses, as well as novel strategies to therapeutically engineer immune responses in patients with cancer. Here we will discuss recent observations on the role of chemokines in the tumour microenvironment in the context of our knowledge of their physiological functions in development, homeostasis and antimicrobial responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thorsten R Mempel
- Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Julia K Lill
- Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lukas M Altenburger
- Center for Immunology and Inflammatory Diseases, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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21
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Hudobenko J, Gayen M, Benoit MR, Singh N, Yan R. Exploration of C-terminal CX3CL1 for reducing age-dependent neurodegeneration. Neural Regen Res 2023; 18:2667-2668. [PMID: 37449614 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.373702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Hudobenko
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Manoshi Gayen
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Marc R Benoit
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Neeraj Singh
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Riqiang Yan
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, CT, USA
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22
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Hosseinzadeh S, Afshari S, Molaei S, Rezaei N, Dadkhah M. The role of genetics and gender specific differences in neurodegenerative disorders: Insights from molecular and immune landscape. J Neuroimmunol 2023; 384:578206. [PMID: 37813041 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2023.578206] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs) are the most common neurological disorders with high prevalence and have significant socioeconomic implications. Understanding the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms associated with the immune system can be effective in disease etiology, leading to more effective therapeutic approaches for both females and males. The central nervous system (CNS) actively participates in immune responses, both within and outside the CNS. Immune system activation is a common feature in NDDs. Gender-specific factors play a significant role in the prevalence, progression, and manifestation of NDDs. Neuroinflammation, in both inflammatory neurological and neurodegenerative conditions, is defined by the triggering of microglia and astrocyte cell activation. This results in the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Numerous studies have documented the role of neuroinflammation in neurological diseases, highlighting the involvement of immune signaling pathways in disease development. Converging evidence support immune system involvement during neurodegeneration in NDDs. In this review, we summarize emerging evidence that reveals gender-dependent differences in immune responses related to NDDs. Also, we highlight sex differences in immune responses and discuss how these sex-specific influences can increase the risk of NDDs. Understanding the role of gender-specific factors can aid in developing targeted therapeutic strategies and improving patient outcomes. Ultimately, the better understanding of these mechanisms contributed to sex-dependent immune response in NDDs, can be critically usful in targeting of immune signaling cascades in such disorders. In this regard, sex-related immune responses in NDDs may be promising and effective targets in therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahnaz Hosseinzadeh
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Iran; Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Salva Afshari
- Students Research Committee, Pharmacy School, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Soheila Molaei
- Zoonoses Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1419733151, Iran; Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoomeh Dadkhah
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran.
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23
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Rossi L, Santos KBS, Mota BIS, Pimenta J, Oliveira B, Machado CA, Fernandes HB, Barbosa LA, Rodrigues HA, Teixeira GHM, Gomes-Martins GA, Chaimowicz GF, Queiroz-Junior CM, Chaves I, Tapia JC, Teixeira MM, Costa VV, Miranda AS, Guatimosim C. Neuromuscular defects after infection with a beta coronavirus in mice. Neurochem Int 2023; 169:105567. [PMID: 37348761 PMCID: PMC10281698 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2023.105567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 affects primarily the lung. However, several other systemic alterations, including muscle weakness, fatigue and myalgia have been reported and may contribute to the disease outcome. We hypothesize that changes in the neuromuscular system may contribute to the latter symptoms observed in COVID-19 patients. Here, we showed that C57BL/6J mice inoculated intranasally with the murine betacoronavirus hepatitis coronavirus 3 (MHV-3), a model for studying COVID-19 in BSL-2 conditions that emulates severe COVID-19, developed robust motor alterations in muscle strength and locomotor activity. The latter changes were accompanied by degeneration and loss of motoneurons that were associated with the presence of virus-like particles inside the motoneuron. At the neuromuscular junction level, there were signs of atrophy and fragmentation in synaptic elements of MHV-3-infected mice. Furthermore, there was muscle atrophy and fiber type switch with alteration in myokines levels in muscles of MHV-3-infected mice. Collectively, our results show that acute infection with a betacoronavirus leads to robust motor impairment accompanied by neuromuscular system alteration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Rossi
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Kivia B S Santos
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Barbara I S Mota
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Jordane Pimenta
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Bruna Oliveira
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Caroline A Machado
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Heliana B Fernandes
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Leticia A Barbosa
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Hermann A Rodrigues
- Departamento de Ciências Básicas da Vida, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Campus Governador Valadares, MG, Brazil
| | - Gabriel H M Teixeira
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Gabriel A Gomes-Martins
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Gabriel F Chaimowicz
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Celso Martins Queiroz-Junior
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Ian Chaves
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Juan C Tapia
- School of Medicine, University of Talca, Talca, Chile
| | - Mauro M Teixeira
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Vivian V Costa
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Aline S Miranda
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Cristina Guatimosim
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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24
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Terstege DJ, Epp JR. Parvalbumin as a sex-specific target in Alzheimer's disease research - A mini-review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 153:105370. [PMID: 37619647 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105370] [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: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, and both the incidence of this disease and its associated cognitive decline disproportionally effect women. While the etiology of AD is unknown, recent work has demonstrated that the balance of excitatory and inhibitory activity across the brain may serve as a strong predictor of cognitive impairments in AD. Across the cortex, the most prominent source of inhibitory signalling is from a class of parvalbumin-expressing interneurons (PV+). In this mini-review, the impacts of sex- and age-related factors on the function of PV+ neurons are examined within the context of vulnerability to AD pathology. These primary factors of influence include changes in brain metabolism, circulating sex hormone levels, and inflammatory response. In addition to positing the increased vulnerability of PV+ neurons to dysfunction in AD, this mini-review highlights the critical importance of presenting sex stratified data in the study of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan J Terstege
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Jonathan R Epp
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada.
