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Khaliulin I, Hamoudi W, Amal H. The multifaceted role of mitochondria in autism spectrum disorder. Mol Psychiatry 2024:10.1038/s41380-024-02725-z. [PMID: 39223276 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-024-02725-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2024] [Revised: 08/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Normal brain functioning relies on high aerobic energy production provided by mitochondria. Failure to supply a sufficient amount of energy, seen in different brain disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), may have a significant negative impact on brain development and support of different brain functions. Mitochondrial dysfunction, manifested in the abnormal activities of the electron transport chain and impaired energy metabolism, greatly contributes to ASD. The aberrant functioning of this organelle is of such high importance that ASD has been proposed as a mitochondrial disease. It should be noted that aerobic energy production is not the only function of the mitochondria. In particular, these organelles are involved in the regulation of Ca2+ homeostasis, different mechanisms of programmed cell death, autophagy, and reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS and RNS) production. Several syndromes originated from mitochondria-related mutations display ASD phenotype. Abnormalities in Ca2+ handling and ATP production in the brain mitochondria affect synaptic transmission, plasticity, and synaptic development, contributing to ASD. ROS and Ca2+ regulate the activity of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP). The prolonged opening of this pore affects the redox state of the mitochondria, impairs oxidative phosphorylation, and activates apoptosis, ultimately leading to cell death. A dysregulation between the enhanced mitochondria-related processes of apoptosis and the inhibited autophagy leads to the accumulation of toxic products in the brains of individuals with ASD. Although many mitochondria-related mechanisms still have to be investigated, and whether they are the cause or consequence of this disorder is still unknown, the accumulating data show that the breakdown of any of the mitochondrial functions may contribute to abnormal brain development leading to ASD. In this review, we discuss the multifaceted role of mitochondria in ASD from the various aspects of neuroscience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Khaliulin
- Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Wajeha Hamoudi
- Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Haitham Amal
- Institute for Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.
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Reza Naghdi M, Ahadi R, Motamed Nezhad A, Sadat Ahmadi Tabatabaei F, Soleimani M, Hajisoltani R. The neuroprotective effect of Diosgenin in the rat Valproic acid model of autism. Brain Res 2024; 1838:148963. [PMID: 38705555 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2024.148963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with two core behavioral symptoms restricted/repetitive behavior and social-communication deficit. The unknown etiology of ASD makes it difficult to identify potential treatments. Valproic acid (VPA) is an anticonvulsant drug with teratogenic effects during pregnancy in humans and rodents. Prenatal exposure to VPA induces autism-like behavior in both humans and rodents. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of Diosgenin in prenatal Valproic acid-induced autism in rats. METHOD pregnant Wister female rats were given a single intraperitoneal injection of VPA (600 mg/kg, i.p.) on gestational day 12.5. The male offspring were given oral Dios (40 mg/kg, p.o.) or Carboxymethyl cellulose (5 mg/kg, p.o.) for 30 days starting from postnatal day 23. On postnatal day 52, behavioral tests were done. Additionally, biochemical assessments for oxidative stress markers were carried out on postnatal day 60. Further, histological evaluations were performed on the prefrontal tissue by Nissl staining and Immunohistofluorescence. RESULTS The VPA-exposed rats showed increased anxiety-like behavior in the elevated plus maze (EPM). They also demonstrated repetitive and grooming behaviors in the marble burying test (MBT) and self-grooming test. Social interaction was reduced, and they had difficulty detecting the novel object in the novel object recognition (NOR) test. Also, VPA-treated rats have shown higher levels of oxidative stress malondialdehyde (MDA) and lower GPX, TAC, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels. Furthermore, the number of neurons decreased and the ERK signaling pathway upregulated in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). On the other hand, treatment with Dios restored the behavioral consequences, lowered oxidative stress, and death of neurons, and rescued the overly activated ERK1/2 signaling in the prefrontal cortex. CONCLUSION Chronic treatment with Dios restored the behavioral, biochemical, and histological abnormalities caused by prenatal VPA exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Reza Ahadi
- Department of Anatomy, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | - Mansoureh Soleimani
- Department of Anatomy, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Razieh Hajisoltani
- Physiology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Öz F, Kaya İ, Tanır Y, Küçükgergin C, Aydın AF. Comparison of Serum Neurofilament Light Chain and Tau Protein Levels in Cases with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Their Healthy Siblings and Healthy Controls. CLINICAL PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL SCIENTIFIC JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN COLLEGE OF NEUROPSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 22:502-511. [PMID: 39069690 PMCID: PMC11289602 DOI: 10.9758/cpn.23.1153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Objective : There is a growing interest among clinicians and researchers in identifying potential biomarkers associated with autism. Neurofilament light chain (NfL) and Tau protein, which are proteins associated with neurodegeneration and neuroaxonal degeneration, are particularly promising potential biomarker candidates in this field. Methods : In this study, we compared serum NfL (sNfL) and serum Tau (sTau) levels in Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) patients, their healthy siblings (HS), and healthy controls (HC), aimed to investigate their relationship with ASD severity. Our study included 43 ASD-diagnosed participants, 43 HS participants and 42 HC participants. Clinical characteristics of the participants were assesed by Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia, Childhood Autism Rating Scale, Aberrant Behavior Checklist, and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Serum samples were subjected to analysis via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to quantitatively measure the levels of NfL and Tau protein. Results : sNfL levels in the ASD group were significantly higher than both of the control groups. Regarding sTau levels, no significant difference was found between study and control groups. In addition, NfL and Tau levels were not significantly correlated with ASD symptom severity. Conclusion : Our findings may indicate that the sNfl levels associated with neuroaxonal damage may constitue a potential clinical biomarker rather than being an endophenotype phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fırat Öz
- Departmant of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Siirt Training and Research Hospital, Siirt, Turkey
| | - İlyas Kaya
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Istanbul Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Yaşar Tanır
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Istanbul Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Canan Küçükgergin
- Departments of Medical Biochemistry, Istanbul Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Abdurrahman Fatih Aydın
- Departments of Medical Biochemistry, Istanbul Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Zhang S, Zhou Y, Shen J, Wang Y, Xia J, Li C, Liu W, Hayat K, Qian M. Early-Life Exposure to 4-Hydroxy-4'-Isopropoxydiphenylsulfone Induces Behavioral Deficits Associated with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Mice. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 39194383 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c04760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
Exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) during gestation and lactation is considered to be a potential risk factor for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in both humans and animals. As a novel alternative to BPA, 4-hydroxy-4'-isopropoxydiphenylsulfone (BPSIP) is frequently detected in breast milk and placental barrier systems, suggesting potential transmission from the mother to offspring and increased risk of exposure. Gestation and lactation are critical periods for central nervous system development, which are vulnerable to certain environmental pollutants. Herein, we investigated the behavioral impacts and neurobiological effects of early-life exposure to BPSIP (0.02, 0.1, and 0.5 mg/kg body weight/day) in mice offspring. Behavioral studies indicated that BPSIP exposure induced ASD-like behaviors, including elevated anxiety-related behavior and decreased spatial memory, in both male and female pups. A distinct pattern of reduced social novelty was observed only in female offspring, accompanied by significant alterations in antioxidant levels. Transcriptome analysis demonstrated that differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were mainly enriched in pathways related to behaviors and neurodevelopment, which were consistent with the observed phenotype. Besides, a decrease in the protein levels of complex IV (COX IV) across all tested populations suggests a profound impact on mitochondrial function, potentially leading to abnormal energy metabolism in individuals with autism. Additionally, changes in synaptic proteins, evidenced by alterations in synapsin 1 (SYN1) and postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD95) levels in the cerebellum and hippocampus, support the notion of synaptic involvement. These findings suggest that BPSIP may induce sex-specific neurotoxic effects that involve oxidative stress, energy generation, and synaptic plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengnan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, Interdisciplinary Research Academy, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, China
| | - Yitong Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, Interdisciplinary Research Academy, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, China
| | - Jiatong Shen
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, Interdisciplinary Research Academy, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, China
| | - Yumeng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, Interdisciplinary Research Academy, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, China
| | - Jun Xia
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, Interdisciplinary Research Academy, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, China
| | - Chenghan Li
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, Interdisciplinary Research Academy, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, China
| | - Weiping Liu
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, Interdisciplinary Research Academy, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, China
| | - Kashif Hayat
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, Interdisciplinary Research Academy, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, China
| | - Mingrong Qian
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, Interdisciplinary Research Academy, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, China
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Macur K, Roszkowska A, Czaplewska P, Miękus-Purwin N, Klejbor I, Moryś J, Bączek T. Pressure Cycling Technology Combined With MicroLC-SWATH Mass Spectrometry for the Analysis of Sex-Related Differences Between Male and Female Cerebella: A Promising Approach to Investigating Proteomics Differences in Psychiatric and Neurodegenerative Diseases. Proteomics Clin Appl 2024:e202400001. [PMID: 39205462 DOI: 10.1002/prca.202400001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Pressure cycling technology (PCT) coupled with data-independent sequential window acquisition of all theoretical mass spectra (SWATH-MS) can be a powerful tool for identifying and quantifying biomarkers (e.g., proteins) in complex biological samples. Mouse models are frequently used in brain studies, including those focusing on different neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. More and more pieces of evidence have suggested that sex-related differences in the brain impact the rates, clinical manifestations, and therapy outcomes of these disorders. However, sex-based differences in the proteomic profiles of mouse cerebella have not been widely investigated. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN In this pilot study, we evaluate the applicability of coupling PCT sample preparation with microLC-SWATH-MS analysis to map and identify differences in the proteomes of two female and two male mice cerebellum samples. RESULTS We identified and quantified 174 proteins in mice cerebella. A comparison of the proteomic profiles revealed that the levels of 11 proteins in the female and male mice cerebella varied significantly. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Although this study utilizes a small sample, our results indicate that the studied male and female mice cerebella possessed differing proteome compositions, mainly with respect to energy metabolism processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Macur
- Core Facility Laboratories, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdańsk and Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Anna Roszkowska
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Paulina Czaplewska
- Core Facility Laboratories, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdańsk and Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Natalia Miękus-Purwin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Ilona Klejbor
- Department of Anatomy, Institute of Medical Sciences, Jan Kochanowski University, Kielce, Poland
| | - Janusz Moryś
- Department of Normal Anatomy, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Tomasz Bączek
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
- Department of Nursing and Medical Rescue, Institute of Health Sciences, Pomeranian University in Słupsk, Słupsk, Poland
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Sandhu A, Rawat K, Gautam V, Kumar A, Sharma A, Bhatia A, Grover S, Saini L, Saha L. Neuroprotective effect of PPAR gamma agonist in rat model of autism spectrum disorder: Role of Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2024; 135:111126. [PMID: 39179196 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2024.111126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The clinical manifestation of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is linked to the disruption of fundamental neurodevelopmental pathways. Emerging evidences claim to have an upregulation of canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway while downregulation of PPARγ pathway in ASD. This study aims to investigate the therapeutic potential of pioglitazone, a PPARγ agonist, in rat model of ASD. The study further explores the possible role of PPARγ and Wnt/β-catenin pathway and their interaction in ASD by using their modulators. MATERIAL AND METHODS Pregnant female Wistar rats received 600 mg/kg of valproic acid (VPA) to induce autistic symptoms in pups. Pioglitazone (10 mg/kg) was used to evaluate neurobehaviors, relative mRNA expression of inflammatory (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α), apoptotic markers (Bcl-2, Bax, & Caspase-3) and histopathology (H&E, Nissl stain, Immunohistochemistry). Effect of pioglitazone was evaluated on Wnt pathway and 4 μg/kg dose of 6-BIO (Wnt modulator) was used to study the PPARγ pathway. RESULTS ASD model was established in pups as indicated by core autistic symptoms, increased neuroinflammation, apoptosis and histopathological neurodegeneration in cerebellum, hippocampus and amygdala. Pioglitazone significantly attenuated these alterations in VPA-exposed rats. The expression study results indicated an increase in key transcription factor, β-catenin in VPA-rats suggesting an upregulation of canonical Wnt pathway in them. Pioglitazone significantly downregulated the Wnt signaling by suppressing the expression of Wnt signaling-associated proteins. The inhibiting effect of Wnt pathway on PPARγ activity was indicated by downregulation of PPARγ-associated protein in VPA-exposed rats and those administered with 6-BIO. CONCLUSION In the present study, upregulation of canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway was demonstrated in ASD rat model. Pioglitazone administration significantly ameliorated these symptoms potentially through its neuroprotective effect and its ability to downregulate the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. The antagonism between the PPARγ and Wnt pathway offers a promising therapeutic approach for addressing ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arushi Sandhu
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Kajal Rawat
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Vipasha Gautam
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Anil Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Antika Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Alka Bhatia
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biotechnology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Sandeep Grover
- Department of Psychiatry, Post Graduate Institute ofMedical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Lokesh Saini
- Department of Paediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342001, India
| | - Lekha Saha
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh 160012, India.
