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Liao X, Zhu W, Liao X, Liu W, Hou Y, Wan J. Expression of Toll-like receptors in the cerebellum during pathogenesis of prion disease. Front Behav Neurosci 2024; 18:1341901. [PMID: 38698886 PMCID: PMC11063360 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2024.1341901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Prion diseases, such as scrapie, entail the accumulation of disease-specific prion protein (PrPSc) within the brain. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are crucial components of the pattern recognition system. They recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and play a central role in orchestrating host innate immune responses. The expression levels of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) in the central nervous system (CNS) were not well-defined. To establish a model of prion diseases in BALB/C mice, the 22L strain was employed. The features of the 22L strain were analyzed, and the cerebellum exhibited severe pathological changes. TLR1-13 levels in the cerebellum were measured using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) at time points of 60, 90, 120, and the final end point (145 days post-infection). During the pathogenesis, the expression levels of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) 1, 2, 7, 8, and 9 increased in a time-dependent manner. This trend mirrored the expression patterns of PrPSc (the pathological isoform of the prion protein) and glial fibrillary acidic protein. Notably, at the end point, TLR1-13 levels were significantly elevated. Protein level of TLR7 and TLR9 showed increasing at the end point of the 22L-infected mice. A deeper understanding of the increased Toll-like receptors (TLRs) in prion diseases could shed light on their role in initiating immune responses at various stages during pathogenesis. This insight is particularly relevant when considering TLRs as potential therapeutic targets for prion diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyu Liao
- Department of Oncology, Yichang Central People's Hospital, The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Wufei Zhu
- Department of Endocrinology, Yichang Central People's Hospital, The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Xingyu Liao
- Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC), Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Sciences and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wensen Liu
- Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, China
| | - Yiwei Hou
- Department of Endocrinology, Yichang Central People's Hospital, The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Jiayu Wan
- Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, China
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2
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Abstract
Significant advancements have been made in unraveling and understanding the non-coding elements of the human genome. New insights into the structure and function of noncoding RNAs have emerged. Their relevance in the context of both physiological cellular homeostasis and human diseases is getting appreciated. As a result, exploration of noncoding RNAs, in particular microRNAs (miRs), as therapeutic agents or targets of therapeutic strategies is under way. This review summarizes and discusses in depth the current literature on the role of miRs in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salil Sharma
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, The Linda and Jack Gill Center for Bimolecular Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Hui-Chen Lu
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, The Linda and Jack Gill Center for Bimolecular Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
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3
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Fernie K, Hamilton S, Somerville RA. Limited efficacy of steam sterilization to inactivate vCJD infectivity. J Hosp Infect 2011; 80:46-51. [PMID: 22099953 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2011.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2011] [Accepted: 09/16/2011] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The transmission of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) to humans as variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (vCJD) raised concerns about potential secondary transmissions due to the resistance of the agents causing transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs), sometimes known as prions, to commonly used methods of sterilization, notably steam sterilization (or autoclaving). It has been suggested that surgical instruments and other medical devices might retain sufficient infected tissue debris after cleaning and steam sterilization to infect patients on whom they are subsequently used. AIM To determine whether concerns about the lack of efficacy of steam sterilization of vCJD were justified. METHODS The reduction in infectivity of brain macerates of vCJD brain after steam sterilization using the standard temperatures and time recommended for autoclaving in UK hospitals (134-137°C for 3 min) was measured. FINDINGS Reductions in titre of 10(2.3) to >10(3.6) ID(50) were found. In three of four samples, infectivity was recovered after steam sterilization. CONCLUSION As noted previously, TSE strains derived from BSE sources appear to be more resistant to steam sterilization and other forms of heat inactivation than other TSE sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Fernie
- Neurobiology Division, The Roslin Institute and R(D)SVS, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, UK
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4
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Seelig DM, Mason GL, Telling GC, Hoover EA. Chronic wasting disease prion trafficking via the autonomic nervous system. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2011; 179:1319-28. [PMID: 21777560 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2011.05.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2010] [Revised: 05/12/2011] [Accepted: 05/23/2011] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a fatal spongiform encephalopathy that is efficiently transmitted among members of the mammalian family Cervidae, including deer, elk, and moose. Typical of prion diseases, CWD is characterized by the conversion of the native protease-sensitive protein PrP(C) to a protease-resistant isoform, denoted PrP(RES). In native species, spread of the disease likely results from the ingestion of prion-containing excreta, including urine, saliva, or feces. Although cervid prion protein-expressing transgenic [Tg(CerPrP)] mice have been shown to be effective surrogates of natural CWD, uncertainties remain regarding the mechanisms by which CWD prions traffic in vivo, including the manner by which CWD prions traffic from the gastrointestinal tract to the central nervous system. We used elk prion protein-expressing transgenic [Tg(CerPrP-E)] mice, infected by three different routes of inoculation, and tissue-based IHC to elucidate that centripetal and centrifugal CWD prion transit pathways involve cells and fibers of the autonomic nervous systems, including the enteric nervous system and central autonomic network. Moreover, we identified CWD PrP(RES) associated with the cell bodies and processes of enteric glial cells within the enteric nervous system of CWD-infected Tg(CerPrP-E) mice. The present findings demonstrate the importance of the peripheral and central autonomic networks in CWD neuroinvasion and neuropathogenesis and suggest that enteroglial cells may facilitate the shedding of prions via the intestinal tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davis M Seelig
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
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5
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Iwasaki Y, Mimuro M, Yoshida M, Hashizume Y, Kitamoto T, Sobue G. Clinicopathologic characteristics of five autopsied cases of dura mater-associated Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. Neuropathology 2008; 28:51-61. [PMID: 18181835 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1789.2007.00847.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
We present five cases of dura mater-associated Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (dura-CJD) that were analyzed clinicopathologically and review previous reports. The average age at dura mater transplantation was 54.4 +/- 7.3 years, and the average age at CJD onset was 66.0 +/- 8.2 years, with an average latency period of 11.6 +/- 1.1 years. The average age at death was 67.6 +/- 8.7 years, with an average CJD disease duration of 16.8 +/- 10.4 months. Symptoms of CJD onset in four patients who received dura mater transplantation below the cerebellar tent reflected cerebellar or brainstem dysfunction, whereas symptoms of one patient who received transplantation above the cerebellar tent reflected cerebral cortical involvement. All patients showed rapidly progressive cognitive impairment, and both periodic sharp-wave complexes on electroencephalogram and myoclonus were observed in the early disease stage. Neuropathologic evaluation showed one case of subacute spongiform encephalopathy and four cases of panencephalopathic-type CJD. Widespread cerebral neocortical, subcortical gray matter and cerebellar cortical involvement were observed to varying degrees, and severity tended to be associated with CJD disease duration. There were no instances of kuru plaques or florid plaques. Prion protein (PrP) immunostaining showed widespread synaptic-type PrP deposition. No differences between our dura-CJD cases and typical cases of sporadic CJD were found with respect to clinicopathologic findings, except history of dura mater transplantation. Although a specific association between the dura mater graft site and neuropathologic observations was not evaluated in the present study, the initial symptoms appear to be closely related to the graft site, indicating a direct transmission of CJD from the graft site to the adjacent brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasushi Iwasaki
- Department of Neurology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Showa-ku, Nagoya, Japan.