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25
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Lana D, Magni G, Landucci E, Wenk GL, Pellegrini-Giampietro DE, Giovannini MG. Phenomic Microglia Diversity as a Druggable Target in the Hippocampus in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13668. [PMID: 37761971 PMCID: PMC10531074 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241813668] [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: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Phenomics, the complexity of microglia phenotypes and their related functions compels the continuous study of microglia in disease animal models to find druggable targets for neurodegenerative disorders. Activation of microglia was long considered detrimental for neuron survival, but more recently it has become apparent that the real scenario of microglia morphofunctional diversity is far more complex. In this review, we discuss the recent literature on the alterations in microglia phenomics in the hippocampus of animal models of normal brain aging, acute neuroinflammation, ischemia, and neurodegenerative disorders, such as AD. Microglia undergo phenomic changes consisting of transcriptional, functional, and morphological changes that transform them into cells with different properties and functions. The classical subdivision of microglia into M1 and M2, two different, all-or-nothing states is too simplistic, and does not correspond to the variety of phenotypes recently discovered in the brain. We will discuss the phenomic modifications of microglia focusing not only on the differences in microglia reactivity in the diverse models of neurodegenerative disorders, but also among different areas of the brain. For instance, in contiguous and highly interconnected regions of the rat hippocampus, microglia show a differential, finely regulated, and region-specific reactivity, demonstrating that microglia responses are not uniform, but vary significantly from area to area in response to insults. It is of great interest to verify whether the differences in microglia reactivity may explain the differential susceptibility of different brain areas to insults, and particularly the higher sensitivity of CA1 pyramidal neurons to inflammatory stimuli. Understanding the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of microglia phenomics in health and disease is of paramount importance to find new druggable targets for the development of novel microglia-targeted therapies in different CNS disorders. This will allow interventions in three different ways: (i) by suppressing the pro-inflammatory properties of microglia to limit the deleterious effect of their activation; (ii) by modulating microglia phenotypic change to favor anti-inflammatory properties; (iii) by influencing microglia priming early in the disease process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Lana
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy; (E.L.); (D.E.P.-G.); (M.G.G.)
| | - Giada Magni
- Institute of Applied Physics “Nello Carrara”, National Research Council (IFAC-CNR), Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019 Florence, Italy;
| | - Elisa Landucci
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy; (E.L.); (D.E.P.-G.); (M.G.G.)
| | - Gary L. Wenk
- Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA;
| | - Domenico Edoardo Pellegrini-Giampietro
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy; (E.L.); (D.E.P.-G.); (M.G.G.)
| | - Maria Grazia Giovannini
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy; (E.L.); (D.E.P.-G.); (M.G.G.)
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26
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Liu X, Tang SJ. Pathogenic mechanisms of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated pain. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:3613-3624. [PMID: 37857809 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02294-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Chronic pain is a prevalent neurological complication among individuals living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) in the post-combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) era. These individuals experience malfunction in various cellular and molecular pathways involved in pain transmission and modulation, including the neuropathology of the peripheral sensory neurons and neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation in the spinal dorsal horn. However, the underlying etiologies and mechanisms leading to pain pathogenesis are complex and not fully understood. In this review, we aim to summarize recent progress in this field. Specifically, we will begin by examining neuropathology in the pain pathways identified in PLHIV and discussing potential causes, including those directly related to HIV-1 infection and comorbidities, such as antiretroviral drug use. We will also explore findings from animal models that may provide insights into the molecular and cellular processes contributing to neuropathology and chronic pain associated with HIV infection. Emerging evidence suggests that viral proteins and/or antiretroviral drugs trigger a complex pathological cascade involving neurons, glia, and potentially non-neural cells, and that interactions between these cells play a critical role in the pathogenesis of HIV-associated pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Liu
- Stony Brook University Pain and Analgesia Research Center (SPARC), Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, 11794, NY, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, 11794, NY, USA
| | - Shao-Jun Tang
- Stony Brook University Pain and Analgesia Research Center (SPARC), Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, 11794, NY, USA.
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, 11794, NY, USA.
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Chang NP, DaPrano EM, Evans WR, Nissenbaum M, McCourt M, Alzate D, Lindman M, Chou TW, Atkins C, Kusnecov AW, Huda R, Daniels BP. Neuronal DAMPs exacerbate neurodegeneration via astrocytic RIPK3 signaling. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.21.550097. [PMID: 37546744 PMCID: PMC10401942 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.21.550097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Astrocyte activation is a common feature of neurodegenerative diseases. However, the ways in which dying neurons influence the activity of astrocytes is poorly understood. RIPK3 signaling has recently been described as a key regulator of neuroinflammation, but whether this kinase mediates astrocytic responsiveness to neuronal death has not yet been studied. Here, we used the MPTP model of Parkinson's disease to show that activation of astrocytic RIPK3 drives dopaminergic cell death and axon damage. Transcriptomic profiling revealed that astrocytic RIPK3 promoted gene expression associated with neuroinflammation and movement disorders, and this coincided with significant engagement of DAMP signaling. Using human cell culture systems, we show that factors released from dying neurons signal through RAGE to induce RIPK3-dependent astrocyte activation. These findings highlight a mechanism of neuron-glia crosstalk in which neuronal death perpetuates further neurodegeneration by engaging inflammatory astrocyte activation via RIPK3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nydia P. Chang
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Evan M. DaPrano
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Wesley R. Evans
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
- W. M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | | | - Micheal McCourt
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Diego Alzate
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Marissa Lindman
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Tsui-Wen Chou
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Colm Atkins
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | | | - Rafiq Huda
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
- W. M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Brian P. Daniels
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
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Williams ZA, Szyszkowicz JK, Osborne N, Allehyany B, Nadon C, Udechukwu MC, Santos A, Audet MC. Sex-specific effects of voluntary wheel running on behavior and the gut microbiota-immune-brain axis in mice. Brain Behav Immun Health 2023; 30:100628. [PMID: 37396336 PMCID: PMC10308214 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2023.100628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Physical exercise has been positioned as a promising strategy to prevent and/or alleviate anxiety and depression, but the biological processes associated with its effects on mental health have yet to be entirely determined. Although the prevalence of depression and anxiety in women is about twice that of men, very few studies have examined whether physical exercise could affect mental health differently according to sex. This study examined, in singly-housed mice, the sex-specific effects of voluntary exercise on depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors as well as on different markers along the gut microbiota-immune-brain axis. Male and female C57BL/6N mice had voluntary access to running wheels in their home-cages for 24 days or were left undisturbed in identical home-cages without running wheels. Behaviors were then examined in the open field, splash, elevated plus maze, and tail suspension tests. Gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, microglia activation-related genes, and tight junction proteins was determined in the jejunum and the hippocampus, while microbiota composition and predicted function were verified in cecum contents. Voluntary exercise reduced anxiety-like behaviors and altered grooming patterns in males exclusively. Although the exercise intervention resulted in changes to brain inflammatory activity and to cecal microbiota composition and inferred function in both sexes, reductions in the jejunal expression of pro-inflammatory markers were observed in females only. These findings support the view that voluntary exercise, even when performed during a short period, is beneficial for mental and intestinal health and that its sex-specific effects on behavior could be, at least in part, related to some components of the gut microbiota-immune-brain axis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joanna Kasia Szyszkowicz
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - Natasha Osborne
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | | | - Christophe Nadon
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | | | - Ana Santos
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Marie-Claude Audet
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
- School of Nutrition Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
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29
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Qi Y, Liu L, Liang D, Tang S, Yu X, Ye H, Chen N. Bujing Yishi tablets alleviate photoreceptor cells death via the P2X7R/CX3CL1/CX3CR1 pathway in Retinitis Pigmentosa rats. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 115:154828. [PMID: 37116386 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) refers to a group of progressive photoreceptor degenerative diseases. The activation of microglia has been reported to play an important role in the photoreceptor degeneration in RP retinal. Bujing Yishi tablets (BJYS), a Chinese herbal medicine, has been used to treat retinal diseases in China with desirable effect in improving visual function. However, the mechanisms underlying the efficacy of BJYS treatment in RP are not yet fully understood. PURPOSE Based on the preliminary experiments, this study aimed to investigate the therapeutic mechanism involved in treating N-Methyl-N-Nitrosourea (MNU)-induced retinal degeneration of RP with BJYS. METHODS To explore the efficacy of BJYS, a rat experimental RP model was established through intraperitoneal injection of MNU (50 mg/kg). Two experiment was carried out. After the treatment, we conducted H&E, TUNEL, retinal cytokine levels and IBA-1 expression in microglia to confirm the impact on RP model. The specific mechanism of action of BJYS tablet was assessed by western blot, real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and immunofluorescence to determine the mRNA and protein expression levels involved in clarifying the effectiveness of BJYS exerted through P2X7R/CX3CL1/CX3CR1 pathway. RESULTS Significant alleviation of retinal morphological structure and photoreceptor degeneration by BJYS treatment was observed in the retinal of MNU-induced RP rats, BJYS prevented the reduction of ONL thickness and decreased the level of apoptotic cells in ONL. It also inhibited microglia overactivation and reduced retinal levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α. In addition, BJYS decreased the protein expression and mRNA expression of P2X7, CX3CL1 and CX3CR1 and reduced the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK. CONCLUSION In summary, this study suggested that BJYS treatment could alleviate photoreceptors degeneration of RP by inhibiting microglia overactivation and inflammation through the P2X7R/CX3CL1/CX3CR1 pathway. These effects suggest that BJYS tablets may serve as a promising oral therapeutic agent for RP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulin Qi
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China; Postdoctoral Research Station of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lu Liu
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Dan Liang
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Shiyun Tang
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoyi Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Hejiang Ye
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China..