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Pereira AC, Leonard A, Velthuis H, Wong NML, Ponteduro FM, Dimitrov M, Ellis CL, Kowalewski L, Lythgoe DJ, Rotaru DG, Edden RAE, Ivin G, Pretzsch CM, Daly E, Murphy DGM, McAlonan GM. Frontal and occipital brain glutathione levels are unchanged in autistic adults. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0308792. [PMID: 39146282 PMCID: PMC11326623 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0308792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The neurobiological underpinnings of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are diverse and likely multifactorial. One possible mechanism is increased oxidative stress leading to altered neurodevelopment and brain function. However, this hypothesis has mostly been tested in post-mortem studies. So far, available in vivo studies in autistic individuals have reported no differences in glutathione (GSH) levels in frontal, occipital, and subcortical regions. However, these studies were limited by the technically challenging quantification of GSH, the main brain antioxidant molecule. This study aimed to overcome previous studies' limitations by using a GSH-tailored spectroscopy sequence and optimised quantification methodology to provide clarity on GSH levels in autistic adults. METHODS We used spectral editing proton-magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) combined with linear combination model fitting to quantify GSH in the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (DMPFC) and medial occipital cortex (mOCC) of autistic and non-autistic adults (male and female). We compared GSH levels between groups. We also examined correlations between GSH and current autism symptoms, measured using the Autism Quotient (AQ). RESULTS Data were available from 31 adult autistic participants (24 males, 7 females) and 40 non-autistic participants (21 males, 16 females); the largest sample to date. The GSH levels did not differ between groups in either region. No correlations with AQ were observed. CONCLUSION GSH levels as measured using 1H-MRS are unaltered in the DMPFC and mOCC regions of autistic adults, suggesting that oxidative stress in these cortical regions is not a marked neurobiological signature of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreia C Pereira
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- Institute for Nuclear Sciences Applied to Health (ICNAS), Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), University of Coimbra, Portugal, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Alison Leonard
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Hester Velthuis
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nichol M L Wong
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychology, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Francesca M Ponteduro
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mihail Dimitrov
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Claire L Ellis
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lukasz Kowalewski
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David J Lythgoe
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Diana-Georgina Rotaru
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Richard A E Edden
- Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- F.M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Glynis Ivin
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust Pharmacy, London, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte M Pretzsch
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Eileen Daly
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Declan G M Murphy
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gráinne M McAlonan
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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Shao W, Su Y, Liu J, Liu Y, Zhao J, Fan X. Understanding the link between different types of maternal diabetes and the onset of autism spectrum disorders. DIABETES & METABOLISM 2024; 50:101543. [PMID: 38761920 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabet.2024.101543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) encompass a collection of neurodevelopmental disorders that exhibit impaired social interactions and repetitive stereotypic behaviors. Although the exact cause of these disorders remains unknown, it is widely accepted that both genetic and environmental factors contribute to their onset and progression. Recent studies have highlighted the potential negative impact of maternal diabetes on embryonic neurodevelopment, suggesting that intrauterine hyperglycemia could pose an additional risk to early brain development and contribute to the development of ASD. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the current research on the relationship between various forms of maternal diabetes, such as type 1 diabetes mellitus, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and gestational diabetes mellitus, and the likelihood of ASD in offspring. The study elucidates the potential mechanisms through which maternal hyperglycemia affects fetal development, involving metabolic hormones, immune dysregulation, heightened oxidative stress, and epigenetic alterations. The findings of this review offer valuable insights for potential preventive measures and evidence-based interventions targeting ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyu Shao
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Yichun Su
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Jiayin Liu
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Yulong Liu
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Jinghui Zhao
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China.
| | - Xiaotang Fan
- Department of Military Cognitive Psychology, School of Psychology, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
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Frye RE, Rincon N, McCarty PJ, Brister D, Scheck AC, Rossignol DA. Biomarkers of mitochondrial dysfunction in autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Neurobiol Dis 2024; 197:106520. [PMID: 38703861 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2024.106520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting 1 in 36 children and is associated with physiological abnormalities, most notably mitochondrial dysfunction, at least in a subset of individuals. This systematic review and meta-analysis discovered 204 relevant articles which evaluated biomarkers of mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD individuals. Significant elevations (all p < 0.01) in the prevalence of lactate (17%), pyruvate (41%), alanine (15%) and creatine kinase (9%) were found in ASD. Individuals with ASD had significant differences (all p < 0.01) with moderate to large effect sizes (Cohen's d' ≥ 0.6) compared to controls in mean pyruvate, lactate-to-pyruvate ratio, ATP, and creatine kinase. Some studies found abnormal TCA cycle metabolites associated with ASD. Thirteen controlled studies reported mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) deletions or variations in the ASD group in blood, peripheral blood mononuclear cells, lymphocytes, leucocytes, granulocytes, and brain. Meta-analyses discovered significant differences (p < 0.01) in copy number of mtDNA overall and in ND1, ND4 and CytB genes. Four studies linked specific mtDNA haplogroups to ASD. A series of studies found a subgroup of ASD with elevated mitochondrial respiration which was associated with increased sensitivity of the mitochondria to physiological stressors and neurodevelopmental regression. Lactate, pyruvate, lactate-to-pyruvate ratio, carnitine, and acyl-carnitines were associated with clinical features such as delays in language, social interaction, cognition, motor skills, and with repetitive behaviors and gastrointestinal symptoms, although not all studies found an association. Lactate, carnitine, acyl-carnitines, ATP, CoQ10, as well as mtDNA variants, heteroplasmy, haplogroups and copy number were associated with ASD severity. Variability was found across biomarker studies primarily due to differences in collection and processing techniques as well as the intrinsic heterogeneity of the ASD population. Several studies reported alterations in mitochondrial metabolism in mothers of children with ASD and in neonates who develop ASD. Treatments targeting mitochondria, particularly carnitine and ubiquinol, appear beneficial in ASD. The link between mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD and common physiological abnormalities in individuals with ASD including gastrointestinal disorders, oxidative stress, and immune dysfunction is outlined. Several subtypes of mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD are discussed, including one related to neurodevelopmental regression, another related to alterations in microbiome metabolites, and another related to elevations in acyl-carnitines. Mechanisms linking abnormal mitochondrial function with alterations in prenatal brain development and postnatal brain function are outlined. Given the multisystem complexity of some individuals with ASD, this review presents evidence for the mitochondria being central to ASD by contributing to abnormalities in brain development, cognition, and comorbidities such as immune and gastrointestinal dysfunction as well as neurodevelopmental regression. A diagnostic approach to identify mitochondrial dysfunction in ASD is outlined. From this evidence, it is clear that many individuals with ASD have alterations in mitochondrial function which may need to be addressed in order to achieve optimal clinical outcomes. The fact that alterations in mitochondrial metabolism may be found during pregnancy and early in the life of individuals who eventually develop ASD provides promise for early life predictive biomarkers of ASD. Further studies may improve the understanding of the role of the mitochondria in ASD by better defining subgroups and understanding the molecular mechanisms driving some of the unique changes found in mitochondrial function in those with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard E Frye
- Autism Discovery and Treatment Foundation, Phoenix, AZ, USA; Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA; Rossignol Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
| | | | - Patrick J McCarty
- Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70113, United States of America.
| | | | - Adrienne C Scheck
- Autism Discovery and Treatment Foundation, Phoenix, AZ, USA; Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States of America.
| | - Daniel A Rossignol
- Autism Discovery and Treatment Foundation, Phoenix, AZ, USA; Rossignol Medical Center, Aliso Viejo, CA, USA
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Shekhar N, Thakur AK. Evaluation of the protective effect of capric acid on behavioral and biochemical alterations in valproic acid-induced model of autism. Neurochem Int 2024; 177:105767. [PMID: 38750962 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2024.105767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024]
Abstract
AIM AND OBJECTIVE The purpose of the study is to determine the neuroprotective effect of capric acid on sodium valproate-induced model of autism. METHODS In this study, the effect of CA was observed in animals with single dose of valproic acid (600 mg/kg, i. p.) where the disease condition was confirmed by developmental impairment in pups. Behavioral tests that assess anxiety, depression, stereotypical and repetitive behavior, social interaction, learning and memory, and other confounding variables were performed. Subsequently, oxidative stress parameters, pro-inflammatory cytokine levels and mitochondrial complex activities in the selected brain regions were analyzed. RESULTS Valproic acid successfully produced autism-like symptoms from post-natal day 7 and also demonstrated impairment in social behavior, learning and memory, and anxiety and depression. Valproic acid was found to produce oxidative stress and neuro-inflammation in the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, and cerebellum. Treatment with capric acid produced a positive effect on the alterations with maximum effects evident at 400 mg/kg, p. o. through amelioration of behavioral as well as biochemical changes. CONCLUSION The current study concluded that capric acid could act as a likely candidate for the treatment and management of autism via significant modulation of neurobehavioral parameters, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and inflammatory markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikhila Shekhar
- Neuropharmacology Research Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi, 110 017, India
| | - Ajit Kumar Thakur
- Neuropharmacology Research Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi, 110 017, India.
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11
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Xie X, Zhou R, Fang Z, Zhang Y, Wang Q, Liu X. Seeing beyond words: Visualizing autism spectrum disorder biomarker insights. Heliyon 2024; 10:e30420. [PMID: 38694128 PMCID: PMC11061761 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This study employs bibliometric and visual analysis to elucidate global research trends in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) biomarkers, identify critical research focal points, and discuss the potential integration of diverse biomarker modalities for precise ASD assessment. Methods A comprehensive bibliometric analysis was conducted using data from the Web of Science Core Collection database until December 31, 2022. Visualization tools, including R, VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and gCLUTO, were utilized to examine collaborative networks, co-citation patterns, and keyword associations among countries, institutions, authors, journals, documents, and keywords. Results ASD biomarker research emerged in 2004, accumulating a corpus of 4348 documents by December 31, 2022. The United States, with 1574 publications and an H-index of 213, emerged as the most prolific and influential country. The University of California, Davis, contributed significantly with 346 publications and an H-index of 69, making it the leading institution. Concerning journals, the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, Autism Research, and PLOS ONE were the top three publishers of ASD biomarker-related articles among a total of 1140 academic journals. Co-citation and keyword analyses revealed research hotspots in genetics, imaging, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, gut microbiota, and eye tracking. Emerging topics included "DNA methylation," "eye tracking," "metabolomics," and "resting-state fMRI." Conclusion The field of ASD biomarker research is dynamically evolving. Future endeavors should prioritize individual stratification, methodological standardization, the harmonious integration of biomarker modalities, and longitudinal studies to advance the precision of ASD diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyue Xie
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Pediatrics Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, China
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, School of Pediatrics, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450046, China
| | - Rongyi Zhou
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Pediatrics Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, China
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, School of Pediatrics, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450046, China
| | - Zihan Fang
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, School of Pediatrics, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450046, China
| | - Yongting Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Pediatrics Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, China
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, School of Pediatrics, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450046, China
| | - Qirong Wang
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, School of Pediatrics, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450046, China
| | - Xiaomian Liu
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450046, China
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12
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Sandhu A, Rawat K, Gautam V, Bhatia A, Grover S, Saini L, Saha L. Ameliorating effect of pioglitazone on prenatal valproic acid-induced behavioral and neurobiological abnormalities in autism spectrum disorder in rats. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2024; 237:173721. [PMID: 38307465 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2024.173721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopment disorder that mainly arises due to abnormalities in different brain regions, resulting in behavioral deficits. Besides its diverse phenotypical features, ASD is associated with complex and varied etiology, presenting challenges in understanding its precise neuro-pathophysiology. Pioglitazone was reported to have a fundamental role in neuroprotection in various other neurological disorders. The present study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of pioglitazone in the prenatal valproic acid (VPA)-model of ASD in Wistar rats. Pregnant female Wistar rats received VPA on Embryonic day (E.D12.5) to induce autistic-like-behavioral and neurobiological alterations in their offspring. VPA-exposed rats presented core behavioral symptoms of ASD such as deficits in social interaction, poor spatial and learning behavior, increased anxiety, locomotory and repetitive activity, and decreased exploratory activity. Apart from these, VPA exposure also stimulated neurochemical and histopathological neurodegeneration in various brain regions. We administered three different doses of pioglitazone i.e., 2.5, 5, and 10 mg/kg in rats to assess various parameters. Of all the doses, our study highlighted that 10 mg/kg pioglitazone efficiently attenuated the autistic symptoms along with other neurochemical alterations such as oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and apoptosis. Moreover, pioglitazone significantly attenuated the neurodegeneration by restoring the neuronal loss in the hippocampus and cerebellum. Taken together, our study suggests that pioglitazone exhibits therapeutic potential in alleviating behavioral abnormalities induced by prenatal VPA exposure in rats. However, further research is needed to fully understand and establish pioglitazone's effectiveness in treating ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arushi Sandhu
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), 4th Floor, Research Block B, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Kajal Rawat
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), 4th Floor, Research Block B, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Vipasha Gautam
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), 4th Floor, Research Block B, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Alka Bhatia
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biotechnology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education andResearch (PGIMER), 2nd Floor, Research Block B, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Sandeep Grover
- Department of Psychiatry, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Lokesh Saini
- Department of Paediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Jodhpur 342001, Rajasthan, India
| | - Lekha Saha
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), 4th Floor, Research Block B, Chandigarh 160012, India.
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13
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Shah A, Varma M, Bhandari R. Exploring sulforaphane as neurotherapeutic: targeting Nrf2-Keap & Nf-Kb pathway crosstalk in ASD. Metab Brain Dis 2024; 39:373-385. [PMID: 37249861 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-023-01224-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a family of complex neurodevelopmental disorders, characterized mainly through deficits in social behavior and communication. While the causes giving rise to autistic symptoms are numerous and varied, the treatment options and therapeutic avenues are still severely limited. Nevertheless, a number of signalling pathways have been implicated in the pathogenesis of the disease, and targeting these pathways might provide insight into potential treatments and future strategies. Importantly, alterations in inflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction have been noted in the brains of ASD patients, and among the pathways involved in these processes is the Nrf2 cascade. This particular pathway has been hypothesized to be involved in inducing both, inflammatory and anti-inflammatory/neuroprotective effects in the brain, sparking an interest in its use in ASD. Sulforaphane, a sulfur-containing phytochemical present mainly in cruciferous plants like broccoli and cabbage, has shown efficacy in activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway, which in turn brings about a protective effect on neuronal cells, especially against mitochondrial dysfunction. Its efficacy against ASD has not yet been evaluated, and in this paper, we attempt to discuss the therapeutic potential of this agent in the therapy of autism, with special emphasis on the role of the Nrf2 pathway in the disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Shah
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC- Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, 160 014, Chandigarh, India
| | - Manasi Varma
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC- Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, 160 014, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ranjana Bhandari
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC- Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, 160 014, Chandigarh, India.
