1
|
Kucewicz STC, Borkowski M, Church JE, van der Poel C. Measurement of Murine Neuromuscular Function Using the In Situ Preparation. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2746:147-154. [PMID: 38070087 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3585-8_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
The presence and progression of a neuromuscular pathology can impact on the contractile force production of a muscle. Hence, measurements of force production can be an important tool for the evaluation of disease progression. In this chapter, we describe how to perform in situ function testing on the tibialis anterior muscle using a murine model. Performing neuromuscular in situ function testing allows force measurements to be recorded in a physiologically relevant environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S T C Kucewicz
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine & Environment, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | | | - C van der Poel
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine & Environment, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Careccia G, Mangiavini L, Cirillo F. Regulation of Satellite Cells Functions during Skeletal Muscle Regeneration: A Critical Step in Physiological and Pathological Conditions. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:512. [PMID: 38203683 PMCID: PMC10778731 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010512] [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: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Skeletal muscle regeneration is a complex process involving the generation of new myofibers after trauma, competitive physical activity, or disease. In this context, adult skeletal muscle stem cells, also known as satellite cells (SCs), play a crucial role in regulating muscle tissue homeostasis and activating regeneration. Alterations in their number or function have been associated with various pathological conditions. The main factors involved in the dysregulation of SCs' activity are inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrosis. This review critically summarizes the current knowledge on the role of SCs in skeletal muscle regeneration. It examines the changes in the activity of SCs in three of the most common and severe muscle disorders: sarcopenia, muscular dystrophy, and cancer cachexia. Understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in their dysregulations is essential for improving current treatments, such as exercise, and developing personalized approaches to reactivate SCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Careccia
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy;
| | - Laura Mangiavini
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, 20161 Milan, Italy;
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Cirillo
- IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097 San Donato Milanese, Italy
- Institute for Molecular and Translational Cardiology (IMTC), 20097 San Donato Milanese, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Riddell DO, Hildyard JCW, Harron RCM, Taylor-Brown F, Kornegay JN, Wells DJ, Piercy RJ. Longitudinal assessment of skeletal muscle functional mechanics in the DE50-MD dog model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Dis Model Mech 2023; 16:dmm050395. [PMID: 38050706 PMCID: PMC10753191 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.050395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), caused by mutations in the dystrophin (DMD) gene, is associated with fatal muscle degeneration and atrophy. Patients with DMD have progressive reductions in skeletal muscle strength and resistance to eccentric muscle stretch. Using the DE50-MD dog model of DMD, we assessed tibiotarsal joint (TTJ) flexor and extensor force dynamics, and the resistance of dystrophic muscle to eccentric stretch. Male DE50-MD and wild-type (WT) dogs were analysed every 3 months until 18 months of age. There was an age-associated decline in eccentric contraction resistance in DE50-MD TTJ flexors that discriminated, with high statistical power, WT from DE50-MD individuals. For isometric contraction, at the majority of timepoints, DE50-MD dogs had lower maximum absolute and relative TTJ flexor force, reduced TTJ muscle contraction times and prolonged relaxation compared to those in WT dogs. Cranial tibial muscles, the primary TTJ flexor, of 18-month-old DE50-MD dogs had significant numbers of regenerating fibres as expected, but also fewer type I fibres and more hybrid fibres than those in WT dogs. We conclude that these parameters, in particular, the eccentric contraction decrement, could be used as objective outcome measures for pre-clinical assessment in DE50-MD dogs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dominique O. Riddell
- Comparative Neuromuscular Diseases Laboratory, Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, London NW10TU, UK
| | - John C. W. Hildyard
- Comparative Neuromuscular Diseases Laboratory, Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, London NW10TU, UK
| | - Rachel C. M. Harron
- Comparative Neuromuscular Diseases Laboratory, Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, London NW10TU, UK
| | - Frances Taylor-Brown
- Comparative Neuromuscular Diseases Laboratory, Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, London NW10TU, UK
| | - Joe N. Kornegay
- Texas A&M University, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Dominic J. Wells
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, London NW10TU, UK
| | - Richard J. Piercy
- Comparative Neuromuscular Diseases Laboratory, Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, London NW10TU, UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hoffman DB, Basten AM, Sorensen JR, Raymond-Pope CJ, Lillquist TJ, Call JA, Corona BT, Greising SM. Response of terminal Schwann cells following volumetric muscle loss injury. Exp Neurol 2023; 365:114431. [PMID: 37142114 PMCID: PMC10227691 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2023.114431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
An often-overlooked component of traumatic skeletal muscle injuries is the impact on the nervous system and resultant innervation of the affected muscles. Recent work in a rodent model of volumetric muscle loss (VML) injury demonstrated a progressive, secondary loss of neuromuscular junction (NMJ) innervation, supporting a role of NMJ dysregulation in chronic functional deficits. Terminal Schwann cells (tSCs) are known to be vital for the maintenance of NMJ structure and function, in addition to guiding repair and regeneration after injury. However, the tSC response to a traumatic muscle injury such as VML is not known. Thus, a study was conducted to investigate the effect of VML on tSC morphological characteristics and neurotrophic signaling proteins in adult male Lewis rats that underwent VML injury to the tibialis anterior muscle using a temporal design with outcome assessments at 3, 7, 14, 21, and 48 days post-injury. The following salient observations were made; first, although there is a loss of innervation over time, the number of tSCs per NMJ increases, significantly so at 48 days post-injury compared to control. The degree of NMJ fragmentation was positively correlated with tSC number after injury. Moreover, neurotrophic factors such as NRG1 and BDNF are elevated after injury through at least 48 days. These results were unanticipated and in contrast to neurodegenerative disease models, in which there is a reduction in tSC number that precedes denervation. However, we found that while there are more tSCs per NMJ after injury, they cover a significantly smaller percent of the post-synaptic endplate area compared to control. These findings support a sustained increase in neurotrophic activity and tSC number after VML, which is a maladaptive response occurring in parallel to other aspects of the VML injury, such as over-accumulation of collagen and aberrant inflammatory signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel B Hoffman
- School of Kinesiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States of America
| | - Alec M Basten
- School of Kinesiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States of America
| | - Jacob R Sorensen
- School of Kinesiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States of America
| | | | - Thomas J Lillquist
- School of Kinesiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States of America
| | - Jarrod A Call
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, United States of America
| | - Benjamin T Corona
- School of Medicine, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, United States of America
| | - Sarah M Greising
- School of Kinesiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Chung T, Bopp T, Ward C, Notarangelo FM, Schwarcz R, Westbrook R, Xue Q, Walston J, Hoke A. Deletion of quinolinate phosphoribosyltransferase gene accelerates frailty phenotypes and neuromuscular decline with aging in a sex-specific pattern. Aging Cell 2023; 22:e13849. [PMID: 37078472 PMCID: PMC10352574 DOI: 10.1111/acel.13849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Decline in neuromuscular function with aging is known to be a major determinant of disability and all-cause mortality in late life. Despite the importance of the problem, the neurobiology of age-associated muscle weakness is poorly understood. In a previous report, we performed untargeted metabolomics on frail older adults and discovered prominent alteration in the kynurenine pathway, the major route of dietary tryptophan degradation that produces neurotoxic intermediate metabolites. We also showed that neurotoxic kynurenine pathway metabolites are correlated with increased frailty score. For the present study, we sought to further examine the neurobiology of these neurotoxic intermediates by utilizing a mouse model that has a deletion of the quinolinate phosphoribosyltransferase (QPRT) gene, a rate-limiting step of the kynurenine pathway. QPRT-/- mice have elevated neurotoxic quinolinic acid level in the nervous system throughout their lifespan. We found that QPRT-/- mice have accelerated declines in neuromuscular function in an age- and sex-specific manner compared to control strains. In addition, the QPRT-/- mice show premature signs of frailty and body composition changes that are typical for metabolic syndrome. Our findings suggest that the kynurenine pathway may play an important role in frailty and age-associated muscle weakness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tae Chung