| | - Nianzhi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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30
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Angeloni E, Germelli L, Marchetti L, Da Pozzo E, Tremolanti C, Wetzel CH, Baglini E, Taliani S, Da Settimo F, Martini C, Costa B. The human microglial surveillant phenotype is preserved by de novo neurosteroidogenesis through the control of cholesterol homeostasis: Crucial role of 18 kDa Translocator Protein. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023; 1869:166751. [PMID: 37169037 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166751] [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: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disease-associated microglia commonly exhibit harmful cholesterol accumulation that impairs their ability to resolve the neuroinflammatory response, contributing to disease onset and progression. Neurosteroids, whose levels have been often found significantly altered in brain diseases, are the most potent endogenous anti-inflammatory molecules exerting beneficial effects on activities of brain cells, including microglia. For the first time, the impact of neurosteroidogenesis on cholesterol homeostasis for the immune surveillance phenotype maintenance was investigated in a human microglia in vitro model. To enhance and inhibit neurosteroidogenesis, pharmacological stimulation and knock-down of 18 kDa Translocator Protein (TSPO), which is involved in the neurosteroidogenesis rate-limiting step, were used as experimental approaches, respectively. The obtained results point to an essential autocrine control of neurosteroidogenesis in orchestrating cholesterol trafficking in human microglia. TSPO pharmacological stimulation ensured cholesterol turnover by strengthening cholesterol efflux systems and preserving healthy immune surveillant phenotype. Conversely, TSPO knock-down induced an impairment of the controlled interplay among cholesterol synthesis, efflux, and metabolism mechanisms, leading to an excessive cholesterol accumulation and acquisition of a chronically activated dysfunctional phenotype. In this model, the exogenous neurosteroid administration restored proper the cholesterol clearance. The TSPO ability in promoting native neurosteroidogenesis opens the way to restore cholesterol homeostasis, and thus to maintain microglia proper functionality for the treatment of neuroinflammation-related brain diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Angeloni
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Lorenzo Germelli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Laura Marchetti
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; Center for Instrument Sharing University of Pisa (CISUP), Lungarno Pacinotti, 43/44, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Eleonora Da Pozzo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; Center for Instrument Sharing University of Pisa (CISUP), Lungarno Pacinotti, 43/44, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Chiara Tremolanti
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Christian H Wetzel
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Molecular Neurosciences, University of Regensburg, 93059 Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Emma Baglini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Sabrina Taliani
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Federico Da Settimo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Claudia Martini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Barbara Costa
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy; Center for Instrument Sharing University of Pisa (CISUP), Lungarno Pacinotti, 43/44, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
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31
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Bivona G, Iemmolo M, Ghersi G. CX3CL1 Pathway as a Molecular Target for Treatment Strategies in Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098230. [PMID: 37175935 PMCID: PMC10179163 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a scourge for patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals due to the progressive character of the disease and the lack of effective treatments. AD is considered a proteinopathy, which means that aetiological and clinical features of AD have been linked to the deposition of amyloid β (Aβ) and hyperphosphorylated tau protein aggregates throughout the brain, with Aβ and hyperphosphorylated tau representing classical AD hallmarks. However, some other putative mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of the disease have been proposed, including inflammation in the brain, microglia activation, impaired hippocampus neurogenesis and alterations in the production and release of neurotrophic factors. Among all, microglia activation and chronic inflammation in the brain gained some attention, with researchers worldwide wondering whether it is possible to prevent and stop, respectively, the onset and progression of the disease by modulating microglia phenotypes. The following key points have been established so far: (i) Aβ deposition in brain parenchyma represents repeated stimulus determining chronic activation of microglia; (ii) chronic activation and priming of microglia make these cells lose neuroprotective functions and favour damage and loss of neurons; (iii) quiescent status of microglia at baseline prevents chronic activation and priming, meaning that the more microglia are quiescent, the less they become neurotoxic. Many molecules are known to modulate the quiescent baseline state of microglia, attracting huge interest among scientists as to whether these molecules could be used as valuable targets in AD treatment. The downside of the coin came early with the observation that quiescent microglia do not display phagocytic ability, being unable to clear Aβ deposits since phagocytosis is crucial for Aβ clearance efficacy. A possible solution for this issue could be found in the modulation of microglia status at baseline, which could help maintain both neuroprotective features and phagocytic ability at the same time. Among the molecules known to influence the baseline status of microglia, C-X3-chemokine Ligand 1 (CX3CL1), also known as Fractalkine (FKN), is one of the most investigated. FKN and its microglial receptor CX3CR1 are crucial players in the interplay between neurons and microglia, modulating the operation of some neural circuits and the efficacy and persistence of immune response against injury. In addition, CX3CL1 regulates synaptic pruning and plasticity in the developmental age and in adulthood, when it strongly impacts the hippocampus neurogenesis of the adult. CX3CL1 has an effect on Aβ clearance and tau phosphorylation, as well as in microglia activation and priming. For all the above, CX3CL1/CX3CR1 signalling has been widely studied in relation to AD pathogenesis, and its biochemical pathway could hide molecular targets for novel treatment strategies in AD. This review summarizes the possible role of CX3CL1 in AD pathogenesis and its use as a potential target for AD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Bivona
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Matilda Iemmolo
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Ed. 16, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giulio Ghersi
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Ed. 16, 90128 Palermo, Italy
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32
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Mancini M, Natoli S, Gardoni F, Di Luca M, Pisani A. Dopamine Transmission Imbalance in Neuroinflammation: Perspectives on Long-Term COVID-19. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065618. [PMID: 36982693 PMCID: PMC10056044 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Dopamine (DA) is a key neurotransmitter in the basal ganglia, implicated in the control of movement and motivation. Alteration of DA levels is central in Parkinson’s disease (PD), a common neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor and non-motor manifestations and deposition of alpha-synuclein (α-syn) aggregates. Previous studies have hypothesized a link between PD and viral infections. Indeed, different cases of parkinsonism have been reported following COVID-19. However, whether SARS-CoV-2 may trigger a neurodegenerative process is still a matter of debate. Interestingly, evidence of brain inflammation has been described in postmortem samples of patients infected by SARS-CoV-2, which suggests immune-mediated mechanisms triggering the neurological sequelae. In this review, we discuss the role of proinflammatory molecules such as cytokines, chemokines, and oxygen reactive species in modulating DA homeostasis. Moreover, we review the existing literature on the possible mechanistic interplay between SARS-CoV-2-mediated neuroinflammation and nigrostriatal DAergic impairment, and the cross-talk with aberrant α-syn metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Mancini
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Silvia Natoli
- Department of Clinical Science and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy;
- IRCCS Maugeri Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Gardoni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences “Rodolfo Paoletti”, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy; (F.G.); (M.D.L.)
