1
|
Karwacki-Neisius V, Jang A, Cukuroglu E, Tai A, Jiao A, Predes D, Yoon J, Brookes E, Chen J, Iberg A, Halbritter F, Õunap K, Gecz J, Schlaeger TM, Ho Sui S, Göke J, He X, Lehtinen MK, Pomeroy SL, Shi Y. WNT signalling control by KDM5C during development affects cognition. Nature 2024; 627:594-603. [PMID: 38383780 PMCID: PMC10954547 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07067-y] [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: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Although KDM5C is one of the most frequently mutated genes in X-linked intellectual disability1, the exact mechanisms that lead to cognitive impairment remain unknown. Here we use human patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells and Kdm5c knockout mice to conduct cellular, transcriptomic, chromatin and behavioural studies. KDM5C is identified as a safeguard to ensure that neurodevelopment occurs at an appropriate timescale, the disruption of which leads to intellectual disability. Specifically, there is a developmental window during which KDM5C directly controls WNT output to regulate the timely transition of primary to intermediate progenitor cells and consequently neurogenesis. Treatment with WNT signalling modulators at specific times reveal that only a transient alteration of the canonical WNT signalling pathway is sufficient to rescue the transcriptomic and chromatin landscapes in patient-derived cells and to induce these changes in wild-type cells. Notably, WNT inhibition during this developmental period also rescues behavioural changes of Kdm5c knockout mice. Conversely, a single injection of WNT3A into the brains of wild-type embryonic mice cause anxiety and memory alterations. Our work identifies KDM5C as a crucial sentinel for neurodevelopment and sheds new light on KDM5C mutation-associated intellectual disability. The results also increase our general understanding of memory and anxiety formation, with the identification of WNT functioning in a transient nature to affect long-lasting cognitive function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Violetta Karwacki-Neisius
- Division of Newborn Medicine and Epigenetics Program, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Ahram Jang
- Division of Newborn Medicine and Epigenetics Program, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Engin Cukuroglu
- Computational and Systems Biology, Genome Institute of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Albert Tai
- Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Data Intensive Studies Center, Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA
| | - Alan Jiao
- Division of Newborn Medicine and Epigenetics Program, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Danilo Predes
- Department of Neurology, F. M Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joon Yoon
- Department of Biostatistics, The Harvard Chan School of Public Health, Bioinformatics Core, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Emily Brookes
- Division of Newborn Medicine and Epigenetics Program, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Jiekai Chen
- Division of Newborn Medicine and Epigenetics Program, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Aimee Iberg
- Division of Newborn Medicine and Epigenetics Program, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Florian Halbritter
- Children's Cancer Research Institute, St Anna Kinderkrebsforschung, Vienna, Austria
| | - Katrin Õunap
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Genetic and Personalized Medicine Clinic, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Jozef Gecz
- Adelaide Medical School and Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Thorsten M Schlaeger
- Stem Cell Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shannan Ho Sui
- Department of Biostatistics, The Harvard Chan School of Public Health, Bioinformatics Core, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jonathan Göke
- Computational and Systems Biology, Genome Institute of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xi He
- Department of Neurology, F. M Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Maria K Lehtinen
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Scott L Pomeroy
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yang Shi
- Division of Newborn Medicine and Epigenetics Program, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Chatterjee D, Beaulieu JM. Inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase 3 by lithium, a mechanism in search of specificity. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:1028963. [PMID: 36504683 PMCID: PMC9731798 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1028963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of Glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3) is a popular explanation for the effects of lithium ions on mood regulation in bipolar disorder and other mental illnesses, including major depression, cyclothymia, and schizophrenia. Contribution of GSK3 is supported by evidence obtained from animal and patient derived model systems. However, the two GSK3 enzymes, GSK3α and GSK3β, have more than 100 validated substrates. They are thus central hubs for major biological functions, such as dopamine-glutamate neurotransmission, synaptic plasticity (Hebbian and homeostatic), inflammation, circadian regulation, protein synthesis, metabolism, inflammation, and mitochondrial functions. The intricate contributions of GSK3 to several biological processes make it difficult to identify specific mechanisms of mood stabilization for therapeutic development. Identification of GSK3 substrates involved in lithium therapeutic action is thus critical. We provide an overview of GSK3 biological functions and substrates for which there is evidence for a contribution to lithium effects. A particular focus is given to four of these: the transcription factor cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB), the RNA-binding protein FXR1, kinesin subunits, and the cytoskeletal regulator CRMP2. An overview of how co-regulation of these substrates may result in shared outcomes is also presented. Better understanding of how inhibition of GSK3 contributes to the therapeutic effects of lithium should allow for identification of more specific targets for future drug development. It may also provide a framework for the understanding of how lithium effects overlap with those of other drugs such as ketamine and antipsychotics, which also inhibit brain GSK3.
Collapse
|
3
|
Moon W, Ji E, Shin J, Kwon JS, Kim KW. Effect of valproate and lithium on dementia onset risk in bipolar disorder patients. Sci Rep 2022; 12:14142. [PMID: 35986042 PMCID: PMC9391483 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-18350-1] [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: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Although valproate and lithium are most commonly prescribed for bipolar disorder patients, studies comparing their effects on the risk of dementia are limited. Choosing a safer mood stabilizer is clinically crucial as elderly bipolar disorder patients are at high risk of dementia onset. Therefore, we aim to evaluate and compare the effects of valproate and lithium on the risk of dementia in elderly bipolar disorder patients. This study involved 4784 bipolar disorder patients aged 50 years or older from the Korean Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service database. We estimated the risk of dementia in valproate-only users, lithium-only users, and both users compared to both medication non-users using multivariable Cox proportional hazard models. Compared to non-users, valproate-only users and both users showed a higher risk of dementia (59% and 62%, respectively). In sub-group analysis, valproate increased the dementia risk when prescribed for at least 59 days or 23 cumulative defined daily doses. However, the dementia risk associated with lithium is unclear. Therefore, we concluded that lithium has the potential to be the safer choice as a mood stabilizer over valproate for elderly bipolar disorder patients considering the risk of dementia.
Collapse
|
4
|
Schiavi S, Carbone E, Melancia F, di Masi A, Jarjat M, Brau F, Cardarelli S, Giorgi M, Bardoni B, Trezza V. Phosphodiesterase 2A inhibition corrects the aberrant behavioral traits observed in genetic and environmental preclinical models of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:119. [PMID: 35338117 PMCID: PMC8956682 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-01885-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pharmacological inhibition of phosphodiesterase 2A (PDE2A), which catalyzes the hydrolysis of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), has recently been proposed as a novel therapeutic tool for Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), the leading monogenic cause of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Here, we investigated the role of PDE2A in ASD pathogenesis using two rat models that reflect one of either the genetic or environmental factors involved in the human disease: the genetic Fmr1-Δexon 8 rat model and the environmental rat model based on prenatal exposure to valproic acid (VPA, 500 mg/kg). Prior to behavioral testing, the offspring was treated with the PDE2A inhibitor BAY607550 (0.05 mg/kg at infancy, 0.1 mg/kg at adolescence and adulthood). Socio-communicative symptoms were assessed in both models through the ultrasonic vocalization test at infancy and three-chamber test at adolescence and adulthood, while cognitive impairments were assessed by the novel object recognition test in Fmr1-Δexon 8 rats (adolescence and adulthood) and by the inhibitory avoidance test in VPA-exposed rats (adulthood). PDE2A enzymatic activity in VPA-exposed infant rats was also assessed. In line with the increased PDE2A enzymatic activity previously observed in the brain of Fmr1-KO animals, we found an altered upstream regulation of PDE2A activity in the brain of VPA-exposed rats at an early developmental age (p < 0.05). Pharmacological inhibition of PDE2A normalized the communicative (p < 0.01, p < 0.05), social (p < 0.001, p < 0.05), and cognitive impairment (p < 0.001) displayed by both Fmr1-Δexon 8 and VPA-exposed rats. Altogether, these data highlight a key role of PDE2A in brain development and point to PDE2A inhibition as a promising pharmacological approach for the deficits common to both FXS and ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Schiavi
- grid.8509.40000000121622106Deptartment of Science, University “Roma Tre”, Rome, Italy
| | - Emilia Carbone
- grid.8509.40000000121622106Deptartment of Science, University “Roma Tre”, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Melancia
- grid.8509.40000000121622106Deptartment of Science, University “Roma Tre”, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra di Masi
- grid.8509.40000000121622106Deptartment of Science, University “Roma Tre”, Rome, Italy
| | - Marielle Jarjat
- grid.429194.30000 0004 0638 0649Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, IPMC, 06560 Valbonne, France
| | - Fréderic Brau
- grid.429194.30000 0004 0638 0649Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, IPMC, 06560 Valbonne, France
| | - Silvia Cardarelli
- grid.7841.aDeptartment of Biology and Biotechnology “Charles Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Giorgi
- grid.7841.aDeptartment of Biology and Biotechnology “Charles Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Bardoni
- Université Côte d'Azur, Inserm, CNRS, IPMC, 06560, Valbonne, France.