- Department of Physical Medicine and RehabilitationJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
- Department of NeurologyNeuromuscular DivisionJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Taylor Bopp
- Department of Physical Medicine and RehabilitationJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Chris Ward
- Department of OrthopedicsUniversity of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Francesca M. Notarangelo
- Maryland Psychiatric Research CenterDepartment of PsychiatryUniversity of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Robert Schwarcz
- Maryland Psychiatric Research CenterDepartment of PsychiatryUniversity of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Reyhan Westbrook
- Department of Geriatric Medicine and GerontologyJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Qian‐Li Xue
- Department of Geriatric Medicine and GerontologyJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Jeremy Walston
- Department of Geriatric Medicine and GerontologyJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Ahmet Hoke
- Department of NeurologyNeuromuscular DivisionJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Hahn D, Quick JD, Thompson BR, Crabtree A, Hackel BJ, Bates FS, Metzger JM. Rapid restitution of contractile dysfunction by synthetic copolymers in dystrophin-deficient single live skeletal muscle fibers. Skelet Muscle 2023; 13:9. [PMID: 37208786 PMCID: PMC10197332 DOI: 10.1186/s13395-023-00318-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is caused by the lack of dystrophin, a cytoskeletal protein essential for the preservation of the structural integrity of the muscle cell membrane. DMD patients develop severe skeletal muscle weakness, degeneration, and early death. We tested here amphiphilic synthetic membrane stabilizers in mdx skeletal muscle fibers (flexor digitorum brevis; FDB) to determine their effectiveness in restoring contractile function in dystrophin-deficient live skeletal muscle fibers. After isolating FDB fibers via enzymatic digestion and trituration from thirty-three adult male mice (9 C57BL10, 24 mdx), these were plated on a laminin-coated coverslip and treated with poloxamer 188 (P188; PEO75-PPO30-PEO75; 8400 g/mol), architecturally inverted triblock (PPO15-PEO200-PPO15, 10,700 g/mol), and diblock (PEO75-PPO16-C4, 4200 g/mol) copolymers. We assessed the twitch kinetics of sarcomere length (SL) and intracellular Ca2+ transient by Fura-2AM by field stimulation (25 V, 0.2 Hz, 25 °C). Twitch contraction peak SL shortening of mdx FDB fibers was markedly depressed to 30% of the dystrophin-replete control FDB fibers from C57BL10 (P < 0.001). Compared to vehicle-treated mdx FDB fibers, copolymer treatment robustly and rapidly restored the twitch peak SL shortening (all P < 0.05) by P188 (15 μM = + 110%, 150 μM = + 220%), diblock (15 μM = + 50%, 150 μM = + 50%), and inverted triblock copolymer (15 μM = + 180%, 150 μM = + 90%). Twitch peak Ca2+ transient from mdx FDB fibers was also depressed compared to C57BL10 FDB fibers (P < 0.001). P188 and inverted triblock copolymer treatment of mdx FDB fibers increased the twitch peak Ca2+ transient (P < 0.001). This study shows synthetic block copolymers with varied architectures can rapidly and highly effectively enhance contractile function in live dystrophin-deficient skeletal muscle fibers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongwoo Hahn
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, Medical School, University of Minnesota, 6-125 Jackson Hall, 321 Church Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Joseph D Quick
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, Medical School, University of Minnesota, 6-125 Jackson Hall, 321 Church Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Brian R Thompson
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, Medical School, University of Minnesota, 6-125 Jackson Hall, 321 Church Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Adelyn Crabtree
- Chemical Engineering & Materials Science, University of Minnesota, 151 Amundson Hall, 421 Washington Avenue SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Benjamin J Hackel
- Chemical Engineering & Materials Science, University of Minnesota, 151 Amundson Hall, 421 Washington Avenue SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Frank S Bates
- Chemical Engineering & Materials Science, University of Minnesota, 151 Amundson Hall, 421 Washington Avenue SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Joseph M Metzger
- Department of Integrative Biology & Physiology, Medical School, University of Minnesota, 6-125 Jackson Hall, 321 Church Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Kiriaev L, Baumann CW, Lindsay A. Eccentric contraction-induced strength loss in dystrophin-deficient muscle: Preparations, protocols, and mechanisms. J Gen Physiol 2023; 155:213810. [PMID: 36651896 PMCID: PMC9856740 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.202213208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The absence of dystrophin hypersensitizes skeletal muscle of lower and higher vertebrates to eccentric contraction (ECC)-induced strength loss. Loss of strength can be accompanied by transient and reversible alterations to sarcolemmal excitability and disruption, triad dysfunction, and aberrations in calcium kinetics and reactive oxygen species production. The degree of ECC-induced strength loss, however, appears dependent on several extrinsic and intrinsic factors such as vertebrate model, skeletal muscle preparation (in vivo, in situ, or ex vivo), skeletal muscle hierarchy (single fiber versus whole muscle and permeabilized versus intact), strength production, fiber branching, age, and genetic background, among others. Consistent findings across research groups show that dystrophin-deficient fast(er)-twitch muscle is hypersensitive to ECCs relative to wildtype muscle, but because preparations are highly variable and sensitivity to ECCs are used repeatedly to determine efficacy of many preclinical treatments, it is critical to evaluate the impact of skeletal muscle preparations on sensitivity to ECC-induced strength loss in dystrophin-deficient skeletal muscle. Here, we review and discuss variations in skeletal muscle preparations to evaluate the factors responsible for variations and discrepancies between research groups. We further highlight that dystrophin-deficiency, or loss of the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex in skeletal muscle, is not a prerequisite for accelerated strength loss-induced by ECCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leonit Kiriaev
- Muscle Research Group, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia,School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Cory W. Baumann
- Ohio Musculoskeletal and Neurological Institute (OMNI), Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
| | - Angus Lindsay
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia,Correspondence to Angus Lindsay:
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Wang Z, Duan H, Hao F, Hao P, Zhao W, Gao Y, Gu Y, Song J, Li X, Yang Z. Circuit reconstruction of newborn neurons after spinal cord injury in adult rats via an NT3-chitosan scaffold. Prog Neurobiol 2023; 220:102375. [PMID: 36410665 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2022.102375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
An implanted neurotrophin-3 (NT3)-chitosan scaffold can recruit endogenous neural stem cells to migrate to a lesion region and differentiate into mature neurons after adult spinal cord injury (SCI). However, the identities of these newborn neurons and whether they can form functional synapses and circuits to promote recovery after paraplegia remain unknown. By using combined advanced technologies, we revealed here that the newborn neurons of several subtypes received synaptic input from the corticospinal tract (CST), rubrospinal tract (RST), and supraspinal tracts. They formed a functional neural circuit at the injured spinal region, further driving the local circuits beneath the lesion. Our results showed that the NT3-chitosan scaffold facilitated the maturation of spinal neurons and the reestablishment of the spinal neural circuit in the lesion region 12 weeks after SCI. Transsynaptic virus experiments revealed that these newborn spinal neurons received synaptic connections from the CST and RST and drove the neural circuit beneath the lesion via newly formed synapses. These re-established circuits successfully recovered the formation and function of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) beneath the lesion spinal segments. These findings suggest that the NT3-chitosan scaffold promotes the formation of relay neural circuits to accommodate various types of brain descending inputs and facilitate functional recovery after paraplegia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zijue Wang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Hongmei Duan
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Fei Hao
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and Neural Regeneration, School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Peng Hao
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Wen Zhao
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Yudan Gao
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Yiming Gu
- Physical Education Department, Capital University of Economics and Business, Beijing 100070, China
| | - Jianren Song
- Translational Research Institute of Brain and Brain-Like Intelligence, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200434, China; Clinical Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Research, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China.
| | - Xiaoguang Li
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China.