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14
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Varma M, Bhandari R, Kuhad A. Repurposing Niclosamide as a plausible neurotherapeutic in autism spectrum disorders, targeting mitochondrial dysfunction: a strong hypothesis. Metab Brain Dis 2024; 39:387-401. [PMID: 37284987 PMCID: PMC10957696 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-023-01247-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are a complex set of neurodevelopmental manifestations which present in the form of social and communication deficits. Affecting a growing proportion of children worldwide, the exact pathogenesis of this disorder is not very well understood, and multiple signaling pathways have been implicated. Among them, the ERK/MAPK pathway is critical in a number of cellular processes, and the normal functioning of neuronal cells also depends on this cascade. As such, recent studies have increasingly focused on the impact this pathway has on the development of autistic symptoms. Improper ERK signaling is suspected to be involved in neurotoxicity, and the same might be implicated in autism spectrum disorders (ASD), through a variety of effects including mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress. Niclosamide, an antihelminthic and anti-inflammatory agent, has shown potential in inhibiting this pathway, and countering the effects shown by its overactivity in inflammation. While it has previously been evaluated in other neurological disorders like Alzheimer's Disease and Parkinson's Disease, as well as various cancers by targeting ERK/MAPK, it's efficacy in autism has not yet been evaluated. In this article, we attempt to discuss the potential role of the ERK/MAPK pathway in the pathogenesis of ASD, specifically through mitochondrial damage, before moving to the therapeutic potential of niclosamide in the disorder, mediated by the inhibition of this pathway and its detrimental effects of neuronal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manasi Varma
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, UGC- Centre of Advanced Study, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh, 160 014, India
| | - Ranjana Bhandari
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, UGC- Centre of Advanced Study, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh, 160 014, India.
| | - Anurag Kuhad
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, UGC- Centre of Advanced Study, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh, 160 014, India.
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15
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Mourokh L, Friedman J. Mitochondria at the Nanoscale: Physics Meets Biology-What Does It Mean for Medicine? Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2835. [PMID: 38474079 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are commonly perceived as "cellular power plants". Intriguingly, power conversion is not their only function. In the first part of this paper, we review the role of mitochondria in the evolution of eukaryotic organisms and in the regulation of the human body, specifically focusing on cancer and autism in relation to mitochondrial dysfunction. In the second part, we overview our previous works, revealing the physical principles of operation for proton-pumping complexes in the inner mitochondrial membrane. Our proposed simple models reveal the physical mechanisms of energy exchange. They can be further expanded to answer open questions about mitochondrial functions and the medical treatment of diseases associated with mitochondrial disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lev Mourokh
- Physics Department, Queens College, The City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Blvd. Flushing, New York, NY 11367, USA
| | - Jonathan Friedman
- Physics Department, Queens College, The City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Blvd. Flushing, New York, NY 11367, USA
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16
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Cui J, Zhai Z, Wang S, Song X, Qiu T, Yu L, Zhai Q, Zhang H. The role and impact of abnormal vitamin levels in autism spectrum disorders. Food Funct 2024; 15:1099-1115. [PMID: 38221882 DOI: 10.1039/d3fo03735e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental disorder with a predominance of social behavioral disorders, has increased dramatically in various countries in recent decades. The interplay between genetic and environmental factors is believed to underlie ASD pathogenesis. Recent analyses have shown that abnormal vitamin levels in early life are associated with an increased risk of autism. As essential substances for growth and development, vitamins have been shown to have significant benefits for the nervous and immune systems. However, it is unknown whether certain vitamin types influence the emergence or manifestation of ASD symptoms. Several studies have focused on vitamin levels in children with autism, and neurotypical children have provided different insights into the types of vitamins and their intake. Here, we review the mechanisms and significance of several vitamins (A, B, C, D, E, and K) that are closely associated with the development of ASD in order to prevent, mitigate, and treat ASD. Efforts have been made to discover and develop new indicators for nutritional assessment of children with ASD to play a greater role in the early detection of ASD and therapeutic remission after diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Cui
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214002, China.
- Department of child health care, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Affiliated Women's Hositipal of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214002, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China.
| | - Zidan Zhai
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214002, China.
- Department of child health care, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Affiliated Women's Hositipal of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214002, China.
| | - Shumin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China.
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China.
| | - Xiaoyue Song
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University/Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China.
| | - Ting Qiu
- Department of child health care, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Affiliated Women's Hositipal of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214002, China.
| | - Leilei Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China.
| | - Qixiao Zhai
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, China.
| | - Heng Zhang
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214002, China.
- Department of child health care, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Affiliated Women's Hositipal of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214002, China.
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University/Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China.
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17
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Bordt EA, Moya HA, Jo YC, Ravichandran CT, Bankowski IM, Ceasrine AM, McDougle CJ, Carlezon WA, Bilbo SD. Gonadal hormones impart male-biased behavioral vulnerabilities to immune activation via microglial mitochondrial function. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 115:680-695. [PMID: 37972878 PMCID: PMC10996880 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2023.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a strong male bias in the prevalence of many neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder. However, the mechanisms underlying this sex bias remain elusive. Infection during the perinatal period is associated with an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorder development. Here, we used a mouse model of early-life immune activation that reliably induces deficits in social behaviors only in males. We demonstrate that male-biased alterations in social behavior are dependent upon microglial immune signaling and are coupled to alterations in mitochondrial morphology, gene expression, and function specifically within microglia, the innate immune cells of the brain. Additionally, we show that this behavioral and microglial mitochondrial vulnerability to early-life immune activation is programmed by the male-typical perinatal gonadal hormone surge. These findings demonstrate that social behavior in males over the lifespan are regulated by microglia-specific mechanisms that are shaped by events that occur in early development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan A Bordt
- Department of Pediatrics, Lurie Center for Autism, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA
| | - Haley A Moya
- Department of Pediatrics, Lurie Center for Autism, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA
| | - Young Chan Jo
- Department of Pediatrics, Lurie Center for Autism, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA; Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Caitlin T Ravichandran
- Department of Pediatrics, Lurie Center for Autism, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA; McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA 02478, USA
| | - Izabella M Bankowski
- Department of Pediatrics, Lurie Center for Autism, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA
| | - Alexis M Ceasrine
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Christopher J McDougle
- Department of Pediatrics, Lurie Center for Autism, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | | | - Staci D Bilbo
- Department of Pediatrics, Lurie Center for Autism, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02129, USA; Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
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18
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Almulla AF, Thipakorn Y, Tunvirachaisakul C, Maes M. The tryptophan catabolite or kynurenine pathway in autism spectrum disorder; a systematic review and meta-analysis. Autism Res 2023; 16:2302-2315. [PMID: 37909397 DOI: 10.1002/aur.3044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired social communication and interaction, as well as rigid and unchanging interests and behaviors. Several studies have reported that activated immune-inflammatory and nitro-oxidative pathways are accompanied by depletion of plasma tryptophan (TRP), increased competing amino acid (CAAs) levels, and activation of the TRP catabolite (TRYCAT) pathway. This study aims to systematically review and meta-analyze data on peripheral TRP, CAAs, TRYCAT pathway activity, and individual TRYCATs, including kynurenine (KYN) and kynurenic acid (KA) levels, in the blood and urine of ASD patients. After extensively searching PubMed, Google Scholar, and SciFinder, a total of 25 full-text papers were included in the analysis, with a total of 6653 participants (3557 people with ASD and 3096 healthy controls). Our results indicate that blood TRP and the TRP/CAAs ratio were not significantly different between ASD patients and controls (standardized mean difference, SMD = -0.227, 95% confidence interval, CI: -0.540; 0.085, and SMD = 0.158, 95% CI: -0.042; 0.359), respectively. The KYN/TRP ratio showed no significant difference between ASD and controls (SMD = 0.001, 95% CI: -0.169; 0.171). Blood KYN and KA levels were not significantly changed in ASD. Moreover, there were no significant differences in urine TRP, KYN, and KA levels between ASD and controls. We could not establish increases in neurotoxic TRYCATs in ASD. In conclusion, this study demonstrates no abnormalities in peripheral blood TRP metabolism, indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase enzyme (IDO) activity, or TRYCAT production in ASD. Reduced TRP availability and elevated neurotoxic TRYCAT levels are not substantial contributors to ASD's pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbas F Almulla
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, College of Medical Technology, The Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq
| | - Yanin Thipakorn
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chavit Tunvirachaisakul
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Cognitive Impairment and Dementia Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Michael Maes
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Cognitive Impairment and Dementia Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Research Institute, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
- Sichuan Provincial Center for Mental Health, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Psychosomatic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, China
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19
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Vilela J, Martiniano H, Marques AR, Santos JX, Asif M, Rasga C, Oliveira G, Vicente AM. Identification of Neurotransmission and Synaptic Biological Processes Disrupted in Autism Spectrum Disorder Using Interaction Networks and Community Detection Analysis. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2971. [PMID: 38001974 PMCID: PMC10668950 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11112971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by communication deficits and repetitive behavioral patterns. Hundreds of candidate genes have been implicated in ASD, including neurotransmission and synaptic (NS) genes; however, the genetic architecture of this disease is far from clear. In this study, we seek to clarify the biological processes affected by NS gene variants identified in individuals with ASD and the global networks that link those processes together. For a curated list of 1216 NS candidate genes, identified in multiple databases and the literature, we searched for ultra-rare (UR) loss-of-function (LoF) variants in the whole-exome sequencing dataset from the Autism Sequencing Consortium (N = 3938 cases). Filtering for population frequency was carried out using gnomAD (N = 60,146 controls). NS genes with UR LoF variants were used to construct a network of protein-protein interactions, and the network's biological communities were identified by applying the Leiden algorithm. We further explored the expression enrichment of network genes in specific brain regions. We identified 356 variants in 208 genes, with a preponderance of UR LoF variants in the PDE11A and SYTL3 genes. Expression enrichment analysis highlighted several subcortical structures, particularly the basal ganglia. The interaction network defined seven network communities, clustering synaptic and neurotransmitter pathways with several ubiquitous processes that occur in multiple organs and systems. This approach also uncovered biological pathways that are not usually associated with ASD, such as brain cytochromes P450 and brain mitochondrial metabolism. Overall, the community analysis suggests that ASD involves the disruption of synaptic and neurotransmitter pathways but also ubiquitous, but less frequently implicated, biological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Vilela
- Departamento de Promoção da Saúde e Doenças Não Transmissíveis, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Avenida Padre Cruz, 1649-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (J.V.); (H.M.); (A.R.M.); (J.X.S.); (M.A.); (C.R.)
- BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisboa, Campo Grande, C8, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Hugo Martiniano
- Departamento de Promoção da Saúde e Doenças Não Transmissíveis, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Avenida Padre Cruz, 1649-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (J.V.); (H.M.); (A.R.M.); (J.X.S.); (M.A.); (C.R.)
- BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisboa, Campo Grande, C8, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana Rita Marques
- Departamento de Promoção da Saúde e Doenças Não Transmissíveis, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Avenida Padre Cruz, 1649-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (J.V.); (H.M.); (A.R.M.); (J.X.S.); (M.A.); (C.R.)
- BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisboa, Campo Grande, C8, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - João Xavier Santos
- Departamento de Promoção da Saúde e Doenças Não Transmissíveis, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Avenida Padre Cruz, 1649-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (J.V.); (H.M.); (A.R.M.); (J.X.S.); (M.A.); (C.R.)
- BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisboa, Campo Grande, C8, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Muhammad Asif
- Departamento de Promoção da Saúde e Doenças Não Transmissíveis, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Avenida Padre Cruz, 1649-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (J.V.); (H.M.); (A.R.M.); (J.X.S.); (M.A.); (C.R.)
- BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisboa, Campo Grande, C8, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Célia Rasga
- Departamento de Promoção da Saúde e Doenças Não Transmissíveis, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Avenida Padre Cruz, 1649-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (J.V.); (H.M.); (A.R.M.); (J.X.S.); (M.A.); (C.R.)
- BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisboa, Campo Grande, C8, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Guiomar Oliveira
- Unidade de Neurodesenvolvimento e Autismo, Serviço do Centro de Desenvolvimento da Criança, Centro de Investigação e Formação Clínica, Hospital Pediátrico, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra (CHUC), 3000-602 Coimbra, Portugal;
- Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, University Clinic of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-602 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Astrid Moura Vicente
- Departamento de Promoção da Saúde e Doenças Não Transmissíveis, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge, Avenida Padre Cruz, 1649-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (J.V.); (H.M.); (A.R.M.); (J.X.S.); (M.A.); (C.R.)