| | - Viviana Trezza
- Deptartment of Science, University "Roma Tre", Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Westmark PR, Garrone B, Ombrato R, Milanese C, Di Giorgio FP, Westmark CJ. Testing Fmr1 KO Phenotypes in Response to GSK3 Inhibitors: SB216763 versus AFC03127. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:751307. [PMID: 34690696 PMCID: PMC8529056 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.751307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3) is a proline-directed serine-threonine kinase that is associated with several neurological disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease and fragile X syndrome (FXS). We tested the efficacy of a novel GSK3 inhibitor AFC03127, which was developed by Angelini Pharma, in comparison to the metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 inhibitor 2-Methyl-6-(phenylethynyl)pyridine hydrochloride (MPEP) and the GSK3 inhibitor SB216763 in in vivo and in vitro assays in Fmr1KO mice, a mouse model useful for the study of FXS. The in vivo assay tested susceptibility to audiogenic-induced seizures (AGS) whereas the in vitro assays assessed biomarker expression and dendritic spine length and density in cultured primary neurons as a function of drug dose. MPEP and SB216763 attenuated AGS in Fmr1KO mice, whereas AFC03127 did not. MPEP and AFC03127 significantly reduced dendritic expression of amyloid-beta protein precursor (APP). All drugs rescued spine length and the ratio of mature dendritic spines. Spine density was not statistically different between vehicle and GSK3 inhibitor-treated cells. The drugs were tested over a wide concentration range in the in vitro assays to determine dose responses. A bell-shaped dose response decrease in APP expression was observed in response to AFC03127, which was more effective than SB216763. These findings confirm previous studies demonstrating differential effects of various GSK3 inhibitors on AGS propensity in Fmr1KO mice and confirm APP as a downstream biomarker that is responsive to GSK3 activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pamela R Westmark
- Department of Neurology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
| | | | | | | | | | - Cara J Westmark
- Department of Neurology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States.,Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pak TK, Carter CS, Zhang Q, Huang SC, Searby C, Hsu Y, Taugher RJ, Vogel T, Cychosz CC, Genova R, Moreira NN, Stevens H, Wemmie JA, Pieper AA, Wang K, Sheffield VC. A mouse model of Bardet-Biedl Syndrome has impaired fear memory, which is rescued by lithium treatment. PLoS Genet 2021; 17:e1009484. [PMID: 33886537 PMCID: PMC8061871 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary cilia are microtubule-based organelles present on most cells that regulate many physiological processes, ranging from maintaining energy homeostasis to renal function. However, the role of these structures in the regulation of behavior remains unknown. To study the role of cilia in behavior, we employ mouse models of the human ciliopathy, Bardet-Biedl Syndrome (BBS). Here, we demonstrate that BBS mice have significant impairments in context fear conditioning, a form of associative learning. Moreover, we show that postnatal deletion of BBS gene function, as well as congenital deletion, specifically in the forebrain, impairs context fear conditioning. Analyses indicated that these behavioral impairments are not the result of impaired hippocampal long-term potentiation. However, our results indicate that these behavioral impairments are the result of impaired hippocampal neurogenesis. Two-week treatment with lithium chloride partially restores the proliferation of hippocampal neurons which leads to a rescue of context fear conditioning. Overall, our results identify a novel role of cilia genes in hippocampal neurogenesis and long-term context fear conditioning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas K. Pak
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
- Neuroscience Program, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Calvin S. Carter
- Department of Pediatrics, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Qihong Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Sunny C. Huang
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Charles Searby
- Department of Pediatrics, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Ying Hsu
- Department of Pediatrics, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Rebecca J. Taugher
- Department of Psychiatry, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Tim Vogel
- Department of Pediatrics, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Christopher C. Cychosz
- Department of Orthopedics, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Rachel Genova
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Nina N. Moreira
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Hanna Stevens
- Neuroscience Program, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
| | - John A. Wemmie
- Neuroscience Program, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Andrew A. Pieper
- Harrington Discovery Institute, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
- Geriatric Psychiatry, GRECC, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center; Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
- Institute for Transformative Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
- Weill Cornell Autism Research Program, Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, New York, United States of America
- Department of Neuroscience, Case Western Reserve University, School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Kai Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Val C. Sheffield
- Neuroscience Program, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Worthen RJ, Garzon Zighelboim SS, Torres Jaramillo CS, Beurel E. Anti-inflammatory IL-10 administration rescues depression-associated learning and memory deficits in mice. J Neuroinflammation 2020; 17:246. [PMID: 32828124 PMCID: PMC7443292 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-020-01922-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Major depressive disorder is a widespread mood disorder. One of the most debilitating symptoms patients often experience is cognitive impairment. Recent findings suggest that inflammation is associated with depression and impaired cognition. Pro-inflammatory cytokines are elevated in the blood of depressed patients and impair learning and memory processes, suggesting that an anti-inflammatory approach might be beneficial for both depression and cognition. METHODS We subjected mice to the learned helplessness paradigm and evaluated novel object recognition and spatial memory. Mice were treated with IL-10 intranasally or/and microglia cells were depleted using PLX5622. Statistical differences were tested using ANOVA or t tests. RESULTS We first established a mouse model of depression in which learning and memory are impaired. We found that learned helplessness (LH) impairs novel object recognition (NOR) and spatial working memory. LH mice also exhibit reduced hippocampal dendritic spine density and increased microglial activation compared to non-shocked (NS) mice or mice that were subjected to the learned helpless paradigm but did not exhibit learned helplessness (non-learned helpless or NLH). These effects are mediated by microglia, as treatment with PLX5622, which depletes microglia, restores learning and memory and hippocampal dendritic spine density in LH mice. However, PLX5622 also impairs learning and memory and reduces hippocampal dendritic spine density in NLH mice, suggesting that microglia in NLH mice produce molecules that promote learning and memory. We found that microglial interleukin (IL)-10 levels are reduced in LH mice, and IL-10 administration is sufficient to restore NOR, spatial working memory, and hippocampal dendritic spine density in LH mice, and in NLH mice treated with PLX5622 consistent with a pro-cognitive role for IL-10. CONCLUSIONS Altogether these data demonstrate the critical role of IL-10 in promoting learning and memory after learned helplessness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan J Worthen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Gautier Building room 415, 1011 NW 15th Street, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Susan S Garzon Zighelboim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Gautier Building room, 4151011 NW 15th Street, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Camila S Torres Jaramillo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Gautier Building room, 4151011 NW 15th Street, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Eleonore Beurel
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Gautier Building room 415, 1011 NW 15th Street, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Gautier Building room, 4151011 NW 15th Street, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
McCamphill PK, Stoppel LJ, Senter RK, Lewis MC, Heynen AJ, Stoppel DC, Sridhar V, Collins KA, Shi X, Pan JQ, Madison J, Cottrell JR, Huber KM, Scolnick EM, Holson EB, Wagner FF, Bear MF. Selective inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase 3α corrects pathophysiology in a mouse model of fragile X syndrome. Sci Transl Med 2020; 12:eaam8572. [PMID: 32434848 PMCID: PMC8095719 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aam8572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Revised: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome is caused by FMR1 gene silencing and loss of the encoded fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP), which binds to mRNA and regulates translation. Studies in the Fmr1-/y mouse model of fragile X syndrome indicate that aberrant cerebral protein synthesis downstream of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) signaling contributes to disease pathogenesis, but clinical trials using mGluR5 inhibitors were not successful. Animal studies suggested that treatment with lithium might be an alternative approach. Targets of lithium include paralogs of glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3), and nonselective small-molecule inhibitors of these enzymes improved disease phenotypes in a fragile X syndrome mouse model. However, the potential therapeutic use of GSK3 inhibitors has been hampered by toxicity arising from inhibition of both α and β paralogs. Recently, we developed GSK3 inhibitors with sufficient paralog selectivity to avoid a known toxic consequence of dual inhibition, that is, increased β-catenin stabilization. We show here that inhibition of GSK3α, but not GSK3β, corrected aberrant protein synthesis, audiogenic seizures, and sensory cortex hyperexcitability in Fmr1-/y mice. Although inhibiting either paralog prevented induction of NMDA receptor-dependent long-term depression (LTD) in the hippocampus, only inhibition of GSK3α impaired mGluR5-dependent and protein synthesis-dependent LTD. Inhibition of GSK3α additionally corrected deficits in learning and memory in Fmr1-/y mice; unlike mGluR5 inhibitors, there was no evidence of tachyphylaxis or enhanced psychotomimetic-induced hyperlocomotion. GSK3α selective inhibitors may have potential as a therapeutic approach for treating fragile X syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick K McCamphill
- Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Laura J Stoppel
- Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Rebecca K Senter
- Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Michael C Lewis
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Arnold J Heynen
- Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - David C Stoppel
- Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Vinay Sridhar
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Neuroscience, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Katie A Collins
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Xi Shi
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Jen Q Pan
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Jon Madison
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Jeffrey R Cottrell
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Kimberly M Huber
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Neuroscience, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Edward M Scolnick
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Edward B Holson
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Florence F Wagner
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.