| | - Monica Di Luca
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences “Rodolfo Paoletti”, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy; (F.G.); (M.D.L.)
| | - Antonio Pisani
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0382-380-247
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Microglial Activation in Metal Neurotoxicity: Impact in Neurodegenerative Diseases. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 2023:7389508. [PMID: 36760476 PMCID: PMC9904912 DOI: 10.1155/2023/7389508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative processes encompass a large variety of diseases with different pathological patterns and clinical features, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Exposure to metals has been hypothesized to increase oxidative stress in brain cells leading to cell death and neurodegeneration. Neurotoxicity of metals has been demonstrated by several in vitro and in vivo experimental studies, and most probably, each metal has its specific pathway to trigger cell death. As a result, exposure to essential metals, such as manganese, iron, copper, zinc, and cobalt, and nonessential metals, including lead, aluminum, and cadmium, perturbs metal homeostasis at the cellular and organism levels leading to neurodegeneration. In this contribution, a comprehensive review of the molecular mechanisms by which metals affect microglia physiology and signaling properties is presented. Furthermore, studies that validate the disruption of microglia activation pathways as an essential mechanism of metal toxicity that can contribute to neurodegenerative disease are also presented and discussed.
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34
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Anastasaki C, Gao Y, Gutmann DH. Neurons as stromal drivers of nervous system cancer formation and progression. Dev Cell 2023; 58:81-93. [PMID: 36693322 PMCID: PMC9883043 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2022.12.011] [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: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Similar to their pivotal roles in nervous system development, neurons have emerged as critical regulators of cancer initiation, maintenance, and progression. Focusing on nervous system tumors, we describe the normal relationships between neurons and other cell types relevant to normal nerve function, and discuss how disruptions of these interactions promote tumor evolution, focusing on electrical (gap junctions) and chemical (synaptic) coupling, as well as the establishment of new paracrine relationships. We also review how neuron-tumor communication contributes to some of the complications of cancer, including neuropathy, chemobrain, seizures, and pain. Finally, we consider the implications of cancer neuroscience in establishing risk for tumor penetrance and in the design of future anti-tumoral treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corina Anastasaki
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Yunqing Gao
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - David H Gutmann
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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35
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Molecular Landscape of Tourette's Disorder. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021428. [PMID: 36674940 PMCID: PMC9865021 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021428] [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: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Tourette's disorder (TD) is a highly heritable childhood-onset neurodevelopmental disorder and is caused by a complex interplay of multiple genetic and environmental factors. Yet, the molecular mechanisms underlying the disorder remain largely elusive. In this study, we used the available omics data to compile a list of TD candidate genes, and we subsequently conducted tissue/cell type specificity and functional enrichment analyses of this list. Using genomic data, we also investigated genetic sharing between TD and blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) metabolite levels. Lastly, we built a molecular landscape of TD through integrating the results from these analyses with an extensive literature search to identify the interactions between the TD candidate genes/proteins and metabolites. We found evidence for an enriched expression of the TD candidate genes in four brain regions and the pituitary. The functional enrichment analyses implicated two pathways ('cAMP-mediated signaling' and 'Endocannabinoid Neuronal Synapse Pathway') and multiple biological functions related to brain development and synaptic transmission in TD etiology. Furthermore, we found genetic sharing between TD and the blood and CSF levels of 39 metabolites. The landscape of TD not only provides insights into the (altered) molecular processes that underlie the disease but, through the identification of potential drug targets (such as FLT3, NAALAD2, CX3CL1-CX3CR1, OPRM1, and HRH2), it also yields clues for developing novel TD treatments.
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36
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Fractalkine/CX3CR1-Dependent Modulation of Synaptic and Network Plasticity in Health and Disease. Neural Plast 2023; 2023:4637073. [PMID: 36644710 PMCID: PMC9833910 DOI: 10.1155/2023/4637073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
CX3CR1 is a G protein-coupled receptor that is expressed exclusively by microglia within the brain parenchyma. The only known physiological CX3CR1 ligand is the chemokine fractalkine (FKN), which is constitutively expressed in neuronal cell membranes and tonically released by them. Through its key role in microglia-neuron communication, the FKN/CX3CR1 axis regulates microglial state, neuronal survival, synaptic plasticity, and a variety of synaptic functions, as well as neuronal excitability via cytokine release modulation, chemotaxis, and phagocytosis. Thus, the absence of CX3CR1 or any failure in the FKN/CX3CR1 axis has been linked to alterations in different brain functions, including changes in synaptic and network plasticity in structures such as the hippocampus, cortex, brainstem, and spinal cord. Since synaptic plasticity is a basic phenomenon in neural circuit integration and adjustment, here, we will review its modulation by the FKN/CX3CR1 axis in diverse brain circuits and its impact on brain function and adaptation in health and disease.