- BioISI-Biosystems & Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisboa, Campo Grande, C8, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
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20
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El-Ansary A, Al-Ayadhi L. Effects of Walnut and Pumpkin on Selective Neurophenotypes of Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Case Study. Nutrients 2023; 15:4564. [PMID: 37960217 PMCID: PMC10647375 DOI: 10.3390/nu15214564] [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: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Special diets or nutritional supplements are regularly given to treat children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The increased consumption of particular foods has been demonstrated in numerous trials to lessen autism-related symptoms and comorbidities. A case study on a boy with moderate autism who significantly improved after three years of following a healthy diet consisting of pumpkin and walnuts was examined in this review in connection to a few different neurophenotypes of ASD. We are able to suggest that a diet high in pumpkin and walnuts was useful in improving the clinical presentation of the ASD case evaluated by reducing oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, glutamate excitotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, and altered gut microbiota, all of which are etiological variables. Using illustrated figures, a full description of the ways by which a diet high in pumpkin and nuts could assist the included case is offered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afaf El-Ansary
- Autism Center, Lotus Holistic Alternative Medical Center, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 110281, United Arab Emirates
- Autism Research and Treatment Center, P.O. Box 2925, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Laila Al-Ayadhi
- Autism Research and Treatment Center, P.O. Box 2925, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia;
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2925, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia
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21
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Smith AM, Donley ELR, Ney DM, Amaral DG, Burrier RE, Natowicz MR. Metabolomic biomarkers in autism: identification of complex dysregulations of cellular bioenergetics. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1249578. [PMID: 37928922 PMCID: PMC10622772 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1249578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD or autism) is a phenotypically and etiologically heterogeneous condition. Identifying biomarkers of clinically significant metabolic subtypes of autism could improve understanding of its underlying pathophysiology and potentially lead to more targeted interventions. We hypothesized that the application of metabolite-based biomarker techniques using decision thresholds derived from quantitative measurements could identify autism-associated subpopulations. Metabolomic profiling was carried out in a case-control study of 499 autistic and 209 typically developing (TYP) children, ages 18-48 months, enrolled in the Children's Autism Metabolome Project (CAMP; ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02548442). Fifty-four metabolites, associated with amino acid, organic acid, acylcarnitine and purine metabolism as well as microbiome-associated metabolites, were quantified using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Using quantitative thresholds, the concentrations of 4 metabolites and 149 ratios of metabolites were identified as biomarkers, each identifying subpopulations of 4.5-11% of the CAMP autistic population. A subset of 42 biomarkers could identify CAMP autistic individuals with 72% sensitivity and 90% specificity. Many participants were identified by several metabolic biomarkers. Using hierarchical clustering, 30 clusters of biomarkers were created based on participants' biomarker profiles. Metabolic changes associated with the clusters suggest that altered regulation of cellular metabolism, especially of mitochondrial bioenergetics, were common metabolic phenotypes in this cohort of autistic participants. Autism severity and cognitive and developmental impairment were associated with increased lactate, many lactate containing ratios, and the number of biomarker clusters a participant displayed. These studies provide evidence that metabolic phenotyping is feasible and that defined autistic subgroups can lead to enhanced understanding of the underlying pathophysiology and potentially suggest pathways for targeted metabolic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan M. Smith
- Stemina Biomarker Discovery, Inc, Madison, WI, United States
| | | | - Denise M. Ney
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - David G. Amaral
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | | | - Marvin R. Natowicz
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Genomic Medicine, Neurological and Pediatrics Institutes, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
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22
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Lima-Castañeda LÁ, Bringas ME, Aguilar-Hernandez L, Garcés-Ramírez L, Morales-Medina JC, Flores G. The antipsychotic olanzapine reduces memory deficits and neuronal abnormalities in a male rat model of Autism. J Chem Neuroanat 2023; 132:102317. [PMID: 37482145 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2023.102317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental condition that impacts social interaction and sensory processing, is rising. Valproic acid (VPA) exposure during pregnancy causes autistic-like traits in offspring. Olanzapine (OLZ), an atypical antipsychotic, is used to treat ASD. We assessed the impact of OLZ on behavior, neuromorphology, and nitric oxide (NO) levels in the hippocampus using prenatal VPA treatment in rats. It is commonly known that ASD patients exhibit sensory abnormalities. As such, we utilized the tail flick test to validate the ASD model. In the novel object recognition test (NORT), VPA exposure reduces the discrimination index (DI) in the first introduction to the novel object. Moreover, OLZ and vehicle-treated rats perform differently in the second exposition to the DI of the novel object, suggesting that OLZ reverses VPA-induced deficits in recognition memory. The latency to find the hidden platform in the Morris water maze test of memory and learning improves in VPA-exposed rats after OLZ administration, indicating that OLZ improves spatial memory in these rats. Administration of prenatal VPA induces neuronal hypotrophy and reduces spine density in pyramidal neurons of the CA1 region of the hippocampus. Treatment with OLZ corrects the neuromorphological changes brought on by VPA. In the CA1 region of the hippocampus, VPA treatment increases the number of neurons, which normalizes with OLZ treatment. OLZ increases the NO levels in the dorsal hippocampus in control rats. In rats exposed to VPA, the second-generation antipsychotic OLZ reduces memory-related and neuroplastic alterations. The current findings support the use of OLZ in this illness and further validate the use of prenatal VPA as a model of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Ángel Lima-Castañeda
- Lab. Neuropsiquiatría, Instituto de Fisiología, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, 14 Sur 6301, San Manuel 72570, Puebla, Mexico; Departamento de Fisiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - María Elena Bringas
- Lab. Neuropsiquiatría, Instituto de Fisiología, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, 14 Sur 6301, San Manuel 72570, Puebla, Mexico
| | - Leonardo Aguilar-Hernandez
- Lab. Neuropsiquiatría, Instituto de Fisiología, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, 14 Sur 6301, San Manuel 72570, Puebla, Mexico
| | - Linda Garcés-Ramírez
- Departamento de Fisiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Julio César Morales-Medina
- Centro de Investigación en Reproducción Animal, CINVESTAV-Universidad Autónoma de Tlaxcala, AP 62, CP 90000 Tlaxcala, Mexico.
| | - Gonzalo Flores
- Lab. Neuropsiquiatría, Instituto de Fisiología, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, 14 Sur 6301, San Manuel 72570, Puebla, Mexico.
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23
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Ling W, Ren Z, Wang W, Lu D, Zhou Q, Liu Q, Jiang G. Chronic Ambient Ozone Exposure Aggravates Autism-Like Symptoms in a Susceptible Mouse Model. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:14248-14259. [PMID: 37676697 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c00607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Although there is evidence that exposure to ground-level ozone (O3) may cause an increased risk of neurological disorders (e.g., autistic spectrum disorder), low-dose chronic ozone exposure and its adverse effects on the nervous system have not been fully understood. Here, we evaluated the potential neurotoxic effects of long-term exposure to environmentally relevant O3 concentration (200 μg/m3 via a whole-body inhalation system, 12 h/day for 5 days/week) using a susceptible mouse model of autism induced by valproic acid. Various indicators of oxidative stress, mitochondria, and synapse in the brain tissues were then measured to determine the overall damage of O3 to the mouse brain. The results showed an aggravated risk of autism in mice offspring, which was embodied in decreased antioxidant contents, disturbed energy generation in mitochondria, as well as reduced expressions of protein kinase Mζ (PKMζ) and synaptic proteins [e.g., Synapsin 1 (SYN 1), postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD-95)]. Overall, our study indicates that prenatal exposure to environmentally relevant O3 may exacerbate the symptoms of autism, shedding light on possible molecular mechanisms and providing valuable insights into the pathogenesis of autism, especially concerning low-dose levels of those pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weibo Ling
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhihua Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- College of Environment and Resource, Research Center of Environment and Health, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Weichao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Dawei Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Qunfang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Qian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Taishan Institute for Ecology and Environment (TIEE), Jinan 250100, China
| | - Guibin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
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24
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Gevezova M, Sbirkov Y, Sarafian V, Plaimas K, Suratanee A, Maes M. Autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) - Gene, molecular and pathway signatures linking systemic inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, transsynaptic signalling, and neurodevelopment. Brain Behav Immun Health 2023; 30:100646. [PMID: 37334258 PMCID: PMC10275703 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2023.100646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Despite advances in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) research and the vast genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic data available, there are still controversies regarding the pathways and molecular signatures underlying the neurodevelopmental disorders leading to ASD. Purpose To delineate these underpinning signatures, we examined the two largest gene expression meta-analysis datasets obtained from the brain and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of 1355 ASD patients and 1110 controls. Methods We performed network, enrichment, and annotation analyses using the differentially expressed genes, transcripts, and proteins identified in ASD patients. Results Transcription factor network analyses in up- and down-regulated genes in brain tissue and PBMCs in ASD showed eight main transcription factors, namely: BCL3, CEBPB, IRF1, IRF8, KAT2A, NELFE, RELA, and TRIM28. The upregulated gene networks in PBMCs of ASD patients are strongly associated with activated immune-inflammatory pathways, including interferon-α signaling, and cellular responses to DNA repair. Enrichment analyses of the upregulated CNS gene networks indicate involvement of immune-inflammatory pathways, cytokine production, Toll-Like Receptor signalling, with a major involvement of the PI3K-Akt pathway. Analyses of the downregulated CNS genes suggest electron transport chain dysfunctions at multiple levels. Network topological analyses revealed that the consequent aberrations in axonogenesis, neurogenesis, synaptic transmission, and regulation of transsynaptic signalling affect neurodevelopment with subsequent impairments in social behaviours and neurocognition. The results suggest a defense response against viral infection. Conclusions Peripheral activation of immune-inflammatory pathways, most likely induced by viral infections, may result in CNS neuroinflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction, leading to abnormalities in transsynaptic transmission, and brain neurodevelopment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Gevezova
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University of Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Research Institute at MU-Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Yordan Sbirkov
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University of Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Research Institute at MU-Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Victoria Sarafian
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University of Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Research Institute at MU-Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Kitiporn Plaimas
- Advanced Virtual and Intelligent Computing (AVIC) Center, Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Apichat Suratanee
- Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Applied Science, King Mongkut's University of Technology North Bangkok, Bangkok, 10800, Thailand
| | - Michael Maes
- Research Institute at MU-Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
- Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02447, South Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
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25
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Kamalmaz N, Ben Bacha A, Alonazi M, Albasher G, Khayyat AIA, El-Ansary A. Unveiling sex-based differences in developing propionic acid-induced features in mice as a rodent model of ASD. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15488. [PMID: 37334116 PMCID: PMC10274690 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Males are more likely to develop autism as a neurodevelopmental disorder than females are, although the mechanisms underlying male vulnerability are not fully understood. Therefore, studying the role of autism etiologies considering sex differences in the propionic acid (PPA) rodent model of autism would build greater understanding of how females are protected from autism spectrum disorder, which may be used as a treatment strategy for males with autism. Objectives This study aimed to investigate the sex differences in oxidative stress, glutamate excitotoxicity, neuroinflammation, and gut microbiota impairment as etiological mechanisms for many neurological diseases, with specific reference to autism. Method Forty albino mice were divided into four groups of 10 animals each with two control and two treated groups of both sexes received only phosphate-buffered saline or a neurotoxic dose of PPA (250 mg/kg body weight) for 3 days, respectively. Biochemical markers of energy metabolism, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and excitotoxicity were measured in mouse brain homogenates, whereas the presence of pathogenic bacteria was assessed in mouse stool samples. Furthermore, the repetitive behavior, cognitive ability, and physical-neural coordination of the animals were examined. Results Collectively, selected variables related to oxidative stress, glutamate excitotoxicity, neuroinflammation, and gut bacteria were impaired concomitantly with altered behavior in PPA-induced rodent model, with males being more susceptible than females. Conclusion This study explains the role of sex in the higher vulnerability of males to develop autistic biochemical and behavioral features compared with females. Female sex hormones and the higher detoxification capacity and higher glycolytic flux in females serve as neuroprotective contributors in a rodent model of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasreen Kamalmaz
- Biochemistry Department, Science College, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abir Ben Bacha
- Biochemistry Department, Science College, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mona Alonazi
- Biochemistry Department, Science College, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Gadah Albasher
- Zoology Department, Science College, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Arwa Ishaq A. Khayyat
- Biochemistry Department, Science College, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Afaf El-Ansary
- Central Research Laboratory, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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26
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Zaghi M, Longo F, Massimino L, Rubio A, Bido S, Mazzara PG, Bellini E, Banfi F, Podini P, Maltecca F, Zippo A, Broccoli V, Sessa A. SETD5 haploinsufficiency affects mitochondrial compartment in neural cells. Mol Autism 2023; 14:20. [PMID: 37264456 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-023-00550-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are heterogeneous conditions due to alterations of a variety of molecular mechanisms and cell dysfunctions. SETD5 haploinsufficiency leads to NDDs due to chromatin defects. Epigenetic basis of NDDs has been reported in an increasing number of cases while mitochondrial dysfunctions are more common within NDD patients than in the general population. METHODS We investigated in vitro neural stem cells as well as the brain of the Setd5 haploinsufficiency mouse model interrogating its transcriptome, analyzing mitochondrial structure, biochemical composition, and dynamics, as well as mitochondrial functionality. RESULTS Mitochondrial impairment is facilitated by transcriptional aberrations originated by the decrease of the SETD5 enzyme. Low levels of SETD5 resulted in fragmented mitochondria, reduced mitochondrial membrane potential, and ATP production both in neural precursors and neurons. Mitochondria were also mislocalized in mutant neurons, with reduced organelles within neurites and synapses. LIMITATIONS We found several defects in the mitochondrial compartment; however, we can only speculate about their position in the hierarchy of the pathological mechanisms at the basis of the disease. CONCLUSIONS Our study explores the interplay between chromatin regulation and mitochondria functions as a possible important aspect of SETD5-associated NDD pathophysiology. Our data, if confirmed in patient context, suggest that the mitochondrial activity and dynamics may represent new therapeutic targets for disorders associated with the loss of SETD5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Zaghi
- Stem Cell and Neurogenesis Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 58, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabiana Longo
- Mitochondrial Dysfunctions in Neurodegeneration Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
- University California, Irvine, USA
| | - Luca Massimino
- Stem Cell and Neurogenesis Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 58, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Alicia Rubio
- Stem Cell and Neurogenesis Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 58, 20132, Milan, Italy
- CNR Institute of Neuroscience, 20129, Milan, Italy
| | - Simone Bido
- Stem Cell and Neurogenesis Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 58, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Pietro Giuseppe Mazzara
- Stem Cell and Neurogenesis Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 58, 20132, Milan, Italy
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Edoardo Bellini
- Stem Cell and Neurogenesis Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 58, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Banfi
- Stem Cell and Neurogenesis Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 58, 20132, Milan, Italy
- CNR Institute of Neuroscience, 20129, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Podini
- Experimental Neuropathology Unit, INSPE, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Maltecca
- Mitochondrial Dysfunctions in Neurodegeneration Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessio Zippo
- Chromatin Biology and Epigenetics Lab, Department of Cellular, Computational, and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, 38123, Trento, Italy
| | - Vania Broccoli
- Stem Cell and Neurogenesis Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 58, 20132, Milan, Italy.