| | - Zhaoyang Yang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Pharmacological inhibition of HDAC6 improves muscle phenotypes in dystrophin-deficient mice by downregulating TGF-β via Smad3 acetylation. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7108. [PMID: 36402791 PMCID: PMC9675748 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34831-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The absence of dystrophin in Duchenne muscular dystrophy disrupts the dystrophin-associated glycoprotein complex resulting in skeletal muscle fiber fragility and atrophy, associated with fibrosis as well as microtubule and neuromuscular junction disorganization. The specific, non-conventional cytoplasmic histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) was recently shown to regulate acetylcholine receptor distribution and muscle atrophy. Here, we report that administration of the HDAC6 selective inhibitor tubastatin A to the Duchenne muscular dystrophy, mdx mouse model increases muscle strength, improves microtubule, neuromuscular junction, and dystrophin-associated glycoprotein complex organization, and reduces muscle atrophy and fibrosis. Interestingly, we found that the beneficial effects of HDAC6 inhibition involve the downregulation of transforming growth factor beta signaling. By increasing Smad3 acetylation in the cytoplasm, HDAC6 inhibition reduces Smad2/3 phosphorylation, nuclear translocation, and transcriptional activity. These findings provide in vivo evidence that Smad3 is a new target of HDAC6 and implicate HDAC6 as a potential therapeutic target in Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Collapse
|
10
|
Baumann CW, Ingalls CP, Lowe DA. Mechanisms of weakness in Mdx muscle following in vivo eccentric contractions. J Muscle Res Cell Motil 2022; 43:63-72. [PMID: 35445349 DOI: 10.1007/s10974-022-09617-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Skeletal muscle of the dystrophin-deficient mdx mouse is hypersensitive to eccentric (ECC) contraction-induced strength loss due to plasmalemmal electrical dysfunction. Despite plasmalemmal inexcitability being a logical mechanism responsible for weakness, it remains unclear if processes up- and/or down-stream remain functionally intact in injured mdx muscle. The purpose of this study was to analyze additional processes necessary for excitation-contraction coupling that are potentially disrupted by ECC contractions. Anterior crural muscles (tibialis anterior, extensor digitorum longus [EDL], and extensor hallucis muscles) of wildtype (WT) and mdx mice were injured in vivo with 50 ECC contractions and torque was measured immediately before and after the contraction bout. Following the in vivo assessment, EDL ex vivo isometric and caffeine forces were analyzed. In vivo isometric torque and ex vivo force in WT muscle were reduced 38 and 30% (p < 0.001), while caffeine force was also reduced (p = 0.021), albeit to a lesser degree (9%). In contrast, in vivo isometric torque, ex vivo isometric force and ex vivo caffeine-induced force were all reduced 56-67% (p < 0.001) in mdx muscle and did not differ from one another (p = 0.114). Disproportional reductions in isometric strength and caffeine-induced force confirm that ECC contractions uncoupled the plasmalemma from the ryanodine receptors (RyRs) in WT muscle. In mdx muscle, the proportional reductions in isometric strength and caffeine-induced force following ECC contractions reveal that dysfunction occurs at and/or distal to the RyRs immediately post-injury. Thus, weakness in injured mdx muscle cannot be isolated to one mechanism, rather several steps of muscle contraction are disrupted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cory W Baumann
- Ohio Musculoskeletal and Neurological Institute (OMNI), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA.
| | - Christopher P Ingalls
- Department of Kinesiology and Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Dawn A Lowe
- Division of Rehabilitation Science, Division of Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Qi Z, Li D, Li L, Meng D, Deng J, Jin B, Gu X, Wang S, Huang C, Yin X. Studies on the Manner of Collateral Regeneration From Nerve Stem to Motor Endplate. Front Physiol 2022; 12:795623. [PMID: 35295162 PMCID: PMC8919963 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.795623] [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: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite recent evidence suggesting that nerve transfer techniques help improve clinical outcomes, the underlying manner by which collateral-regenerated nerve enters skeletal muscles to restore an organized pattern of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is unclear. To construct the animal models of collateral regeneration, the proximal peroneal nerve was fixed to the distal tibial nerve stump. Three months after surgery, the spatial distribution of motor endplates (MEPs) and corresponding in-muscle nerve branches in long flexor digitorum muscles were observed with tissue optical clearing combined with light-sheet microscopy in transgenic fluorescent mice. The results showed that the number of fibers in the proximal donor peroneal nerve was 415 ± 11, while regenerated nerve fibers in the distal tibial stump were 781 ± 43, which indicates a collateral regeneration ratio of 1.88. The spatial distribution of MEPs was restored to an organized pattern of the lamella, and the corresponding in-muscle nerve branches reverted to the normal manner such as after collateral regeneration. Beyond this, the numbers of MEPs dominated by the single distal nerve fiber were 25.58 ± 0.50 and 26.42 ± 0.94, respectively (n = 6, p > 0.05, collateral regeneration group vs. normal group). However, the numbers of distal-regenerated nerve fibers were less than those in normal control groups (781 ± 43 vs. 914 ± 55, n = 6, p < 0.05), and the number and perforations of MEPs were lower than those in normal control groups as such. In summary, this is the first study to show the manner of collateral regeneration of the peripheral nerve that the smaller proximal donor nerve can sprout more axonal buds to connect distal larger nerves and finally restore to an organized pattern of lamella dominated by corresponding in-muscle nerve branches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhidan Qi
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Dongdong Li
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,Department of Orthopedics, PLA Strategic Support Force Medical Center, Beijing, China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Dexuan Meng
- Peking University Third Hospital, Department of Orthopaedics, Beijing, China
| | - Jin Deng
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Bo Jin
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyi Gu
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Shen Wang
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chen Huang
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaofeng Yin
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,Department of Intelligent Medicine, Pizhou People's Hospital, Jiangsu, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
PURPOSE The ability of skeletal muscle to adapt to eccentric (ECC) contraction-induced injury is known as the repeated bout effect (RBE). Despite the RBE being a well-established phenomenon observed in skeletal muscle, cellular and molecular events particularly those at the membranes that contribute to the adaptive potential of muscle have yet to be established. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine how membrane-associated proteins respond to the RBE. METHODS Anterior crural muscles of C57BL/6 female mice (3-5 months) were subjected to repeated bouts of in vivo ECCs, with isometric torque being measured immediately before and after injury. A total of six bouts were completed with 7 d between each bout. Protein content of dystrophin, β-sarcoglycan, and junctophilin were then assessed via immunoblotting in injured and uninjured muscles. RESULTS When expressed relative to preinjury isometric torque of bout 1, deficits in postinjury isometric torque during bout 2 (38%) did not differ from bout 1 (36%; P = 0.646) and were attenuated during bouts 3 through 6 (range, 24%-15%; P ≤ 0.014). Contents of dystrophin, β-sarcoglycan, and junctophilin did not change immediately after a single bout of 50 maximal ECCs (P ≥ 0.155); however, as a result of repeated bouts, contents of dystrophin, β-sarcoglycan, and junctophilin all increased compared with muscles that completed one or no bouts of ECC contractions (P ≤ 0.003). CONCLUSIONS The RBE represents a physiological measure of skeletal muscle plasticity. Here, we demonstrate that repeated bouts of ECC contractions increase contents of dystrophin, β-sarcoglycan, and junctophilin and attenuate postinjury torque deficits. Given our results, accumulation of membrane-associated proteins likely contributes to strength adaptations observed after repeated bouts of ECC contractions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia R. Sidky
- Division of Rehabilitation Science & Division of Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | | | - Dawn A. Lowe
- Division of Rehabilitation Science & Division of Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Cory W. Baumann
- Division of Rehabilitation Science & Division of Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
- Ohio Musculoskeletal and Neurological Institute (OMNI), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ohio University, Athens, OH
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Fralish Z, Lotz EM, Chavez T, Khodabukus A, Bursac N. Neuromuscular Development and Disease: Learning From in vitro and in vivo Models. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:764732. [PMID: 34778273 PMCID: PMC8579029 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.764732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is a specialized cholinergic synaptic interface between a motor neuron and a skeletal muscle fiber that translates presynaptic electrical impulses into motor function. NMJ formation and maintenance require tightly regulated signaling and cellular communication among motor neurons, myogenic cells, and Schwann cells. Neuromuscular diseases (NMDs) can result in loss of NMJ function and motor input leading to paralysis or even death. Although small animal models have been instrumental in advancing our understanding of the NMJ structure and function, the complexities of studying this multi-tissue system in vivo and poor clinical outcomes of candidate therapies developed in small animal models has driven the need for in vitro models of functional human NMJ to complement animal studies. In this review, we discuss prevailing models of NMDs and highlight the current progress and ongoing challenges in developing human iPSC-derived (hiPSC) 3D cell culture models of functional NMJs. We first review in vivo development of motor neurons, skeletal muscle, Schwann cells, and the NMJ alongside current methods for directing the differentiation of relevant cell types from hiPSCs. We further compare the efficacy of modeling NMDs in animals and human cell culture systems in the context of five NMDs: amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, myotonic dystrophy, and Pompe disease. Finally, we discuss further work necessary for hiPSC-derived NMJ models to function as effective personalized NMD platforms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Fralish