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37
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Bivona G, Iemmolo M, Agnello L, Lo Sasso B, Gambino CM, Giglio RV, Scazzone C, Ghersi G, Ciaccio M. Microglial Activation and Priming in Alzheimer's Disease: State of the Art and Future Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24010884. [PMID: 36614325 PMCID: PMC9820926 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia, having a remarkable social and healthcare burden worldwide. Amyloid β (Aβ) and protein Tau aggregates are disease hallmarks and key players in AD pathogenesis. However, it has been hypothesized that microglia can contribute to AD pathophysiology, as well. Microglia are CNS-resident immune cells belonging to the myeloid lineage of the innate arm of immunity. Under physiological conditions, microglia are in constant motion in order to carry on their housekeeping function, and they maintain an anti-inflammatory, quiescent state, with low expression of cytokines and no phagocytic activity. Upon various stimuli (debris, ATP, misfolded proteins, aggregates and pathogens), microglia acquire a phagocytic function and overexpress cytokine gene modules. This process is generally regarded as microglia activation and implies that the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines is counterbalanced by the synthesis and the release of anti-inflammatory molecules. This mechanism avoids excessive inflammatory response and inappropriate microglial activation, which causes tissue damage and brain homeostasis impairment. Once the pathogenic stimulus has been cleared, activated microglia return to the naïve, anti-inflammatory state. Upon repeated stimuli (as in the case of Aβ deposition in the early stage of AD), activated microglia shift toward a less protective, neurotoxic phenotype, known as "primed" microglia. The main characteristic of primed microglia is their lower capability to turn back toward the naïve, anti-inflammatory state, which makes these cells prone to chronic activation and favours chronic inflammation in the brain. Primed microglia have impaired defence capacity against injury and detrimental effects on the brain microenvironment. Additionally, priming has been associated with AD onset and progression and can represent a promising target for AD treatment strategies. Many factors (genetics, environmental factors, baseline inflammatory status of microglia, ageing) generate an aberrantly activated phenotype that undergoes priming easier and earlier than normally activated microglia do. Novel, promising targets for therapeutic strategies for AD have been sought in the field of microglia activation and, importantly, among those factors influencing the baseline status of these cells. The CX3CL1 pathway could be a valuable target treatment approach in AD, although preliminary findings from the studies in this field are controversial. The current review aims to summarize state of the art on the role of microglia dysfunction in AD pathogenesis and proposes biochemical pathways with possible targets for AD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Bivona
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, Institute of Clinical Biochemistry, Clinical Molecular Medicine and Laboratory Medicine, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - Matilda Iemmolo
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Luisa Agnello
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, Institute of Clinical Biochemistry, Clinical Molecular Medicine and Laboratory Medicine, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - Bruna Lo Sasso
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, Institute of Clinical Biochemistry, Clinical Molecular Medicine and Laboratory Medicine, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital “P.Giaccone”, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Caterina Maria Gambino
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, Institute of Clinical Biochemistry, Clinical Molecular Medicine and Laboratory Medicine, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital “P.Giaccone”, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Rosaria Vincenza Giglio
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, Institute of Clinical Biochemistry, Clinical Molecular Medicine and Laboratory Medicine, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital “P.Giaccone”, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Concetta Scazzone
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, Institute of Clinical Biochemistry, Clinical Molecular Medicine and Laboratory Medicine, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giulio Ghersi
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Marcello Ciaccio
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, Institute of Clinical Biochemistry, Clinical Molecular Medicine and Laboratory Medicine, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital “P.Giaccone”, 90127 Palermo, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-09-1655-3296
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Wei Q, Deng Y, Yang Q, Zhan A, Wang L. The markers to delineate different phenotypes of macrophages related to metabolic disorders. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1084636. [PMID: 36814909 PMCID: PMC9940311 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1084636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Macrophages have a wide variety of roles in physiological and pathological conditions, making them promising diagnostic and therapeutic targets in diseases, especially metabolic disorders, which have attracted considerable attention in recent years. Owing to their heterogeneity and polarization, the phenotypes and functions of macrophages related to metabolic disorders are diverse and complicated. In the past three decades, the rapid progress of macrophage research has benefited from the emergence of specific molecular markers to delineate different phenotypes of macrophages and elucidate their role in metabolic disorders. In this review, we analyze the functions and applications of commonly used and novel markers of macrophages related to metabolic disorders, facilitating the better use of these macrophage markers in metabolic disorder research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quxing Wei
- Guangdong Metabolic Diseases Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder, Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Traditional Chinese Medicine Key Laboratory for Metabolic Diseases, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,Institute of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanyue Deng
- Guangdong Metabolic Diseases Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder, Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Traditional Chinese Medicine Key Laboratory for Metabolic Diseases, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,Institute of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qianqian Yang
- Guangdong Metabolic Diseases Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder, Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Traditional Chinese Medicine Key Laboratory for Metabolic Diseases, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,Institute of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Angyu Zhan
- Guangdong Metabolic Diseases Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder, Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Traditional Chinese Medicine Key Laboratory for Metabolic Diseases, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,Institute of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lexun Wang
- Guangdong Metabolic Diseases Research Center of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Glucolipid Metabolic Disorder, Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Traditional Chinese Medicine Key Laboratory for Metabolic Diseases, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,Institute of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
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39
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Zhao J, Li Q, Ouyang X, Wang F, Li Q, Xu Z, Ji D, Wu Q, Zhang J, Lu C, Ji S, Li S. The effect of CX3CL1/ CX3CR1 signal axis on microglia in central nervous system diseases. JOURNAL OF NEURORESTORATOLOGY 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jnrt.2023.100042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
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40
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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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41