| | - Mark F Bear
- Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sawicka K, Hale CR, Park CY, Fak JJ, Gresack JE, Van Driesche SJ, Kang JJ, Darnell JC, Darnell RB. FMRP has a cell-type-specific role in CA1 pyramidal neurons to regulate autism-related transcripts and circadian memory. eLife 2019; 8:e46919. [PMID: 31860442 PMCID: PMC6924960 DOI: 10.7554/elife.46919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Loss of the RNA binding protein FMRP causes Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), the most common cause of inherited intellectual disability, yet it is unknown how FMRP function varies across brain regions and cell types and how this contributes to disease pathophysiology. Here we use conditional tagging of FMRP and CLIP (FMRP cTag CLIP) to examine FMRP mRNA targets in hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons, a critical cell type for learning and memory relevant to FXS phenotypes. Integrating these data with analysis of ribosome-bound transcripts in these neurons revealed CA1-enriched binding of autism-relevant mRNAs, and CA1-specific regulation of transcripts encoding circadian proteins. This contrasted with different targets in cerebellar granule neurons, and was consistent with circadian defects in hippocampus-dependent memory in Fmr1 knockout mice. These findings demonstrate differential FMRP-dependent regulation of mRNAs across neuronal cell types that may contribute to phenotypes such as memory defects and sleep disturbance associated with FXS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kirsty Sawicka
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuro-OncologyThe Rockefeller UniversityNew YorkUnited States
| | - Caryn R Hale
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuro-OncologyThe Rockefeller UniversityNew YorkUnited States
| | - Christopher Y Park
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuro-OncologyThe Rockefeller UniversityNew YorkUnited States
| | - John J Fak
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuro-OncologyThe Rockefeller UniversityNew YorkUnited States
| | - Jodi E Gresack
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular NeuroscienceThe Rockefeller UniversityNew YorkUnited States
| | - Sarah J Van Driesche
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuro-OncologyThe Rockefeller UniversityNew YorkUnited States
| | - Jin Joo Kang
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuro-OncologyThe Rockefeller UniversityNew YorkUnited States
| | - Jennifer C Darnell
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuro-OncologyThe Rockefeller UniversityNew YorkUnited States
| | - Robert B Darnell
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuro-OncologyThe Rockefeller UniversityNew YorkUnited States
- Howard Hughes Medical InstituteChevy ChaseUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Felgerolle C, Hébert B, Ardourel M, Meyer-Dilhet G, Menuet A, Pinto-Morais K, Bizot JC, Pichon J, Briault S, Perche O. Visual Behavior Impairments as an Aberrant Sensory Processing in the Mouse Model of Fragile X Syndrome. Front Behav Neurosci 2019; 13:228. [PMID: 31680892 PMCID: PMC6797836 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2019.00228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), the most common inherited form of human intellectual disability (ID) associated with autistic-like behaviors, is characterized by dys-sensitivity to sensory stimuli, especially vision. In the absence of Fragile Mental Retardation Protein (FMRP), both retinal and cerebral structures of the visual pathway are impaired, suggesting that perception and integration of visual stimuli are altered. However, behavioral consequences of these defects remain unknown. In this study, we used male Fmr1−/y mice to further define visual disturbances from a behavioral perspective by focusing on three traits characterizing visual modality: perception of depth, contrasts and movements. We performed specific tests (Optomotor Drum, Visual Cliff) to evaluate these visual modalities, their evolution from youth to adulthood, and to assess their involvement in a cognitive task. We show that Fmr1−/y mice exhibit alteration in their visual skills, displaying impaired perspective perception, a drop in their ability to understand a moving contrasted pattern, and a defect in contrasts discrimination. Interestingly, Fmr1−/y phenotypes remain stable over time from adolescence to late adulthood. Besides, we report that color and shape are meaningful for the achievement of a cognitive test involving object recognition. Altogether, these results underline the significance of visual behavior alterations in FXS conditions and relevance of assessing visual skills in neuropsychiatric models before performing behavioral tasks, such as cognitive assessments, that involve visual discrimination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chloé Felgerolle
- UMR7355, CNRS, Orléans, France.,Experimental and Molecular Immunology and Neurogenetics, University of Orléans, Orléans, France
| | - Betty Hébert
- UMR7355, CNRS, Orléans, France.,Experimental and Molecular Immunology and Neurogenetics, University of Orléans, Orléans, France
| | - Maryvonne Ardourel
- UMR7355, CNRS, Orléans, France.,Experimental and Molecular Immunology and Neurogenetics, University of Orléans, Orléans, France
| | - Géraldine Meyer-Dilhet
- UMR7355, CNRS, Orléans, France.,Experimental and Molecular Immunology and Neurogenetics, University of Orléans, Orléans, France
| | - Arnaud Menuet
- UMR7355, CNRS, Orléans, France.,Experimental and Molecular Immunology and Neurogenetics, University of Orléans, Orléans, France
| | - Kimberley Pinto-Morais
- UMR7355, CNRS, Orléans, France.,Experimental and Molecular Immunology and Neurogenetics, University of Orléans, Orléans, France
| | | | - Jacques Pichon
- UMR7355, CNRS, Orléans, France.,Experimental and Molecular Immunology and Neurogenetics, University of Orléans, Orléans, France
| | - Sylvain Briault
- UMR7355, CNRS, Orléans, France.,Experimental and Molecular Immunology and Neurogenetics, University of Orléans, Orléans, France.,Department of Genetics, Regional Hospital, Orléans, France
| | - Olivier Perche
- UMR7355, CNRS, Orléans, France.,Experimental and Molecular Immunology and Neurogenetics, University of Orléans, Orléans, France.,Department of Genetics, Regional Hospital, Orléans, France
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Verma V, Paul A, Amrapali Vishwanath A, Vaidya B, Clement JP. Understanding intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorders from common mouse models: synapses to behaviour. Open Biol 2019; 9:180265. [PMID: 31185809 PMCID: PMC6597757 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.180265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Normal brain development is highly dependent on the timely coordinated actions of genetic and environmental processes, and an aberration can lead to neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). Intellectual disability (ID) and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of co-occurring NDDs that affect between 3% and 5% of the world population, thus presenting a great challenge to society. This problem calls for the need to understand the pathobiology of these disorders and to design new therapeutic strategies. One approach towards this has been the development of multiple analogous mouse models. This review discusses studies conducted in the mouse models of five major monogenic causes of ID and ASDs: Fmr1, Syngap1, Mecp2, Shank2/3 and Neuroligins/Neurnexins. These studies reveal that, despite having a diverse molecular origin, the effects of these mutations converge onto similar or related aetiological pathways, consequently giving rise to the typical phenotype of cognitive, social and emotional deficits that are characteristic of ID and ASDs. This convergence, therefore, highlights common pathological nodes that can be targeted for therapy. Other than conventional therapeutic strategies such as non-pharmacological corrective methods and symptomatic alleviation, multiple studies in mouse models have successfully proved the possibility of pharmacological and genetic therapy enabling functional recovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vijaya Verma
- Neuroscience Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research , Jakkur, Bengaluru 560 064, Karnataka, India
| | - Abhik Paul
- Neuroscience Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research , Jakkur, Bengaluru 560 064, Karnataka, India
| | - Anjali Amrapali Vishwanath
- Neuroscience Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research , Jakkur, Bengaluru 560 064, Karnataka, India
| | - Bhupesh Vaidya
- Neuroscience Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research , Jakkur, Bengaluru 560 064, Karnataka, India
| | - James P Clement
- Neuroscience Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research , Jakkur, Bengaluru 560 064, Karnataka, India
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Lovastatin, not Simvastatin, Corrects Core Phenotypes in the Fragile X Mouse Model. eNeuro 2019; 6:ENEURO.0097-19.2019. [PMID: 31147392 PMCID: PMC6565377 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0097-19.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 05/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The cholesterol-lowering drug lovastatin corrects neurological phenotypes in animal models of fragile X syndrome (FX), a commonly identified genetic cause of autism and intellectual disability (ID). The therapeutic efficacy of lovastatin is being tested in clinical trials for FX; however, the structurally similar drug simvastatin has been proposed as an alternative due to an increased potency and brain penetrance. Here, we perform a side-by-side comparison of the effects of lovastatin and simvastatin treatment on two core phenotypes in Fmr1-/y mice versus WT littermates: excessive hippocampal protein synthesis and susceptibility to audiogenic seizures (AGSs). We find that simvastatin does not correct excessive hippocampal protein synthesis in the Fmr1-/y hippocampus at any dose tested. In fact, simvastatin significantly increases protein synthesis in both Fmr1-/y and WT. Moreover, injection of simvastatin does not reduce AGS in the Fmr1-/y mouse, while lovastatin significantly reduces AGS incidence and severity versus vehicle-treated animals. These results show that unlike lovastatin, simvastatin does not correct core phenotypes in the Fmr1-/y mouse model.
Collapse
|
13
|
GSK-3 β at the Intersection of Neuronal Plasticity and Neurodegeneration. Neural Plast 2019; 2019:4209475. [PMID: 31191636 PMCID: PMC6525914 DOI: 10.1155/2019/4209475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In neurons, Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3β (GSK-3β) has been shown to regulate various critical processes underlying structural and functional synaptic plasticity. Mouse models with neuron-selective expression or deletion of GSK-3β present behavioral and cognitive abnormalities, positioning this protein kinase as a key signaling molecule in normal brain functioning. Furthermore, mouse models with defective GSK-3β activity display distinct structural and behavioral abnormalities, which model some aspects of different neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. Equalizing GSK-3β activity in these mouse models by genetic or pharmacological interventions is able to rescue some of these abnormalities. Thus, GSK-3β is a relevant therapeutic target for the treatment of many brain disorders. Here, we provide an overview of how GSK-3β is regulated in physiological synaptic plasticity and how aberrant GSK-3β activity contributes to the development of dysfunctional synaptic plasticity in neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders.
