1
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Ramoni D, Montecucco F, Carbone F. CAR T therapy from haematological malignancies to aging-related diseases: An ever-expanding universe. Eur J Clin Invest 2024; 54:e14203. [PMID: 38551245 DOI: 10.1111/eci.14203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Short but impactful, the two-decade story of gene editing allowed a significant breakthrough in the treatment of haematological malignancies. However, despite different generations of chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR T), such a successful therapy has not yet been replicated in solid tumours and non-oncological diseases. METHODS This narrative review discusses how CAR T therapy still faces challenges in overcoming the complexity of the solid tumour microenvironment and the concerns that its long-term activity raises about potential unknown and unpredictable consequences in non-oncological diseases. RESULTS In the most recent studies, the senolytic potential of CAR T is becoming an exciting field of research. Still, experimental but promising results indeed indicate the clearance of senescent cells as an effective strategy to improve exercise capacity and metabolic dysfunction in physiological ageing, with long-term therapeutic and preventive effects. However, an effective expansion of a CAR T population requires a lympho-depleting chemotherapy prior to infusion. While this procedure sounds reasonable for rescue therapy of oncological diseases, it poses genotoxic risks that may not be justified for non-malignant diseases. Those represent the leading gaps for applying CAR T therapy in non-oncological diseases. CONCLUSION More is expected from current studies on the other classes of CAR cells now under investigation. Engineering NK cells and macrophages are candidates to improve cytotoxic and immunomodulating properties, potentially able to broaden application in solid tumours and non-oncological diseases. Finally, engineering autologous T cells in old individuals may generate biologically deteriorated CAR T clones with impaired function and unpredictable effects on cytokine release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Ramoni
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Montecucco
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genoa, Italian Cardiovascular Network, Genoa, Italy
| | - Federico Carbone
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genoa, Italian Cardiovascular Network, Genoa, Italy
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2
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Lemaitre JM. Looking for the philosopher's stone: Emerging approaches to target the hallmarks of aging in the skin. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2024; 38 Suppl 4:5-14. [PMID: 38881451 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.19820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Senescence and epigenetic alterations are two important hallmarks of cellular aging. During aging, cells subjected to stress undergo many cycles of damage and repair before finally entering either apoptosis or senescence, a permanent state of cell cycle arrest. The first biomarkers of senescence to be identified were increased ß-galactosidase activity and induction of p16INK4a. Another feature of senescent cells is the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), a complex secretome containing more than 80 pro-inflammatory factors including metalloproteinases, growth factors, chemokines and cytokines. The secretome is regulated through a dynamic process involving a self-amplifying autocrine feedback loop and activation of the immune system. Senescent cells play positive and negative roles depending on the composition of their SASP and may participate in various processes including wound healing and tumour suppression, as well as cell regeneration, embryogenesis, tumorigenesis, inflammation and finally aging. The SASP is also a biomarker of age, biological aging and age-related diseases. Recent advances in anti-age research have shown that senescence can be now prevented or delayed by clearing the senescent cells or mitigating the effects of SASP factors, which can be achieved by a healthy lifestyle (exercise and diet), and senolytics and senomorphics, respectively. An alternative is tissue rejuvenation, which can be achieved by stimulating aged stem cells and reprogramming deprogrammed aged cells. These non-clinical findings will open up new avenues of clinical research into the development of treatments capable of preventing or treating age-related pathologies in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Marc Lemaitre
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine & Biotherapy - Hopital Saint Eloi, Montpellier, France
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3
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Miliotou E, de Lázaro I. A Youthful Touch: Reversal of Aging Hallmarks by Cell Reprogramming. Cells Tissues Organs 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38768583 DOI: 10.1159/000539415] [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: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the elderly population projected to double by 2050, there is an urgent need to address the increasing prevalence of age-related debilitating diseases and ultimately minimize discrepancies between the rising lifespan and stagnant health span. Cellular reprogramming by overexpression of Oct3/4, Klf4, Sox2, and cMyc (OKSM) transcription factors is gaining attention in this context thanks to demonstrated rejuvenating effects in human cell cultures and live mice, many of which can be uncoupled from dedifferentiation and loss of cell identity. SUMMARY Here, we review current evidence of the impact of cell reprogramming on established aging hallmarks and the underlying mechanisms that mediate these effects. We also provide a critical assessment of the challenges in translating these findings and, overall, cell reprogramming technologies into clinically translatable antiaging interventions. KEY MESSAGES Cellular reprogramming has the potential to reverse at least partially some key hallmarks of aging. However, further research is necessary to determine the biological significance and duration of such changes and to ensure the safety of cell reprogramming as a rejuvenation approach. With this review, we hope to stimulate new research directions in the quest to extend health span effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Miliotou
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, New York, New York, USA
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Irene de Lázaro
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, New York, New York, USA
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Leon H. Charney Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
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4
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Bylino OV, Ogienko AA, Batin MA, Georgiev PG, Omelina ES. Genetic, Environmental, and Stochastic Components of Lifespan Variability: The Drosophila Paradigm. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4482. [PMID: 38674068 PMCID: PMC11050664 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084482] [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: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Lifespan is a complex quantitative trait involving genetic and non-genetic factors as well as the peculiarities of ontogenesis. As with all quantitative traits, lifespan shows considerable variation within populations and between individuals. Drosophila, a favourite object of geneticists, has greatly advanced our understanding of how different forms of variability affect lifespan. This review considers the role of heritable genetic variability, phenotypic plasticity and stochastic variability in controlling lifespan in Drosophila melanogaster. We discuss the major historical milestones in the development of the genetic approach to study lifespan, the breeding of long-lived lines, advances in lifespan QTL mapping, the environmental factors that have the greatest influence on lifespan in laboratory maintained flies, and the mechanisms, by which individual development affects longevity. The interplay between approaches to study ageing and lifespan limitation will also be discussed. Particular attention will be paid to the interaction of different types of variability in the control of lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oleg V. Bylino