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6
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Lipscomb IP, Hervé R, Harris K, Pinchin H, Collin R, Keevil CW. Amyloid-specific fluorophores for the rapid, sensitive in situ detection of prion contamination on surgical instruments. J Gen Virol 2007; 88:2619-2626. [PMID: 17698675 DOI: 10.1099/vir.0.82228-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Prion diseases or transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) are a group of rare, transmissible and fatal neurodegenerative diseases associated with the protein agent (PrP(Sc)). As such, the sensitive and rapid detection of prion PrP(Sc) amyloid on the surface of suspect surgical instruments is of great importance and may even allow remedial action to be taken prior to any further operative intervention and possible iatrogenic transmission. However, conventional PrP(Sc) detection methodologies tend to rely on the inefficient and unreliable removal of suspect material from a surface using swabs or wipes prior to antibody analysis. Here we show how the combination of an advanced light microscope technique, episcopic differential interference contrast/epifluorescence (EDIC/EF) microscopy, and the application of beta-amyloid fluorescent thiazole markers (thioflavin T, thioflavin S) can be used to detect, in situ, submicron (attomole) levels of prion protein amyloid contamination in brain and spleen sections, smears and homogenate on surgical stainless steel surfaces and surgical instruments. This technique, although not specific to an amyloid type, can be used to verify that surgical instruments are substantially free from prion amyloid protein soiling and hence reduce the risk of iatrogenic transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- I P Lipscomb
- Environmental Healthcare Unit, School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Bassett Crescent East, Southampton SO16 7PX, UK
| | - R Hervé
- Environmental Healthcare Unit, School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Bassett Crescent East, Southampton SO16 7PX, UK
| | - K Harris
- Environmental Healthcare Unit, School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Bassett Crescent East, Southampton SO16 7PX, UK
| | - H Pinchin
- Environmental Healthcare Unit, School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Bassett Crescent East, Southampton SO16 7PX, UK
| | - R Collin
- Environmental Healthcare Unit, School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Bassett Crescent East, Southampton SO16 7PX, UK
| | - C W Keevil
- Environmental Healthcare Unit, School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Bassett Crescent East, Southampton SO16 7PX, UK
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7
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Dear DV, Young DS, Kazlauskaite J, Meersman F, Oxley D, Webster J, Pinheiro TJT, Gill AC, Bronstein I, Lowe CR. Effects of post-translational modifications on prion protein aggregation and the propagation of scrapie-like characteristics in vitro. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2007; 1774:792-802. [PMID: 17572162 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2007.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2006] [Revised: 04/26/2007] [Accepted: 05/07/2007] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Prion diseases, or transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) are typically characterised by CNS accumulation of PrP(Sc), an aberrant conformer of a normal cellular protein PrP(C). It is thought PrP(Sc) is itself infectious and the causative agent of such diseases. To date, no chemical modifications of PrP(Sc), or a sub-population thereof, have been reported. In this study we have investigated whether chemical modification of amino acids within PrP might cause this protein to exhibit aberrant properties and whether these properties can be propagated onto unmodified prion protein. Of particular interest were post-translational modifications resulting from physiological conditions shown to be associated with TSE disease. Here we report that in vitro exposure of recombinant PrP to conditions that imitate the end effects of oxidative/nitrative stress in TSE-infected mouse brains cause the protein to adopt many of the physical characteristics of PrP(Sc). Most interestingly, these properties could be propagated onto unmodified PrP protein when the modified protein was used as a template. These data suggest that post-translational modifications of PrP might contribute to the initiation and/or propagation of prion protein-associated plaques in vivo during prion disease, thereby high-lighting novel biochemical pathways as possible therapeutic targets for these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise V Dear
- Institute of Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QT, UK.
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8
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Salguero FJ, Díaz-San SF, Brun A, Cano MJ, Torres JM. Comparison of three monoclonal antibodies for use in immunohistochemical detection of bovine spongiform encephalopathy protease-resistant prion protein. J Vet Diagn Invest 2007; 18:106-9. [PMID: 16566267 DOI: 10.1177/104063870601800117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Confirmatory diagnosis of prion diseases in humans and animals relies on the histopathological examination and immunodetection of the protease-resistant isoform of prion protein (PrPres). The generation of novel PrP-specific monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) has greatly improved diagnostic methodology and basic research on prion diseases as well. In this study, the performance of 3 different PrP-specific MAbs in recognizing brain PrPres deposits from cows affected with bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) was compared by using a standard immunohistochemical technique under different pretreatment conditions. All antibodies showed similar reactivity after denaturing treatment. However, greater differences were found among them after proteinase K treatment, even in the absence of a denaturing step. In fact, 1 MAb (2A11) was able to react with PrPres deposits in the absence of a denaturing step, yielding the strongest signal and confirming the usefulness of MAb 2A11 in immunohistochemistry for the diagnosis of BSE.
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9
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Sakudo A, Nakamura I, Ikuta K, Onodera T. Recent Developments in Prion Disease Research: Diagnostic Tools and In Vitro Cell Culture Models. J Vet Med Sci 2007; 69:329-37. [PMID: 17485919 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.69.329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
After prion infection, an abnormal isoform of prion protein (PrP(Sc)) converts the cellular isoform of prion protein (PrP(C)) into PrP(Sc). PrP(C)-to-PrP(Sc) conversion leads to PrP(Sc) accumulation and PrP(C) deficiency, contributing etiologically to induction of prion diseases. Presently, most of the diagnostic methods for prion diseases are dependent on PrP(Sc) detection. Highly sensitive/accurate specific detection of PrP(Sc) in many different samples is a prerequisite for attempts to develop reliable detection methods. Towards this goal, several methods have recently been developed to facilitate sensitive and precise detection of PrP(Sc), namely, protein misfolding cyclic amplification, conformation-dependent immunoassay, dissociation-enhanced lanthanide fluorescent immunoassay, capillary gel electrophoresis, fluorescence correlation spectroscopy, flow microbead immunoassay, etc. Additionally, functionally relevant prion-susceptible cell culture models that recognize the complexity of the mechanisms of prion infection have also been pursued, not only in relation to diagnosis, but also in relation to prion biology. Prion protein (PrP) gene-deficient neuronal cell lines that can clearly elucidate PrP(C) functions would contribute to understanding of the prion infection mechanism. In this review, we describe the trend in recent development of diagnostic methods and cell culture models for prion diseases and their potential applications in prion biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akikazu Sakudo
- Department of Molecular Immunology, School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Japan
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10
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Furuoka H, Yabuzoe A, Horiuchi M, Tagawa Y, Yokoyama T, Yamakawa Y, Shinagawa M, Sata T. Effective antigen-retrieval method for immunohistochemical detection of abnormal isoform of prion proteins in animals. Acta Neuropathol 2005; 109:263-71. [PMID: 15616789 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-004-0944-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2004] [Revised: 10/12/2004] [Accepted: 10/12/2004] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
For immunohistochemistry of the prion diseases, several pretreatment methods to enhance the immunoreactivity of human and animal abnormal proteinase-resistant prion protein (PrP(Sc)) on the tissue sections have been employed. The method of 121 degree C hydrated autoclaving pretreatment or the combination method of 121 degree C hydrated autoclaving with a certain chemical reagent (formic acid or proteinase K, etc) are now widely used. We found that an improved hydrated autoclaving method at 135 degrees C, more effectively enhanced PrP(Sc) immunoreactivity for the antibodies recognizing the linear epitope. In addition, this method was more effective for the long-term fixation samples as compared with other previous methods. However, this modified method could not retrieve PrP(Sc) antigenic epitopes composed of conformational structures or several discontinuous epitopes. We describe the comparative studies between our improved method and other antigen-retrieval procedures reported previously. Based on the differences of reaction among the antibodies, we also discuss the mechanisms of the hydrated autoclaving methods to retrieve PrP(Sc) immunoreactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidefumi Furuoka
- Department of Pathobiological Science, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, 080-8555, Obihiro, Japan.