Collapse
|
14
|
Kozikowski AP, Shen S, Pardo M, Tavares MT, Szarics D, Benoy V, Zimprich CA, Kutil Z, Zhang G, Bařinka C, Robers MB, Van Den Bosch L, Eubanks JH, Jope RS. Brain Penetrable Histone Deacetylase 6 Inhibitor SW-100 Ameliorates Memory and Learning Impairments in a Mouse Model of Fragile X Syndrome. ACS Chem Neurosci 2019; 10:1679-1695. [PMID: 30511829 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.8b00600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Disease-modifying therapies are needed for Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), as at present there are no effective treatments or cures. Herein, we report on a tetrahydroquinoline-based selective histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) inhibitor SW-100, its pharmacological and ADMET properties, and its ability to improve upon memory performance in a mouse model of FXS, Fmr1-/- mice. This small molecule demonstrates good brain penetrance, low-nanomolar potency for the inhibition of HDAC6 (IC50 = 2.3 nM), with at least a thousand-fold selectivity over all other class I, II, and IV HDAC isoforms. Moreover, through its inhibition of the α-tubulin deacetylase domain of HDAC6 (CD2), in cells SW-100 upregulates α-tubulin acetylation with no effect on histone acetylation and selectively restores the impaired acetylated α-tubulin levels in the hippocampus of Fmr1-/- mice. Lastly, SW-100 ameliorates several memory and learning impairments in Fmr1-/- mice, thus modeling the intellectual deficiencies associated with FXS, and hence providing a strong rationale for pursuing HDAC6-based therapies for the treatment of this rare disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sida Shen
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Marta Pardo
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida 33136, United States
| | - Maurício T. Tavares
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Dora Szarics
- Division of Genetics and Development, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Veronick Benoy
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Center for Brain & Disease (VIB) and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Zsófia Kutil
- Laboratory of Structural Biology, Institute of Biotechnology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prumyslova 595, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Guiping Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Cyril Bařinka
- Laboratory of Structural Biology, Institute of Biotechnology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prumyslova 595, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic
| | | | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Center for Brain & Disease (VIB) and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - James H. Eubanks
- Division of Genetics and Development, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Richard S. Jope
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida 33136, United States
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Yuan J, Song J, Zhu D, Sun E, Xia L, Zhang X, Gao C, Agam G, Wang X, Blomgren K, Zhu C. Lithium Treatment Is Safe in Children With Intellectual Disability. Front Mol Neurosci 2018; 11:425. [PMID: 30524233 PMCID: PMC6262083 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2018.00425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 11/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Lithium is a widely used and effective treatment for individuals with psycho-neurological disorders, and it exhibits protective and regenerative properties in multiple brain injury animal models, but the clinical experience in young children is limited due to potential toxicity. As an interim analysis, this paper reports the safety/tolerability profiles of low-dose lithium treatment in children with intellectual disability (ID) and its possible beneficial effects. In a randomized, single-center clinical trial, 124 children with ID were given either oral lithium carbonate 6 mg/kg twice per day or the same dose of calcium carbonate as a placebo (n = 62/group) for 3 months. The safety of low-dose lithium treatment in children, and all the adverse events were monitored. The effects of low-dose lithium on cognition was evaluated by intelligence quotient (IQ), adaptive capacity was assessed by the Infant-Junior Middle School Students Social-Life Abilities Scale (IJMSSSLAS), and overall performance was evaluated according to the Clinical Global Impression-Improvement (CGI-I) scale. After 3 months of lithium treatment, 13/61 children (21.3%) presented with mild side effects, including 4 (6.6%) with gastrointestinal symptoms, 4 (6.6%) with neurological symptoms, 2 (3.3%) with polyuria, and 3 (4.9%) with other symptoms—one with hyperhidrosis, one with alopecia, and one with drooling. Four children in the lithium group had elevated blood thyroid stimulating hormone, which normalized spontaneously after lithium discontinuation. Both IQ and IJMSSSAS scores increased following 3 months of lithium treatment (F = 11.03, p = 0.002 and F = 7.80, p = 0.007, respectively), but such increases were not seen in the placebo group. CGI-I scores in the lithium group were 1.25 points lower (better) than in the placebo group (F = 82.66, p < 0.001) after 3 months of treatment. In summary, lithium treatment for 3 months had only mild and reversible side effects and had positive effects on cognition and overall performance in children with ID. Clinical Trial Registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR-IPR-15007518.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junying Yuan
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury, Department of Child Rehabilitation, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Juan Song
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Dengna Zhu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury, Department of Child Rehabilitation, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Erliang Sun
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury, Department of Child Rehabilitation, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lei Xia
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiaoli Zhang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chao Gao
- Department of Child Rehabilitation, Children's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Galila Agam
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology and Psychiatry Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, Mental Health Center, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel
| | - Xiaoyang Wang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Perinatal Center, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Klas Blomgren
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Changlian Zhu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Centre for Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Costa L, Sardone LM, Bonaccorso CM, D'Antoni S, Spatuzza M, Gulisano W, Tropea MR, Puzzo D, Leopoldo M, Lacivita E, Catania MV, Ciranna L. Activation of Serotonin 5-HT 7 Receptors Modulates Hippocampal Synaptic Plasticity by Stimulation of Adenylate Cyclases and Rescues Learning and Behavior in a Mouse Model of Fragile X Syndrome. Front Mol Neurosci 2018; 11:353. [PMID: 30333723 PMCID: PMC6176069 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2018.00353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2017] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
We have previously demonstrated that activation of serotonin 5-HT7 receptors (5-HT7R) reverses metabotropic glutamate receptor-mediated long term depression (mGluR-LTD) in the hippocampus of wild-type (WT) and Fmr1 Knockout (KO) mice, a model of Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) in which mGluR-LTD is abnormally enhanced. Here, we have investigated intracellular mechanisms underlying the effect of 5-HT7R activation using patch clamp on hippocampal slices. Furthermore, we have tested whether in vivo administration of LP-211, a selective 5-HT7R agonist, can rescue learning and behavior in Fmr1 KO mice. In the presence of an adenylate cyclase blocker, mGluR-LTD was slightly enhanced in WT and therefore the difference between mGluR-LTD in WT and Fmr1 KO slices was no longer present. Conversely, activation of adenylate cyclase by either forskolin or Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase Activating Polypeptide (PACAP) completely reversed mGluR-LTD in WT and Fmr1 KO. 5-HT7R activation reversed mGluR-LTD in WT and corrected exaggerated mGluR-LTD in Fmr1 KO; this effect was abolished by blockade of either adenylate cyclase or protein kinase A (PKA). Exposure of hippocampal slices to LP-211 caused an increased phosphorylation of extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK), an intracellular effector involved in mGluR-LTD, in WT mice. Conversely, this effect was barely detectable in Fmr1 KO mice, suggesting that 5-HT7R-mediated reversal of mGluR-LTD does not require ERK stimulation. Finally, an acute in vivo administration of LP-211 improved novel object recognition (NOR) performance in WT and Fmr1 KO mice and reduced stereotyped behavior in Fmr1 KO mice. Our results indicate that mGluR-LTD in WT and Fmr1 KO slices is bidirectionally modulated in conditions of either reduced or enhanced cAMP formation. Activation of 5-HT7 receptors reverses mGluR-LTD by activation of the cAMP/PKA intracellular pathway. Importantly, a systemic administration of a 5-HT7R agonist to Fmr1 KO mice corrected learning deficits and repetitive behavior. We suggest that selective 5-HT7R agonists might become novel pharmacological tools for FXS therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lara Costa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Lara Maria Sardone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Simona D'Antoni
- Institute of Neurological Sciences (ISN), National Research Council (CNR), Catania, Italy
| | | | - Walter Gulisano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Tropea
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Daniela Puzzo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Marcello Leopoldo
- Department of Pharmacy - Drug Sciences, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Enza Lacivita
- Department of Pharmacy - Drug Sciences, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Vincenza Catania
- Oasi Research Institute, IRCCS, Troina, Italy.,Institute of Neurological Sciences (ISN), National Research Council (CNR), Catania, Italy
| | - Lucia Ciranna
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kerr F, Bjedov I, Sofola-Adesakin O. Molecular Mechanisms of Lithium Action: Switching the Light on Multiple Targets for Dementia Using Animal Models. Front Mol Neurosci 2018; 11:297. [PMID: 30210290 PMCID: PMC6121012 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2018.00297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Lithium has long been used for the treatment of psychiatric disorders, due to its robust beneficial effect as a mood stabilizing drug. Lithium’s effectiveness for improving neurological function is therefore well-described, stimulating the investigation of its potential use in several neurodegenerative conditions including Alzheimer’s (AD), Parkinson’s (PD) and Huntington’s (HD) diseases. A narrow therapeutic window for these effects, however, has led to concerted efforts to understand the molecular mechanisms of lithium action in the brain, in order to develop more selective treatments that harness its neuroprotective potential whilst limiting contraindications. Animal models have proven pivotal in these studies, with lithium displaying advantageous effects on behavior across species, including worms (C. elegans), zebrafish (Danio rerio), fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster) and rodents. Due to their susceptibility to genetic manipulation, functional genomic analyses in these model organisms have provided evidence for the main molecular determinants of lithium action, including inhibition of inositol monophosphatase (IMPA) and glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3). Accumulating pre-clinical evidence has indeed provided a basis for research into the therapeutic use of lithium for the treatment of dementia, an area of medical priority due to its increasing global impact and lack of disease-modifying drugs. Although lithium has been extensively described to prevent AD-associated amyloid and tau pathologies, this review article will focus on generic mechanisms by which lithium preserves neuronal function and improves memory in animal models of dementia. Of these, evidence from worms, flies and mice points to GSK-3 as the most robust mediator of lithium’s neuro-protective effect, but it’s interaction with downstream pathways, including Wnt/β-catenin, CREB/brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/nuclear factor-κB (NFκB), have identified multiple targets for development of drugs which harness lithium’s neurogenic, cytoprotective, synaptic maintenance, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and protein homeostasis properties, in addition to more potent and selective GSK-3 inhibitors. Lithium, therefore, has advantages as a multi-functional therapy to combat the complex molecular pathology of dementia. Animal studies will be vital, however, for comparative analyses to determine which of these defense mechanisms are most required to slow-down cognitive decline in dementia, and whether combination therapies can synergize systems to exploit lithium’s neuro-protective power while avoiding deleterious toxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Kerr
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Health & Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Ivana Bjedov
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Oyinkan Sofola-Adesakin
- Sussex Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Reducing histone acetylation rescues cognitive deficits in a mouse model of Fragile X syndrome. Nat Commun 2018; 9:2494. [PMID: 29950602 PMCID: PMC6021376 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-04869-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2017] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most prevalent inherited intellectual disability, resulting from a loss of fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP). Patients with FXS suffer lifelong cognitive disabilities, but the function of FMRP in the adult brain and the mechanism underlying age-related cognitive decline in FXS is not fully understood. Here, we report that a loss of FMRP results in increased protein synthesis of histone acetyltransferase EP300 and ubiquitination-mediated degradation of histone deacetylase HDAC1 in adult hippocampal neural stem cells (NSCs). Consequently, FMRP-deficient NSCs exhibit elevated histone acetylation and age-related NSC depletion, leading to cognitive impairment in mature adult mice. Reducing histone acetylation rescues both neurogenesis and cognitive deficits in mature adult FMRP-deficient mice. Our work reveals a role for FMRP and histone acetylation in cognition and presents a potential novel therapeutic strategy for treating adult FXS patients. Loss of fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) leads to fragile X syndrome, associated with cognitive dysfunction. Here the authors show that mice lacking FMRP show reduced hippocampal neurogenesis and cognitive deficits, which can be rescued by reducing histone acetylation.