- Department of Regulation of Genetic Processes, Laboratory of Molecular Organization of the Genome, Institute of Gene Biology RAS, 119334 Moscow, Russia
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334 Moscow, Russia
| | - Anna A. Ogienko
- Department of Regulation of Genetic Processes, Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology SB RAS, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Mikhail A. Batin
- Open Longevity, 15260 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles, CA 91403, USA
| | - Pavel G. Georgiev
- Department of Regulation of Genetic Processes, Laboratory of Molecular Organization of the Genome, Institute of Gene Biology RAS, 119334 Moscow, Russia
| | - Evgeniya S. Omelina
- Department of Regulation of Genetic Processes, Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology SB RAS, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
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5
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Chen Y, Li M, Wu Y. The occurrence and development of induced pluripotent stem cells. Front Genet 2024; 15:1389558. [PMID: 38699229 PMCID: PMC11063328 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1389558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The ectopic expression of four transcription factors, Oct3/4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc (OSKM), known as "Yamanaka factors," can reprogram or stimulate the production of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Although OSKM is still the gold standard, there are multiple ways to reprogram cells into iPSCs. In recent years, significant progress has been made in improving the efficiency of this technology. Ten years after the first report was published, human pluripotent stem cells have gradually been applied in clinical settings, including disease modeling, cell therapy, new drug development, and cell derivation. Here, we provide a review of the discovery of iPSCs and their applications in disease and development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Meng Li
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yanqing Wu
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
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6
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Alibhai FJ, Li RK. Rejuvenation of the Aging Heart: Molecular Determinants and Applications. Can J Cardiol 2024:S0828-282X(24)00201-0. [PMID: 38460612 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2024.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024] Open
Abstract
In Canada and worldwide, the elderly population (ie, individuals > 65 years of age) is increasing disproportionately relative to the total population. This is expected to have a substantial impact on the health care system, as increased aged is associated with a greater incidence of chronic noncommunicable diseases. Within the elderly population, cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death, therefore developing therapies that can prevent or slow disease progression in this group is highly desirable. Historically, aging research has focused on the development of anti-aging therapies that are implemented early in life and slow the age-dependent decline in cell and organ function. However, accumulating evidence supports that late-in-life therapies can also benefit the aged cardiovascular system by limiting age-dependent functional decline. Moreover, recent studies have demonstrated that rejuvenation (ie, reverting cellular function to that of a younger phenotype) of the already aged cardiovascular system is possible, opening new avenues to develop therapies for older individuals. In this review, we first provide an overview of the functional changes that occur in the cardiomyocyte with aging and how this contributes to the age-dependent decline in heart function. We then discuss the various anti-aging and rejuvenation strategies that have been pursued to improve the function of the aged cardiomyocyte, with a focus on therapies implemented late in life. These strategies include 1) established systemic approaches (caloric restriction, exercise), 2) pharmacologic approaches (mTOR, AMPK, SIRT1, and autophagy-targeting molecules), and 3) emerging rejuvenation approaches (partial reprogramming, parabiosis/modulation of circulating factors, targeting endogenous stem cell populations, and senotherapeutics). Collectively, these studies demonstrate the exciting potential and limitations of current rejuvenation strategies and highlight future areas of investigation that will contribute to the development of rejuvenation therapies for the aged heart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faisal J Alibhai
- Toronto General Research Hospital Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ren-Ke Li
- Toronto General Research Hospital Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Surgery, Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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7
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Pereira B, Correia FP, Alves IA, Costa M, Gameiro M, Martins AP, Saraiva JA. Epigenetic reprogramming as a key to reverse ageing and increase longevity. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 95:102204. [PMID: 38272265 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102204] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
The pursuit for the fountain of youth has long been a fascination amongst scientists and humanity. Ageing is broadly characterized by a cellular decline with increased susceptibility to age-related diseases, being intimately associated with epigenetic modifications. Recently, reprogramming-induced rejuvenation strategies have begun to greatly alter longevity research not only to tackle age-related defects but also to possibly reverse the cellular ageing process. Hence, in this review, we highlight the major epigenetic changes during ageing and the state-of-art of the current emerging epigenetic reprogramming strategies leveraging on transcription factors. Notably, partial reprogramming enables the resetting of the ageing clock without erasing cellular identity. Promising chemical-based rejuvenation strategies harnessing small molecules, including DNA methyltransferase and histone deacetylase inhibitors are also discussed. Moreover, in parallel to longevity interventions, the foundations of epigenetic clocks for accurate ageing assessment and evaluation of reprogramming approaches are briefly presented. Going further, with such scientific breakthroughs, we are witnessing a rise in the longevity biotech industry aiming to extend the health span and ideally achieve human rejuvenation one day. In this context, we overview the main scenarios proposed for the future of the socio-economic and ethical challenges associated with such an emerging field. Ultimately, this review aims to inspire future research on interventions that promote healthy ageing for all.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Pereira
- Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | | | - Inês A Alves
- Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Margarida Costa
- Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Mariana Gameiro
- Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ana P Martins
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Jorge A Saraiva
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal.