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pratt School of Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Ethan M Lotz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pratt School of Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Taylor Chavez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pratt School of Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Alastair Khodabukus
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pratt School of Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Nenad Bursac
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pratt School of Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Baati N, Mougenot N, Lemaitre M, Kirsch M, Agbulut O, Ferry A, Vitiello D. Alteration of skeletal and cardiac muscles function in DBA/2J mdx mice background: a focus on high intensity interval training. Intractable Rare Dis Res 2021; 10:269-275. [PMID: 34877239 PMCID: PMC8630461 DOI: 10.5582/irdr.2021.01097] [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: 06/26/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a recessive hereditary myopathy due to deficiency of functional dystrophin. Current therapeutic interventions need more investigation to slow down the progression of skeletal and cardiac muscle weakness. In humans, there is a lack of an adapted training program. In animals, the murine Mdx model with a DBA/2J background (D2-mdx) was recently suggested to present pathological features closer to that of humans. In this study, we characterized skeletal and cardiac muscle functions in males and females D2-mdx mice compared to control groups. We also evaluated the impact of high intensity interval training (HIIT) in these muscles in females and males. HIIT was performed 5 times per week during a month on a motorized treadmill. Specific maximal isometric force production and weakness were measured in the tibialis anterior muscle (TA). Sedentary male and female D2-mdx mice produced lower absolute and specific maximal force compared to control mice. Dystrophic mice showed a decline of force generation during repetitive stimulation compared to controls. This reduction was greater for male D2-mdx mice than females. Furthermore, trained D2-mdx males showed an improvement in force generation after the fifth lengthening contraction compared to sedentary D2-mdx males. Moreover, echocardiography measures revealed a decrease in left ventricular end-diastolic volume, left ventricular ejection volume and left ventricular end-diastolic diameter in sedentary male and female D2-mdx mice. Overall, our results showed a serious muscle function alteration in female and male D2-mdx mice compared to controls. HIIT may delay force loss especially in male D2-mdx mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Narjes Baati
- Institute of Sport and Health Sciences of Paris - URP3625, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Marine Kirsch
- Institute of Sport and Health Sciences of Paris - URP3625, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Onnik Agbulut
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS), CNRS UMR 8256, Inserm ERL U1164, Biological Adaptation and Ageing, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Arnaud Ferry
- Institut de Myologie, Sorbonne Universités, Paris, France
| | - Damien Vitiello
- Institute of Sport and Health Sciences of Paris - URP3625, Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS), CNRS UMR 8256, Inserm ERL U1164, Biological Adaptation and Ageing, 75005, Paris, France
- Address correspondence to:Damien Vitiello, URP 3625-Institute of Sport and Health Sciences of Paris (I3SP), Université de Paris, Paris 75015, France.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Baumann CW, Lindsay A, Sidky SR, Ervasti JM, Warren GL, Lowe DA. Contraction-Induced Loss of Plasmalemmal Electrophysiological Function Is Dependent on the Dystrophin Glycoprotein Complex. Front Physiol 2021; 12:757121. [PMID: 34764884 PMCID: PMC8576390 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.757121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Weakness and atrophy are key features of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Dystrophin is one of the many proteins within the dystrophin glycoprotein complex (DGC) that maintains plasmalemmal integrity and cellular homeostasis. The dystrophin-deficient mdx mouse is also predisposed to weakness, particularly when subjected to eccentric (ECC) contractions due to electrophysiological dysfunction of the plasmalemma. Here, we determined if maintenance of plasmalemmal excitability during and after a bout of ECC contractions is dependent on intact and functional DGCs rather than, solely, dystrophin expression. Wild-type (WT) and dystrophic mice (mdx, mL172H and Sgcb-/- mimicking Duchenne, Becker and Limb-girdle Type 2E muscular dystrophies, respectively) with varying levels of dystrophin and DGC functionality performed 50 maximal ECC contractions with simultaneous torque and electromyographic measurements (M-wave root-mean-square, M-wave RMS). ECC contractions caused all mouse lines to lose torque (p<0.001); however, deficits were greater in dystrophic mouse lines compared to WT mice (p<0.001). Loss of ECC torque did not correspond to a reduction in M-wave RMS in WT mice (p=0.080), while deficits in M-wave RMS exceeded 50% in all dystrophic mouse lines (p≤0.007). Moreover, reductions in ECC torque and M-wave RMS were greater in mdx mice compared to mL172H mice (p≤0.042). No differences were observed between mdx and Sgcb-/- mice (p≥0.337). Regression analysis revealed ≥98% of the variance in ECC torque loss could be explained by the variance in M-wave RMS in dystrophic mouse lines (p<0.001) but not within WT mice (R 2=0.211; p=0.155). By comparing mouse lines that had varying amounts and functionality of dystrophin and other DGC proteins, we observed that (1) when all DGCs are intact, plasmalemmal action potential generation and conduction is maintained, (2) deficiency of the DGC protein β-sarcoglycan is as disruptive to plasmalemmal excitability as is dystrophin deficiency and, (3) some functionally intact DGCs are better than none. Our results highlight the significant role of the DGC plays in maintaining plasmalemmal excitability and that a collective synergism (via each DGC protein) is required for this complex to function properly during ECC contractions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cory W. Baumann
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ohio Musculoskeletal and Neurological Institute (OMNI), Ohio University, Athens, OH, United States
- Divisions of Rehabilitation Science and Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Angus Lindsay
- Divisions of Rehabilitation Science and Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Sylvia R. Sidky
- Divisions of Rehabilitation Science and Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - James M. Ervasti
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Gordon L. Warren
- Department of Physical Therapy, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Dawn A. Lowe
- Divisions of Rehabilitation Science and Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Wright A, Hall A, Daly T, Fontelonga T, Potter S, Schafer C, Lindsley A, Hung C, Bodamer O, Gussoni E. Lysine methyltransferase 2D regulates muscle fiber size and muscle cell differentiation. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21955. [PMID: 34613626 PMCID: PMC8500524 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202100823r] [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: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Kabuki syndrome (KS) is a rare genetic disorder caused primarily by mutations in the histone modifier genes KMT2D and KDM6A. The genes have broad temporal and spatial expression in many organs, resulting in complex phenotypes observed in KS patients. Hypotonia is one of the clinical presentations associated with KS, yet detailed examination of skeletal muscle samples from KS patients has not been reported. We studied the consequences of loss of KMT2D function in both mouse and human muscles. In mice, heterozygous loss of Kmt2d resulted in reduced neuromuscular junction (NMJ) perimeter, decreased muscle cell differentiation in vitro and impaired myofiber regeneration in vivo. Muscle samples from KS patients of different ages showed presence of increased fibrotic tissue interspersed between myofiber fascicles, which was not seen in mouse muscles. Importantly, when Kmt2d‐deficient muscle stem cells were transplanted in vivo in a physiologic non‐Kabuki environment, their differentiation potential is restored to levels undistinguishable from control cells. Thus, the epigenetic changes due to loss of function of KMT2D appear reversible through a change in milieu, opening a potential therapeutic avenue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alec Wright
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Arielle Hall
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tara Daly
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,The Roya Kabuki Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tatiana Fontelonga
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sarah Potter
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Caitlin Schafer
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Andrew Lindsley
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.,Amgen, Thousand Oaks, California, USA
| | - Christina Hung
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,The Roya Kabuki Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Olaf Bodamer
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,The Roya Kabuki Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Division of Genetics and Genomics, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Emanuela Gussoni
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,The Roya Kabuki Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,The Stem Cell Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Li J, Fredericks M, Cannell M, Wang K, Sako D, Maguire MC, Grenha R, Liharska K, Krishnan L, Bloom T, Belcheva EP, Martinez PA, Castonguay R, Keates S, Alexander MJ, Choi H, Grinberg AV, Pearsall RS, Oh P, Kumar R, Suragani RN. ActRIIB:ALK4-Fc alleviates muscle dysfunction and comorbidities in murine models of neuromuscular disorders. J Clin Invest 2021; 131:138634. [PMID: 33586684 DOI: 10.1172/jci138634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with neuromuscular disorders suffer from a lack of treatment options for skeletal muscle weakness and disease comorbidities. Here, we introduce as a potential therapeutic agent a heterodimeric ligand-trapping fusion protein, ActRIIB:ALK4-Fc, which comprises extracellular domains of activin-like kinase 4 (ALK4) and activin receptor type IIB (ActRIIB), a naturally occurring pair of type I and II receptors belonging to the TGF-β superfamily. By surface plasmon resonance (SPR), ActRIIB:ALK4-Fc exhibited a ligand binding profile distinctly different from that of its homodimeric variant ActRIIB-Fc, sequestering ActRIIB ligands known to inhibit muscle growth but not trapping the vascular regulatory ligand bone morphogenetic protein 9 (BMP9). ActRIIB:ALK4-Fc and ActRIIB-Fc administered to mice exerted differential effects - concordant with SPR results - on vessel outgrowth in a retinal explant assay. ActRIIB:ALK4-Fc induced a systemic increase in muscle mass and function in wild-type mice and in murine models of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and disuse atrophy. Importantly, ActRIIB:ALK4-Fc improved neuromuscular junction abnormalities in murine models of DMD and presymptomatic ALS and alleviated acute muscle fibrosis in a DMD model. Furthermore, in combination therapy ActRIIB:ALK4-Fc increased the efficacy of antisense oligonucleotide M12-PMO on dystrophin expression and skeletal muscle endurance in an aged DMD model. ActRIIB:ALK4-Fc shows promise as a therapeutic agent, alone or in combination with dystrophin rescue therapy, to alleviate muscle weakness and comorbidities of neuromuscular disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jia Li