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11
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Maxson L, Wong C, Herrmann LM, Caughey B, Baron GS. A solid-phase assay for identification of modulators of prion protein interactions. Anal Biochem 2004; 323:54-64. [PMID: 14622959 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2003.07.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The progression of the transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) is characterized in part by accumulation of a proteinase K-resistant form of the prion protein, which has been converted from the endogenous, proteinase K-sensitive form. This conversion reaction provides a target for possible anti-TSE strategies. We have adapted a cell-free conversion reaction to a high-throughput, solid-phase format that can be used to screen possible therapeutic compounds for inhibitory activity or to illuminate inhibition and conversion mechanisms. The solid-phase assay was compatible with reactions performed under a variety of conditions. Using this assay, we report that phthalocyanine tetrasulfonate, a known modulator of conversion, inhibited conversion by interfering with binding between the protease-sensitive and the protease-resistant forms of the prion protein. A biotinylated form of the protease-sensitive prion protein was successfully converted to the protease-resistant isoform in the solid-phase assay, indicating that biotinylation provides a nonisotopic labeling strategy for large-scale screens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Maxson
- Rocky Mountain Laboratories, NIAID, NIH, 903 S. 4th St., Hamilton, MT 59840, USA
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12
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Asante EA, Linehan JM, Desbruslais M, Joiner S, Gowland I, Wood AL, Welch J, Hill AF, Lloyd SE, Wadsworth JD, Collinge J. BSE prions propagate as either variant CJD-like or sporadic CJD-like prion strains in transgenic mice expressing human prion protein. EMBO J 2002; 21:6358-66. [PMID: 12456643 PMCID: PMC136957 DOI: 10.1093/emboj/cdf653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 289] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2002] [Revised: 09/24/2002] [Accepted: 10/17/2002] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD) has been recognized to date only in individuals homozygous for methionine at PRNP codon 129. Here we show that transgenic mice expressing human PrP methionine 129, inoculated with either bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) or variant CJD prions, may develop the neuropathological and molecular phenotype of vCJD, consistent with these diseases being caused by the same prion strain. Surprisingly, however, BSE transmission to these transgenic mice, in addition to producing a vCJD-like phenotype, can also result in a distinct molecular phenotype that is indistinguishable from that of sporadic CJD with PrP(Sc) type 2. These data suggest that more than one BSE-derived prion strain might infect humans; it is therefore possible that some patients with a phenotype consistent with sporadic CJD may have a disease arising from BSE exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - John Collinge
- MRC Prion Unit and Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, Institute of Neurology, University College, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG, UK
Corresponding author e-mail:
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Badiola JJ, Monleón E, Monzón M, Acín C, Luján L, Fernández D, Simmons M, Vargas A. Description of the first cases of BSE in Spain. Vet Rec 2002; 151:509-10. [PMID: 12431000 DOI: 10.1136/vr.151.17.509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J J Badiola
- National Reference Centre for TSE, Zaragoza, Spain
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14
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Crozet C, Bencsik A, Flamant F, Lezmi S, Samarut J, Baron T. Florid plaques in ovine PrP transgenic mice infected with an experimental ovine BSE. EMBO Rep 2001; 2:952-6. [PMID: 11571272 PMCID: PMC1084082 DOI: 10.1093/embo-reports/kve204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The occurrence of the variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD), related to bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), raises the important question of the sources of human contamination. The possibility that sheep may have been fed with BSE-contaminated foodstuff raises the serious concern that BSE may now be present in sheep without being distinguishable from scrapie. Sensitive models are urgently needed given the dramatic consequences of such a possible contamination on animal and human health. We inoculated transgenic mice expressing the ovine PrP gene with a brain homogenate from sheep experimentally infected with BSE. We found numerous typical florid plaques in their brains. Such florid plaques are a feature of vCJD in humans and experimental BSE infection in macaques. Our observation represents the first description, after a primary infection, of this hallmark in a transgenic mouse model. Moreover, these mice appear to be a promising tool in the search for BSE in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Crozet
- Agence Française de Sécurité Sanitaire des Aliments (AFSSA), Unité de Virologie-ATNC, 31 Avenue Tony Garnier, 69364 Lyon, France.
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15
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Ryder SJ, Spencer YI, Bellerby PJ, March SA. Immunohistochemical detection of PrP in the medulla oblongata of sheep: the spectrum of staining in normal and scrapie-affected sheep. Vet Rec 2001; 148:7-13. [PMID: 11200410 DOI: 10.1136/vr.148.1.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Sections of the medulla oblongata from the brains of sheep were examined for prion protein (PrP) by immunohistochemistry. On the basis of the morphology and neuroanatomical distribution of the deposits, distinct disease-associated patterns of PrP deposition were identified in scrapie-affected sheep, suggesting at least four distinct phenotypes of scrapie. In addition, clearly defined patterns of PrP deposition, readily distinguished from the disease-associated PrP deposits, were identified in some normal sheep from scrapie-free flocks. In five sheep, believed to be preclinically affected by scrapie, PrP deposition of a disease-specific type but of restricted distribution was identified, demonstrating the sensitivity of the technique for the diagnosis of scrapie. The neuroanatomical distribution of these early PrP deposits suggest that the route of entry of the scrapie agent into the brain is via parasympathetic motor neurons in the vagus nerve which innervate the gastrointestinal tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- S J Ryder
- Department of Pathology, Veterinary Laboratories Agency, Addlestone, Surrey
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17
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Foster J, Goldmann W, Parnham D, Chong A, Hunter N. Partial dissociation of PrP(Sc) deposition and vacuolation in the brains of scrapie and BSE experimentally affected goats. J Gen Virol 2001; 82:267-273. [PMID: 11125179 DOI: 10.1099/0022-1317-82-1-267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The diagnosis of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) depends on the detection of vacuolation in brain sections taken from affected individuals and/or the identification of the disease-associated isoform of the PrP (prion) protein (PrP(Sc)). During the course of an investigation, goats clinically affected following experimental infection with three different sources of TSE (SSBP/1, CH1641 and BSE) developed widespread vacuolar degeneration in the brain. With BSE, PrP(Sc) was clearly recognized in affected goat brain by immunocytochemistry (icc) and Western blotting, but in contrast the experimental scrapie sources SSBP/1 and CH1641 showed almost no or very little PrP(Sc) by icc. Western blot analysis of PrP(Sc) from BSE-affected and SSBP/1-affected goat brain showed that the protein was present in brain affected by both TSE sources, but could not be used to determine how much protein was present. It became clear that PrP(Sc) and vacuolation could be partially dissociated following challenge with two of the three TSE sources. Subtle differences in glycosylation patterns between BSE- and SSBP/1-associated PrP protein isoforms could also be recognized, although these experimentally generated results should not be regarded as a BSE/scrapie differential test. However, our study warns that the reliance on PrP(Sc) determination by icc alone as a means by which to diagnose TSE infection may generate false negative results.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Foster