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8
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Huyghe A, Trajkova A, Lavial F. Cellular plasticity in reprogramming, rejuvenation and tumorigenesis: a pioneer TF perspective. Trends Cell Biol 2024; 34:255-267. [PMID: 37648593 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2023.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
The multistep process of in vivo reprogramming, mediated by the transcription factors (TFs) Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc (OSKM), holds great promise for the development of rejuvenating and regenerative strategies. However, most of the approaches developed so far are accompanied by a persistent risk of tumorigenicity. Here, we review the groundbreaking effects of in vivo reprogramming with a particular focus on rejuvenation and regeneration. We discuss how the activity of pioneer TFs generates cellular plasticity that may be critical for inducing not only reprogramming and regeneration, but also cancer initiation. Finally, we highlight how a better understanding of the uncoupled control of cellular identity, plasticity, and aging during reprogramming might pave the way to the development of rejuvenating/regenerating strategies in a nontumorigenic manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélia Huyghe
- Cellular Reprogramming, Stem Cells and Oncogenesis Laboratory, Equipe Labellisée la Ligue Contre le Cancer, Labex Dev2Can - Univeristy of Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM 1052, CNRS 5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, 69008 Lyon, France
| | - Aneta Trajkova
- Cellular Reprogramming, Stem Cells and Oncogenesis Laboratory, Equipe Labellisée la Ligue Contre le Cancer, Labex Dev2Can - Univeristy of Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM 1052, CNRS 5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, 69008 Lyon, France
| | - Fabrice Lavial
- Cellular Reprogramming, Stem Cells and Oncogenesis Laboratory, Equipe Labellisée la Ligue Contre le Cancer, Labex Dev2Can - Univeristy of Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM 1052, CNRS 5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, 69008 Lyon, France.
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9
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Sichani AS, Khoddam S, Shakeri S, Tavakkoli Z, Jafroodi AR, Dabbaghipour R, Sisakht M, Fallahi J. Partial Reprogramming as a Method for Regenerating Neural Tissues in Aged Organisms. Cell Reprogram 2024; 26:10-23. [PMID: 38381402 DOI: 10.1089/cell.2023.0123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Aging causes numerous age-related diseases, leading the human species to death. Nevertheless, rejuvenating strategies based on cell epigenetic modifications are a possible approach to counteract disease progression while getting old. Cell reprogramming of adult somatic cells toward pluripotency ought to be a promising tool for age-related diseases. However, researchers do not have control over this process as cells lose their fate, and cause potential cancerous cells or unexpected cell phenotypes. Direct and partial reprogramming were introduced in recent years with distinctive applications. Although direct reprogramming makes cells lose their identity, it has various applications in regeneration medicine. Temporary and regulated in vivo overexpression of Yamanaka factors has been shown in several experimental contexts to be achievable and is used to rejuvenate mice models. This regeneration can be accomplished by altering the epigenetic adult cell signature to the signature of a younger cell. The greatest advantage of partial reprogramming is that this method does not allow cells to lose their identity when they are resetting their epigenetic clock. It is a regimen of short-term Oct3/4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc expression in vivo that prevents full reprogramming to the pluripotent state and avoids both tumorigenesis and the presence of unwanted undifferentiated cells. We know that many neurological age-related diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, stroke, dementia, and Parkinson's disease, are the main cause of death in the last decades of life. Therefore, scientists have a special tendency regarding neuroregeneration methods to increase human life expectancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Saber Sichani
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Somayeh Khoddam
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Shayan Shakeri
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zahra Tavakkoli
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Arad Ranji Jafroodi
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Reza Dabbaghipour
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohsen Sisakht
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Jafar Fallahi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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10
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Paine PT, Nguyen A, Ocampo A. Partial cellular reprogramming: A deep dive into an emerging rejuvenation technology. Aging Cell 2024; 23:e14039. [PMID: 38040663 PMCID: PMC10861195 DOI: 10.1111/acel.14039] [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: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging and age-associated disease are a major medical and societal burden in need of effective treatments. Cellular reprogramming is a biological process capable of modulating cell fate and cellular age. Harnessing the rejuvenating benefits without altering cell identity via partial cellular reprogramming has emerged as a novel translational strategy with therapeutic potential and strong commercial interests. Here, we explore the aging-related benefits of partial cellular reprogramming while examining limitations and future directions for the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick T. Paine
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology and MedicineUniversity of LausanneLausanneVaudSwitzerland
- Center for Virology and Vaccine ResearchHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Present address:
McGovern Institute for Brain Research at MIT, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
| | | | - Alejandro Ocampo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology and MedicineUniversity of LausanneLausanneVaudSwitzerland
- EPITERNA SAEpalingesSwitzerland
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11
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de Magalhães JP. Distinguishing between driver and passenger mechanisms of aging. Nat Genet 2024; 56:204-211. [PMID: 38242993 DOI: 10.1038/s41588-023-01627-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Understanding why we age is a long-standing question, and many mechanistic theories of aging have been proposed. Owing to limitations in studying the aging process, including a lack of adequate quantitative measurements, its mechanistic basis remains a subject of debate. Here, I explore theories of aging from the perspective of causal relationships. Many aging-related changes have been observed and touted as drivers of aging, including molecular changes in the genome, telomeres, mitochondria, epigenome and proteins and cellular changes affecting stem cells, the immune system and senescent cell buildup. Determining which changes are drivers and not passengers of aging remains a challenge, however, and I discuss how animal models and human genetic studies have been used empirically to infer causality. Overall, our understanding of the drivers of human aging is still inadequate; yet with a global aging population, elucidating the causes of aging has the potential to revolutionize biomedical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Pedro de Magalhães
- Genomics of Ageing and Rejuvenation Lab, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
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12
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Paine PT, Rechsteiner C, Morandini F, Desdín-Micó G, Mrabti C, Parras A, Haghani A, Brooke R, Horvath S, Seluanov A, Gorbunova V, Ocampo A. Initiation phase cellular reprogramming ameliorates DNA damage in the ERCC1 mouse model of premature aging. FRONTIERS IN AGING 2024; 4:1323194. [PMID: 38322248 PMCID: PMC10844398 DOI: 10.3389/fragi.2023.1323194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Unlike aged somatic cells, which exhibit a decline in molecular fidelity and eventually reach a state of replicative senescence, pluripotent stem cells can indefinitely replenish themselves while retaining full homeostatic capacity. The conferment of beneficial-pluripotency related traits via in vivo partial cellular reprogramming in vivo partial reprogramming significantly extends lifespan and restores aging phenotypes in mouse models. Although the phases of cellular reprogramming are well characterized, details of the rejuvenation processes are poorly defined. To understand whether cellular reprogramming can ameliorate DNA damage, we created a reprogrammable accelerated aging mouse model with an ERCC1 mutation. Importantly, using enhanced partial reprogramming by combining small molecules with the Yamanaka factors, we observed potent reversion of DNA damage, significant upregulation of multiple DNA damage repair processes, and restoration of the epigenetic clock. In addition, we present evidence that pharmacological inhibition of ALK5 and ALK2 receptors in the TGFb pathway are able to phenocopy some benefits including epigenetic clock restoration suggesting a role in the mechanism of rejuvenation by partial reprogramming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Treat Paine