- Acceleron Pharma Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Kathryn Wang
- Acceleron Pharma Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Dianne Sako
- Acceleron Pharma Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Rosa Grenha
- Acceleron Pharma Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Troy Bloom
- Acceleron Pharma Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | | | - Sarah Keates
- Acceleron Pharma Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Hyunwoo Choi
- Department of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | | | | | - Paul Oh
- Department of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Alvarez-Suarez P, Nowak N, Protasiuk-Filipunas A, Yamazaki H, Prószyński TJ, Gawor M. Drebrin Regulates Acetylcholine Receptor Clustering and Organization of Microtubules at the Postsynaptic Machinery. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9387. [PMID: 34502296 PMCID: PMC8430516 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Proper muscle function depends on the neuromuscular junctions (NMJs), which mature postnatally to complex "pretzel-like" structures, allowing for effective synaptic transmission. Postsynaptic acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) at NMJs are anchored in the actin cytoskeleton and clustered by the scaffold protein rapsyn, recruiting various actin-organizing proteins. Mechanisms driving the maturation of the postsynaptic machinery and regulating rapsyn interactions with the cytoskeleton are still poorly understood. Drebrin is an actin and microtubule cross-linker essential for the functioning of the synapses in the brain, but its role at NMJs remains elusive. We used immunohistochemistry, RNA interference, drebrin inhibitor 3,5-bis-trifluoromethyl pyrazole (BTP2) and co-immunopreciptation to explore the role of this protein at the postsynaptic machinery. We identify drebrin as a postsynaptic protein colocalizing with the AChRs both in vitro and in vivo. We also show that drebrin is enriched at synaptic podosomes. Downregulation of drebrin or blocking its interaction with actin in cultured myotubes impairs the organization of AChR clusters and the cluster-associated microtubule network. Finally, we demonstrate that drebrin interacts with rapsyn and a drebrin interactor, plus-end-tracking protein EB3. Our results reveal an interplay between drebrin and cluster-stabilizing machinery involving rapsyn, actin cytoskeleton, and microtubules.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paloma Alvarez-Suarez
- Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 3 Pasteur Street, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland; (P.A.-S.); (N.N.); (A.P.-F.); (T.J.P.)
| | - Natalia Nowak
- Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 3 Pasteur Street, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland; (P.A.-S.); (N.N.); (A.P.-F.); (T.J.P.)
| | - Anna Protasiuk-Filipunas
- Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 3 Pasteur Street, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland; (P.A.-S.); (N.N.); (A.P.-F.); (T.J.P.)
| | - Hiroyuki Yamazaki
- Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Gunma 371-8511, Japan;
| | - Tomasz J. Prószyński
- Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 3 Pasteur Street, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland; (P.A.-S.); (N.N.); (A.P.-F.); (T.J.P.)
| | - Marta Gawor
- Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 3 Pasteur Street, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland; (P.A.-S.); (N.N.); (A.P.-F.); (T.J.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
The Neuromuscular Junction: Roles in Aging and Neuromuscular Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22158058. [PMID: 34360831 PMCID: PMC8347593 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22158058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is a specialized synapse that bridges the motor neuron and the skeletal muscle fiber and is crucial for conversion of electrical impulses originating in the motor neuron to action potentials in the muscle fiber. The consideration of contributing factors to skeletal muscle injury, muscular dystrophy and sarcopenia cannot be restricted only to processes intrinsic to the muscle, as data show that these conditions incur denervation-like findings, such as fragmented NMJ morphology and corresponding functional changes in neuromuscular transmission. Primary defects in the NMJ also influence functional loss in motor neuron disease, congenital myasthenic syndromes and myasthenia gravis, resulting in skeletal muscle weakness and heightened fatigue. Such findings underscore the role that the NMJ plays in neuromuscular performance. Regardless of cause or effect, functional denervation is now an accepted consequence of sarcopenia and muscle disease. In this short review, we provide an overview of the pathologic etiology, symptoms, and therapeutic strategies related to the NMJ. In particular, we examine the role of the NMJ as a disease modifier and a potential therapeutic target in neuromuscular injury and disease.
Collapse
|
20
|
Rovira Gonzalez YI, Moyer AL, LeTexier NJ, Bratti AD, Feng S, Peña V, Sun C, Pulcastro H, Liu T, Iyer SR, Lovering RM, O'Rourke B, Wagner KR. Mss51 deletion increases endurance and ameliorates histopathology in the mdx mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21276. [PMID: 33423297 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202002106rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondrial derangement is an important contributor to the pathophysiology of muscular dystrophies and may be among the earliest cellular deficits. We have previously shown that disruption of Mss51, a mammalian skeletal muscle protein that localizes to the mitochondria, results in enhanced muscle oxygen consumption rate, increased endurance capacity, and improved limb muscle strength in mice with wildtype background. Here, we investigate whether Mss51 deletion in the mdx murine model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (mdx-Mss51 KO) counteracts the muscle pathology and mitochondrial irregularities observed in mdx mice. We found that mdx-Mss51 KO mice had increased myofiber oxygen consumption rates and an amelioration of muscle histopathology compared to mdx counterparts. This corresponded with greater treadmill endurance and less percent fatigue in muscle physiology, but no improvement in forelimb grip strength or limb muscle force production. These findings suggest that although Mss51 deletion ameliorates the skeletal muscle mitochondrial respiration defects in mdx and improves fatigue resistance in vivo, the lack of improvement in force production suggests that this target alone may be insufficient for a therapeutic effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yazmin I Rovira Gonzalez
- The Hugo W. Moser Research Institute, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Cellular and Molecular Medicine Graduate Program, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Adam L Moyer
- The Hugo W. Moser Research Institute, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Cellular and Molecular Medicine Graduate Program, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nicolas J LeTexier
- The Hugo W. Moser Research Institute, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - August D Bratti
- The Hugo W. Moser Research Institute, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Siyuan Feng
- The Hugo W. Moser Research Institute, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Vanessa Peña
- The Hugo W. Moser Research Institute, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Congshan Sun
- The Hugo W. Moser Research Institute, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Departments of Neurology and Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Hannah Pulcastro
- The Hugo W. Moser Research Institute, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ting Liu
- Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Shama R Iyer
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Richard M Lovering
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Brian O'Rourke
- Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kathryn R Wagner
- The Hugo W. Moser Research Institute, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Departments of Neurology and Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Pregabalin-induced neuroprotection and gait improvement in dystrophic MDX mice. Mol Cell Neurosci 2021; 114:103632. [PMID: 34058345 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2021.103632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a genetic disease linked to the X chromosome induced by mutations in the dystrophin gene. Neuroprotective drugs, such as pregabalin (PGB), can improve motor function through the modulation of excitatory synapses, together with anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory effects. The present work studied the effects of PGB in the preservation of dystrophic peripheral nerves, allowing motor improvements in MDX mice. Five weeks old MDX and C57BL/10 mice were treated with PGB (30 mg/kg/day, i.p.) or vehicle, for 28 consecutive days. The mice were sacrificed on the 9th week, the sciatic nerves were dissected out and processed for immunohistochemistry and qRT-PCR, for evaluating the expression of proteins and gene transcripts related to neuronal activity and Schwann cell function. The lumbar spinal cords were also processed for qRT-PCR to evaluate the expression of neurotrophic factors and pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Cranial tibial muscles were dissected out for endplate evaluation with α-bungarotoxin. The recovery of motor function was monitored throughout the treatment, using a spontaneous walking track test (Catwalk system) and a forced locomotion test (Rotarod). The results showed that treatment with PGB reduced the retrograde effects of muscle degeneration/regeneration on the nervous system from the 5th to the 9th week in MDX mice. Thus, PGB induced protein expression in neurons and Schwann cells, protecting myelinated fibers. In turn, better axonal morphology and close-to-normal motor endplates were observed. Indeed, such effects resulted in improved motor coordination of dystrophic animals. We believe that treatment with PGB improved the balance between excitatory and inhibitory inputs to spinal motoneurons, increasing motor control. In addition, PGB enhanced peripheral nerve homeostasis, by positively affecting Schwann cells. In general, the present results indicate that pregabalin is effective in protecting the PNS during the development of DMD, improving motor coordination, indicating possible translation to the clinic.