- CNR Institute of Neuroscience, 20129, Milan, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Sessa
- Stem Cell and Neurogenesis Unit, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 58, 20132, Milan, Italy.
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27
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Cieślik M, Zawadzka A, Czapski GA, Wilkaniec A, Adamczyk A. Developmental Stage-Dependent Changes in Mitochondrial Function in the Brain of Offspring Following Prenatal Maternal Immune Activation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087243. [PMID: 37108406 PMCID: PMC10138707 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal immune activation (MIA) is an important risk factor for neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism. The aim of the current study was to investigate the development-dependent changes in the mitochondrial function of MIA-exposed offspring, which may contribute to autism-like deficits. MIA was evoked by the single intraperitoneal administration of lipopolysaccharide to pregnant rats at gestation day 9.5, and several aspects of mitochondrial function in fetuses and in the brains of seven-day-old pups and adolescent offspring were analyzed along with oxidative stress parameters measurement. It was found that MIA significantly increased the activity of NADPH oxidase (NOX), an enzyme generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the fetuses and in the brain of seven-day-old pups, but not in the adolescent offspring. Although a lower mitochondrial membrane potential accompanied by a decreased ATP level was already observed in the fetuses and in the brain of seven-day-old pups, persistent alterations of ROS, mitochondrial membrane depolarization, and lower ATP generation with concomitant electron transport chain complexes downregulation were observed only in the adolescent offspring. We suggest that ROS observed in infancy are most likely of a NOX activity origin, whereas in adolescence, ROS are produced by damaged mitochondria. The accumulation of dysfunctional mitochondria leads to the intense release of free radicals that trigger oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, resulting in an interlinked vicious cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Cieślik
- Department of Cellular Signalling, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Pawińskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Zawadzka
- Department of Cellular Signalling, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Pawińskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Grzegorz A Czapski
- Department of Cellular Signalling, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Pawińskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Wilkaniec
- Department of Cellular Signalling, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Pawińskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agata Adamczyk
- Department of Cellular Signalling, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Pawińskiego 5, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
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28
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Usui N, Kobayashi H, Shimada S. Neuroinflammation and Oxidative Stress in the Pathogenesis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065487. [PMID: 36982559 PMCID: PMC10049423 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) characterized by impairments in social communication, repetitive behaviors, restricted interests, and hyperesthesia/hypesthesia caused by genetic and/or environmental factors. In recent years, inflammation and oxidative stress have been implicated in the pathogenesis of ASD. In this review, we discuss the inflammation and oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of ASD, particularly focusing on maternal immune activation (MIA). MIA is a one of the common environmental risk factors for the onset of ASD during pregnancy. It induces an immune reaction in the pregnant mother’s body, resulting in further inflammation and oxidative stress in the placenta and fetal brain. These negative factors cause neurodevelopmental impairments in the developing fetal brain and subsequently cause behavioral symptoms in the offspring. In addition, we also discuss the effects of anti-inflammatory drugs and antioxidants in basic studies on animals and clinical studies of ASD. Our review provides the latest findings and new insights into the involvements of inflammation and oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noriyoshi Usui
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- Global Center for Medical Engineering and Informatics, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- Addiction Research Unit, Osaka Psychiatric Research Center, Osaka Psychiatric Medical Center, Osaka 541-8567, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-668-79-3124
| | - Hikaru Kobayashi
- SANKEN (Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research), Osaka University, Suita 567-0047, Japan
| | - Shoichi Shimada
- Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- Global Center for Medical Engineering and Informatics, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- Addiction Research Unit, Osaka Psychiatric Research Center, Osaka Psychiatric Medical Center, Osaka 541-8567, Japan
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29
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Anitha A, Thanseem I, Iype M, Thomas SV. Mitochondrial dysfunction in cognitive neurodevelopmental disorders: Cause or effect? Mitochondrion 2023; 69:18-32. [PMID: 36621534 DOI: 10.1016/j.mito.2023.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondria have a crucial role in brain development and neurogenesis, both in embryonic and adult brains. Since the brain is the highest energy consuming organ, it is highly vulnerable to mitochondrial dysfunction. This has been implicated in a range of brain disorders including, neurodevelopmental conditions, psychiatric illnesses, and neurodegenerative diseases. Genetic variations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), and nuclear DNA encoding mitochondrial proteins, have been associated with several cognitive disorders. However, it is not yet clear whether mitochondrial dysfunction is a primary cause of these conditions or a secondary effect. Our review article deals with this topic, and brings out recent advances in mitochondria-oriented therapies. Mitochondrial dysfunction could be involved in the pathogenesis of a subset of disorders involving cognitive impairment. In these patients, mitochondrial dysfunction could be the cause of the condition, rather than the consequence. There are vast areas in this topic that remains to be explored and elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayyappan Anitha
- Dept. of Neurogenetics, Institute for Communicative and Cognitive Neurosciences (ICCONS), Shoranur, Palakkad 679 523, Kerala, India.
| | - Ismail Thanseem
- Dept. of Neurogenetics, Institute for Communicative and Cognitive Neurosciences (ICCONS), Shoranur, Palakkad 679 523, Kerala, India
| | - Mary Iype
- Dept. of Pediatric Neurology, Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram 695 011, Kerala, India; Dept. of Neurology, ICCONS, Thiruvananthapuram 695 033, Kerala, India
| | - Sanjeev V Thomas
- Dept. of Neurology, ICCONS, Thiruvananthapuram 695 033, Kerala, India
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Kumar H, Kulkarni G, Diwan V, Sharma B. Shielding Effect of Ryanodine Receptor Modulator in Rat Model of Autism. Basic Clin Neurosci 2023; 14:247-261. [PMID: 38107532 PMCID: PMC10719969 DOI: 10.32598/bcn.2021.2966.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction A neurodevelopmental disorder, autism is typically identified with three primary behavioral consequences, such as social impairment, communication problems, and limited or stereotypical behavior. Because of its co-morbidity and lack of therapeutic options, autism is a global economic burden. A short chain of fatty acid, propionic acid is formed biologically by the gut microbiome. Propionic acid levels that are too high can cause leaky intestines, which can lead to autism-like symptoms. Methods To induce autism, male Albino Wistar rats were given propionic acid (250 mg/kg/po on the 21st, 22nd, and 23rd postnatal days). Rats also received a ryanodine receptor antagonist (Ruthenium red: 3 mg/kg/po; postnatal 21st to 50th day) to see what influence it had on propionic acid-induced autism. Anxiety, social behavior, and repeated behaviors were all assessed, as well as oxidative stress, inflammatory indicators, neuro signaling proteins, and blood-brain barrier permeability. Results Ruthenium red was found to counter the propionic acid-induced increases in anxiety, repetitive behavior prefrontal cortex levels of IL-6, TNF-α, TBARS, Evans blue leakage, and water content along with decreases in social behavior, IL-10, and GSH followed by hippocampus CREB and BDNF levels. Conclusion Ryanodine receptor antagonists presented a neuroprotective effect in propionic acid-induced conditions like autism by modulatory effects on social and repetitive behavior, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and neuroprotein changes. Ryanodine receptors can be further explored in depth to manage autism as a condition. Highlights Ruthenium red can reduce the propionic acid-induced anxiety of rats with autism.Ruthenium red can improve the propionic acid-induced changes in repetitive behavior of rats with autism.Ruthenium red can reduce the propionic acid-induced social behavior dysfunction in rats with autism. Plain Language Summary Autism is a complex heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder mainly diagnosed with social behavior dysfunction, communication problems, and repetitive behavior. Due to high comorbidity and multiple unknown factors involvement, its exact etiology remains unclear, and so no successful treatment is available. Among the environmentally produced models of autism in rats, the most common is created by propionic acid (PPA). With short-chain type fatty acid, PPA is one of the mediators for the cycle of cell metabolism. This study attempted to study the effect of a ryano-dine receptor antagonist (Ruthenium red) on PPA-induced Anxiety, social behavior dysfunction, and repeated behaviors in rats with autism. The results showed the modulatory effects of Ruthenium red PPA-induced conditions including social and repetitive behavior, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and neuroprotein changes in rats with autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hariom Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Nodia, India
| | - G.T. Kulkarni
- Department of Pharmacology, Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Nodia, India
| | - Vishal Diwan
- UQ Diamantina Institute, Translational Research Institute, The University of Queensland, Australia
| | - Bhupesh Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology, Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Nodia, India
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Neuroinflammation, Energy and Sphingolipid Metabolism Biomarkers Are Revealed by Metabolic Modeling of Autistic Brains. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020583. [PMID: 36831124 PMCID: PMC9953696 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a heterogeneous group of neurodevelopmental disorders generally characterized by repetitive behaviors and difficulties in communication and social behavior. Despite its heterogeneous nature, several metabolic dysregulations are prevalent in individuals with ASD. This work aims to understand ASD brain metabolism by constructing an ASD-specific prefrontal cortex genome-scale metabolic model (GEM) using transcriptomics data to decipher novel neuroinflammatory biomarkers. The healthy and ASD-specific models are compared via uniform sampling to identify ASD-exclusive metabolic features. Noticeably, the results of our simulations and those found in the literature are comparable, supporting the accuracy of our reconstructed ASD model. We identified that several oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and inflammatory markers are elevated in ASD. While oxidative phosphorylation fluxes were similar for healthy and ASD-specific models, and the fluxes through the pathway were nearly undisturbed, the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) fluxes indicated disruptions in the pathway. Similarly, the secretions of mitochondrial dysfunction markers such as pyruvate are found to be higher, as well as the activities of oxidative stress marker enzymes like alanine and aspartate aminotransferases (ALT and AST) and glutathione-disulfide reductase (GSR). We also detected abnormalities in the sphingolipid metabolism, which has been implicated in many inflammatory and immune processes, but its relationship with ASD has not been thoroughly explored in the existing literature. We suggest that important sphingolipid metabolites, such as sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), ceramide, and glucosylceramide, may be promising biomarkers for the diagnosis of ASD and provide an opportunity for the adoption of early intervention for young children.