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Center for Virology and Vaccine Research, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | - Francesco Morandini
- Department of Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Gabriela Desdín-Micó
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Calida Mrabti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Alberto Parras
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- EPITERNA SA, Vaud, Switzerland
| | | | - Robert Brooke
- Epigenetic Clock Development Foundation, Torrance, CA, United States
| | - Steve Horvath
- Altos Labs, San Diego, CA, United States
- Epigenetic Clock Development Foundation, Torrance, CA, United States
- Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Andrei Seluanov
- Department of Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
- Department of Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Vera Gorbunova
- Department of Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
- Department of Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Alejandro Ocampo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- EPITERNA SA, Vaud, Switzerland
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13
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Cipriano A, Moqri M, Maybury-Lewis SY, Rogers-Hammond R, de Jong TA, Parker A, Rasouli S, Schöler HR, Sinclair DA, Sebastiano V. Mechanisms, pathways and strategies for rejuvenation through epigenetic reprogramming. NATURE AGING 2024; 4:14-26. [PMID: 38102454 PMCID: PMC11058000 DOI: 10.1038/s43587-023-00539-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Over the past decade, there has been a dramatic increase in efforts to ameliorate aging and the diseases it causes, with transient expression of nuclear reprogramming factors recently emerging as an intriguing approach. Expression of these factors, either systemically or in a tissue-specific manner, has been shown to combat age-related deterioration in mouse and human model systems at the cellular, tissue and organismal level. Here we discuss the current state of epigenetic rejuvenation strategies via partial reprogramming in both mouse and human models. For each classical reprogramming factor, we provide a brief description of its contribution to reprogramming and discuss additional factors or chemical strategies. We discuss what is known regarding chromatin remodeling and the molecular dynamics underlying rejuvenation, and, finally, we consider strategies to improve the practical uses of epigenetic reprogramming to treat aging and age-related diseases, focusing on the open questions and remaining challenges in this emerging field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Cipriano
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Mahdi Moqri
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Tineke Anna de Jong
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Alexander Parker
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sajede Rasouli
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Hans Robert Schöler
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - David A Sinclair
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Paul F. Glenn Center for Biology of Aging Research, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Vittorio Sebastiano
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
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14
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Lu YR, Tian X, Sinclair DA. The Information Theory of Aging. NATURE AGING 2023; 3:1486-1499. [PMID: 38102202 DOI: 10.1038/s43587-023-00527-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Information storage and retrieval is essential for all life. In biology, information is primarily stored in two distinct ways: the genome, comprising nucleic acids, acts as a foundational blueprint and the epigenome, consisting of chemical modifications to DNA and histone proteins, regulates gene expression patterns and endows cells with specific identities and functions. Unlike the stable, digital nature of genetic information, epigenetic information is stored in a digital-analog format, susceptible to alterations induced by diverse environmental signals and cellular damage. The Information Theory of Aging (ITOA) states that the aging process is driven by the progressive loss of youthful epigenetic information, the retrieval of which via epigenetic reprogramming can improve the function of damaged and aged tissues by catalyzing age reversal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuancheng Ryan Lu
- Paul F. Glenn Center for Biology of Aging Research, Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Xiao Tian
- Paul F. Glenn Center for Biology of Aging Research, Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David A Sinclair
- Paul F. Glenn Center for Biology of Aging Research, Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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15
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Parras A, Vílchez-Acosta A, Desdín-Micó G, Picó S, Mrabti C, Montenegro-Borbolla E, Maroun CY, Haghani A, Brooke R, Del Carmen Maza M, Rechsteiner C, Battiston F, Branchina C, Perez K, Horvath S, Bertelli C, Sempoux C, Ocampo A. In vivo reprogramming leads to premature death linked to hepatic and intestinal failure. NATURE AGING 2023; 3:1509-1520. [PMID: 38012287 DOI: 10.1038/s43587-023-00528-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
The induction of cellular reprogramming via expression of the transcription factors Oct4, Sox2, Klf4 and c-Myc (OSKM) can drive dedifferentiation of somatic cells and ameliorate age-associated phenotypes in multiple tissues and organs. However, the benefits of long-term in vivo reprogramming are limited by detrimental side-effects. Here, using complementary genetic approaches, we demonstrated that continuous induction of the reprogramming factors in vivo leads to hepatic and intestinal dysfunction resulting in decreased body weight and contributing to premature death (within 1 week). By generating a transgenic reprogrammable mouse strain, avoiding OSKM expression in both liver and intestine, we reduced the early lethality and adverse effects associated with in vivo reprogramming and induced a decrease in organismal biological age. This reprogramming mouse strain, which allows longer-term continuous induction of OSKM with attenuated toxicity, can help better understand rejuvenation, regeneration and toxicity during in vivo reprogramming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Parras
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- EPITERNA SA, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Alba Vílchez-Acosta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gabriela Desdín-Micó
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sara Picó
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Calida Mrabti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Elena Montenegro-Borbolla
- Institute of Microbiology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Céline Yacoub Maroun
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Amin Haghani
- Altos Labs, San Diego, CA, USA
- Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Robert Brooke
- Epigenetic Clock Development Foundation, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - María Del Carmen Maza
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Cheyenne Rechsteiner
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Fabrice Battiston
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Clémence Branchina
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Kevin Perez
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- EPITERNA SA, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Steve Horvath
- Altos Labs, San Diego, CA, USA
- Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Claire Bertelli
- Institute of Microbiology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Christine Sempoux
- Service of Clinical Pathology, Institute of Pathology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Alejandro Ocampo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
- EPITERNA SA, Epalinges, Switzerland.