- BBSRC Institute for Animal Health, Neuropathogenesis Unit, Kings Buildings, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JF, UK1
| | - Wilfred Goldmann
- BBSRC Institute for Animal Health, Neuropathogenesis Unit, Kings Buildings, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JF, UK1
| | - David Parnham
- BBSRC Institute for Animal Health, Neuropathogenesis Unit, Kings Buildings, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JF, UK1
| | - Angie Chong
- BBSRC Institute for Animal Health, Neuropathogenesis Unit, Kings Buildings, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JF, UK1
| | - Nora Hunter
- BBSRC Institute for Animal Health, Neuropathogenesis Unit, Kings Buildings, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JF, UK1
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Privat N, Sazdovitch V, Seilhean D, LaPlanche JL, Hauw JJ. PrP immunohistochemistry: different protocols, including a procedure for long formalin fixation, and a proposed schematic classification for deposits in sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. Microsc Res Tech 2000; 50:26-31. [PMID: 10871545 DOI: 10.1002/1097-0029(20000701)50:1<26::aid-jemt5>3.0.co;2-s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The use of immunohistochemistry on formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissue has greatly improved the neuropathological diagnosis of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and the other subacute spongiform encephalopathies in human and animals. Two pitfalls of this technique, however, currently exist: low sensitivity after long formalin fixation and difficulties in interpreting some images. Here we review the protocols currently in use for the pretreatment of sections allowing PrP detection by immunohistochemistry. In addition, a technique useful after long formalin fixation is reported: enzymatic digestion with proteinase K (24 degrees C, 1/100 for 8 minutes) was employed in addition to the usual autoclaving (121 degrees C for 10 minutes) followed by formic acid (99% for 5 minutes) and 4M guanidine thiocyanate (4 degrees C for 2 hours). This allowed a substantial increase in the sensitivity of 3F4 immunohistochemistry on paraffin-embedded tissue, especially after prolonged formalin fixation. In addition, we suggest a simple method for classification of PrP immunolabelling in sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease that would allow easy comparisons.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Privat
- Raymond Escourolle Neuropathology Laboratory, La Salpêtrière Hospital, Pierre et Marie Curie, Paris VI University, INSERM U 360, Association Claude Bernard, 75651 Paris, France
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19
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Rudyk H, Vasiljevic S, Hennion RM, Birkett CR, Hope J, Gilbert IH. Screening Congo Red and its analogues for their ability to prevent the formation of PrP-res in scrapie-infected cells. J Gen Virol 2000; 81:1155-64. [PMID: 10725446 DOI: 10.1099/0022-1317-81-4-1155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) are incurable, fatal diseases. The dye Congo Red (CR) can cure cells infected with agents of the sheep TSE, scrapie, but is not used as a therapeutic or prophylactic agent in vivo, as its effects are small, possibly due to low blood-brain barrier permeability, and complicated by its intrinsic carcinogenicity. In this paper, the development is described of a structure-activity profile for CR by testing a series of analogues of this dye for their ability to inhibit the formation of the protease-resistant prion protein, PrP-res, a molecular marker for the infectious agent, in the scrapie-infected, SMB cell line. It was found that the central benzidine unit in CR, which gives the molecule potential carcinogenicity, can be replaced by other, less toxic moieties and that the sulphonate groups on the core molecule can be replaced by carboxylic acids, which should improve the brain permeability of these compounds. However, detailed dose-response curves were generated for several derivatives and they revealed that, while some compounds showed inhibition of PrP-res accumulation at high concentrations, at low concentrations they actually stimulated levels of PrP-res above control values.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Rudyk
- Welsh School of Pharmacy, Cardiff University, Redwood Building, King Edward VII Avenue, Cardiff CF10 3XF, UK
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20
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Jeffrey M, Halliday WG, Bell J, Johnston AR, MacLeod NK, Ingham C, Sayers AR, Brown DA, Fraser JR. Synapse loss associated with abnormal PrP precedes neuronal degeneration in the scrapie-infected murine hippocampus. Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol 2000; 26:41-54. [PMID: 10736066 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2990.2000.00216.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 212] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Numbers of neurones, synapses and axon terminals were quantified in a murine scrapie model with severe hippocampal pyramidal cell loss, in which definite clinical scrapie is evident from 226 days post-infection (dpi) and death occurs around 250 dpi. Disease-specific PrP accumulations were first seen at 70 dpi (28% of the incubation period (IP)) in thalamus and as sparse foci within the stratum pyramidale of CA1. By 98 dpi (39% IP), PrP was seen in the stratum radiatum and was found at later stages throughout all levels of the hippocampus. At the ultrastructural level in the stratum radiatum of CA1, a decrease in the numbers of simple synapses from 84 dpi (34% IP) and in perforated synapses from 98 dpi (42% IP) was found using an unbiased stereological method, the disector analysis. Degeneration of axon terminals was found from 98 dpi (39% IP) onwards. Neuronal loss was detected in CA1 from 180 dpi (72% IP). The results suggest that the fundamental lesion in the hippocampus of ME7-infected mice is associated with PrP release from CA1 pyramidal neurones, which perturbs synaptic function and leads to degeneration of preterminal axons, and that subsequent pathological changes including neurone loss are sequelae to this initial insult.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Jeffrey
- VLA Lasswade Laboratory, Edinburgh, Neuropathogenesis Unit, Institute for Animal Health, Edinburgh, UK.
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21
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Hardt M, Baron T, Groschup MH. A comparative study of immunohistochemical methods for detecting abnormal prion protein with monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies. J Comp Pathol 2000; 122:43-53. [PMID: 10627390 DOI: 10.1053/jcpa.1999.0343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies are associated with the accumulation of abnormal prion protein (PrP(Sc)) in the central nervous system which can be detected immunohistochemically. Using a monoclonal antibody (L42) to an epitope on the first alpha-helix of ruminant PrP, we compared previously reported immunohistochemical antigen unmasking and "visualization" systems. In addition, a variety of polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies to other epitopes on ruminant PrP were assessed. Antigen unmasking by hydrated autoclaving and proteinase K treatments, and antigen detection with L42 and an avidin-biotin complex system, enabled intra- and extra-neuronal PrP(Sc)to be demonstrated in scrapie-affected sheep carrying three different PrP alleles, as well as in cases of bovine spongiform encephalopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Hardt
- Federal Research Centre for Virus Diseases of Animals, Tübingen, Germany
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22
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Foster J, Farquhar C, Fraser J, Somerville R. Immunolocalization of the prion protein in scrapie affected rodent retinas. Neurosci Lett 1999; 260:1-4. [PMID: 10027685 DOI: 10.1016/s0304-3940(98)00903-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Some mouse and hamster scrapie models are known to replicate infectivity in the retina, and this can be associated with photoreceptor atrophy. We used immuno-labelling to identify the cellular localization of the prion protein (PrP) in the retina and correlated this with infectivity titre. It is only with the 263K scrapie strain in hamsters that disease-associated PrP (PrP(Sc)) staining was always easily detectable. Very little PrP(Sc) immunolabelling was observed in any of the mouse models, even in those demonstrating scrapie-induced retinopathy in which high titres of infective agent are known to occur in the retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Foster
- Institute for Animal Health, BBSRC Neuropathogenesis Unit, Edinburgh, UK.