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Nabi SU, Rehman MU, Arafah A, Taifa S, Khan IS, Khan A, Rashid S, Jan F, Wani HA, Ahmad SF. Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders by Mitochondrial-targeted Drug: Future of Neurological Diseases Therapeutics. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:1042-1064. [PMID: 36411568 PMCID: PMC10286588 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666221121095618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder with a complex etiology that might involve environmental and genetic variables. Recently, some epidemiological studies conducted in various parts of the world have estimated a significant increase in the prevalence of autism, with 1 in every 59 children having some degree of autism. Since autism has been associated with other clinical abnormalities, there is every possibility that a sub-cellular component may be involved in the progression of autism. The organelle remains a focus based on mitochondria's functionality and metabolic role in cells. Furthermore, the mitochondrial genome is inherited maternally and has its DNA and organelle that remain actively involved during embryonic development; these characteristics have linked mitochondrial dysfunction to autism. Although rapid stride has been made in autism research, there are limited studies that have made particular emphasis on mitochondrial dysfunction and autism. Accumulating evidence from studies conducted at cellular and sub-cellular levels has indicated that mitochondrial dysfunction's role in autism is more than expected. The present review has attempted to describe the risk factors of autism, the role of mitochondria in the progression of the disease, oxidative damage as a trigger point to initiate mitochondrial damage, genetic determinants of the disease, possible pathogenic pathways and therapeutic regimen in vogue and the developmental stage. Furthermore, in the present review, an attempt has been made to include the novel therapeutic regimens under investigation at different clinical trial stages and their potential possibility to emerge as promising drugs against ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Showkat Ul Nabi
- Large Animal Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ethics & Jurisprudence, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K), Srinagar J&K, 190006, India
| | - Muneeb U. Rehman
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Azher Arafah
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Syed Taifa
- Large Animal Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ethics & Jurisprudence, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K), Srinagar J&K, 190006, India
| | - Iqra Shafi Khan
- Large Animal Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ethics & Jurisprudence, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K), Srinagar J&K, 190006, India
| | - Andleeb Khan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Summya Rashid
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 173, Al-Kharj, 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fatimah Jan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CT University, Ludhiana, Ferozepur Road, Punjab, 142024, India
| | - Hilal Ahmad Wani
- Department of Biochemistry, Government Degree College Sumbal, Bandipora, J&K, India
| | - Sheikh Fayaz Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
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Kumar H, Diwan V, Sharma B. Protective Effect of Nimodipine Against Valproic-acid Induced Biochemical and Behavioral Phenotypes of Autism. CLINICAL PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL SCIENTIFIC JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN COLLEGE OF NEUROPSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 20:725-736. [PMID: 36263647 PMCID: PMC9606438 DOI: 10.9758/cpn.2022.20.4.725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Objective Present study was designed to investigate behavioral and biochemical role of nimodipine in prenatal valproic acid (Pre-VPA) induced autism in rats. Methods Valproic acid was utilized to induce autistic phenotypes in Wistar rats. The rats were assessed for social behavior. Hippocampus and prefrontal cortex (PFC) were utilized for various biochemical assessments, whereas cerebellum was used to assess blood brain barrier (BBB) permeability. Results Pre-VPA rats showed reduction social interaction. Pre-VPA administration were decreased PFC levels of interleukin- 10 (IL-10), and glutathione along with hippocampus cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Also, the animals have shown increase in PFC levels of IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, thiobarbituric acid reactive substance, Evans blue leakage and water content. Nimodipine countered Pre-VPA administered reduction in social interaction, CREB, BDNF, inflammation, oxidative stress, BBB permeability. Conclusion Pre-VPA has induced autistic phenotype, which were attenuated by nimodipine in rats. Nimodipine and other calcium channel blockers should further investigate to check the management of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hariom Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, India
| | - Vishal Diwan
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Bhupesh Sharma
- Department of Pharmacology, Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, India
- CNS Pharmacology, Conscience Research, New Delhi, India
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Nakhal MM, Aburuz S, Sadek B, Akour A. Repurposing SGLT2 Inhibitors for Neurological Disorders: A Focus on the Autism Spectrum Disorder. Molecules 2022; 27:7174. [PMID: 36364000 PMCID: PMC9653623 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27217174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with a substantially increasing incidence rate. It is characterized by repetitive behavior, learning difficulties, deficits in social communication, and interactions. Numerous medications, dietary supplements, and behavioral treatments have been recommended for the management of this condition, however, there is no cure yet. Recent studies have examined the therapeutic potential of the sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors in neurodevelopmental diseases, based on their proved anti-inflammatory effects, such as downregulating the expression of several proteins, including the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and the monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP-1). Furthermore, numerous previous studies revealed the potential of the SGLT2 inhibitors to provide antioxidant effects, due to their ability to reduce the generation of free radicals and upregulating the antioxidant systems, such as glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), while crossing the blood brain barrier (BBB). These properties have led to significant improvements in the neurologic outcomes of multiple experimental disease models, including cerebral oxidative stress in diabetes mellitus and ischemic stroke, Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and epilepsy. Such diseases have mutual biomarkers with ASD, which potentially could be a link to fill the gap of the literature studying the potential of repurposing the SGLT2 inhibitors' use in ameliorating the symptoms of ASD. This review will look at the impact of the SGLT2 inhibitors on neurodevelopmental disorders on the various models, including humans, rats, and mice, with a focus on the SGLT2 inhibitor canagliflozin. Furthermore, this review will discuss how SGLT2 inhibitors regulate the ASD biomarkers, based on the clinical evidence supporting their functions as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier (BBB).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Moutaz Nakhal
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Al-Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Salahdein Aburuz
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Al-Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Bassem Sadek
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Al-Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates
| | - Amal Akour
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Al-Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
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Kato Y, Yokokura M, Iwabuchi T, Murayama C, Harada T, Goto T, Tamayama T, Kameno Y, Wakuda T, Kuwabara H, Benner S, Senju A, Tsukada H, Nishizawa S, Ouchi Y, Yamasue H. Lower Availability of Mitochondrial Complex I in Anterior Cingulate Cortex in Autism: A Positron Emission Tomography Study. Am J Psychiatry 2022; 180:277-284. [PMID: 36069020 DOI: 10.1176/appi.ajp.22010014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Mitochondrial dysfunction has been implicated in the pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in previous studies of postmortem brain or peripheral samples. The authors investigated whether and where mitochondrial dysfunction occurs in the living brains of individuals with ASD and to identify the clinical correlates of detected mitochondrial dysfunction. METHODS This case-control study used positron emission tomography (PET) with 2-tert-butyl-4-chloro-5-{6-[2-(2-[18F]fluoroethoxy)-ethoxy]-pyridin-3-ylmethoxy}-2H-pyridazin-3-one ([18F]BCPP-EF), a radioligand that binds to the mitochondrial electron transport chain complex I, to examine the topographical distribution of mitochondrial dysfunction in living brains of individuals with ASD. Twenty-three adult males with high-functioning ASD, with no psychiatric comorbidities and free of psychotropic medication, and 24 typically developed males with no psychiatric diagnoses, matched with the ASD group on age, parental socioeconomic background, and IQ, underwent [18F]BCPP-EF PET measurements. Individuals with mitochondrial disease were excluded by clinical evaluation and blood tests for abnormalities in lactate and pyruvate levels. RESULTS Among the brain regions in which mitochondrial dysfunction has been reported in postmortem studies of autistic brains, participants with ASD had significantly decreased [18F]BCPP-EF availability specifically in the anterior cingulate cortex compared with typically developed participants. The regional specificity was revealed by a significant interaction between diagnosis and brain regions. Moreover, the lower [18F]BCPP-EF availability in the anterior cingulate cortex was significantly correlated with the more severe ASD core symptom of social communication deficits. CONCLUSIONS This study provides direct evidence to link in vivo brain mitochondrial dysfunction with ASD pathophysiology and its communicational deficits. The findings support the possibility that mitochondrial electron transport chain complex I is a novel therapeutic target for ASD core symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiko Kato
- Department of Psychiatry (Kato, Yokokura, Murayama, Goto, Tamayama, Kameno, Wakuda, Kuwabara, Benner, Yamasue), United Graduate School of Child Development (Yokokura, Iwabuchi, Harada, Kameno, Kuwabara, Senju, Yamasue), Research Center for Child Mental Development (Iwabuchi, Harada, Senju), and Department of Biofunctional Imaging (Ouchi), Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan; Central Research Laboratory, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., Hamamatsu, Japan (Tsukada); Hamamatsu Medical Imaging Center, Hamamatsu Medical Photonics Foundation, Hamamatsu, Japan (Nishizawa, Ouchi)
| | - Masamichi Yokokura
- Department of Psychiatry (Kato, Yokokura, Murayama, Goto, Tamayama, Kameno, Wakuda, Kuwabara, Benner, Yamasue), United Graduate School of Child Development (Yokokura, Iwabuchi, Harada, Kameno, Kuwabara, Senju, Yamasue), Research Center for Child Mental Development (Iwabuchi, Harada, Senju), and Department of Biofunctional Imaging (Ouchi), Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan; Central Research Laboratory, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., Hamamatsu, Japan (Tsukada); Hamamatsu Medical Imaging Center, Hamamatsu Medical Photonics Foundation, Hamamatsu, Japan (Nishizawa, Ouchi)
| | - Toshiki Iwabuchi
- Department of Psychiatry (Kato, Yokokura, Murayama, Goto, Tamayama, Kameno, Wakuda, Kuwabara, Benner, Yamasue), United Graduate School of Child Development (Yokokura, Iwabuchi, Harada, Kameno, Kuwabara, Senju, Yamasue), Research Center for Child Mental Development (Iwabuchi, Harada, Senju), and Department of Biofunctional Imaging (Ouchi), Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan; Central Research Laboratory, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., Hamamatsu, Japan (Tsukada); Hamamatsu Medical Imaging Center, Hamamatsu Medical Photonics Foundation, Hamamatsu, Japan (Nishizawa, Ouchi)
| | - Chihiro Murayama
- Department of Psychiatry (Kato, Yokokura, Murayama, Goto, Tamayama, Kameno, Wakuda, Kuwabara, Benner, Yamasue), United Graduate School of Child Development (Yokokura, Iwabuchi, Harada, Kameno, Kuwabara, Senju, Yamasue), Research Center for Child Mental Development (Iwabuchi, Harada, Senju), and Department of Biofunctional Imaging (Ouchi), Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan; Central Research Laboratory, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., Hamamatsu, Japan (Tsukada); Hamamatsu Medical Imaging Center, Hamamatsu Medical Photonics Foundation, Hamamatsu, Japan (Nishizawa, Ouchi)
| | - Taeko Harada
- Department of Psychiatry (Kato, Yokokura, Murayama, Goto, Tamayama, Kameno, Wakuda, Kuwabara, Benner, Yamasue), United Graduate School of Child Development (Yokokura, Iwabuchi, Harada, Kameno, Kuwabara, Senju, Yamasue), Research Center for Child Mental Development (Iwabuchi, Harada, Senju), and Department of Biofunctional Imaging (Ouchi), Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan; Central Research Laboratory, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., Hamamatsu, Japan (Tsukada); Hamamatsu Medical Imaging Center, Hamamatsu Medical Photonics Foundation, Hamamatsu, Japan (Nishizawa, Ouchi)
| | - Takafumi Goto
- Department of Psychiatry (Kato, Yokokura, Murayama, Goto, Tamayama, Kameno, Wakuda, Kuwabara, Benner, Yamasue), United Graduate School of Child Development (Yokokura, Iwabuchi, Harada, Kameno, Kuwabara, Senju, Yamasue), Research Center for Child Mental Development (Iwabuchi, Harada, Senju), and Department of Biofunctional Imaging (Ouchi), Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan; Central Research Laboratory, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., Hamamatsu, Japan (Tsukada); Hamamatsu Medical Imaging Center, Hamamatsu Medical Photonics Foundation, Hamamatsu, Japan (Nishizawa, Ouchi)
| | - Taishi Tamayama
- Department of Psychiatry (Kato, Yokokura, Murayama, Goto, Tamayama, Kameno, Wakuda, Kuwabara, Benner, Yamasue), United Graduate School of Child Development (Yokokura, Iwabuchi, Harada, Kameno, Kuwabara, Senju, Yamasue), Research Center for Child Mental Development (Iwabuchi, Harada, Senju), and Department of Biofunctional Imaging (Ouchi), Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan; Central Research Laboratory, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., Hamamatsu, Japan (Tsukada); Hamamatsu Medical Imaging Center, Hamamatsu Medical Photonics Foundation, Hamamatsu, Japan (Nishizawa, Ouchi)
| | - Yosuke Kameno
- Department of Psychiatry (Kato, Yokokura, Murayama, Goto, Tamayama, Kameno, Wakuda, Kuwabara, Benner, Yamasue), United Graduate School of Child Development (Yokokura, Iwabuchi, Harada, Kameno, Kuwabara, Senju, Yamasue), Research Center for Child Mental Development (Iwabuchi, Harada, Senju), and Department of Biofunctional Imaging (Ouchi), Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan; Central Research Laboratory, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., Hamamatsu, Japan (Tsukada); Hamamatsu Medical Imaging Center, Hamamatsu Medical Photonics Foundation, Hamamatsu, Japan (Nishizawa, Ouchi)
| | - Tomoyasu Wakuda
- Department of Psychiatry (Kato, Yokokura, Murayama, Goto, Tamayama, Kameno, Wakuda, Kuwabara, Benner, Yamasue), United Graduate School of Child Development (Yokokura, Iwabuchi, Harada, Kameno, Kuwabara, Senju, Yamasue), Research Center for Child Mental Development (Iwabuchi, Harada, Senju), and Department of Biofunctional Imaging (Ouchi), Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan; Central Research Laboratory, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., Hamamatsu, Japan (Tsukada); Hamamatsu Medical Imaging Center, Hamamatsu Medical Photonics Foundation, Hamamatsu, Japan (Nishizawa, Ouchi)
| | - Hitoshi Kuwabara
- Department of Psychiatry (Kato, Yokokura, Murayama, Goto, Tamayama, Kameno, Wakuda, Kuwabara, Benner, Yamasue), United Graduate School of Child Development (Yokokura, Iwabuchi, Harada, Kameno, Kuwabara, Senju, Yamasue), Research Center for Child Mental Development (Iwabuchi, Harada, Senju), and Department of Biofunctional Imaging (Ouchi), Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan; Central Research Laboratory, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., Hamamatsu, Japan (Tsukada); Hamamatsu Medical Imaging Center, Hamamatsu Medical Photonics Foundation, Hamamatsu, Japan (Nishizawa, Ouchi)
| | - Seico Benner
- Department of Psychiatry (Kato, Yokokura, Murayama, Goto, Tamayama, Kameno, Wakuda, Kuwabara, Benner, Yamasue), United Graduate School of Child Development (Yokokura, Iwabuchi, Harada, Kameno, Kuwabara, Senju, Yamasue), Research Center for Child Mental Development (Iwabuchi, Harada, Senju), and Department of Biofunctional Imaging (Ouchi), Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan; Central Research Laboratory, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., Hamamatsu, Japan (Tsukada); Hamamatsu Medical Imaging Center, Hamamatsu Medical Photonics Foundation, Hamamatsu, Japan (Nishizawa, Ouchi)
| | - Atsushi Senju
- Department of Psychiatry (Kato, Yokokura, Murayama, Goto, Tamayama, Kameno, Wakuda, Kuwabara, Benner, Yamasue), United Graduate School of Child Development (Yokokura, Iwabuchi, Harada, Kameno, Kuwabara, Senju, Yamasue), Research Center for Child Mental Development (Iwabuchi, Harada, Senju), and Department of Biofunctional Imaging (Ouchi), Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan; Central Research Laboratory, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., Hamamatsu, Japan (Tsukada); Hamamatsu Medical Imaging Center, Hamamatsu Medical Photonics Foundation, Hamamatsu, Japan (Nishizawa, Ouchi)
| | - Hideo Tsukada
- Department of Psychiatry (Kato, Yokokura, Murayama, Goto, Tamayama, Kameno, Wakuda, Kuwabara, Benner, Yamasue), United Graduate School of Child Development (Yokokura, Iwabuchi, Harada, Kameno, Kuwabara, Senju, Yamasue), Research Center for Child Mental Development (Iwabuchi, Harada, Senju), and Department of Biofunctional Imaging (Ouchi), Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan; Central Research Laboratory, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., Hamamatsu, Japan (Tsukada); Hamamatsu Medical Imaging Center, Hamamatsu Medical Photonics Foundation, Hamamatsu, Japan (Nishizawa, Ouchi)
| | - Sadahiko Nishizawa
- Department of Psychiatry (Kato, Yokokura, Murayama, Goto, Tamayama, Kameno, Wakuda, Kuwabara, Benner, Yamasue), United Graduate School of Child Development (Yokokura, Iwabuchi, Harada, Kameno, Kuwabara, Senju, Yamasue), Research Center for Child Mental Development (Iwabuchi, Harada, Senju), and Department of Biofunctional Imaging (Ouchi), Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan; Central Research Laboratory, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., Hamamatsu, Japan (Tsukada); Hamamatsu Medical Imaging Center, Hamamatsu Medical Photonics Foundation, Hamamatsu, Japan (Nishizawa, Ouchi)
| | - Yasuomi Ouchi
- Department of Psychiatry (Kato, Yokokura, Murayama, Goto, Tamayama, Kameno, Wakuda, Kuwabara, Benner, Yamasue), United Graduate School of Child Development (Yokokura, Iwabuchi, Harada, Kameno, Kuwabara, Senju, Yamasue), Research Center for Child Mental Development (Iwabuchi, Harada, Senju), and Department of Biofunctional Imaging (Ouchi), Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan; Central Research Laboratory, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., Hamamatsu, Japan (Tsukada); Hamamatsu Medical Imaging Center, Hamamatsu Medical Photonics Foundation, Hamamatsu, Japan (Nishizawa, Ouchi)
| | - Hidenori Yamasue
- Department of Psychiatry (Kato, Yokokura, Murayama, Goto, Tamayama, Kameno, Wakuda, Kuwabara, Benner, Yamasue), United Graduate School of Child Development (Yokokura, Iwabuchi, Harada, Kameno, Kuwabara, Senju, Yamasue), Research Center for Child Mental Development (Iwabuchi, Harada, Senju), and Department of Biofunctional Imaging (Ouchi), Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan; Central Research Laboratory, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., Hamamatsu, Japan (Tsukada); Hamamatsu Medical Imaging Center, Hamamatsu Medical Photonics Foundation, Hamamatsu, Japan (Nishizawa, Ouchi)
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Mehta R, Kuhad A, Bhandari R. Nitric oxide pathway as a plausible therapeutic target in autism spectrum disorders. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2022; 26:659-679. [DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2022.2100252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rishab Mehta
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, Chandigarh – 160 014 India
| | - Anurag Kuhad
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, Chandigarh – 160 014 India
| | - Ranjana Bhandari
- Pharmacology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, Chandigarh – 160 014 India
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Wang Y, Guo X, Hong X, Wang G, Pearson C, Zuckerman B, Clark AG, O'Brien KO, Wang X, Gu Z. Association of mitochondrial DNA content, heteroplasmies and inter-generational transmission with autism. Nat Commun 2022; 13:3790. [PMID: 35778412 PMCID: PMC9249801 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-30805-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are essential for brain development. While previous studies linked dysfunctional mitochondria with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the role of the mitochondrial genome (mtDNA) in ASD risk is largely unexplored. This study investigates the association of mtDNA heteroplasmies (co-existence of mutated and unmutated mtDNA) and content with ASD, as well as its inter-generational transmission and sex differences among two independent samples: a family-based study (n = 1,938 families with parents, probands and sibling controls) and a prospective birth cohort (n = 997 mother-child pairs). In both samples, predicted pathogenic (PP) heteroplasmies in children are associated with ASD risk (Meta-OR = 1.56, P = 0.00068). Inter-generational transmission of mtDNA reveals attenuated effects of purifying selection on maternal heteroplasmies in children with ASD relative to controls, particularly among males. Among children with ASD and PP heteroplasmies, increased mtDNA content shows benefits for cognition, communication, and behaviors (P ≤ 0.02). These results underscore the value of exploring maternal and newborn mtDNA in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqin Wang
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Xiaoxian Guo
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Xiumei Hong
- Center on Early Life Origins of Disease, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Guoying Wang
- Center on Early Life Origins of Disease, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Colleen Pearson
- Department of Pediatrics, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Barry Zuckerman
- Department of Pediatrics, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Andrew G Clark
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Department of Computational Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | | | - Xiaobin Wang
- Center on Early Life Origins of Disease, Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Zhenglong Gu
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA.