Collapse
|
19
|
Nguyen T, Fan T, George SR, Perreault ML. Disparate Effects of Lithium and a GSK-3 Inhibitor on Neuronal Oscillatory Activity in Prefrontal Cortex and Hippocampus. Front Aging Neurosci 2018; 9:434. [PMID: 29375364 PMCID: PMC5770585 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2017.00434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) plays a critical role in cognitive dysfunction associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), yet the mechanism by which GSK-3 alters cognitive processes in other disorders, such as schizophrenia, remains unknown. In the present study, we demonstrated a role for GSK-3 in the direct regulation of neuronal oscillations in hippocampus (HIP) and prelimbic cortex (PL). A comparison of the GSK-3 inhibitors SB 216763 and lithium demonstrated disparate effects of the drugs on spatial memory and neural oscillatory activity in HIP and PL. SB 216763 administration improved spatial memory whereas lithium treatment had no effect. Analysis of neuronal local field potentials in anesthetized animals revealed that whereas both repeated SB 216763 (2.5 mg/kg) and lithium (100 mg/kg) induced a theta frequency spike in HIP at approximately 10 Hz, only SB 216763 treatment induced an overall increase in theta power (4–12 Hz) compared to vehicle. Acute administration of either drug suppressed slow (32–59 Hz) and fast (61–100 Hz) gamma power. In PL, both drugs induced an increase in theta power. Repeated SB 216763 increased HIP–PL coherence across all frequencies except delta, whereas lithium selectively suppressed delta coherence. These findings demonstrate that GSK-3 plays a direct role in the regulation of theta oscillations in regions critically involved in cognition, and highlight a potential mechanism by which GSK-3 may contribute to cognitive decline in disorders of cognitive dysfunction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tuan Nguyen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Theresa Fan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Susan R George
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Melissa L Perreault
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Li Y, Stockton ME, Bhuiyan I, Eisinger BE, Gao Y, Miller JL, Bhattacharyya A, Zhao X. MDM2 inhibition rescues neurogenic and cognitive deficits in a mouse model of fragile X syndrome. Sci Transl Med 2017; 8:336ra61. [PMID: 27122614 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aad9370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2015] [Accepted: 04/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome, the most common form of inherited intellectual disability, is caused by loss of the fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP). However, the mechanism remains unclear, and effective treatment is lacking. We show that loss of FMRP leads to activation of adult mouse neural stem cells (NSCs) and a subsequent reduction in the production of neurons. We identified the ubiquitin ligase mouse double minute 2 homolog (MDM2) as a target of FMRP. FMRP regulates Mdm2 mRNA stability, and loss of FMRP resulted in elevated MDM2 mRNA and protein. Further, we found that increased MDM2 expression led to reduced P53 expression in adult mouse NSCs, leading to alterations in NSC proliferation and differentiation. Treatment with Nutlin-3, a small molecule undergoing clinical trials for treating cancer, specifically inhibited the interaction of MDM2 with P53, and rescued neurogenic and cognitive deficits in FMRP-deficient mice. Our data reveal a potential regulatory role for FMRP in the balance between adult NSC activation and quiescence, and identify a potential new treatment for fragile X syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yue Li
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA. Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | | | - Ismat Bhuiyan
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Brian E Eisinger
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA. Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Yu Gao
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA. Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Jessica L Miller
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | | | - Xinyu Zhao
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA. Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Pardo M, Cheng Y, Velmeshev D, Magistri M, Eldar-Finkelman H, Martinez A, Faghihi MA, Jope RS, Beurel E. Intranasal siRNA administration reveals IGF2 deficiency contributes to impaired cognition in Fragile X syndrome mice. JCI Insight 2017; 2:e91782. [PMID: 28352664 PMCID: PMC5358485 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.91782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecular mechanisms underlying learning and memory remain imprecisely understood, and restorative interventions are lacking. We report that intranasal administration of siRNAs can be used to identify targets important in cognitive processes and to improve genetically impaired learning and memory. In mice modeling the intellectual deficiency of Fragile X syndrome, intranasally administered siRNA targeting glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK3β), histone deacetylase-1 (HDAC1), HDAC2, or HDAC3 diminished cognitive impairments. In WT mice, intranasally administered brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) siRNA or HDAC4 siRNA impaired learning and memory, which was partially due to reduced insulin-like growth factor-2 (IGF2) levels because the BDNF siRNA- or HDAC4 siRNA-induced cognitive impairments were ameliorated by intranasal IGF2 administration. In Fmr1-/- mice, hippocampal IGF2 was deficient, and learning and memory impairments were ameliorated by IGF2 intranasal administration. Therefore intranasal siRNA administration is an effective means to identify mechanisms regulating cognition and to modulate therapeutic targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Pardo
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Yuyan Cheng
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | | | | | - Hagit Eldar-Finkelman
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ana Martinez
- Centro de Investigaciones Biologicas-CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Richard S Jope
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Eleonore Beurel
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Pardo M, Beurel E, Jope RS. Cotinine administration improves impaired cognition in the mouse model of Fragile X syndrome. Eur J Neurosci 2016; 45:490-498. [PMID: 27775852 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.13446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Revised: 10/19/2016] [Accepted: 10/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Cotinine is the major metabolite of nicotine and has displayed some capacity for improving cognition in mouse models following chronic administration. We tested if acute cotinine treatment is capable of improving cognition in the mouse model of Fragile X syndrome, Fmr1-/- knockout mice, and if this is related to inhibition by cotinine treatment of glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK3β), which is abnormally active in Fmr1-/- mice. Acute cotinine treatment increased the inhibitory serine-phosphorylation of GSK3β and the activating phosphorylation of AKT, which can mediate serine-phosphorylation of GSK3β, in both wild-type and Fmr1-/- mouse hippocampus. Acute cotinine treatment improved cognitive functions of Fmr1-/- mice in coordinate and categorical spatial processing, novel object recognition, and temporal ordering. However, cotinine failed to restore impaired cognition in GSK3β knockin mice, in which a serine9-to-alanine9 mutation blocks the inhibitory serine phosphorylation of GSK3β, causing GSK3β to be hyperactive. These results indicate that acute cotinine treatment effectively repairs impairments of these four cognitive tasks in Fmr1-/- mice, and suggest that this cognition-enhancing effect of cotinine is linked to its induction of inhibitory serine-phosphorylation of GSK3. Taken together, these results show that nicotinic receptor agonists can act as cognitive enhancers in a mouse model of Fragile X syndrome and highlight the potential role of inhibiting GSK3β in mediating the beneficial effects of cotinine on memory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Pardo
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Eleonore Beurel
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Richard S Jope
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Zanni G, Di Martino E, Omelyanenko A, Andäng M, Delle U, Elmroth K, Blomgren K. Lithium increases proliferation of hippocampal neural stem/progenitor cells and rescues irradiation-induced cell cycle arrest in vitro. Oncotarget 2016; 6:37083-97. [PMID: 26397227 PMCID: PMC4741917 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.5191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy in children causes debilitating cognitive decline, partly linked to impaired neurogenesis. Irradiation targets primarily cancer cells but also endogenous neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs) leading to cell death or cell cycle arrest. Here we evaluated the effects of lithium on proliferation, cell cycle and DNA damage after irradiation of young NSPCs in vitro. NSPCs were treated with 1 or 3 mM LiCl and we investigated proliferation capacity (neurosphere volume and bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation). Using flow cytometry, we analysed apoptosis (annexin V), cell cycle (propidium iodide) and DNA damage (γH2AX) after irradiation (3.5 Gy) of lithium-treated NSPCs. Lithium increased BrdU incorporation and, dose-dependently, the number of cells in replicative phase as well as neurosphere growth. Irradiation induced cell cycle arrest in G1 and G2/M phases. Treatment with 3 mM LiCl was sufficient to increase NSPCs in S phase, boost neurosphere growth and reduce DNA damage. Lithium did not affect the levels of apoptosis, suggesting that it does not rescue NSPCs committed to apoptosis due to accumulated DNA damage. Lithium is a very promising candidate for protection of the juvenile brain from radiotherapy and for its potential to thereby improve the quality of life for those children who survive their cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Zanni
- Center for Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Karolinska Institute, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Elena Di Martino
- Center for Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Karolinska Institute, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Omelyanenko
- Karolinska Institute, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Michael Andäng
- Karolinska Institute, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Stockholm, Sweden.,Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Ulla Delle
- Department of Oncology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kecke Elmroth
- Department of Oncology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Klas Blomgren