Collapse
|
22
|
Balch MHH, Harris H, Chugh D, Gnyawali S, Rink C, Nimjee SM, Arnold WD. Ischemic stroke-induced polyaxonal innervation at the neuromuscular junction is attenuated by robot-assisted mechanical therapy. Exp Neurol 2021; 343:113767. [PMID: 34044000 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2021.113767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Ischemic stroke is a leading cause of disability world-wide. Mounting evidence supports neuromuscular pathology following stroke, yet mechanisms of dysfunction and therapeutic action remain undefined. The objectives of our study were to investigate neuromuscular pathophysiology following ischemic stroke and to evaluate the therapeutic effect of Robot-Assisted Mechanical massage Therapy (RAMT) on neuromuscular junction (NMJ) morphology. Using an ischemic stroke model in male rats, we demonstrated longitudinal losses of muscle contractility and electrophysiological estimates of motor unit number in paretic hindlimb muscles within 21 days of stroke. Histological characterization demonstrated striking pre- and postsynaptic alterations at the NMJ. Stroke prompted enlargement of motor axon terminals, acetylcholine receptor (AChR) area, and motor endplate size. Paretic muscle AChRs were also more homogenously distributed across motor endplates, exhibiting fewer clusters and less fragmentation. Most interestingly, NMJs in paretic muscle exhibited increased frequency of polyaxonal innervation. This finding of increased polyaxonal innervation in stroke-affected skeletal muscle suggests that reduction of motor unit number following stroke may be a spurious artifact due to overlapping of motor units rather than losses. Furthermore, we tested the effects of RAMT - which we recently showed to improve motor function and protect against subacute myokine disturbance - and found significant attenuation of stroke-induced NMJ alterations. RAMT not only normalized the post-stroke presentation of polyaxonal innervation but also mitigated postsynaptic expansion. These findings confirm complex neuromuscular pathophysiology after stroke, provide mechanistic direction for ongoing research, and inform development of future therapeutic strategies. SIGNIFICANCE: Ischemic stroke is a leading contributor to chronic disability, and there is growing evidence that neuromuscular pathology may contribute to the impact of stroke on physical function. Following ischemic stroke in a rat model, there are progressive declines of motor unit number estimates and muscle contractility. These changes are paralleled by striking pre- and postsynaptic maladaptive changes at the neuromuscular junction, including polyaxonal innervation. When administered to paretic hindlimb muscle, Robot-Assisted Mechanical massage Therapy - previously shown to improve motor function and protect against subacute myokine disturbance - prevents stroke-induced neuromuscular junction alterations. These novel observations provide insight into the neuromuscular response to cerebral ischemia, identify peripheral mechanisms of functional disability, and present a therapeutic rehabilitation strategy with clinical relevance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria H H Balch
- Department of Biomedical Education and Anatomy, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Hallie Harris
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Deepti Chugh
- Department of Neurology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Surya Gnyawali
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Cameron Rink
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Shahid M Nimjee
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - W David Arnold
- Department of Neurology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Hui T, Jing H, Zhou T, Chen P, Liu Z, Dong X, Yan M, Ren D, Zou S, Wang S, Fei E, Hong D, Lai X. Increasing LRP4 diminishes neuromuscular deficits in a mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Hum Mol Genet 2021; 30:1579-1590. [PMID: 33987657 PMCID: PMC8369839 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddab135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked neuromuscular disease characterized by progressive wasting of skeletal muscles. The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is a synapse between motor neurons and skeletal muscle fibers, critical for the control of muscle contraction. The NMJ decline is observed in DMD patients, but the mechanism is unclear. LRP4 serves as a receptor for agrin, a proteoglycan secreted by motor neurons to induce NMJ, and plays a critical role in NMJ formation and maintenance. Interestingly, we found that protein levels of LRP4 were reduced both in muscles of the DMD patients and DMD model mdx mice. We explored whether increasing LRP4 is beneficial for DMD and crossed muscle-specific LRP4 transgenic mice with mdx mice (mdx; HSA-LRP4). The LRP4 transgene increased muscle strength, together with improved neuromuscular transmission in mdx mice. Furthermore, we found the LRP4 expression mitigated NMJ fragments and denervation in mdx mice. Mechanically, we showed that overexpression of LRP4 increased the activity of MuSK and expression of dystrophin-associated glycoprotein complex proteins in the mdx mice. Overall, our findings suggest that increasing LRP4 improves both function and structure of NMJ in the mdx mice and Agrin signaling might serve as a new therapeutic strategy in DMD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tiankun Hui
- School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.,Laboratory of Synaptic Development and Plasticity, Institute of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Hongyang Jing
- School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.,Laboratory of Synaptic Development and Plasticity, Institute of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Tian Zhou
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Peng Chen
- School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.,Laboratory of Synaptic Development and Plasticity, Institute of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Ziyang Liu
- School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.,Laboratory of Synaptic Development and Plasticity, Institute of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xia Dong
- Laboratory of Synaptic Development and Plasticity, Institute of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.,School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Min Yan
- Laboratory of Synaptic Development and Plasticity, Institute of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.,School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Dongyan Ren
- School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.,Laboratory of Synaptic Development and Plasticity, Institute of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Suqi Zou
- School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.,Laboratory of Synaptic Development and Plasticity, Institute of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Shunqi Wang
- School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.,Laboratory of Synaptic Development and Plasticity, Institute of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Erkang Fei
- School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.,Laboratory of Synaptic Development and Plasticity, Institute of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Daojun Hong
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xinsheng Lai
- School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.,Laboratory of Synaptic Development and Plasticity, Institute of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Lu CF, Wang B, Zhang PX, Han S, Pi W, Kou YH, Jiang BG. Combining chitin biological conduits with small autogenous nerves and platelet-rich plasma for the repair of sciatic nerve defects in rats. CNS Neurosci Ther 2021; 27:805-819. [PMID: 33838005 PMCID: PMC8193701 DOI: 10.1111/cns.13640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Peripheral nerve defects are often difficult to recover from, and there is no optimal repair method. Therefore, it is important to explore new methods of repairing peripheral nerve defects. This study explored the efficacy of nerve grafts constructed from chitin biological conduits combined with small autogenous nerves (SANs) and platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) for repairing 10‐mm sciatic nerve defects in rats. Methods To prepare 10‐mm sciatic nerve defects, SANs were first harvested and PRP was extracted. The nerve grafts consisted of chitin biological conduits combined with SAN and PRP, and were used to repair rat sciatic nerve defects. These examinations, including measurements of axon growth efficiency, a gait analysis, electrophysiological tests, counts of regenerated myelinated fibers and observations of their morphology, histological evaluation of the gastrocnemius muscle, retrograde tracing with Fluor‐Gold (FG), and motor endplates (MEPs) distribution analysis, were conducted to evaluate the repair status. Results Two weeks after nerve transplantation, the rate and number of regenerated axons in the PRP‐SAN group improved compared with those in the PRP, SAN, and Hollow groups. The PRP‐SAN group exhibited better recovery in terms of the sciatic functional index value, composite action potential intensity, myelinated nerve fiber density, myelin sheath thickness, and gastrectomy tissue at 12 weeks after transplantation, compared with the PRP and SAN groups. The results of FG retrograde tracing and MEPs analyses showed that numbers of FG‐positive sensory neurons and motor neurons as well as MEPs distribution density were higher in the PRP‐SAN group than in the PRP or SAN group. Conclusions Nerve grafts comprising chitin biological conduits combined with SANs and PRP significantly improved the repair of 10‐mm sciatic nerve defects in rats and may have therapeutic potential for repairing peripheral nerve defects in future applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Feng Lu
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Key Laboratory of Trauma and Neural Regeneration (Ministry of Education/Peking University, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Key Laboratory of Trauma and Neural Regeneration (Ministry of Education/Peking University, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Pei-Xun Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Key Laboratory of Trauma and Neural Regeneration (Ministry of Education/Peking University, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Shuai Han
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Key Laboratory of Trauma and Neural Regeneration (Ministry of Education/Peking University, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Wei Pi