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23
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Baker HF, Ridley RM, Wells GA, Ironside JW. Prion protein immunohistochemical staining in the brains of monkeys with transmissible spongiform encephalopathy. Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol 1998; 24:476-86. [PMID: 9888158 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2990.1998.00142.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Prion protein (PrP) immunohistochemical staining of the brains of common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) with experimental transmissible spongiform encephalopathy is described. The monkeys (n = 17) had been injected, intracerebrally, 17-49 months previously with homogenates of brain tissue taken post mortem from a cow with BSE (n = 2 monkeys), a sheep with natural scrapie (n = 2 monkeys), human cases of growth hormone related Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) (n = 2 monkeys), sporadic CJD (n = 5 monkeys), or Gerstmann-Sträussler-Scheinker disease (GSS) (n = 4 monkeys), or from monkeys with spongiform encephalopathy resulting from injection with brain tissue from these last two cases (n = 1 monkey from each case). Only diffuse PrP-staining was seen in monkeys injected with CJD-material whereas more aggregated deposits of PrP were seen in monkeys injected with BSE-, scrapie--and GSS-brain tissue. There were no patterns of staining specific to the brains injected with BSE-material that could be used to identify the origin of that inoculum. BSE--and scrapie-injected monkey brains could be distinguished from each other because in BSE-injected monkey brain the spongiform vacuolation was largely confined to subcortical structures whereas in scrapie-injected monkey brain the spongiform vacuolation was also prominent in the neocortex. The patterns of PrP deposition differed markedly between those seen in monkey brains injected with BSE-material or CJD-material, but the patterns of PrP staining seen in monkey brains injected with BSE-material were also seen in monkey brains injected with scrapie--or GSS-material. Overall there was a correlation between the length of the incubation period and the amount of aggregated PrP-staining, but no correlation between the neuropathological picture and the clinical presentation of neurological signs.
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Affiliation(s)
- H F Baker
- Department of Neuropathology, Central Veterinary Laboratory, New Haw, UK
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24
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Williams A, Van Dam AM, Ritchie D, Eikelenboom P, Fraser H. Immunocytochemical appearance of cytokines, prostaglandin E2 and lipocortin-1 in the CNS during the incubation period of murine scrapie correlates with progressive PrP accumulations. Brain Res 1997; 754:171-80. [PMID: 9134973 DOI: 10.1016/s0006-8993(97)00067-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The appearance of immunoreactive interleukin (IL)-1beta, IL-6 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, prostaglandin (PG) E2 and lipocortin-1 in the central nervous system was investigated during the development of lesions in a 301V/VM murine scrapie model. Focal PrP(Sc) deposition was present after 30 days of the 115-120 day incubation period; this immunoreactivity increased in intensity and distribution thereafter. Staining for IL-1beta and TNF alpha in perivascular macrophages, and PGE2 immunoreactivity in astrocytes, was detected in those areas showing PrP(Sc) deposition from 60 days. Increased GFAP and F4/80 immunoreactivity, indicating activation of astrocytes and microglia, was also evident in these areas from 60 days. Glial cytokine and lipocortin immunoreactivity was detected after 90 days, in the absence of clinical signs. The disease-induced cytokine, PG and lipocortin immunoreactivity occurred only in those brain areas showing PrP(Sc) deposition, glial activation and, in later stages, vacuolation. These findings support the concept that PrP(Sc) deposition induces glial cytokine production. These glial cytokines may contribute to the development of the pathological lesions in scrapie.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Williams
- Institute for Animal Health, BBSRC and MRC Neuropathogenesis Unit, Edinburgh, UK
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25
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Kretzschmar HA, Giese A, Brown DR, Herms J, Keller B, Schmidt B, Groschup M. Cell death in prion disease. JOURNAL OF NEURAL TRANSMISSION. SUPPLEMENTUM 1997; 50:191-210. [PMID: 9120419 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-7091-6842-4_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Prion diseases are neurodegenerative transmissible diseases. The infectious agent, termed prion, is thought to consist of an altered host-encoded protein. The pathogenesis of these diseases which typically in a very short time lead to rampant nerve cell death and astrocytic gliosis is poorly understood. Investigations using the in situ endlabeling technique and electron microscopy in a scrapie model in the mouse (79A strain) show that nerve cell death is due to apoptosis. A cell culture model using a synthetic peptide of the prion protein (PrP106-126) shows that this peptide is toxic only to normal neurons whereas nerve cells derived from PrP knock-out (PrP0/0) mice are unaffected by this neurotoxic effect. In addition, microglia play a crucial part in this process by secreting reactive oxygen species. Experiments in animals will have to show whether these cell culture findings adequately reflect the in vivo pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- H A Kretzschmar
- Institut für Neuropathologic, Universität Gottingen, Federal Republic of Germany
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26
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Foster JD, Wilson M, Hunter N. Immunolocalisation of the prion protein (PrP) in the brains of sheep with scrapie. Vet Rec 1996; 139:512-5. [PMID: 8953691 DOI: 10.1136/vr.139.21.512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Cheviot sheep from the Neuropathogenesis Unit flock were examined for PrP in brain sections using immunocytochemistry in order to aid scrapie diagnosis. Brains were collected from sheep which had been naturally or experimentally infected with scrapie and fixed in periodate-lysine-paraformaldehyde or in formalin. Immunolabelling was achieved using a monoclonal antibody (FH11) raised to the N-terminus of recombinant PrP protein. Several pre-treatments were studied in an effort to enhance PrP immunolabelling such as trypsin, formic acid and hydrated autoclaving. Trypsin was successful in highlighting PrP staining in formalin-fixed tissue. PrP staining was regularly observed in the dorsal vagus nucleus of the medulla oblongata and in the thalamus. Differences in the distribution and intensity of PrP immunostaining were apparent between the scrapie sources ME7 and SSBP/I.
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Affiliation(s)
- J D Foster
- Institute for Animal Health, BBSRC and MRC Neuropathogenesis Unit, Edinburgh
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27
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Somerville RA, Dunn AJ. The association between PrP and infectivity in scrapie and BSE infected mouse brain. Arch Virol 1996; 141:275-89. [PMID: 8634020 DOI: 10.1007/bf01718399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The structure of the scrapie agent remains unknown. However, scrapie infectivity tends to co-sediment with an infection specific fraction of the glycoprotein PrP (PrPSc) under conditions which solubilise the normal form of this protein (PrPc); accordingly, PrP has been proposed as a candidate component of the agent. To investigate this further we have been examining a new scrapie-related murine model in conjunction with established scrapie models. A bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) derived murine model has short incubation periods, high infectivity titre and low amounts of PrP deposited in the brain. A membrane fraction from scrapie/BSE infected brain is solubilised with Sarkosyl at pH > or = 9.0. Most PrP is also solubilised. In models of the disease with little deposition of the PrP in the brain, this solubilisation step is particularly effective in reducing the amounts of PrP sedimented from brain extracts. Gradient centrifugation of the sedimented fraction shows further separation of infectivity and the residual PrP. It is concluded that at least some PrPSc in the brain need not be associated directly with infectious agents but is deposited in brain solely as a pathological product of infection. However, a residual sedimentable fraction contains PrP which may be a component of the agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Somerville
- BBSRC & MRC Neuropathogenesis Unit, Institute for Animal Health, Edinburgh, U.K
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28
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Williams AE, Ryder S, Blakemore WF. Monocyte recruitment into the scrapie-affected brain. Acta Neuropathol 1995; 90:164-9. [PMID: 7484092 DOI: 10.1007/bf00294316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The recruitment of monocytes into the scrapie-affected brain was investigated in female mice reconstituted with male bone marrow, using a Y-chromosome-specific probe and F4/80 immunocytochemistry. Recruitment of monocytes could be demonstrated in six out of eight animals and the number of recruited cells correlated with the severity of vacuolation in most, but not all, animals. The proportion of microglia derived from recruited monocytes varied between individual animals, did not correlate with the increase in cellularity (glia) in affected areas of brain and did not affect the length of incubation period. Thus, it is unlikely that the recruitment of monocytes is a pivotal event in the development of early pathological changes in scrapie. The morphology of recruited cells in scrapie lesions, as revealed by F4/80 immunoreactivity, was indistinguishable from that of activated resident microglia.