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16
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Karg MM, Lu YR, Refaian N, Cameron J, Hoffmann E, Hoppe C, Shirahama S, Shah M, Krasniqi D, Krishnan A, Shrestha M, Guo Y, Cermak JM, Walthier M, Broniowska K, Rosenzweig-Lipson S, Gregory-Ksander M, Sinclair DA, Ksander BR. Sustained Vision Recovery by OSK Gene Therapy in a Mouse Model of Glaucoma. Cell Reprogram 2023; 25:288-299. [PMID: 38060815 PMCID: PMC10739681 DOI: 10.1089/cell.2023.0074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma, a chronic neurodegenerative disease, is a leading cause of age-related blindness worldwide and characterized by the progressive loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons. Previously, we developed a novel epigenetic rejuvenation therapy, based on the expression of the three transcription factors Oct4, Sox2, and Klf4 (OSK), which safely rejuvenates RGCs without altering cell identity in glaucomatous and old mice after 1 month of treatment. In the current year-long study, mice with continuous or cyclic OSK expression induced after glaucoma-induced vision damage had occurred were tracked for efficacy, duration, and safety. Surprisingly, only 2 months of OSK fully restored impaired vision, with a restoration of vision for 11 months with prolonged expression. In RGCs, transcription from the doxycycline (DOX)-inducible Tet-On AAV system, returned to baseline 4 weeks after DOX withdrawal. Significant vision improvements remained for 1 month post switching off OSK, after which the vision benefit gradually diminished but remained better than baseline. Notably, no adverse effects on retinal structure or body weight were observed in glaucomatous mice with OSK continuously expressed for 21 months providing compelling evidence of efficacy and safety. This work highlights the tremendous therapeutic potential of rejuvenating gene therapies using OSK, not only for glaucoma but also for other ocular and systemic injuries and age-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarete M. Karg
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye & Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Yuancheng Ryan Lu
- Paul F. Glenn Center for Biology of Aging Research, Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Department of Biology, MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nasrin Refaian
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye & Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James Cameron
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Department of Biology, MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Emma Hoffmann
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye & Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Cindy Hoppe
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye & Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Shintaro Shirahama
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye & Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Madhura Shah
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye & Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Drenushe Krasniqi
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye & Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Anitha Krishnan
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye & Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Maleeka Shrestha
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye & Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Yinjie Guo
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye & Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Meredith Gregory-Ksander
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye & Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - David A. Sinclair
- Paul F. Glenn Center for Biology of Aging Research, Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Bruce R. Ksander
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye & Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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17
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Tompkins JD. Transgenerational Epigenetic DNA Methylation Editing and Human Disease. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1684. [PMID: 38136557 PMCID: PMC10742326 DOI: 10.3390/biom13121684] [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: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
During gestation, maternal (F0), embryonic (F1), and migrating primordial germ cell (F2) genomes can be simultaneously exposed to environmental influences. Accumulating evidence suggests that operating epi- or above the genetic DNA sequence, covalent DNA methylation (DNAme) can be recorded onto DNA in response to environmental insults, some sites which escape normal germline erasure. These appear to intrinsically regulate future disease propensity, even transgenerationally. Thus, an organism's genome can undergo epigenetic adjustment based on environmental influences experienced by prior generations. During the earliest stages of mammalian development, the three-dimensional presentation of the genome is dramatically changed, and DNAme is removed genome wide. Why, then, do some pathological DNAme patterns appear to be heritable? Are these correctable? In the following sections, I review concepts of transgenerational epigenetics and recent work towards programming transgenerational DNAme. A framework for editing heritable DNAme and challenges are discussed, and ethics in human research is introduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua D Tompkins
- Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, Arthur Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
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18