- Center for Mitochondrial Genetics and Medicine, Greater Bay Area Institute of Precision Medicine (Guangzhou), Fudan University, Guangzhou, China.
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How Is CYP17A1 Activity Altered in Autism? A Pilot Study to Identify Potential Pharmacological Targets. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:life12060867. [PMID: 35743898 PMCID: PMC9225657 DOI: 10.3390/life12060867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: Increasing evidence exists that higher levels of androgens can be found in individuals with autism. Evidence yields to a susceptible role of Cytochrome P450 17A1 (CYP17A1) with its catalyzation of the two distinct types of substrate oxidation by a hydroxylase activity (17-alpha hydroxylase) and C17/20 lyase activity. However, to what extent steps are altered in affected children with autism versus healthy controls remains to be elucidated. Methods: Urine samples from 48 boys with autism (BMI 19.1 ± 0.6 kg/m2, age 14.2 ± 0.5 years) and a matched cohort of 48 healthy boys (BMI 18.6 ± 0.3 kg/m2, 14.3 ± 0.5 years) as well as 16 girls with autism (BMI 17.5 ± 0.7 kg/m2, age 13.8 ± 1.0 years) and a matched cohort of 16 healthy girls (BMI 17.2 ± 0.8 kg/m2, age 13.2 ± 0.8 years) were analyzed for steroid hormone metabolites by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Results: The activity of 17-alpha Hydroxylase increased by almost 50%, whereas activity of 17/20 Lyase activity increased by around 150% in affected children with autism. Furthermore, the concentration of Cortisol was higher as compared to the average increase of the three metabolites TH-Corticosterone, 5α-TH-Corticosterone and TH-11β-DH-Corticosterone, indicating, in addition, a stimulation by the CRH-ACTH system despite a higher enzymatic activity. Discussion: As it was shown that oxidative stress increases the 17/20-lyase activity via p38α, a link between higher steroid hormone levels and oxidative stress can be established. However, as glucocorticoid as well as androgen metabolites showed higher values in subjects affected with autism as compared to healthy controls, the data indicate, despite higher CYP17A1 activity, the presence of increased substrate availability in line with the Cholesterol theory of autism.
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Mehra S, Ul Ahsan A, Seth E, Chopra M. Critical Evaluation of Valproic Acid-Induced Rodent Models of Autism: Current and Future Perspectives. J Mol Neurosci 2022; 72:1259-1273. [DOI: 10.1007/s12031-022-02033-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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40
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Čorejová A, Fazekaš T, Jánošíková D, Repiský J, Pospíšilová V, Miková M, Rauová D, Ostatníková D, Kyselovič J, Hrabovská A. Improvement of the Clinical and Psychological Profile of Patients with Autism after Methylcobalamin Syrup Administration. Nutrients 2022; 14:2035. [PMID: 35631176 PMCID: PMC9144375 DOI: 10.3390/nu14102035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Autism, also known as autism-spectrum disorder, is a pervasive developmental disorder affecting social skills and psychological status in particular. The complex etiopathogenesis of autism limits efficient therapy, which leads to problems with the normal social integration of the individual and causes severe family distress. Injectable methylcobalamin was shown to improve the clinical status of patients via enhanced cell oxidative status and/or methylation capacity. Here we tested the efficiency of a syrup form of methylcobalamin in treating autism. (2) Methods: Methylcobalamin was administered daily at 500 µg dose to autistic children and young adults (n = 25) during a 200-day period. Clinical and psychological status was evaluated by parents and psychologists and plasma levels of reduced and oxidized glutathione, vitamin B12, homocysteine, and cysteine were determined before the treatment, and at day 100 and day 200 of the treatment. (3) Results: Good patient compliance was reported. Methylcobalamin treatment gradually improved the overall clinical and psychological status, with the highest impact in the social domain, followed by the cognitive, behavioral and communication characteristics. Changes in the clinical and psychological status were strongly associated with the changes in the level of reduced glutathione and reduced/oxidized glutathione ratio. (4) Conclusion: A high dose of methylcobalamin administered in syrup form ameliorates the clinical and psychological status of autistic individuals, probably due to the improved oxidative status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adela Čorejová
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Slovak Medical University in Bratislava, 833 03 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Tomáš Fazekaš
- Department of Physical Chemistry of Drugs, Faculty of Pharmacy, Comenius University Bratislava, 832 32 Bratislava, Slovakia;
| | - Daniela Jánošíková
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy and Arts, Trnava University, 918 43 Trnava, Slovakia; (D.J.); (J.R.)
| | - Juraj Repiský
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy and Arts, Trnava University, 918 43 Trnava, Slovakia; (D.J.); (J.R.)
| | | | - Maria Miková
- Autism Center FRANCESCO in Prešov, 080 01 Prešov, Slovakia;
| | - Drahomíra Rauová
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis and Nuclear Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Comenius University Bratislava, 832 32 Bratislava, Slovakia;
| | - Daniela Ostatníková
- Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University Bratislava, 813 72 Bratislava, Slovakia;
| | - Ján Kyselovič
- Clinical Research Unit, 5th Department of Internal Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University Bratislava, 813 72 Bratislava, Slovakia;
| | - Anna Hrabovská
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Comenius University Bratislava, 832 32 Bratislava, Slovakia
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Role of JAK-STAT and PPAR-Gamma Signalling Modulators in the Prevention of Autism and Neurological Dysfunctions. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:3888-3912. [PMID: 35437700 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02819-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The Janus-kinase (JAK) and signal transducer activator of transcription (STAT) signalling pathways regulate gene expression and control various factors involved in normal physiological functions such as cell proliferation, neuronal development, and cell survival. JAK activation phosphorylates STAT3 in astrocytes and microglia, and this phosphorylation has been linked to mitochondrial damage, apoptosis, neuroinflammation, reactive astrogliosis, and genetic mutations. As a regulator, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-gamma), in relation to JAK-STAT signalling, prevents this phosphorylation and aids in the treatment of the above-mentioned neurocomplications. Changes in cellular signalling may also contribute to the onset and progression of autism. Thus, PPAR-gamma agonist upregulation may be associated with JAK-STAT signal transduction downregulation. It may also be responsible for attenuating neuropathological changes by stimulating SOCS3 or involving RXR or SMRT, thereby reducing transcription of the various cytokine proteins and genes involved in neuronal damage. Along with JAK-STAT inhibitors, PPAR-gamma agonists could be used as target therapeutic interventions for autism. This research-based review explores the potential involvement and mutual regulation of JAK-STAT and PPAR-gamma signalling in controlling multiple pathological factors associated with autism.
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Shen L, Zhang H, Lin J, Gao Y, Chen M, Khan NU, Tang X, Hong Q, Feng C, Zhao Y, Cao X. A Combined Proteomics and Metabolomics Profiling to Investigate the Genetic Heterogeneity of Autistic Children. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:3529-3545. [PMID: 35348996 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02801-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has become one of the most common neurological developmental disorders in children. However, the study of ASD diagnostic markers faces significant challenges due to the existence of heterogeneity. In this study, genetic testing was performed on children who were clinically diagnosed with ASD. Children with ASD susceptibility genes and healthy controls were studied. The proteomics of plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) as well as plasma metabolomics were carried out. The results showed that although there was genetic heterogeneity in children with ASD, the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in plasma, peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and differential metabolites in plasma could still effectively distinguish autistic children from controls. The mechanism associated with them focuses on several common and previously reported mechanisms of ASD. The biomarkers for ASD diagnosis could be found by taking differentially expressed proteins and differential metabolites into consideration. Integrating omics data, glycerophospholipid metabolism and N-glycan biosynthesis might play a critical role in the pathogenesis of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liming Shen
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China
| | - Huajie Zhang
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China.,Brain Disease and Big Data Research Institute, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Lin
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China.,Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, 518055, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Gao
- Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Baoan, Shenzhen, 518100, People's Republic of China
| | - Margy Chen
- Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Naseer Ullah Khan
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoxiao Tang
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Hong
- Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Baoan, Shenzhen, 518100, People's Republic of China
| | - Chengyun Feng
- Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Baoan, Shenzhen, 518100, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuxi Zhao
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xueshan Cao
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, People's Republic of China.