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Affiliation(s)
- A E Williams
- Institute for Animal Health, BBSRC and MRC Neuropathogenesis Unit, Edinburgh, UK
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29
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Giese A, Groschup MH, Hess B, Kretzschmar HA. Neuronal cell death in scrapie-infected mice is due to apoptosis. Brain Pathol 1995; 5:213-21. [PMID: 8520720 DOI: 10.1111/j.1750-3639.1995.tb00597.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuronal loss is a salient yet poorly understood feature in the pathology of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (prion diseases). Cell culture experiments with neurotoxic prion protein fragments suggest that neuronal cell death in these diseases may be due to apoptosis. To test this hypothesis in vivo we used the in situ end-labeling (ISEL) technique and electron microscopy to study cell death in an experimental scrapie system in the mouse. ISEL, which relies on the incorporation of labeled nucleotides in fragmented DNA by terminal transferase, showed labeled nuclei in the brains and retinae of mice infected with the 79A strain of scrapie, whereas no labeling was observed in control animals. In the retina the highest numbers of labeled nuclei were found in the outer nuclear layer 120 days post infection followed by massive cell loss in this layer. In the brain, labeled nuclei were mainly found in the granular layer of the cerebellum of terminally ill mice. This corresponded to the presence of small dark nuclei with condensed and occasionally fragmented chromatin at the light and electron microscopical levels. Our results support the hypothesis that neuronal loss in spongiform encephalopathies is due to apoptosis. This may explain the almost complete absence of inflammatory response in prion diseases in the face of widespread neuronal cell death, and may also have therapeutic implications in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Giese
- Department of Neuropathology, University of Göttingen, Germany
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30
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van Keulen LJ, Schreuder BE, Meloen RH, Poelen-van den Berg M, Mooij-Harkes G, Vromans ME, Langeveld JP. Immunohistochemical detection and localization of prion protein in brain tissue of sheep with natural scrapie. Vet Pathol 1995; 32:299-308. [PMID: 7604497 DOI: 10.1177/030098589503200312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
A converted form of the normal cellular prion protein (PrP) accumulates in the brains of sheep with scrapie. We describe an immunohistochemical method for identifying scrapie-associated PrP (PrPSc) in periodate-lysine-paraformaldehyde-fixed brain tissue, which provides adequate preservation of tissue morphology. After pretreatment of tissue sections with formic acid and hydrated autoclaving, we located PrPSc in the brains of 50 sheep with natural scrapie by use of antipeptide antisera raised against ovine PrP. No PrP was seen in 20 sheep without histopathologic signs of scrapie. PrPSc that did not stain for amyloid was present in the cytoplasm and at the cell membrane of both neurons and astrocytes. Large amounts of PrPSc were seen at the cell membrane of neurons in the medulla oblongata and pons, whereas PrPSc accumulated at the cell membrane of astrocytes of the glial limitans in all brain regions. PrPSc that stained for amyloid was located in the walls of blood vessels and perivascularly in the brains of 32 (64%) of 50 sheep, mainly in the thalamus and never in the pons or medulla oblongata. No apparent topographic relationship existed between PrPSc that stained for amyloid and PrPSc accumulation associated with neurons or astrocytes. In all scrapie-affected sheep, PrPSc was present in brain regions with vacuolation, but it could also be detected in regions with minimal or no vacuolation. We conclude that the immunohistochemical detection of PrP can be an important confirmative test in scrapie diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- L J van Keulen
- Department of Pathobiology, Central Veterinary Institute, Lelystad, The Netherlands
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31
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Goodbrand IA, Ironside JW, Nicolson D, Bell JE. Prion protein accumulation in the spinal cords of patients with sporadic and growth hormone associated Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. Neurosci Lett 1995; 183:127-30. [PMID: 7746471 DOI: 10.1016/0304-3940(94)11131-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
An immunohistological study of the spinal cord in 20 cases of sporadic and 4 iatrogenic (growth hormone) cases of Creutzfeldt-Jakob (CJD) disease patients was performed to detect the presence of disease specific prion protein using a number of different antisera. Prion protein was present in all the growth hormone recipients and in 11 of the 20 sporadic CJD cases. Plaque-like deposits of prion protein were found in all the growth hormone cases and three of the sporadic cases. This is the first demonstration of the topographic immunolocalisation of prion protein in the spinal cord of CJD patients, a feature which could help elucidate some important aspects of the pathogenesis of CJD.
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Affiliation(s)
- I A Goodbrand
- National Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease Surveillance Unit, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, UK
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32
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Williams AE, van Dam AM, Man-A-Hing WK, Berkenbosch F, Eikelenboom P, Fraser H. Cytokines, prostaglandins and lipocortin-1 are present in the brains of scrapie-infected mice. Brain Res 1994; 654:200-6. [PMID: 7987669 DOI: 10.1016/0006-8993(94)90480-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The presence of cytokines, prostaglandins and lipocortin-1 was investigated in terminally affected mice in two models of scrapie. There was marked induction of glial interleukin-1 beta, tumour necrosis factor alpha, prostaglandin E2, prostaglandin F2 alpha and lipocortin-1 immunoreactivity in those areas of the brain showing the characteristic vacuolation of scrapie. A comparison of these staining patterns with those of GFAP and F4/80 showed that their expression occurred predominantly in astrocytes. It is possible that cytokines play a significant role in the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration in scrapie.
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Affiliation(s)
- A E Williams
- BBSRC and MRC Neuropathogenesis Unit, Institute for Animal Health, Edinburgh, UK
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33
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Oberdieck U, Xi YG, Pocchiari M, Diringer H. Characterisation of antisera raised against species-specific peptide sequences from scrapie-associated fibril protein and their application for post-mortem immunodiagnosis of spongiform encephalopathies. Arch Virol 1994; 136:99-110. [PMID: 7911655 DOI: 10.1007/bf01538820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSE), such as scrapie or Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD), are fatal neurodegenerative diseases of the central nervous system caused by a yet unidentified virus. They are accompanied by a brain specific amyloidosis, during which a host coded protein irreversibly aggregates to form the scrapie-associated fibrils. The diagnosis of TSE relies on histopathological detection of spongiform lesions, on electron microscopical detection of fibrils, or on the immunological detection of SAF protein, which is the most specific diagnostic marker. In order to improve the diagnosis of TSE, we developed a protocol for rapid tissue fractionation and enrichment of SAF protein which subsequently allows the specific detection of SAF protein by western blotting and immunodetection. Using some new antisera raised against synthetic peptides with sequences specific for the hamster, sheep, cattle and human SAF protein, several samples can be diagnosed for TSE within 24 hours, starting with only 10-100 mg of brain tissue from different species.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Oberdieck
- Robert-Koch-Institut des Bundesgesundheitsamtes, Berlin, Federal Republic of Germany
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34
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Williams AE, Lawson LJ, Perry VH, Fraser H. Characterization of the microglial response in murine scrapie. Neuropathol Appl Neurobiol 1994; 20:47-55. [PMID: 8208340 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2990.1994.tb00956.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The nature of the glial and inflammatory cell responses to infection in scrapie-affected brains was studied in terminally-affected mice of five scrapie models. There were marked astrocytic and microglial responses. Microglia showed increased staining of the surface antigens F4/80, leucocyte-common antigen, type 3 complement receptor, and elevated endocytotic and lysosomal activity. In all models, the astrocytic and microglial responses were largely restricted to anatomical regions of the brain showing vacuolation and/or plaque formation and pathological accumulations of PrP. Expression of MHC Class II was patchy and present on microglia in the neuropil of areas with the most intense microglial activation and on occasional perivascular macrophages. This microglial response may represent a modified form of inflammatory response.