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Noll JH, Levine BL, June CH, Fraietta JA. Beyond youth: Understanding CAR T cell fitness in the context of immunological aging. Semin Immunol 2023; 70:101840. [PMID: 37729825 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2023.101840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Population aging, a pervasive global demographic trend, is anticipated to challenge health and social systems worldwide. This phenomenon is due to medical advancements enabling longer lifespans, with 20% of the US population soon to be over 65 years old. Consequently, there will be a surge in age-related diseases. Senescence, characterized by the loss of biological maintenance and homeostasis at molecular and cellular levels, either correlates with or directly causes age-related phenotypic changes. Decline of the immune system is a critical factor in the senescence process, with cancer being a primary cause of death in elderly populations. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy, an innovative approach, has demonstrated success mainly in pediatric and young adult hematological malignancies but remains largely ineffective for diseases affecting older populations, such as late-in-life B cell malignancies and most solid tumor indications. This limitation arises because CAR T cell efficacy heavily relies on the fitness of the patient-derived starting T cell material. Numerous studies suggest that T cell senescence may be a key driver of CAR T cell deficiency. This review examines correlates and underlying factors associated with favorable CAR T cell outcomes and explores potential experimental and clinically actionable strategies for T cell rejuvenation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Han Noll
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Bruce L Levine
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Carl H June
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Joseph A Fraietta
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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19
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Ohta S, Yamada Y. Exploring the potential of in vivo reprogramming for studying embryonic development, tissue regeneration, and organismal aging. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2023; 81:102067. [PMID: 37356342 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2023.102067] [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: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Forced expression of a specific set of transcription factors can reprogram terminally differentiated cells and convert them into induced pluripotent stem cells that correspond to cells in the inner cell mass of the developing embryo. It is now recognized that the scope of the reprogramming factors extends far beyond the stem cell biology. Studies using mouse models demonstrated that the induction of the reprogramming factors promotes cellular reprogramming in vivo. Closer inspection of these mice has revealed that expression of the reprogramming factors results in unique consequences that are not seen when cells are reprogrammed ex vivo, and can provide insights into development, tissue regeneration, cancer, and aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sho Ohta
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan.
| | - Yasuhiro Yamada
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan.
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20
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Gaspar-Silva F, Trigo D, Magalhaes J. Ageing in the brain: mechanisms and rejuvenating strategies. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:190. [PMID: 37354261 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04832-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Ageing is characterized by the progressive loss of cellular homeostasis, leading to an overall decline of the organism's fitness. In the brain, ageing is highly associated with cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases. With the rise in life expectancy, characterizing the brain ageing process becomes fundamental for developing therapeutic interventions against the increased incidence of age-related neurodegenerative diseases and to aim for an increase in human life span and, more importantly, health span. In this review, we start by introducing the molecular/cellular hallmarks associated with brain ageing and their impact on brain cell populations. Subsequently, we assess emerging evidence on how systemic ageing translates into brain ageing. Finally, we revisit the mainstream and the novel rejuvenating strategies, discussing the most successful ones in delaying brain ageing and related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa Gaspar-Silva
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal
| | - Diogo Trigo
- Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Joana Magalhaes
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal.
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21
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Pamplona R, Jové M, Gómez J, Barja G. Whole organism aging: Parabiosis, inflammaging, epigenetics, and peripheral and central aging clocks. The ARS of aging. Exp Gerontol 2023; 174:112137. [PMID: 36871903 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2023.112137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
The strong interest shown in the study of the causes of aging in recent decades has uncovered many mechanisms that could contribute to the rate of aging. These include mitochondrial ROS production, DNA modification and repair, lipid peroxidation-induced membrane fatty acid unsaturation, autophagy, telomere shortening rate, apoptosis, proteostasis, senescent cells, and most likely there are many others waiting to be discovered. However, all these well-known mechanisms work only or mainly at the cellular level. Although it is known that organs within a single individual do not age at exactly the same rate, there is a well-defined species longevity. Therefore, loose coordination of aging rate among the different cells and tissues is needed to ensure species lifespan. In this article we focus on less known extracellular, systemic, and whole organism level mechanisms that could loosely coordinate aging of the whole individual to keep it within the margins of its species longevity. We discuss heterochronic parabiosis experiments, systemic factors distributed through the vascular system like DAMPs, mitochondrial DNA and its fragments, TF-like vascular proteins, and inflammaging, as well as epigenetic and proposed aging clocks situated at different levels of organization from individual cells to the brain. These interorgan systems can help to determine species longevity as a further adaptation to the ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reinald Pamplona
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Lleida (UdL), Lleida Biomedical Research Institute (IRBLleida), E25198 Lleida, Spain
| | - Mariona Jové
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Lleida (UdL), Lleida Biomedical Research Institute (IRBLleida), E25198 Lleida, Spain
| | - José Gómez
- Department of Biology and Geology, Physics and Inorganic Chemistry, ESCET, Rey Juan Carlos University, E28933 Móstoles, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gustavo Barja
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), E28040 Madrid, Spain.