- Karolinska Institute, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Brzózka MM, Havemann-Reinecke U, Wichert SP, Falkai P, Rossner MJ. Molecular Signatures of Psychosocial Stress and Cognition Are Modulated by Chronic Lithium Treatment. Schizophr Bull 2016; 42 Suppl 1:S22-33. [PMID: 26714764 PMCID: PMC4960433 DOI: 10.1093/schbul/sbv194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Chronic psychosocial stress is an important environmental risk factor of psychiatric diseases such as schizophrenia. Social defeat in rodents has been shown to be associated with maladaptive cellular and behavioral consequences including cognitive impairments. Although gene expression changes upon psychosocial stress have been described, a comprehensive transcriptome profiling study at the global level in precisely defined hippocampal subregions which are associated with learning has been lacking. In this study, we exposed adult C57Bl/6N mice for 3 weeks to "resident-intruder" paradigm and combined laser capture microdissection with microarray analyses to identify transcriptomic signatures of chronic psychosocial stress in dentate gyrus and CA3 subregion of the dorsal hippocampus. At the individual transcript level, we detected subregion specific stress responses whereas gene set enrichment analyses (GSEA) identified several common pathways upregulated upon chronic psychosocial stress related to proteasomal function and energy supply. Behavioral profiling revealed stress-associated impairments most prominent in fear memory formation which was prevented by chronic lithium treatment. Thus, we again microdissected the CA3 region and performed global transcriptome analysis to search for molecular signatures altered by lithium treatment in stressed animals. By combining GSEA with unsupervised clustering, we detected pathways that are regulated by stress and lithium in the CA3 region of the hippocampus including proteasomal components, oxidative phosphorylation, and anti-oxidative mechanisms. Our study thus provides insight into hidden molecular phenotypes of chronic psychosocial stress and lithium treatment and proves a beneficial role for lithium treatment as an agent attenuating negative effects of psychosocial stress on cognition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena M. Brzózka
- Molecular and Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychiatry, Ludwig-Maximillians-University, Munich, Germany;,*To whom correspondence should be addressed; Molecular and Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychiatry, Ludwigs-Maximilians-University, Nussbaumstr. 7, D-80336 Munich, Germany; tel: +49-89-4400-52743, fax: +49-89-4400-54741, e-mail:
| | - Ursula Havemann-Reinecke
- Department of Psychiatry and CNMPB-DFG Research Center, Georg-August-University, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Sven P. Wichert
- Molecular and Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychiatry, Ludwig-Maximillians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Peter Falkai
- Molecular and Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychiatry, Ludwig-Maximillians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Moritz J. Rossner
- Molecular and Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychiatry, Ludwig-Maximillians-University, Munich, Germany;,Department of Neurogenetics, Max-Planck-Institute of Experimental Medicine, Goettingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Normal Performance of Fmr1 Mice on a Touchscreen Delayed Nonmatching to Position Working Memory Task. eNeuro 2016; 3:eN-CFN-0143-15. [PMID: 27022628 PMCID: PMC4800045 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0143-15.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2015] [Revised: 02/10/2016] [Accepted: 02/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by mild-to-severe cognitive deficits. The complete absence of Fmr1 and its protein product in the mouse model of fragile X (Fmr1 KO) provides construct validity. A major conundrum in the field is the remarkably normal performance of Fmr1 mice on cognitive tests in most reports. One explanation may be insufficiently challenging cognitive testing procedures. Here we developed a delayed nonmatching to position touchscreen task to test the hypothesis that paradigms placing demands on working memory would reveal robust and replicable cognitive deficits in the Fmr1 KO mouse. We first tested Fmr1 KO mice (Fmr1) and their wild-type (WT) littermates in a simple visual discrimination task, followed by assessment of reversal learning. We then tested Fmr1 and WT mice in a new touchscreen nonmatch to position task and subsequently challenged their working memory abilities by adding delays, representing a higher cognitive load. The performance by Fmr1 KO mice was equal to WTs on both touchscreen tasks. Last, we replicated previous reports of normal performance by Fmr1 mice on Morris water maze spatial navigation and reversal. These results indicate that, while the Fmr1 mouse model effectively recapitulates many molecular and cellular aspects of fragile X syndrome, the cognitive profile of Fmr1 mice generally does not recapitulate the primary cognitive deficits in the human syndrome, even when diverse and challenging tasks are imposed.
Collapse
|
26
|
Pardo M, Abrial E, Jope RS, Beurel E. GSK3β isoform-selective regulation of depression, memory and hippocampal cell proliferation. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2016; 15:348-55. [PMID: 26749572 DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2015] [Revised: 01/05/2016] [Accepted: 01/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Abnormally active glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3) contributes to pathological processes in multiple psychiatric and neurological disorders. Modeled in mice, this includes increasing susceptibility to dysregulation of mood-relevant behaviors, impairing performance in several cognitive tasks and impairing adult hippocampal neural precursor cell (NPC) proliferation. These deficits are all evident in GSK3α/β knockin mice, in which serine-to-alanine mutations block the inhibitory serine phosphorylation regulation of both GSK3 isoforms, leaving GSK3 hyperactive. It was unknown if both GSK3 isoforms perform redundant actions in these processes, or if hyperactivity of one GSK3 isoform has a predominant effect. To test this, we examined GSK3α or GSK3β knockin mice in which only one isoform was mutated to a hyperactive form. Only GSK3β, not GSK3α, knockin mice displayed heightened vulnerability to the learned helplessness model of depression-like behavior. Three cognitive measures impaired in GSK3α/β knockin mice showed differential regulation by GSK3 isoforms. Novel object recognition was impaired in GSK3β, not in GSK3α, knockin mice, whereas temporal order memory was not impaired in GSK3α or GSK3β knockin mice, and co-ordinate spatial processing was impaired in both GSK3α and GSK3β knockin mice. Adult hippocampal NPC proliferation was severely impaired in GSK3β knockin mice, but not impaired in GSK3α knockin mice. Increased activity of GSK3β, in the absence of overexpression or disease pathology, is sufficient to impair mood regulation, novel object recognition and hippocampal NPC proliferation, whereas hyperactive GSK3α individually does not impair these processes. These results show that hyperactivity of the two GSK3 isoforms execute non-redundant effects on these processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Pardo
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - E Abrial
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - R S Jope
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - E Beurel
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Luo SY, Wu LQ, Duan RH. Molecular medicine of fragile X syndrome: based on known molecular mechanisms. World J Pediatr 2016; 12:19-27. [PMID: 26547211 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-015-0052-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2014] [Accepted: 08/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extensive research on fragile X mental retardation gene knockout mice and mutant Drosophila models has largely expanded our knowledge on mechanism-based treatment of fragile X syndrome (FXS). In light of these findings, several clinical trials are now underway for therapeutic translation to humans. DATA SOURCES Electronic literature searches were conducted using the PubMed database and ClinicalTrials.gov. The search terms included "fragile X syndrome", "FXS and medication", "FXS and therapeutics" and "FXS and treatment". Based on the publications identified in this search, we reviewed the neuroanatomical abnormalities in FXS patients and the potential pathogenic mechanisms to monitor the progress of FXS research, from basic studies to clinical trials. RESULTS The pathological mechanisms of FXS were categorized on the basis of neuroanatomy, synaptic structure, synaptic transmission and fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) loss of function. The neuroanatomical abnormalities in FXS were described to motivate extensive research into the region-specific pathologies in the brain responsible for FXS behavioural manifestations. Mechanism-directed molecular medicines were classified according to their target pathological mechanisms, and the most recent progress in clinical trials was discussed. CONCLUSIONS Current mechanism-based studies and clinical trials have greatly contributed to the development of FXS pharmacological therapeutics. Research examining the extent to which these treatments provided a rescue effect or FMRP compensation for the developmental impairments in FXS patients may help to improve the efficacy of treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Yu Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics & School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ling-Qian Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics & School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ran-Hui Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics & School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Dell'Osso L, Del Grande C, Gesi C, Carmassi C, Musetti L. A new look at an old drug: neuroprotective effects and therapeutic potentials of lithium salts. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2016; 12:1687-703. [PMID: 27468233 PMCID: PMC4946830 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s106479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence highlights bipolar disorder as being associated with impaired neurogenesis, cellular plasticity, and resiliency, as well as with cell atrophy or loss in specific brain regions. This has led most recent research to focus on the possible neuroprotective effects of medications, and particularly interesting findings have emerged for lithium. A growing body of evidence from preclinical in vitro and in vivo studies has in fact documented its neuroprotective effects from different insults acting on cellular signaling pathways, both preventing apoptosis and increasing neurotrophins and cell-survival molecules. Furthermore, positive effects of lithium on neurogenesis, brain remodeling, angiogenesis, mesenchymal stem cells functioning, and inflammation have been revealed, with a key role played through the inhibition of the glycogen synthase kinase-3, a serine/threonine kinase implicated in the pathogenesis of many neuropsychiatric disorders. These recent evidences suggest the potential utility of lithium in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, neurodevelopmental disorders, and hypoxic-ischemic/traumatic brain injury, with positive results at even lower lithium doses than those traditionally considered to be antimanic. The aim of this review is to briefly summarize the potential benefits of lithium salts on neuroprotection and neuroregeneration, emphasizing preclinical and clinical evidence suggesting new therapeutic potentials of this drug beyond its mood stabilizing properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Dell'Osso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Claudia Del Grande