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Key Laboratory of Trauma and Neural Regeneration (Ministry of Education/Peking University, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Yu-Hui Kou
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Key Laboratory of Trauma and Neural Regeneration (Ministry of Education/Peking University, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Bao-Guo Jiang
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma, Key Laboratory of Trauma and Neural Regeneration (Ministry of Education/Peking University, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, 100044, China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Starosta A, Konieczny P. Therapeutic aspects of cell signaling and communication in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:4867-4891. [PMID: 33825942 PMCID: PMC8233280 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03821-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a devastating chromosome X-linked disease that manifests predominantly in progressive skeletal muscle wasting and dysfunctions in the heart and diaphragm. Approximately 1/5000 boys and 1/50,000,000 girls suffer from DMD, and to date, the disease is incurable and leads to premature death. This phenotypic severity is due to mutations in the DMD gene, which result in the absence of functional dystrophin protein. Initially, dystrophin was thought to be a force transducer; however, it is now considered an essential component of the dystrophin-associated protein complex (DAPC), viewed as a multicomponent mechanical scaffold and a signal transduction hub. Modulating signal pathway activation or gene expression through epigenetic modifications has emerged at the forefront of therapeutic approaches as either an adjunct or stand-alone strategy. In this review, we propose a broader perspective by considering DMD to be a disease that affects myofibers and muscle stem (satellite) cells, as well as a disorder in which abrogated communication between different cell types occurs. We believe that by taking this systemic view, we can achieve safe and holistic treatments that can restore correct signal transmission and gene expression in diseased DMD tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alicja Starosta
- Faculty of Biology, Institute of Human Biology and Evolution, Adam Mickiewicz University, ul. Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 6, 61-614, Poznań, Poland
| | - Patryk Konieczny
- Faculty of Biology, Institute of Human Biology and Evolution, Adam Mickiewicz University, ul. Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 6, 61-614, Poznań, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Pinto CG, Leite APS, Sartori AA, Tibúrcio FC, Barraviera B, Junior RSF, Filadelpho AL, de Carvalho SC, Matheus SMM. Heterologous fibrin biopolymer associated to a single suture stitch enables the return of neuromuscular junction to its mature pattern after peripheral nerve injury. Injury 2021; 52:731-737. [PMID: 33902866 DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2020.10.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Denervation leads to severe atrophy of neuromuscular junction (NMJ) structure including decrease of the expression of fundamental proteins. Up to now, conventional suture has been the gold standard method used to correct this injury. Fibrin sealant is one of the alternatives proposed to optimize this method. This study verified if the association of fibrin sealant - Heterologous Fibrin Biopolymer (HFB) and a single suture stitch promotes return of morphology and NMJ structure to mature pattern after peripheral nerve injury. Forty Wistar rats were distributed into 4 groups: Sham-Control (SC), Denervated-Control (DC), Suture-Lesion (SL) and Suture-Lesion + HFB (SFS). In SC group only the right sciatic nerve identification was done. In DC, SL and SFS groups fixation of nerve stumps on musculature immediately after neurotmesis was performed. After seven days, stump reconnection with 3 stitches in SL and a single stitch associated with HFB in SFS were done. After sixty days right soleus muscles were prepared for nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) and nerve terminal confocal analyses, and for nAChRs (α1, ε e γ), S100, Agrin, LRP-4, MMP-3, Rapsyn western blotting analyses. SC group presented normal morphology. In DC group it was observed flattening of NMJ, fragmentation of nAChRs and tangled nerve terminals. The majority of the parameters of SL and SFS groups presented values in between SC and DC groups. There was an increase of relative planar area in these groups (SL and SFS) highlighting that there was less nAChRs fragmentation and the values of protein expression showed return of nAChRs to mature pattern. Use of HFB associated with a single suture stitch decreased surgical time, minimized suture injuries, did not alter nerve regeneration and presented potential to reestablish the NMJ apparatus. These consolidated results encourage surgeons to develop future clinical trials to install definitively this new approach both for reconstructive surgery and neurosurgery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carina Guidi Pinto
- Graduate Program in Surgery and Translational Medicine, Medical School, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Structural and Functional Biology (Anatomy Sector), Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula Silveira Leite
- Graduate Program in Surgery and Translational Medicine, Medical School, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Structural and Functional Biology (Anatomy Sector), Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Arthur Alves Sartori
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology (Anatomy Sector), Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Felipe Cantore Tibúrcio
- Graduate Program in Surgery and Translational Medicine, Medical School, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Structural and Functional Biology (Anatomy Sector), Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Benedito Barraviera
- Center for the Studies of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rui Seabra Ferreira Junior
- Center for the Studies of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - André Luis Filadelpho
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology (Anatomy Sector), Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Selma Maria Michelin Matheus
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology (Anatomy Sector), Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Ng SY, Ljubicic V. Recent insights into neuromuscular junction biology in Duchenne muscular dystrophy: Impacts, challenges, and opportunities. EBioMedicine 2020; 61:103032. [PMID: 33039707 PMCID: PMC7648118 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2020.103032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is the most common and relentless form of muscular dystrophy. The pleiotropic effects of dystrophin deficiency include remarkable impacts on neuromuscular junction (NMJ) structure and function. Some of these alterations contribute to the severe muscle wasting and weakness that distinguish DMD, while others attempt to compensate for them. Experimental approaches that correct NMJ biology in pre-clinical models of DMD attenuate disease progression and improve functional outcomes, which suggests that targeting the NMJ may be an effective therapeutic strategy for DMD patients. The objectives of this review are to 1) survey the distinctions in NMJ structure, function, and gene expression in the dystrophic context as compared to the healthy condition, and 2) summarize the efforts, opportunities and challenges to correct NMJ biology in DMD. This information will expand our basic understanding of neuromuscular biology and may be useful for designing novel NMJ-targeted drug or behavioural strategies to mitigate the dystrophic pathology and other disorders of the neuromuscular system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sean Y Ng
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton L8S 4L8, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vladimir Ljubicic
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton L8S 4L8, Ontario, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Iyer SR, Xu S, Shah SB, Lovering RM. Muscle phenotype of a rat model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Muscle Nerve 2020; 62:757-761. [PMID: 32918339 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Our aim was to assess key muscle imaging and contractility parameters in the Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) rat model (Dmd-KO rat), which have not yet been characterized sufficiently. METHODS We performed in-vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for thigh and leg muscles, and performed hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and in-vivo muscle contractility testing in specific hindlimb muscles. RESULTS MRI prior to testing muscle contractility revealed multiple, unevenly distributed focal hyperintensities in the Dmd-KO rat quadriceps and tibialis anterior muscles. H&E staining showed corresponding areas of inflammation and ongoing regeneration. In-vivo contractile testing showed maximal force generated by Dmd-KO muscles was significantly lower, and susceptibility to injury was ~ two-fold greater in the Dmd-KO rats compared to wild-type (WT) rats. DISCUSSION Together, the MRI findings, histological findings, and the low strength and high susceptibility to injury in muscles support use of the Dmd-KO rat as an animal model of DMD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shama R Iyer
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Su Xu
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Sameer B Shah
- Departments of Orthopaedic Surgery and Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Richard M Lovering