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22
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Puri D, Wagner W. Epigenetic rejuvenation by partial reprogramming. Bioessays 2023; 45:e2200208. [PMID: 36871150 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202200208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
Rejuvenation of cells by reprogramming toward the pluripotent state raises increasing attention. In fact, generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) completely reverses age-associated molecular features, including elongation of telomeres, resetting of epigenetic clocks and age-associated transcriptomic changes, and even evasion of replicative senescence. However, reprogramming into iPSCs also entails complete de-differentiation with loss of cellular identity, as well as the risk of teratoma formation in anti-ageing treatment paradigms. Recent studies indicate that partial reprogramming by limited exposure to reprogramming factors can reset epigenetic ageing clocks while maintaining cellular identity. So far, there is no commonly accepted definition of partial reprogramming, which is alternatively called interrupted reprogramming, and it remains to be elucidated how the process can be controlled and if it resembles a stable intermediate state. In this review, we discuss if the rejuvenation program can be uncoupled from the pluripotency program or if ageing and cell fate determination are inextricably linked. Alternative rejuvenation approaches with reprogramming into a pluripotent state, partial reprogramming, transdifferentiation, and the possibility of selective resetting of cellular clocks are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepika Puri
- Helmholtz-Institute for Biomedical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University, Medical Faculty, Aachen, Germany
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology, RWTH Aachen University Medical School, Aachen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Wagner
- Helmholtz-Institute for Biomedical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University, Medical Faculty, Aachen, Germany
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology, RWTH Aachen University Medical School, Aachen, Germany
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23
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Khalil R, Diab-Assaf M, Lemaitre JM. Emerging Therapeutic Approaches to Target the Dark Side of Senescent Cells: New Hopes to Treat Aging as a Disease and to Delay Age-Related Pathologies. Cells 2023; 12:915. [PMID: 36980256 PMCID: PMC10047596 DOI: 10.3390/cells12060915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Life expectancy has drastically increased over the last few decades worldwide, with important social and medical burdens and costs. To stay healthy longer and to avoid chronic disease have become essential issues. Organismal aging is a complex process that involves progressive destruction of tissue functionality and loss of regenerative capacity. One of the most important aging hallmarks is cellular senescence, which is a stable state of cell cycle arrest that occurs in response to cumulated cell stresses and damages. Cellular senescence is a physiological mechanism that has both beneficial and detrimental consequences. Senescence limits tumorigenesis, lifelong tissue damage, and is involved in different biological processes, such as morphogenesis, regeneration, and wound healing. However, in the elderly, senescent cells increasingly accumulate in several organs and secrete a combination of senescence associated factors, contributing to the development of various age-related diseases, including cancer. Several studies have revealed major molecular pathways controlling the senescent phenotype, as well as the ones regulating its interactions with the immune system. Attenuating the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) or eliminating senescent cells have emerged as attractive strategies aiming to reverse or delay the onset of aging diseases. Here, we review current senotherapies designed to suppress the deleterious effect of SASP by senomorphics or to selectively kill senescent cells by "senolytics" or by immune system-based approaches. These recent investigations are promising as radical new controls of aging pathologies and associated multimorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roula Khalil
- IRMB, University Montpellier, INSERM, 34090 Montpellier, France;
| | - Mona Diab-Assaf
- Fanar Faculty of Sciences II, Lebanese University, Beirut P.O. Box 90656, Lebanon;
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24
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Jones RG, Dimet-Wiley A, Haghani A, da Silva FM, Brightwell CR, Lim S, Khadgi S, Wen Y, Dungan CM, Brooke RT, Greene NP, Peterson CA, McCarthy JJ, Horvath S, Watowich SJ, Fry CS, Murach KA. A molecular signature defining exercise adaptation with ageing and in vivo partial reprogramming in skeletal muscle. J Physiol 2023; 601:763-782. [PMID: 36533424 PMCID: PMC9987218 DOI: 10.1113/jp283836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Exercise promotes functional improvements in aged tissues, but the extent to which it simulates partial molecular reprogramming is unknown. Using transcriptome profiling from (1) a skeletal muscle-specific in vivo Oct3/4, Klf4, Sox2 and Myc (OKSM) reprogramming-factor expression murine model; (2) an in vivo inducible muscle-specific Myc induction murine model; (3) a translatable high-volume hypertrophic exercise training approach in aged mice; and (4) human exercise muscle biopsies, we collectively defined exercise-induced genes that are common to partial reprogramming. Late-life exercise training lowered murine DNA methylation age according to several contemporary muscle-specific clocks. A comparison of the murine soleus transcriptome after late-life exercise training to the soleus transcriptome after OKSM induction revealed an overlapping signature that included higher JunB and Sun1. Also, within this signature, downregulation of specific mitochondrial and muscle-enriched genes was conserved in skeletal muscle of long-term exercise-trained humans; among these was muscle-specific Abra/Stars. Myc is the OKSM factor most induced by exercise in muscle and was elevated following exercise training in aged mice. A pulse of MYC rewired the global soleus muscle methylome, and the transcriptome after a MYC pulse partially recapitulated OKSM induction. A common signature also emerged in the murine MYC-controlled and exercise adaptation transcriptomes, including lower muscle-specific Melusin and reactive oxygen species-associated Romo1. With Myc, OKSM and exercise training in mice, as well habitual exercise in humans, the complex I accessory subunit Ndufb11 was lower; low Ndufb11 is linked to longevity in rodents. Collectively, exercise shares similarities with genetic in vivo partial reprogramming. KEY POINTS: Advances in the last decade related to cellular epigenetic reprogramming (e.g. DNA methylome remodelling) toward a pluripotent state via the Yamanaka transcription factors Oct3/4, Klf4, Sox2 and Myc (OKSM) provide a window into potential mechanisms for combatting the deleterious effects of cellular ageing. Using global gene expression analysis, we compared the effects of in vivo OKSM-mediated partial reprogramming in skeletal muscle fibres of mice to the effects of late-life murine exercise training in muscle. Myc is the Yamanaka factor most induced by exercise in skeletal muscle, and so we compared the MYC-controlled transcriptome in muscle to Yamanaka factor-mediated and exercise adaptation mRNA landscapes in mice and humans. A single pulse of MYC is sufficient to remodel the muscle methylome. We identify partial reprogramming-associated genes that are innately altered by exercise training and conserved in humans, and propose that MYC contributes to some of these responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald G. Jones