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Camilla Gesi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Claudia Carmassi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Laura Musetti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Gross C, Hoffmann A, Bassell GJ, Berry-Kravis EM. Therapeutic Strategies in Fragile X Syndrome: From Bench to Bedside and Back. Neurotherapeutics 2015; 12:584-608. [PMID: 25986746 PMCID: PMC4489963 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-015-0355-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS), an inherited intellectual disability often associated with autism, is caused by the loss of expression of the fragile X mental retardation protein. Tremendous progress in basic, preclinical, and translational clinical research has elucidated a variety of molecular-, cellular-, and system-level defects in FXS. This has led to the development of several promising therapeutic strategies, some of which have been tested in larger-scale controlled clinical trials. Here, we will summarize recent advances in understanding molecular functions of fragile X mental retardation protein beyond the well-known role as an mRNA-binding protein, and will describe current developments and emerging limitations in the use of the FXS mouse model as a preclinical tool to identify therapeutic targets. We will review the results of recent clinical trials conducted in FXS that were based on some of the preclinical findings, and discuss how the observed outcomes and obstacles will inform future therapy development in FXS and other autism spectrum disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina Gross
- />Division of Neurology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229 USA
| | - Anne Hoffmann
- />Department of Pediatrics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Gary J. Bassell
- />Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322 USA
| | - Elizabeth M. Berry-Kravis
- />Departments of Pediatrics, Neurological Sciences, Biochemistry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Schaefer TL, Davenport MH, Erickson CA. Emerging pharmacologic treatment options for fragile X syndrome. APPLICATION OF CLINICAL GENETICS 2015; 8:75-93. [PMID: 25897255 PMCID: PMC4396424 DOI: 10.2147/tacg.s35673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common single gene cause of intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder. Caused by a silenced fragile X mental retardation 1 gene and the subsequent deficiency in fragile X mental retardation protein, patients with FXS experience a range of physical, behavioral, and intellectual debilitations. The FXS field, as a whole, has recently met with some challenges, as several targeted clinical trials with high expectations of success have failed to elucidate significant improvements in a variety of symptom domains. As new clinical trials in FXS are planned, there has been much discussion about the use of the commonly used clinical outcome measures, as well as study design considerations, patient stratification, and optimal age range for treatment. The evidence that modification of these drug targets and use of these failed compounds would prove to be efficacious in human clinical study were rooted in years of basic and translational research. There are questions arising as to the use of the mouse models for studying FXS treatment development. This issue is twofold: many of the symptom domains and molecular and biochemical changes assessed and indicative of efficacy in mouse model study are not easily amenable to clinical trials in people with FXS because of the intolerability of the testing paradigm or a lack of noninvasive techniques (prepulse inhibition, sensory hypersensitivity, startle reactivity, or electrophysiologic, biochemical, or structural changes in the brain); and capturing subtle yet meaningful changes in symptom domains such as sociability, anxiety, and hyperactivity in human FXS clinical trials is challenging with the currently used measures (typically parent/caregiver rating scales). Clinicians, researchers, and the pharmaceutical industry have all had to take a step back and critically evaluate the way we think about how to best optimize future investigations into pharmacologic FXS treatments. As new clinical trials are coming down the drug discovery pipeline, it is clear that the field is moving in a direction that values the development of molecular biomarkers, less subjective quantitative measures of symptom improvement, and rating scales developed specifically for use in FXS in conjunction with drug safety. While summarizing preclinical evidence, where applicable, and discussing challenges in FXS treatment development, this review details both completed clinical trials for the targeted and symptomatic treatment of FXS and introduces novel projects on the cusp of clinical trial investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tori L Schaefer
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Matthew H Davenport
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Craig A Erickson
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Pardo M, King MK, Perez-Costas E, Melendez-Ferro M, Martinez A, Beurel E, Jope RS. Impairments in cognition and neural precursor cell proliferation in mice expressing constitutively active glycogen synthase kinase-3. Front Behav Neurosci 2015; 9:55. [PMID: 25788881 PMCID: PMC4349180 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2015.00055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2014] [Accepted: 02/13/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3) is hyperactive in several neurological conditions that involve impairments in both cognition and neurogenesis. This raises the hypotheses that hyperactive GSK3 may directly contribute to impaired cognition, and that this may be related to deficiencies in neural precursor cells (NPC). To study the effects of hyperactive GSK3 in the absence of disease influences, we compared adult hippocampal NPC proliferation and performance in three cognitive tasks in male and female wild-type (WT) mice and GSK3 knockin mice, which express constitutively active GSK3. NPC proliferation was ~40% deficient in both male and female GSK3 knockin mice compared with WT mice. Environmental enrichment (EE) increased NPC proliferation in male, but not female, GSK3 knockin mice and WT mice. Male and female GSK3 knockin mice exhibited impairments in novel object recognition, temporal order memory, and coordinate spatial processing compared with gender-matched WT mice. EE restored impaired novel object recognition and temporal ordering in both sexes of GSK3 knockin mice, indicating that this repair was not dependent on NPC proliferation, which was not increased by EE in female GSK3 knockin mice. Acute 1 h pretreatment with the GSK3 inhibitor TDZD-8 also improved novel object recognition and temporal ordering in male and female GSK3 knockin mice. These findings demonstrate that hyperactive GSK3 is sufficient to impair adult hippocampal NPC proliferation and to impair performance in three cognitive tasks in both male and female mice, but these changes in NPC proliferation do not directly regulate novel object recognition and temporal ordering tasks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Pardo
- Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami Miami, FL, USA
| | - Margaret K King
- Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami Miami, FL, USA
| | - Emma Perez-Costas
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | - Ana Martinez
- Centro de Investigaciones Biologicas-CSIC Madrid, Spain
| | - Eleonore Beurel
- Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami Miami, FL, USA
| | - Richard S Jope
- Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami Miami, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Wang H, Pati S, Pozzo-Miller L, Doering LC. Targeted pharmacological treatment of autism spectrum disorders: fragile X and Rett syndromes. Front Cell Neurosci 2015; 9:55. [PMID: 25767435 PMCID: PMC4341567 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2015.00055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2015] [Accepted: 02/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are genetically and clinically heterogeneous and lack effective medications to treat their core symptoms. Studies of syndromic ASDs caused by single gene mutations have provided insights into the pathophysiology of autism. Fragile X and Rett syndromes belong to the syndromic ASDs in which preclinical studies have identified rational targets for drug therapies focused on correcting underlying neural dysfunction. These preclinical discoveries are increasingly translating into exciting human clinical trials. Since there are significant molecular and neurobiological overlaps among ASDs, targeted treatments developed for fragile X and Rett syndromes may be helpful for autism of different etiologies. Here, we review the targeted pharmacological treatment of fragile X and Rett syndromes and discuss related issues in both preclinical studies and clinical trials of potential therapies for the diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hansen Wang
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sandipan Pati
- Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Division, The University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Lucas Pozzo-Miller
- Department of Neurobiology, Civitan International Research Center, The University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Laurie C Doering
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University Hamilton, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Veenstra-VanderWeele J, Warren Z. Intervention in the context of development: pathways toward new treatments. Neuropsychopharmacology 2015; 40:225-37. [PMID: 25182180 PMCID: PMC4262912 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2014.232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2014] [Revised: 08/31/2014] [Accepted: 09/01/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Neuropsychiatric disorders vary substantially in age of onset but are best understood within the context of neurodevelopment. Here, we review opportunities for intervention at critical points in developmental trajectories. We begin by discussing potential opportunities to prevent neuropsychiatric disorders. Once symptoms begin to emerge, a number of interventions have been studied either before a diagnosis can be made or shortly after diagnosis. Although some of these interventions are helpful, few are based upon an understanding of pathophysiology, and most ameliorate rather than resolve symptoms. As such, in the next portion of the review, we turn our discussion to genetic syndromes that are rare phenocopies of common diagnoses such as autism spectrum disorder or schizophrenia. Cellular or animal models of these syndromes point to specific regulatory or signaling pathways. As examples, findings from the mouse models of Fragile X and Rett syndromes point to potential treatments now being tested in randomized clinical trials. Paralleling oncology, we can hope that our treatments will move from nonspecific, like chemotherapies thrown at a wide range of tumor types, to specific, like the protein kinase inhibitors that target molecularly defined tumors. Some of these targeted treatments later show benefit for a broader, yet specific, array of cancers. We can hope that medications developed within rare neurodevelopmental syndromes will similarly help subgroups of patients with disruptions in overlapping signaling pathways. The insights gleaned from treatment development in rare phenocopy syndromes may also teach us how to test treatments based upon emerging common genetic or environmental risk factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Zachary Warren