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De Felice E, Gonçalves de Andrade E, Golia MT, González Ibáñez F, Khakpour M, Di Castro MA, Garofalo S, Di Pietro E, Benatti C, Brunello N, Tascedda F, Kaminska B, Limatola C, Ragozzino D, Tremblay ME, Alboni S, Maggi L. Microglial diversity along the hippocampal longitudinal axis impacts synaptic plasticity in adult male mice under homeostatic conditions. J Neuroinflammation 2022; 19:292. [PMID: 36482444 PMCID: PMC9730634 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-022-02655-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The hippocampus is a plastic brain area that shows functional segregation along its longitudinal axis, reflected by a higher level of long-term potentiation (LTP) in the CA1 region of the dorsal hippocampus (DH) compared to the ventral hippocampus (VH), but the mechanisms underlying this difference remain elusive. Numerous studies have highlighted the importance of microglia-neuronal communication in modulating synaptic transmission and hippocampal plasticity, although its role in physiological contexts is still largely unknown. We characterized in depth the features of microglia in the two hippocampal poles and investigated their contribution to CA1 plasticity under physiological conditions. We unveiled the influence of microglia in differentially modulating the amplitude of LTP in the DH and VH, showing that minocycline or PLX5622 treatment reduced LTP amplitude in the DH, while increasing it in the VH. This was recapitulated in Cx3cr1 knockout mice, indicating that microglia have a key role in setting the conditions for plasticity processes in a region-specific manner, and that the CX3CL1-CX3CR1 pathway is a key element in determining the basal level of CA1 LTP in the two regions. The observed LTP differences at the two poles were associated with transcriptional changes in the expression of genes encoding for Il-1, Tnf-α, Il-6, and Bdnf, essential players of neuronal plasticity. Furthermore, microglia in the CA1 SR region showed an increase in soma and a more extensive arborization, an increased prevalence of immature lysosomes accompanied by an elevation in mRNA expression of phagocytic markers Mertk and Cd68 and a surge in the expression of microglial outward K+ currents in the VH compared to DH, suggesting a distinct basal phenotypic state of microglia across the two hippocampal poles. Overall, we characterized the molecular, morphological, ultrastructural, and functional profile of microglia at the two poles, suggesting that modifications in hippocampal subregions related to different microglial statuses can contribute to dissect the phenotypical aspects of many diseases in which microglia are known to be involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. De Felice
- grid.7841.aDepartment of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - E. Gonçalves de Andrade
- grid.143640.40000 0004 1936 9465Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
| | - M. T. Golia
- grid.7841.aDepartment of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - F. González Ibáñez
- grid.143640.40000 0004 1936 9465Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada ,grid.411081.d0000 0000 9471 1794Faculté de Médecine and Centre de Recherche, CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | - M. Khakpour
- grid.143640.40000 0004 1936 9465Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
| | - M. A. Di Castro
- grid.7841.aDepartment of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - S. Garofalo
- grid.7841.aDepartment of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - E. Di Pietro
- grid.7841.aDepartment of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - C. Benatti
- grid.7548.e0000000121697570Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy ,grid.7548.e0000000121697570Centre of Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - N. Brunello
- grid.7548.e0000000121697570Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - F. Tascedda
- grid.7548.e0000000121697570Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy ,grid.7548.e0000000121697570Centre of Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - B. Kaminska
- grid.419305.a0000 0001 1943 2944Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - C. Limatola
- grid.419543.e0000 0004 1760 3561IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy ,grid.7841.aDepartment of Physiology and Pharmacology, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - D. Ragozzino
- grid.7841.aDepartment of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, 00185 Rome, Italy ,grid.417778.a0000 0001 0692 3437Santa Lucia Foundation (IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia), Rome, Italy
| | - M. E. Tremblay
- grid.143640.40000 0004 1936 9465Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada ,grid.411081.d0000 0000 9471 1794Faculté de Médecine and Centre de Recherche, CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | - S. Alboni
- grid.7548.e0000000121697570Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy ,grid.7548.e0000000121697570Centre of Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - L. Maggi
- grid.7841.aDepartment of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
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Washer SJ, Perez-Alcantara M, Chen Y, Steer J, James WS, Trynka G, Bassett AR, Cowley SA. Single-cell transcriptomics defines an improved, validated monoculture protocol for differentiation of human iPSC to microglia. Sci Rep 2022; 12:19454. [PMID: 36376339 PMCID: PMC9663826 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-23477-2] [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: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
There is increasing genetic evidence for the role of microglia in neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and motor neuron disease. Therefore, there is a need to generate authentic in vitro models to study human microglial physiology. Various methods have been developed using human induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSC) to generate microglia, however, systematic approaches to identify which media components are actually essential for functional microglia are mostly lacking. Here, we systematically assess medium components, coatings, and growth factors required for iPSC differentiation to microglia. Using single-cell RNA sequencing, qPCR, and functional assays, with validation across two labs, we have identified several medium components from previous protocols that are redundant and do not contribute to microglial identity. We provide an optimised, defined medium which produces both transcriptionally and functionally relevant microglia for modelling microglial physiology in neuroinflammation and for drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam J Washer
- James and Lillian Martin Centre for Stem Cell Research, Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3RE, UK. .,Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK. .,Open Targets, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK.
| | - Marta Perez-Alcantara
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK.,Open Targets, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Yixi Chen
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK.,Open Targets, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Juliette Steer
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK.,Open Targets, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK
| | - William S James
- James and Lillian Martin Centre for Stem Cell Research, Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3RE, UK
| | - Gosia Trynka
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK.,Open Targets, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Andrew R Bassett
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK.,Open Targets, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Sally A Cowley
- James and Lillian Martin Centre for Stem Cell Research, Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3RE, UK.
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Beopoulos A, Géa M, Fasano A, Iris F. Autism spectrum disorders pathogenesis: Toward a comprehensive model based on neuroanatomic and neurodevelopment considerations. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:988735. [PMID: 36408388 PMCID: PMC9671112 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.988735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) involves alterations in neural connectivity affecting cortical network organization and excitation to inhibition ratio. It is characterized by an early increase in brain volume mediated by abnormal cortical overgrowth patterns and by increases in size, spine density, and neuron population in the amygdala and surrounding nuclei. Neuronal expansion is followed by a rapid decline from adolescence to middle age. Since no known neurobiological mechanism in human postnatal life is capable of generating large excesses of frontocortical neurons, this likely occurs due to a dysregulation of layer formation and layer-specific neuronal migration during key early stages of prenatal cerebral cortex development. This leads to the dysregulation of post-natal synaptic pruning and results in a huge variety of forms and degrees of signal-over-noise discrimination losses, accounting for ASD clinical heterogeneities, including autonomic nervous system abnormalities and comorbidities. We postulate that sudden changes in environmental conditions linked to serotonin/kynurenine supply to the developing fetus, throughout the critical GW7 - GW20 (Gestational Week) developmental window, are likely to promote ASD pathogenesis during fetal brain development. This appears to be driven by discrete alterations in differentiation and patterning mechanisms arising from in utero RNA editing, favoring vulnerability outcomes over plasticity outcomes. This paper attempts to provide a comprehensive model of the pathogenesis and progression of ASD neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alessio Fasano