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Affiliation(s)
- A E Williams
- Institute for Animal Health, AFRC & MRC Neuropathogenesis Unit, Edinburgh, UK
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35
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Liberski PP. Transmissible cerebral amyloidoses as a model for Alzheimer's disease. An ultrastructural perspective. Mol Neurobiol 1994; 8:67-77. [PMID: 7522013 DOI: 10.1007/bf02778009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease, a prototypic nontransmissible cerebral amyloidosis, has no adequate experimental model. Several pathogenetic events, however, may be modeled and accurately studied in the transmissible cerebral amyloidoses of kuru, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, Gerstmann-Sträussler-Scheinker disease, and scrapie. The common neuropathological denominator in both types of cerebral amyloidoses is the presence of stellate kuru plaques, senile plaques, and pure neuritic plaques. These amyloid plaques consist of amyloid fibers, dystrophic neurites, and reactive astrocytes in different proportions. Microglial cells, which are regarded as amyloid producer/processor cells in Alzheimer's disease, may play the same function in the transmissible cerebral amyloidoses. In both transmissible and nontransmissible amyloidoses, the impairment of axonal transport leads to accumulation of abnormally phosphorylated cytoskeleton proteins (such as neurofilament proteins and microtubule-associated protein tau), which eventually produce dystrophic neurites observed as parts of plaque or as isolated pathological structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- P P Liberski
- Department of Oncology, Medical Academy Lodz, Poland
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36
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Haritani M, Spencer YI, Wells GA. Hydrated autoclave pretreatment enhancement of prion protein immunoreactivity in formalin-fixed bovine spongiform encephalopathy-affected brain. Acta Neuropathol 1994; 87:86-90. [PMID: 7908155 DOI: 10.1007/bf00386258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The efficacy of three pretreatment techniques for the detection of prion protein (PrP) in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE)--affected brain tissue were compared using automated image analysis. The most abundant immunostaining was in the form of particulate expression observed in sections pretreated with hydrated autoclaving for 30 min. Considerably less immunostaining occurred in sections pretreated with formic acid and no specific particulate immunostaining was detected in sections pretreated with hydrolytic autoclaving. Hydrated autoclaving pretreatment of sections prior to PrP immunolabelling gives visualisation of widespread sites of abnormal PrP deposition in the brain, allowing detailed study of the form and distribution of the protein in routinely fixed bovine central nervous system affected with BSE.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Haritani
- Department of Pathology, Central Veterinary Laboratory, Addlestone, Surrey, UK
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Stack MJ, Scott AC, Done SH, Dawson M. Scrapie associated fibril detection on decomposed and fixed ovine brain material. Res Vet Sci 1993; 55:173-8. [PMID: 8235083 DOI: 10.1016/0034-5288(93)90077-s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Samples of cerebral cortex from eight scrapie affected sheep and two unaffected control sheep were stored for up to nine days at temperatures ranging from 18 degrees C to 29 degrees C. Scrapie associated fibrils (SAF) could be detected in proteinase K treated brain extracts from all the eight scrapie affected animals after five days storage and in six out of the eight after nine days storage. SAF could not be detected in any brain extracts from the two control animals. Formol saline fixed brain material from a further six scrapie affected and two clinically normal sheep, were also subjected to an extraction technique used to detect fibrils. No characteristic SAF were observed in any of these fixed samples. Long filamentous structures were observed in four of the fixed scrapie affected brain extracts and in one of the fixed unaffected control brain extracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Stack
- Central Veterinary Laboratory, New Haw, Addlestone, Surrey
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Miller JM, Jenny AL, Taylor WD, Marsh RF, Rubenstein R, Race RE. Immunohistochemical detection of prion protein in sheep with scrapie. J Vet Diagn Invest 1993; 5:309-16. [PMID: 8104039 DOI: 10.1177/104063879300500301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Prion protein (PrP), which is involved in the pathogenesis of scrapie, occurs in 2 forms. The form extracted from scrapie brain is protease resistant (PrP-res), whereas PrP from normal brain is protease sensitive (PrP-sen). This study examined whether PrP-res could be detected in brains of sheep with scrapie by immunohistochemistry (IHC). A suitable IHC procedure was developed using brain tissue from hamsters that had been inoculated with the transmissible mink encephalopathy agent. Tissue samples were fixed in PLP (periodate, lysine, paraformaldehyde) that contained paraformaldehyde at a concentration of 0.125%. Before application of the IHC technique, tissue sections were deparaffinized and treated with formic acid to simultaneously enhance PrP-res immunoreactivity and degrade PrP-sen. Primary antibody was obtained from a rabbit immunized to PrP-res extracted from brains of mice with experimentally induced scrapie. Brain from 21 sheep with histopathologically confirmed scrapie were examined by IHC. In all 21 brains, PrP-res was widely distributed throughout the brain stem. Staining was particularly intense in neuronal cell bodies and around blood vessels. The IHC technique successfully detected PrP-res in brain samples that had been frozen or that were severely autolyzed before fixation in PLP. Brains from 11 scrapie-suspect sheep that were not considered histologically positive were also examined by IHC. PrP-res was found in 4 of these brains. Sections of brains from 14 clinically normal sheep did not have detectable PrP-res. Results of this study indicate that IHC detection of PrP-res is equivalent, and perhaps superior, to histopathology for the diagnosis of scrapie in sheep. Furthermore, IHC is applicable to tissues that have autolytic changes or processing artifacts that prevent satisfactory histopathologic evaluation for lesions of scrapie.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Miller
- Virology Cattle Research Unit, USDA, Agricultural Research Service, Ames, IA 50010
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Abstract
Since 1986, naturally occurring scrapie-like encephalopathies have been described in the United Kingdom in domestic cattle, in five species of captive exotic bovids and in domestic cats. The disease in domestic cattle, bovine spongiform encephalopathy, has been characterised by all currently available diagnostic criteria as a transmissible spongiform encephalopathy or 'prion' disease, and has been shown to have a dietary origin. The pathology in the other species is also entirely consistent with the scrapie-like diseases. The contemporaneous occurrence in the UK of such disease in these species suggests a close epidemiological association. The diagnostic criteria of the scrapie-like encephalopathies of animals are reviewed in the light of experience with the recent extension of their natural host range.