- Departments of Psychiatry and Pediatrics, and Kennedy Center for Research on Human Development, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Beurel E, Grieco SF, Jope RS. Glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3): regulation, actions, and diseases. Pharmacol Ther 2014; 148:114-31. [PMID: 25435019 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2014.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1113] [Impact Index Per Article: 111.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2014] [Accepted: 11/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3) may be the busiest kinase in most cells, with over 100 known substrates to deal with. How does GSK3 maintain control to selectively phosphorylate each substrate, and why was it evolutionarily favorable for GSK3 to assume such a large responsibility? GSK3 must be particularly adaptable for incorporating new substrates into its repertoire, and we discuss the distinct properties of GSK3 that may contribute to its capacity to fulfill its roles in multiple signaling pathways. The mechanisms regulating GSK3 (predominantly post-translational modifications, substrate priming, cellular trafficking, protein complexes) have been reviewed previously, so here we focus on newly identified complexities in these mechanisms, how each of these regulatory mechanism contributes to the ability of GSK3 to select which substrates to phosphorylate, and how these mechanisms may have contributed to its adaptability as new substrates evolved. The current understanding of the mechanisms regulating GSK3 is reviewed, as are emerging topics in the actions of GSK3, particularly its interactions with receptors and receptor-coupled signal transduction events, and differential actions and regulation of the two GSK3 isoforms, GSK3α and GSK3β. Another remarkable characteristic of GSK3 is its involvement in many prevalent disorders, including psychiatric and neurological diseases, inflammatory diseases, cancer, and others. We address the feasibility of targeting GSK3 therapeutically, and provide an update of its involvement in the etiology and treatment of several disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eleonore Beurel
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, United States; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, United States
| | - Steven F Grieco
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, United States; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, United States
| | - Richard S Jope
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, United States; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Kazdoba TM, Leach PT, Silverman JL, Crawley JN. Modeling fragile X syndrome in the Fmr1 knockout mouse. Intractable Rare Dis Res 2014; 3:118-33. [PMID: 25606362 PMCID: PMC4298642 DOI: 10.5582/irdr.2014.01024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2014] [Accepted: 11/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) is a commonly inherited form of intellectual disability and one of the leading genetic causes for autism spectrum disorder. Clinical symptoms of FXS can include impaired cognition, anxiety, hyperactivity, social phobia, and repetitive behaviors. FXS is caused by a CGG repeat mutation which expands a region on the X chromosome containing the FMR1 gene. In FXS, a full mutation (> 200 repeats) leads to hypermethylation of FMR1, an epigenetic mechanism that effectively silences FMR1 gene expression and reduces levels of the FMR1 gene product, fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP). FMRP is an RNA-binding protein that is important for the regulation of protein expression. In an effort to further understand how loss of FMR1 and FMRP contribute to FXS symptomology, several FXS animal models have been created. The most well characterized rodent model is the Fmr1 knockout (KO) mouse, which lacks FMRP protein due to a disruption in its Fmr1 gene. Here, we review the behavioral phenotyping of the Fmr1 KO mouse to date, and discuss the clinical relevance of this mouse model to the human FXS condition. While much remains to be learned about FXS, the Fmr1 KO mouse is a valuable tool for understanding the repercussions of functional loss of FMRP and assessing the efficacy of pharmacological compounds in ameliorating the molecular and behavioral phenotypes relevant to FXS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana M. Kazdoba
- MIND Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Address correspondence to: Dr. Tatiana M. Kazdoba, MIND Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, Research II Building 96, 4625 2nd Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA. E-mail:
| | - Prescott T. Leach
- MIND Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Jill L. Silverman
- MIND Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Jacqueline N. Crawley
- MIND Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Li Y, Zhao X. Concise review: Fragile X proteins in stem cell maintenance and differentiation. Stem Cells 2014; 32:1724-33. [PMID: 24648324 PMCID: PMC4255947 DOI: 10.1002/stem.1698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2014] [Revised: 02/18/2014] [Accepted: 03/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS), the most common genetic form of autism spectrum disorder, is caused by deficiency of the fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP). Despite extensive research and scientific progress, understanding how FMRP regulates brain development and function remains a major challenge. FMRP is a neuronal RNA-binding protein that binds about a third of messenger RNAs in the brain and controls their translation, stability, and cellular localization. The absence of FMRP results in increased protein synthesis, leading to enhanced signaling in a number of intracellular pathways, including the mTOR, mGLuR5, ERK, Gsk3β, PI3K, and insulin pathways. Until recently, FXS was largely considered a deficit of mature neurons; however, a number of new studies have shown that FMRP may also play important roles in stem cells, among them neural stem cells, germline stem cells, and pluripotent stem cells. In this review, we will cover these newly discovered functions of FMRP, as well as the other two fragile X-related proteins, in stem cells. We will also discuss the literature on the use of stem cells, particularly neural stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells, as model systems for studying the functions of FMRP in neuronal development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yue Li
- Waisman Center and Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
King MK, Pardo M, Cheng Y, Downey K, Jope RS, Beurel E. Glycogen synthase kinase-3 inhibitors: Rescuers of cognitive impairments. Pharmacol Ther 2014; 141:1-12. [PMID: 23916593 PMCID: PMC3867580 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2013.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2013] [Accepted: 07/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Impairment of cognitive processes is a devastating outcome of many diseases, injuries, and drugs affecting the central nervous system (CNS). Most often, very little can be done by available therapeutic interventions to improve cognitive functions. Here we review evidence that inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3) ameliorates cognitive deficits in a wide variety of animal models of CNS diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Fragile X syndrome, Down syndrome, Parkinson's disease, spinocerebellar ataxia type 1, traumatic brain injury, and others. GSK3 inhibitors also improve cognition following impairments caused by therapeutic interventions, such as cranial irradiation for brain tumors. These findings demonstrate that GSK3 inhibitors are able to ameliorate cognitive impairments caused by a diverse array of diseases, injury, and treatments. The improvements in impaired cognition instilled by administration of GSK3 inhibitors appear to involve a variety of different mechanisms, such as supporting long-term potentiation and diminishing long-term depression, promotion of neurogenesis, reduction of inflammation, and increasing a number of neuroprotective mechanisms. The potential for GSK3 inhibitors to repair cognitive deficits associated with many conditions warrants further investigation of their potential for therapeutic interventions, particularly considering the current dearth of treatments available to reduce loss of cognitive functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margaret K King
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Marta Pardo
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Yuyan Cheng
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Kimberlee Downey
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Richard S Jope
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Eléonore Beurel
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Hunsaker MR. Neurocognitive endophenotypes in CGG KI and Fmr1 KO mouse models of Fragile X-Associated disorders: an analysis of the state of the field. F1000Res 2013; 2:287. [PMID: 24627796 PMCID: PMC3945770 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.2-287.v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
It has become increasingly important that the field of behavioral genetics identifies not only the gross behavioral phenotypes associated with a given mutation, but also the behavioral endophenotypes that scale with the dosage of the particular mutation being studied. Over the past few years, studies evaluating the effects of the polymorphic CGG trinucleotide repeat on the
FMR1 gene underlying Fragile X-Associated Disorders have reported preliminary evidence for a behavioral endophenotype in human Fragile X Premutation carrier populations as well as the CGG knock-in (KI) mouse model. More recently, the behavioral experiments used to test the CGG KI mouse model have been extended to the
Fmr1 knock-out (KO) mouse model. When combined, these data provide compelling evidence for a clear neurocognitive endophenotype in the mouse models of Fragile X-Associated Disorders such that behavioral deficits scale predictably with genetic dosage. Similarly, it appears that the CGG KI mouse effectively models the histopathology in Fragile X-Associated Disorders across CGG repeats well into the full mutation range, resulting in a reliable histopathological endophenotype. These endophenotypes may influence future research directions into treatment strategies for not only Fragile X Syndrome, but also the Fragile X Premutation and Fragile X-Associated Tremor/Ataxia Syndrome (FXTAS).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael R Hunsaker
- Scientific Computing and Imaging Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| |
Collapse
|