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Mucosal Immunology and Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA, United States
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Center for Celiac Research and Treatment, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA, United States
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Zhao L, Hou C, Yan N. Neuroinflammation in retinitis pigmentosa: Therapies targeting the innate immune system. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1059947. [PMID: 36389729 PMCID: PMC9647059 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1059947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is an important cause of irreversible blindness worldwide and lacks effective treatment strategies. Although mutations are the primary cause of RP, research over the past decades has shown that neuroinflammation is an important cause of RP progression. Due to the abnormal activation of immunity, continuous sterile inflammation results in neuron loss and structural destruction. Therapies targeting inflammation have shown their potential to attenuate photoreceptor degeneration in preclinical models. Regardless of variations in genetic background, inflammatory modulation is emerging as an important role in the treatment of RP. We summarize the evidence for the role of inflammation in RP and mention therapeutic strategies where available, focusing on the modulation of innate immune signals, including TNFα signaling, TLR signaling, NLRP3 inflammasome activation, chemokine signaling and JAK/STAT signaling. In addition, we describe epigenetic regulation, the gut microbiome and herbal agents as prospective treatment strategies for RP in recent advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Zhao
- Research Laboratory of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chen Hou
- Research Laboratory of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Naihong Yan
- Research Laboratory of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,*Correspondence: Naihong Yan,
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Pandur E, Szabó I, Hormay E, Pap R, Almási A, Sipos K, Farkas V, Karádi Z. Alterations of the expression levels of glucose, inflammation, and iron metabolism related miRNAs and their target genes in the hypothalamus of STZ-induced rat diabetes model. Diabetol Metab Syndr 2022; 14:147. [PMID: 36210435 PMCID: PMC9549668 DOI: 10.1186/s13098-022-00919-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The hypothalamus of the central nervous system is implicated in the development of diabetes due to its glucose-sensing function. Dysregulation of the hypothalamic glucose-sensing neurons leads to abnormal glucose metabolism. It has been described that fractalkine (FKN) is involved in the development of hypothalamic inflammation, which may be one of the underlying causes of a diabetic condition. Moreover, iron may play a role in the pathogenesis of diabetes via the regulation of hepcidin, the iron regulatory hormone synthesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non-coding molecules working as key regulators of gene expression, usually by inhibiting translation. Hypothalamic miRNAs are supposed to have a role in the control of energy balance by acting as regulators of hypothalamic glucose metabolism via influencing translation. METHODS Using a miRNA array, we analysed the expression of diabetes, inflammation, and iron metabolism related miRNAs in the hypothalamus of a streptozotocin-induced rat type 1 diabetes model. Determination of the effect of miRNAs altered by STZ treatment on the target genes was carried out at protein level. RESULTS We found 18 miRNAs with altered expression levels in the hypothalamus of the STZ-treated animals, which act as the regulators of mRNAs involved in glucose metabolism, pro-inflammatory cytokine synthesis, and iron homeostasis suggesting a link between these processes in diabetes. The alterations in the expression level of these miRNAs could modify hypothalamic glucose sensing, tolerance, uptake, and phosphorylation by affecting the stability of hexokinase-2, insulin receptor, leptin receptor, glucokinase, GLUT4, insulin-like growth factor receptor 1, and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase mRNA molecules. Additional miRNAs were found to be altered resulting in the elevation of FKN protein. The miRNA, mRNA, and protein analyses of the diabetic hypothalamus revealed that the iron import, export, and iron storage were all influenced by miRNAs suggesting the disturbance of hypothalamic iron homeostasis. CONCLUSION It can be supposed that glucose metabolism, inflammation, and iron homeostasis of the hypothalamus are linked via the altered expression of common miRNAs as well as the increased expression of FKN, which contribute to the imbalance of energy homeostasis, the synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and the iron accumulation of the hypothalamus. The results raise the possibility that FKN could be a potential target of new therapies targeting both inflammation and iron disturbances in diabetic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edina Pandur
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Pécs, Rókus u. 4., 7624, Pécs, Hungary.
| | - István Szabó
- Institute of Physiology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti út 12., 7624, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Edina Hormay
- Institute of Physiology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti út 12., 7624, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Ramóna Pap
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Pécs, Rókus u. 4., 7624, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Attila Almási
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Pécs, Rókus u. 4., 7624, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Katalin Sipos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Pécs, Rókus u. 4., 7624, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Viktória Farkas
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Pécs, Rókus u. 4., 7624, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Karádi
- Institute of Physiology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti út 12., 7624, Pécs, Hungary
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High Cerebrospinal Fluid CX3CL1 Levels in Alzheimer’s Disease Patients but Not in Non-Alzheimer’s Disease Dementia. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11195498. [PMID: 36233371 PMCID: PMC9571188 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11195498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of cognitive decline worldwide, occurring in about 10% of people older than 65 years. The well-known hallmarks of AD are extracellular aggregates of amyloid β (Aβ) and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) of tau protein. The evidence that Aβ overproduction leads to AD has paved the way for the AD pathogenesis amyloid cascade hypothesis, which proposes that the neuronal damage is sustained by Aβ overproduction. Consistently, AD cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers used in clinical practice, including Aβ 1–42, Aβ 1–40, Aβ 42/40 ratio, and pTau, are related to the amyloid hypothesis. Recently, it was suggested that the Aβ deposition cascade cannot fully disclose AD pathogenesis, with other putative players being involved in the pathophysiology of the disease. Among all, one of the most studied factors is inflammation in the brain. Hence, biomarkers of inflammation and microglia activation have also been proposed to identify AD. Among them, CX3 chemokine ligand 1 (CX3CL1) has taken center stage. This transmembrane protein, also known as fractalkine (FKN), is normally expressed in neurons, featuring an N-terminal chemokine domain and an extended mucin-like stalk, following a short intra-cytoplasmatic domain. The molecule exists in both membrane-bound and soluble forms. It is accepted that the soluble and membrane-bound forms of FKN evoke differential signaling within the CNS. Given the link between CX3XL1 and microglial activation, it has been suggested that CX3CL1 signaling disruption could play a part in the pathogenesis of AD. Furthermore, a role for chemokine as a biomarker has been proposed. However, the findings collected are controversial. The current study aimed to describe the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of CX3XL1 and classical biomarkers in AD patients.