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Affiliation(s)
- G A Wells
- Pathology Department, Central Veterinary Laboratory, Weybridge, Surrey
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Liberski PP, Yanagihara R, Wells GA, Gibbs CJ, Gajdusek DC. Comparative ultrastructural neuropathology of naturally occurring bovine spongiform encephalopathy and experimentally induced scrapie and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. J Comp Pathol 1992; 106:361-81. [PMID: 1644932 DOI: 10.1016/0021-9975(92)90022-m] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
We report the ultrastructural neuropathology of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), a recently described slow virus disease first recognized in Friesian/Holstein cattle, and compare it to that of experimental scrapie and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. The spongiform change, which was most pronounced in the central grey matter of the midbrain, consisted of membrane-bound vacuoles within neuronal processes, containing curled membrane fragments, secondary chambers and vesicles. Axons and dendrites accumulated whorls of neurofilaments and other subcellular organelles, such as mitochondria and dense bodies, which were entrapped within the filamentous masses. Other neurites accumulated electron-dense bodies, and still others electron-lucent cisterns and branching tubules. Membrane-bound neuronal inclusions, composed of tubules measuring 10 nm in diameter, were found in axonal terminals. Tubulovesicular structures were loosely packed and were occasionally surrounded by a common membrane, a finding previously described only in natural scrapie in sheep. Except for the intraneuronal inclusions, all of the ultrastructural features of BSE resembled those found in scrapie and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- P P Liberski
- Laboratory of Central Nervous System Studies, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892
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Affiliation(s)
- M E Bruce
- Institute for Animal Health, AFRC and MRC Neuropathogenesis Unit, Edinburgh, UK
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Prusiner SB, Scott M, Foster D, Pan KM, Groth D, Mirenda C, Torchia M, Yang SL, Serban D, Carlson GA, Hoppe PC, Westaway D, DeArmond SJ. Transgenetic studies implicate interactions between homologous PrP isoforms in scrapie prion replication. Cell 1990; 63:673-86. [PMID: 1977523 DOI: 10.1016/0092-8674(90)90134-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 629] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Transgenic (Tg) mice expressing both Syrian hamster (Ha) and mouse (Mo) prion protein (PrP) genes were used to probe the mechanism of scrapie prion replication. Four Tg lines expressing HaPrP exhibited distinct incubation times ranging from 48 to 277 days, which correlated inversely with HaPrP mRNA and HaPrPC. Bioassays of Tg brain extracts showed that the prion inoculum dictates which prions are synthesized de novo. Tg mice inoculated with Ha prions had approximately 10(9) ID50 units of Ha prions per gram of brain and less than 10 units of Mo prions. Conversely, Tg mice inoculated with Mo prions synthesized Mo prions but not Ha prions. Similarly, Tg mice inoculated with Ha prions exhibited neuropathologic changes characteristic of hamsters with scrapie, while Mo prions produced changes similar to those in non-Tg mice. Our results argue that species specificity of scrapie prions resides in the PrP sequence and prion synthesis is initiated by a species-specific interaction between PrPSc in the inoculum and homologous PrPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- S B Prusiner
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco 94143
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Lowe J, McDermott H, Kenward N, Landon M, Mayer RJ, Bruce M, McBride P, Somerville RA, Hope J. Ubiquitin conjugate immunoreactivity in the brains of scrapie infected mice. J Pathol 1990; 162:61-6. [PMID: 1977900 DOI: 10.1002/path.1711620112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Sections of brain from normal mice or clinically-ill mice infected with either the 87V or the ME7 strains of sheep scrapie were immunostained to show the localization of ubiquitin-protein conjugates or a specific marker of disease, the scrapie-associated fibril protein (PrP). In both scrapie models immunoreactive ubiquitin-protein conjugates were seen in thread-like structures found throughout the neuropil, in inclusion bodies within vacuolated neurones, and in areas surrounding anti-PrP positive amyloid plaques. The PrP protein was visualized in diffuse deposits in highly vacuolated parts of the scrapie-affected brain, and focally in amyloid plaques, microglia and neuronal processes. The ubiquitin-protein conjugate staining of scrapie amyloid plaques is very similar to that seen in the plaques of Alzheimer's disease. The ubiquitinated intraneuronal inclusion bodies seen in scrapie resemble the granulovacuolar lesions also seen in Alzheimer's disease, but appear much larger and possibly correspond to material in giant autophagic vacuoles. We suggest that these inclusions may be the result of ubiquitinated abnormal proteins being directed to the lysosomal system, and that scrapie and Alzheimer's disease share at least some common processes of neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Lowe
- Department of Pathology, University of Nottingham Medical School, Queens Medical Centre, U.K
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Bruce ME, McBride PA, Farquhar CF. Precise targeting of the pathology of the sialoglycoprotein, PrP, and vacuolar degeneration in mouse scrapie. Neurosci Lett 1989; 102:1-6. [PMID: 2550852 DOI: 10.1016/0304-3940(89)90298-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 223] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Widespread immunostaining of PrP protein was demonstrated in scrapie mouse brain, distributed diffusely in the neuropil and focally in amyloid plaques, microglia and 2-5 microns structures resembling neuronal processes. With the 87V scrapie strain, which produces focal vacuolation in particular areas, PrP pathology was precisely targeted to these same areas, predating vacuolar degeneration by at least several weeks. On the other hand, both vacuolar and PrP changes were widely distributed throughout the brain with the ME7 scrapie strain. It is likely that the precise targeting of PrP pathology, followed by vacuolar degeneration, reflects an underlying targeting and localised replication of infectious agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E Bruce
- Institute for Animal Health, AFRC and MRC Neuropathogenesis Unit, Edinburgh, U.K
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Hope J, Reekie LJ, Hunter N, Multhaup G, Beyreuther K, White H, Scott AC, Stack MJ, Dawson M, Wells GA. Fibrils from brains of cows with new cattle disease contain scrapie-associated protein. Nature 1988; 336:390-2. [PMID: 2904126 DOI: 10.1038/336390a0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
During the past two years, more than 1,000 cases of a neurological disorder of cattle, bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), have been confirmed from farms throughout Great Britain. The neurological signs and brain pathology of BSE resemble those produced in other species by the pathogens of scrapie and related disorders. The discovery of fibrils similar to scrapie-associated fibrils in detergent extracts o BSE-affected brain supported the clinical and pathological diagnosis of the disease, but has been controversial. Scrapie-associated fibrils are found in brain extracts of all species affected by scrapie and diseases caused by related pathogens. They are pathological aggregates of a neuronal membrane protein termed PrP and a protease-resistant form of PrP is a molecular marker of scrapie-associated fibrils. In this report, we show the major protein of BSE fibrils is the bovine homologue of PrP as judged by its size, protease resistance, immunoreactivity, lectin binding and partial N-terminal protein sequence. This confirms that BSE is a scrapie-like disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Hope
- Institute for Animal Health, AFRC & MRC Neuropathogenesis Unit, Edinburgh, UK
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Allsop D, Ikeda S, Bruce M, Glenner GG. Cerebrovascular amyloid in scrapie-affected sheep reacts with antibodies to prion protein. Neurosci Lett 1988; 92:234-9. [PMID: 3185993 DOI: 10.1016/0304-3940(88)90067-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
In an immunohistochemical study of naturally-occurring and experimental scrapie in sheep, deposits of cerebrovascular amyloid were found to react with antibodies to hamster scrapie prion protein (PrP 27-30), but not with antibodies to the amyloid beta-protein of Alzheimer's disease. It is concluded that this vascular amyloid is formed from PrP and is therefore closely associated with scrapie infection. It is likely that this amyloid is formed from a host precursor protein as a specific pathological consequence of invasion by the scrapie agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Allsop
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla 92093
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