- University of Arkansas, Exercise Science Research Center, Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, Fayetteville, AR, USA
| | | | - Amin Haghani
- University of California Los Angeles, Department of Human Genetics, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Altos Labs, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Francielly Morena da Silva
- University of Arkansas, Exercise Science Research Center, Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, Fayetteville, AR, USA
- University of Arkansas, Cachexia Research Laboratory, Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, Fayetteville, AR, USA
| | - Camille R. Brightwell
- University of Kentucky Center for Muscle Biology, Lexington, KY, USA
- University of Kentucky, Department of Athletic Training and Clinical Nutrition, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Seongkyun Lim
- University of Arkansas, Exercise Science Research Center, Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, Fayetteville, AR, USA
- University of Arkansas, Cachexia Research Laboratory, Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, Fayetteville, AR, USA
| | - Sabin Khadgi
- University of Arkansas, Exercise Science Research Center, Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, Fayetteville, AR, USA
| | - Yuan Wen
- University of Kentucky Center for Muscle Biology, Lexington, KY, USA
- University of Kentucky, Department of Physical Therapy, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Cory M. Dungan
- University of Kentucky Center for Muscle Biology, Lexington, KY, USA
- University of Kentucky, Department of Physical Therapy, Lexington, KY, USA
| | | | - Nicholas P. Greene
- University of Arkansas, Exercise Science Research Center, Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, Fayetteville, AR, USA
- University of Arkansas, Cachexia Research Laboratory, Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, Fayetteville, AR, USA
- University of Arkansas, Cell and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, Fayetteville, AR, USA
| | - Charlotte A. Peterson
- University of Kentucky Center for Muscle Biology, Lexington, KY, USA
- University of Kentucky, Department of Physical Therapy, Lexington, KY, USA
- University of Kentucky, Department of Physiology, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - John J. McCarthy
- Altos Labs, San Diego, CA, USA
- University of Kentucky, Department of Physiology, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Steve Horvath
- University of California Los Angeles, Department of Human Genetics, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Altos Labs, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Stanley J. Watowich
- Ridgeline Therapeutics, Houston, TX, USA
- University of Texas Medical Branch, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Christopher S. Fry
- University of Kentucky Center for Muscle Biology, Lexington, KY, USA
- University of Kentucky, Department of Athletic Training and Clinical Nutrition, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Kevin A. Murach
- University of Arkansas, Exercise Science Research Center, Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, Fayetteville, AR, USA
- University of Arkansas, Cell and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, Fayetteville, AR, USA
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25
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Pessina P, Di Stefano B. Early Life Reprogramming-Based Treatment Promotes Longevity. Cell Reprogram 2023; 25:9-10. [PMID: 36594927 PMCID: PMC9963505 DOI: 10.1089/cell.2022.0153] [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] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Short-term expression of Yamanaka factors early in life promotes epigenetic reprogramming and an increased healthy lifespan in a mouse model of accelerated aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Pessina
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Bruno Di Stefano
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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26
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Milhavet O, Lemaitre JM. Single short reprogramming early in life increases healthspan. Aging (Albany NY) 2022; 14:9779-9781. [PMID: 36585922 PMCID: PMC9831720 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ollivier Milhavet
- IRMB, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
- IRMB, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Jean-Marc Lemaitre
- IRMB, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
- IRMB, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, CNRS, Montpellier, France
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27
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Abstract
'Age reprogramming' refers to the process by which the molecular and cellular pathways of a cell that are subject to age-related decline are rejuvenated without passage through an embryonic stage. This process differs from the rejuvenation observed in differentiated derivatives of induced pluripotent stem cells, which involves passage through an embryonic stage and loss of cellular identity. Accordingly, the study of age reprogramming can provide an understanding of how ageing can be reversed while retaining cellular identity and the specialised function(s) of a cell, which will be of benefit to regenerative medicine. Here, we highlight recent work that has provided a more nuanced understanding of age reprogramming and point to some open questions in the field that might be explored in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prim B. Singh
- Department of Medicine, Nazarbayev University School of Medicine, 5/1 Kerei Zhanibek Khandar Street, Astana 010000, Republic of Kazakhstan,Author for correspondence ()
| | - Assem Zhakupova
- Department of Medicine, Nazarbayev University School of Medicine, 5/1 Kerei Zhanibek Khandar Street, Astana 010000, Republic of Kazakhstan
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28
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Epigenetic regulation of aging: implications for interventions of aging and diseases. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:374. [PMID: 36336680 PMCID: PMC9637765 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01211-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging is accompanied by the decline of organismal functions and a series of prominent hallmarks, including genetic and epigenetic alterations. These aging-associated epigenetic changes include DNA methylation, histone modification, chromatin remodeling, non-coding RNA (ncRNA) regulation, and RNA modification, all of which participate in the regulation of the aging process, and hence contribute to aging-related diseases. Therefore, understanding the epigenetic mechanisms in aging will provide new avenues to develop strategies to delay aging. Indeed, aging interventions based on manipulating epigenetic mechanisms have led to the alleviation of aging or the extension of the lifespan in animal models. Small molecule-based therapies and reprogramming strategies that enable epigenetic rejuvenation have been developed for ameliorating or reversing aging-related conditions. In addition, adopting health-promoting activities, such as caloric restriction, exercise, and calibrating circadian rhythm, has been demonstrated to delay aging. Furthermore, various clinical trials for aging intervention are ongoing, providing more evidence of the safety and efficacy of these therapies. Here, we review recent work on the epigenetic regulation of aging and outline the advances in intervention strategies for aging and age-associated diseases. A better understanding of the critical roles of epigenetics in the aging process will lead to more clinical advances in the prevention of human aging and therapy of aging-related diseases.
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