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47
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Shen Y, Cui J, Zhang S, Wang Y, Wang J, Su Y, Xu D, Liu Y, Guo Y, Bai W. Temporal alteration of microglia to microinfarcts in rat brain induced by the vascular occlusion with fluorescent microspheres. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:956342. [PMID: 35990892 PMCID: PMC9381699 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.956342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Microglia, the resident immune cells in the central nervous system, can monitor the microenvironment and actively respond to ischemic stroke and other brain injuries. In this procedure, microglia and neurons can cross-talk via transmembrane chemokine, Fractalkine (CX3CL1), to impact one another. We used a rat model of multifocal microinfarcts induced by the injection of fluorescent microspheres into the right common carotid artery and examined the morphological alteration of blood vessels, microglia, astrocytes, and neurons at 6 h, 1, 7, and 14 days after modeling, along with neurobehavioral tests and the staining of CX3CL1 in this study. Our results demonstrated that in the infarcted regions, astrocytes and microglia activated in response to neuronal degeneration and upregulation of cleaved caspase-3, which occurred concurrently with vascular alteration and higher expression of CX3CL1. We provided sequential histological data to shed light on the morphological changes after modeling, which would help in the identification of new targets and the choice of the ideal time window for therapeutic intervention in ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Shen
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jingjing Cui
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shuang Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yuqing Wang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jia Wang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yuxin Su
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Dongsheng Xu
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yihan Liu
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yating Guo
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wanzhu Bai
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Wanzhu Bai
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Analysis of Givinostat/ITF2357 Treatment in a Rat Model of Neonatal Hypoxic-Ischemic Brain Damage. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158287. [PMID: 35955430 PMCID: PMC9368553 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi) Givinostat/ITF2357 provides neuroprotection in adult models of brain injury; however, its action after neonatal hypoxia-ischemia (HI) is still undefined. The aim of our study was to test the hypothesis that the mechanism of Givinostat is associated with the alleviation of inflammation. For this purpose, we analyzed the microglial response and the effect on molecular mediators (chemokines/cytokines) that are crucial for inducing cerebral damage after neonatal hypoxia-ischemia. Seven-day-old rat pups were subjected to unilateral carotid artery ligation followed by 60 min of hypoxia (7.6% O2). Givinostat (10 mg/kg b/w) was administered in a 5-day regimen. The effects of Givinostat on HI-induced inflammation (cytokine, chemokine and microglial activation and polarization) were assessed with a Luminex assay, immunohistochemistry and Western blot. Givinostat treatment did not modulate the microglial response specific for HI injury. After Givinostat administration, the investigated chemokines and cytokines remained at the level induced by HI. The only immunosuppressive effect of Givinostat may be associated with the decrease in MIP-1α. Neonatal hypoxia-ischemia produces an inflammatory response by activating the proinflammatory M1 phenotype of microglia, disrupting the microglia–neuron (CX3CL1/CX3CR1) axis and elevating numerous proinflammatory cytokines/chemokines. Givinostat/ITF2357 did not prevent an inflammatory reaction after HI.
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Liu C, She Y, Huang J, Liu Y, Li W, Zhang C, Zhang T, Yu L. HMGB1-NLRP3-P2X7R pathway participates in PM 2.5-induced hippocampal neuron impairment by regulating microglia activation. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2022; 239:113664. [PMID: 35605331 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.113664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is a key mechanism underlying the cognitive impairment induced by PM2.5, and activated microglia plays an important role in this process. However, the mechanisms by which activated microglia induced by PM2.5 impair hippocampal neurons have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we focused on the role of HMGB1-NLRP3-P2X7R pathway which mediated the microglia activation in hippocampal neurons impairment induced by PM2.5 using a co-culture model of microglia and hippocampal neurons. We found that PM2.5 resulted in activated microglia and HMGB1-NLRP3 inflammatory pathway, and elevated proinflammatory cytokines of IL-18 and IL-1β in a dose-dependent manner. Notably, we next utilized previously reported pharmacological inhibitors or siRNA for HMGB1 and found that they significantly inhibited the activation of downstream NLRP3 and MAPK pathways derived from PM2.5 exposure, and down-regulated IL-18 and IL-1β in microglia. Furthermore, we employed co-cultured hippocampal neurons and microglia and found that reducing HMGB1 significantly decreased neuron impairment, apoptosis related protein of cl-caspase3, synaptic damage, and neurotransmitter receptor of 5-HT2A, along with notably elevated presynaptic and postsynaptic proteins of SYP and PSD-95, as well as learning and memory related proteins of p-CREB and BDNF. The neuronal impairment induced by PM2.5 could not be prevented in the case of simultaneous employment of HMGB1 siRNA and NLRP3 agonist. After silencing NLRP3 alone in microglia, hippocampal neurons demonstrated decreased excessive autophagy and up-regulated synaptic protein of GAP43 as well as learning and memory related protein of NCAM1. Therefore, we further studied how hippocampal neurons affected microglia under PM2.5 exposure, Further investigation indicated that silencing HMGB1 could affect the activation of P2X7R and reduce the release of ATP from hippocampal neurons, thus protecting the interaction between microglia and hippocampal neurons. The present work suggests that regulation of HMGB1-NLRP3-P2X7R pathway can inhibit the microglia activation induced by PM2.5 to alleviate hippocampal neuron impairment and stabilize the microenvironment between microglia and neurons. This contributes to maintaining the normal function of hippocampal neurons and alleviating the cognitive impairment derived from PM2.5 exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Experimental Center for Medical Research, Neurologic Disorders and Regeneration Repair Lab of Shandong Higher Education, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Yingjie She
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Experimental Center for Medical Research, Neurologic Disorders and Regeneration Repair Lab of Shandong Higher Education, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Jia Huang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Experimental Center for Medical Research, Neurologic Disorders and Regeneration Repair Lab of Shandong Higher Education, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Yongping Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Experimental Center for Medical Research, Neurologic Disorders and Regeneration Repair Lab of Shandong Higher Education, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Wanwei Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Experimental Center for Medical Research, Neurologic Disorders and Regeneration Repair Lab of Shandong Higher Education, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Can Zhang
- Genetics and Aging Research Unit, McCance Center for Brain Health, MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Tianliang Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Experimental Center for Medical Research, Neurologic Disorders and Regeneration Repair Lab of Shandong Higher Education, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China.
| | - Li Yu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Experimental Center for Medical Research, Neurologic Disorders and Regeneration Repair Lab of Shandong Higher Education, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China.
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Cuní-López C, Stewart R, Quek H, White AR. Recent Advances in Microglia Modelling to Address Translational Outcomes in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Cells 2022; 11:cells11101662. [PMID: 35626698 PMCID: PMC9140031 DOI: 10.3390/cells11101662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are deteriorating conditions of the nervous system that are rapidly increasing in the aging population. Increasing evidence suggests that neuroinflammation, largely mediated by microglia, the resident immune cells of the brain, contributes to the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Hence, microglia are considered a major therapeutic target that could potentially yield effective disease-modifying treatments for neurodegenerative diseases. Despite the interest in studying microglia as drug targets, the availability of cost-effective, flexible, and patient-specific microglia cellular models is limited. Importantly, the current model systems do not accurately recapitulate important pathological features or disease processes, leading to the failure of many therapeutic drugs. Here, we review the key roles of microglia in neurodegenerative diseases and provide an update on the current microglia platforms utilised in neurodegenerative diseases, with a focus on human microglia-like cells derived from peripheral blood mononuclear cells as well as human-induced pluripotent stem cells. The described microglial platforms can serve as tools for investigating disease biomarkers and improving the clinical translatability of the drug development process in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Cuní-López
- Cell & Molecular Biology Department, Mental Health Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; (C.C.-L.); (R.S.)
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - Romal Stewart
- Cell & Molecular Biology Department, Mental Health Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; (C.C.-L.); (R.S.)
- UQ Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, Royal Brisbane & Women’s Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - Hazel Quek
- Cell & Molecular Biology Department, Mental Health Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; (C.C.-L.); (R.S.)
- Correspondence: (H.Q.); (A.R.W.)
| | - Anthony R. White
- Cell & Molecular Biology Department, Mental Health Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; (C.C.-L.); (R.S.)
- Correspondence: (H.Q.); (A.R.W.)
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