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Cucinotta F, Ricciardello A, Turriziani L, Mancini A, Keller R, Sacco R, Persico AM. Efficacy and Safety of Q10 Ubiquinol With Vitamins B and E in Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Retrospective Chart Review. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:829516. [PMID: 35308885 PMCID: PMC8927903 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.829516] [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: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased oxidative stress and defective mitochondrial functioning are shared features among many brain disorders. The aim of this study was to verify retrospectively the clinical efficacy and safety of a metabolic support therapy with Q10 ubiquinol, vitamin E and complex-B vitamins in various neurodevelopmental disorders. This retrospective chart review study included 59 patients (mean age 10.1 ± 1.2 y.o., range 2.5-39 years; M:F = 2.47:1), diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (n = 17), Autism Spectrum Disorder with co-morbid Intellectual Disability (n = 19), Intellectual Disability or Global Developmental Delay (n = 15), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (n = 3) and Intellectual Disability in Phelan-McDermid syndrome due to chr. 22q13.33 deletion (n = 5). After a minimum of 3 months of therapy, a positive outcome was recorded in 45/59 (76.27%) patients, with Clinical Global Impression-Improvement scores ranging between 1 ("very much improved") and 3 ("minimally improved"). The most widespread improvements were recorded in cognition (n = 26, 44.1%), adaptative functioning (n = 26, 44.1%) and social motivation (n = 19, 32.2%). Improvement rates differed by diagnosis, being observed most consistently in Phelan-McDermid Syndrome (5/5, 100%), followed by Intellectual Disability/Global Developmental Delay (13/15, 86.7%), Autism Spectrum Disorder with co-morbid Intellectual Disability (15/19, 78.9%), Autism Spectrum Disorder (11/17, 64.7%) and ADHD (1/3, 33.3%). No significant adverse event or side effect leading to treatment discontinuation were recorded. Mild side effects were reported in 18 (30.5%) patients, with the most frequent being increased hyperactivity (9/59, 15.3%). This retrospective chart review suggests that metabolic support therapy with Q10 ubiquinol, vitamin E and complex-B vitamins is well tolerated and produces some improvement in the majority of patients with neurodevelopmental disorders, especially in the presence of intellectual disability. Randomized controlled trials for each single neurodevelopmental disorder are now warranted to conclusively demonstrate the efficacy of these mitochondrial bioenergetic and antioxidant agents and to estimate their therapeutic effect size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Cucinotta
- Interdepartmental Program "Autism 0-90", "G. Martino" University Hospital, Messina, Italy.,IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino-Pulejo", Messina, Italy
| | - Arianna Ricciardello
- Interdepartmental Program "Autism 0-90", "G. Martino" University Hospital, Messina, Italy.,Villa Miralago, Cuasso al Monte, Italy
| | - Laura Turriziani
- Interdepartmental Program "Autism 0-90", "G. Martino" University Hospital, Messina, Italy
| | - Arianna Mancini
- Interdepartmental Program "Autism 0-90", "G. Martino" University Hospital, Messina, Italy
| | - Roberto Keller
- Mental Health Department, Adult Autism Centre, Rete Ospedaliera Territorio Nord-Ovest, Azienda Sanitaria Locale Città di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Roberto Sacco
- Service for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, University "Campus Bio-Medico", Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio M Persico
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Program, Modena University Hospital and Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Liu X, Lin J, Zhang H, Khan NU, Zhang J, Tang X, Cao X, Shen L. Oxidative Stress in Autism Spectrum Disorder-Current Progress of Mechanisms and Biomarkers. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:813304. [PMID: 35299821 PMCID: PMC8921264 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.813304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a type of neurodevelopmental disorder that has been diagnosed in an increasing number of children around the world. Existing data suggest that early diagnosis and intervention can improve ASD outcomes. However, the causes of ASD remain complex and unclear, and there are currently no clinical biomarkers for autism spectrum disorder. More mechanisms and biomarkers of autism have been found with the development of advanced technology such as mass spectrometry. Many recent studies have found a link between ASD and elevated oxidative stress, which may play a role in its development. ASD is caused by oxidative stress in several ways, including protein post-translational changes (e.g., carbonylation), abnormal metabolism (e.g., lipid peroxidation), and toxic buildup [e.g., reactive oxygen species (ROS)]. To detect elevated oxidative stress in ASD, various biomarkers have been developed and employed. This article summarizes recent studies about the mechanisms and biomarkers of oxidative stress. Potential biomarkers identified in this study could be used for early diagnosis and evaluation of ASD intervention, as well as to inform and target ASD pharmacological or nutritional treatment interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xukun Liu
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology and Ecology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jing Lin
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Huajie Zhang
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Naseer Ullah Khan
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Tang
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xueshan Cao
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Liming Shen
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China.,Brain Disease and Big Data Research Institute, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
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45
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Hassan H, Zakaria F, Makpol S, Karim NA. A Link between Mitochondrial Dysregulation and Idiopathic Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Alterations in Mitochondrial Respiratory Capacity and Membrane Potential. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2021; 43:2238-2252. [PMID: 34940131 PMCID: PMC8928939 DOI: 10.3390/cimb43030157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological disorder triggered by various factors through complex mechanisms. Research has been done to elucidate the potential etiologic mechanisms in ASD, but no single cause has been confirmed. The involvement of oxidative stress is correlated with ASD and possibly affects mitochondrial function. This study aimed to elucidate the link between mitochondrial dysregulation and idiopathic ASD by focusing on mitochondrial respiratory capacity and membrane potential. Our findings showed that mitochondrial function in the energy metabolism pathway was significantly dysregulated in a lymphoblastoid cell line (LCL) derived from an autistic child (ALCL). Respiratory capacities of oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), electron transfer of the Complex I and Complex II linked pathways, membrane potential, and Complex IV activity of the ALCL were analyzed and compared with control cell lines derived from a developmentally normal non-autistic sibling (NALCL). All experiments were performed using high-resolution respirometry. Respiratory capacities of OXPHOS, electron transfer of the Complex I- and Complex II-linked pathways, and Complex IV activity of the ALCL were significantly higher compared to healthy controls. Mitochondrial membrane potential was also significantly higher, measured in the Complex II-linked pathway during LEAK respiration and OXPHOS. These results indicate the abnormalities in mitochondrial respiratory control linking mitochondrial function with autism. Correlating mitochondrial dysfunction and autism is important for a better understanding of ASD pathogenesis in order to produce effective interventions.
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Zawadzka A, Cieślik M, Adamczyk A. The Role of Maternal Immune Activation in the Pathogenesis of Autism: A Review of the Evidence, Proposed Mechanisms and Implications for Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111516. [PMID: 34768946 PMCID: PMC8584025 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disease that is characterized by a deficit in social interactions and communication, as well as repetitive and restrictive behaviors. Increasing lines of evidence suggest an important role for immune dysregulation and/or inflammation in the development of ASD. Recently, a relationship between inflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction has been reported in the brain tissue of individuals with ASD. Some recent studies have also reported oxidative stress and mitochondrial abnormalities in animal models of maternal immune activation (MIA). This review is focused on the hypothesis that MIA induces microglial activation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction, a deleterious trio in the brain that can lead to neuroinflammation and neurodevelopmental pathologies in offspring. Infection during pregnancy activates the mother’s immune system to release proinflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6, TNF-α, and others. Furthermore, these cytokines can directly cross the placenta and enter the fetal circulation, or activate resident immune cells, resulting in an increased production of proinflammatory cytokines, including IL-6. Proinflammatory cytokines that cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB) may initiate a neuroinflammation cascade, starting with the activation of the microglia. Inflammatory processes induce oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction that, in turn, may exacerbate oxidative stress in a self-perpetuating vicious cycle that can lead to downstream abnormalities in brain development and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Magdalena Cieślik
- Correspondence: (M.C.); (A.A.); Tel.: +48-22-6086420 (M.C.); +48-22-6086572 (A.A.)
| | - Agata Adamczyk
- Correspondence: (M.C.); (A.A.); Tel.: +48-22-6086420 (M.C.); +48-22-6086572 (A.A.)
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47
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Gevezova M, Sarafian V, Anderson G, Maes M. Inflammation and Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Autism Spectrum Disorder. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS-DRUG TARGETS 2021; 19:320-333. [PMID: 32600237 DOI: 10.2174/1871527319666200628015039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is a severe childhood psychiatric condition with an array of cognitive, language and social impairments that can significantly impact family life. ASD is classically characterized by reduced communication skills and social interactions, with limitations imposed by repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, and activities. The pathophysiology of ASD is thought to arise from complex interactions between environmental and genetic factors within the context of individual development. A growing body of research has raised the possibility of identifying the aetiological causes of the disorder. This review highlights the roles of immune-inflammatory pathways, nitro-oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunctions in ASD pathogenesis and symptom severity. The role of NK-cells, T helper, T regulatory and B-cells, coupled with increased inflammatory cytokines, lowered levels of immune-regulatory cytokines, and increased autoantibodies and microglial activation is elucidated. It is proposed that alterations in mitochondrial activity and nitrooxidative stress are intimately associated with activated immune-inflammatory pathways. Future research should determine as to whether the mitochondria, immune-inflammatory activity and nitrooxidative stress changes in ASD affect the development of amygdala-frontal cortex interactions. A number of treatment implications may arise, including prevention-orientated prenatal interventions, treatment of pregnant women with vitamin D, and sodium butyrate. Treatments of ASD children and adults with probiotics, sodium butyrate and butyrate-inducing diets, antipurinergic therapy with suramin, melatonin, oxytocin and taurine are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Gevezova
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria,Research Institute at Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Victoria Sarafian
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria,Research Institute at Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | | | - Michael Maes
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University-Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria,Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand,IMPACT Strategic Research Center, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
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48
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Han M, Lee D, Lee SH, Kim TH. Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Pathway in Allergic Rhinitis. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10081266. [PMID: 34439514 PMCID: PMC8389336 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10081266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress is the cause and consequence of redox metabolism in various physiological and pathological conditions. Understanding the molecular pathways underlying oxidative stress and the role of antioxidants could serve as the key to helping treat associated diseases. Allergic rhinitis is a condition that deteriorates the daily function and quality of life of afflicted individuals and is associated with a high socioeconomic burden and prevalence. Recent studies have focused on the role of oxidative stress and antioxidants in allergic rhinitis. This review discusses animal and clinical studies on oxidative markers and the potential therapeutic dietary antioxidants for allergic rhinitis.
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Hoxha B, Hoxha M, Domi E, Gervasoni J, Persichilli S, Malaj V, Zappacosta B. Folic Acid and Autism: A Systematic Review of the Current State of Knowledge. Cells 2021; 10:cells10081976. [PMID: 34440744 PMCID: PMC8394938 DOI: 10.3390/cells10081976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Folic acid has been identified to be integral in rapid tissue growth and cell division during fetal development. Different studies indicate folic acid’s importance in improving childhood behavioral outcomes and underline its role as a modifiable risk factor for autism spectrum disorders. The aim of this systematic review is to both elucidate the potential role of folic acid in autism spectrum disorders and to investigate the mechanisms involved. Studies have pointed out a potential beneficial effect of prenatal folic acid maternal supplementation (600 µg) on the risk of autism spectrum disorder onset, but opposite results have been reported as well. Folic acid and/or folinic acid supplementation in autism spectrum disorder diagnosed children has led to improvements, both in some neurologic and behavioral symptoms and in the concentration of one-carbon metabolites. Several authors report an increased frequency of serum auto-antibodies against folate receptor alpha (FRAA) in autism spectrum disorder children. Furthermore, methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) polymorphisms showed a significant influence on ASD risk. More clinical trials, with a clear study design, with larger sample sizes and longer observation periods are necessary to be carried out to better evaluate the potential protective role of folic acid in autism spectrum disorder risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianka Hoxha
- Department of Chemical-Pharmaceutical and Biomolecular Technologies, Faculty of Pharmacy, Catholic University “Our Lady of Good Counsel”, Rruga Dritan Hoxha, 1000 Tirana, Albania;
| | - Malvina Hoxha
- Department for Chemical-Toxicological and Pharmacological Evaluation of Drugs, Faculty of Pharmacy, Catholic University “Our Lady of Good Counsel”, Rruga Dritan Hoxha, 1000 Tirana, Albania; (E.D.); (B.Z.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +355-42-273-290
| | - Elisa Domi
- Department for Chemical-Toxicological and Pharmacological Evaluation of Drugs, Faculty of Pharmacy, Catholic University “Our Lady of Good Counsel”, Rruga Dritan Hoxha, 1000 Tirana, Albania; (E.D.); (B.Z.)
| | - Jacopo Gervasoni
- Area Diagnostica di Laboratorio UOC Chimica, Biochimica e Biologia Molecolare Clinica Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy; (J.G.); (S.P.)
| | - Silvia Persichilli
- Area Diagnostica di Laboratorio UOC Chimica, Biochimica e Biologia Molecolare Clinica Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy; (J.G.); (S.P.)
| | - Visar Malaj
- Department of Economics, Faculty of Economy, University of Tirana, 1000 Tirana, Albania;
| | - Bruno Zappacosta
- Department for Chemical-Toxicological and Pharmacological Evaluation of Drugs, Faculty of Pharmacy, Catholic University “Our Lady of Good Counsel”, Rruga Dritan Hoxha, 1000 Tirana, Albania; (E.D.); (B.Z.)
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Al Suhaibani A, Ben Bacha A, Alonazi M, Bhat RS, El‐Ansary A. Testing the combined effects of probiotics and prebiotics against neurotoxic effects of propionic acid orally administered to rat pups. Food Sci Nutr 2021; 9:4440-4451. [PMID: 34401092 PMCID: PMC8358352 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.2418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study investigated the combined effects of mixed probiotic and bee pollen on brain intoxication induced by propionic acid (PPA) in rat pups. Thirty western albino rats were divided into five groups, six animals each: (1) Control group receiving phosphate-buffered saline; (2) Probiotic and bee pollen-treated group being administered at the same dose with 200 mg/kg body weight; (c) PPA-treated group receiving a neurotoxic dose 250 mg/kg body weight of PPA for 3 days; (d) Therapeutic group being administered the neurotoxic dose of PPA followed by probiotic and bee pollen treatment 200 mg/kg body weight; (e) Protective group receiving probiotic and bee pollen mixture treatment followed by neurotoxic dose of PPA. Selected biochemical parameters linked to oxidative stress, energy metabolism, and neurotransmission were investigated in brain homogenates from all the five groups. PPA treatment showed an increase in oxidative stress markers like lipid peroxidation coupled with a significant decrease in glutathione level. Impaired energy metabolism was ascertained via the alteration of creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities. Dramatic increase of Na+ and K+ concentrations together with a decrease of GABA and IL-6 and an elevation of glutamate levels in PPA-treated rat's pups confirmed the neurotoxicity effect of PPA. Interestingly, the mixed probiotic and bee pollen treatment were effective in restoring the levels of glutamate, GABA, and IL-6 in addition to normalizing the levels of lipid peroxidation and glutathione and the activities of CK and LDH. The present study indicates that mixed probiotic and bee pollen treatment can improve poor detoxification, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation as mechanisms implicated in the etiology of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anwar Al Suhaibani
- Biochemistry DepartmentScience CollegeKing Saud UniversityRiyadhSaudi Arabia
| | - Abir Ben Bacha
- Biochemistry DepartmentScience CollegeKing Saud UniversityRiyadhSaudi Arabia
- Laboratory of Plant Biotechnology Applied to Crop ImprovementFaculty of Science of SfaxUniversity of SfaxSfaxTunisia
| | - Mona Alonazi
- Biochemistry DepartmentScience CollegeKing Saud UniversityRiyadhSaudi Arabia
| | - Ramesa Shafi Bhat
- Biochemistry DepartmentScience CollegeKing Saud UniversityRiyadhSaudi Arabia
| | - Afaf El‐Ansary
- Central LaboratoryKing Saud UniversityRiyadhSaudi Arabia
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