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Baumann CW, Warren GL, Lowe DA. Plasmalemma Function Is Rapidly Restored in Mdx Muscle after Eccentric Contractions. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2020; 52:354-361. [PMID: 31415447 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000002126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Muscle that lacks dystrophin, as in the mdx mouse, has a heightened sensitivity to eccentric (ECC) contraction-induced strength loss but an enhanced rate of recovery. However, the timeline and mechanisms underlying why mdx muscle recovers quicker have yet to be determined. We used an EMG approach to analyze plasmalemma electrophysiological function during and after ECC contraction-induced injury to test the hypothesis that loss of plasmalemmal excitability is a transient event in mdx muscle. METHODS Mice were implanted with stimulating electrodes on the common peroneal nerve and EMG electrodes on the tibialis anterior muscle. Anterior crural muscles of anesthetized mice performed one or two bouts of 50 injurious ECC contractions, and recovery of maximal isometric torque and M-wave root mean square (RMS) were assessed after each bout. RESULTS Maximal isometric torque and M-wave RMS were equally reduced 62% (P < 0.001) in mdx mice immediately after the initial ECC injury. For these mdx mice, M-wave RMS was still reduced at 2 d postinjury (P = 0.034) but was not different from preinjury values by 6 d (P = 0.106), whereas torque took up to 9 d to recover (P = 0.333). M-wave RMS did not change (P = 0.390) in wild-type mice in response to ECC injury, whereas torque decreased 35% (P < 0.001) and recovered by day 2 (P = 0.311). Results from the second bout of ECC contractions were similar to those observed during and after the initial injury. CONCLUSION Functional dystrophin is necessary for excitation to occur at the plasmalemma during ECC contractions but is not essential for the complete recovery of plasmalemma electrophysiological function or maximal isometric strength.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cory W Baumann
- Divisions of Rehabilitation Science and Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Gordon L Warren
- Department of Physical Therapy, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Dawn A Lowe
- Divisions of Rehabilitation Science and Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Lovering RM, Iyer SR, Edwards B, Davies KE. Alterations of neuromuscular junctions in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Neurosci Lett 2020; 737:135304. [PMID: 32818587 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2020.135304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 08/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The focus of this review is on Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), which is caused by the absence of the protein dystrophin and is characterized as a neuromuscular disease in which muscle weakness, increased susceptibility to muscle injury, and inadequate repair appear to underlie the pathology. Considerable attention has been dedicated to studying muscle fiber damage, but data show that both human patients and animal models for DMD present with fragmented neuromuscular junction (NMJ) morphology. In addition to pre- and post-synaptic abnormalities, studies indicate increased susceptibility of the NMJ to contraction-induced injury, with corresponding functional changes in neuromuscular transmission and nerve-evoked electromyographic activity. Such findings suggest that alterations in the NMJ of dystrophic muscle may play a role in muscle weakness via impairment of neuromuscular transmission. Further work is needed to fully understand the role of the NMJ in the weakness, susceptibility to injury, and progressive wasting associated with DMD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard M Lovering
- Departments of Orthopaedics and Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Shama R Iyer
- Departments of Orthopaedics and Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Benjamin Edwards
- MDUK Oxford Neuromuscular Centre, Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Kay E Davies
- MDUK Oxford Neuromuscular Centre, Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Xu S, Tang S, Li X, Iyer SR, Lovering RM. Abnormalities in Brain and Muscle Microstructure and Neurochemistry of the DMD Rat Measured by in vivo Diffusion Tensor Imaging and High Resolution Localized 1H MRS. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:739. [PMID: 32760246 PMCID: PMC7372970 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00739] [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: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked disorder caused by the lack of dystrophin with progressive degeneration of skeletal muscles. Most studies regarding DMD understandably focus on muscle, but dystrophin is also expressed in the central nervous system, potentially resulting in cognitive and behavioral changes. Animal models are being used for developing more comprehensive neuromonitoring protocols and clinical image acquisition procedures. The recently developed DMD rat is an animal model that parallels the progressive muscle wasting seen in DMD. Here, we studied the brain and temporalis muscle structure and neurochemistry of wild type (WT) and dystrophic (DMD) rats using magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy. Both structural and neurochemistry alterations were observed in the DMD rat brain and the temporalis muscle. There was a decrease in absolute brain volume (WT = 1579 mm3; DMD = 1501 mm3; p = 0.039, Cohen’s d = 1.867), but not normalized (WT = 4.27; DMD = 4.02; p = 0.306) brain volume. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) revealed structural alterations in the DMD temporalis muscle, with increased mean diffusivity (MD), axial diffusivity (AD), and radial diffusivity (RD). In the DMD rat thalamus, DTI revealed an increase in fractional anisotropy (FA) and a decrease in RD. Smaller normalized brain volume correlated to severity of muscle dystrophy (r = −0.975). Neurochemical changes in the DMD rat brain included increased GABA and NAA in the prefrontal cortex, and GABA in the hippocampus. Such findings could indicate disturbed motor and sensory signaling, resulting in a dysfunctional GABAergic neurotransmission, and an unstable osmoregulation in the dystrophin-null brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Su Xu
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Center for Advanced Imaging Research, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Shiyu Tang
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Center for Advanced Imaging Research, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Shama R Iyer
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Richard M Lovering
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Iyer SR, Scheiber AL, Yarowsky P, Henn RF, Otsuru S, Lovering RM. Exosomes Isolated From Platelet-Rich Plasma and Mesenchymal Stem Cells Promote Recovery of Function After Muscle Injury. Am J Sports Med 2020; 48:2277-2286. [PMID: 32543878 DOI: 10.1177/0363546520926462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has gained momentum as treatment for muscle injuries. Exosomes, or small cell-derived vesicles, could be helpful if they could deliver the same or better physiological effect without cell transplantation into the muscle. HYPOTHESIS Local delivery of exosomes derived from PRP (PRP-exos) or MSCs (MSC-exos) to injured muscles hastens recovery of contractile function. STUDY DESIGN Controlled laboratory study. METHODS In a rat model, platelets were isolated from blood, and MSCs were isolated from bone marrow and expanded in culture; exosomes from both were isolated through ultracentrifugation. The tibialis anterior muscles were injured in vivo using maximal lengthening contractions. Muscles were injected with PRP-exos or MSC-exos (immediately after injury and 5 and 10 days after injury); controls received an equal volume of saline. Histological and biochemical analysis was performed on tissues for all groups. RESULTS Injury resulted in a significant loss of maximal isometric torque (66% ± 3%) that gradually recovered over 2 weeks. Both PRP-exos and MSC-exos accelerated recovery, with similar faster recovery of contractile function over the saline-treated group at 5, 10, and 15 days after injury (P < .001). A significant increase in centrally nucleated fibers was seen with both types of exosome groups by day 15 (P < .01). Genes involved in skeletal muscle regeneration were modulated by different exosomes. Muscles treated with PRP-exos had increased expression of Myogenin gene (P < .05), whereas muscles treated with MSC-exos had reduced expression of TGF-β (P < .05) at 10 days after muscle injury. CONCLUSION Exosomes derived from PRP or MSCs can facilitate recovery after a muscle strain injury in a small-animal model likely because of factors that can modulate inflammation, fibrosis, and myogenesis. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Given their small size, low immunogenicity, and ease with which they can be obtained, exosomes could represent a novel therapy for many orthopaedic ailments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shama R Iyer
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Amanda L Scheiber
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Paul Yarowsky
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - R Frank Henn
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Satoru Otsuru
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Richard M Lovering
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Dhindsa JS, McCall AL, Strickland LM, Fusco AF, Kahn AF, ElMallah MK. Motor axonopathies in a mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Sci Rep 2020; 10:8967. [PMID: 32488044 PMCID: PMC7265344 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-65824-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a fatal neuromuscular disease caused by deleterious mutations in the DMD gene which encodes the dystrophin protein. Skeletal muscle weakness and eventual muscle degradation due to loss of dystrophin are well-documented pathological hallmarks of DMD. In contrast, the neuropathology of this disease remains understudied despite the emerging evidence of neurological abnormalities induced by dystrophin loss. Using quantitative morphological analysis of nerve sections, we characterize axonopathies in the phrenic and hypoglossal (XII) nerves of mdx mice. We observe dysfunction in these nerves – which innervate the diaphragm and genioglossus respectively – that we propose contributes to respiratory failure, the most common cause of death in DMD. These observations highlight the importance in the further characterization of the neuropathology of DMD. Additionally, these observations underscore the necessity in correcting both the nervous system pathology in addition to skeletal muscle deficits to ameliorate this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Justin S Dhindsa
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center Box 2644, Durham, North Carolina, 27710, USA
| | - Angela L McCall
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center Box 2644, Durham, North Carolina, 27710, USA
| | - Laura M Strickland
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center Box 2644, Durham, North Carolina, 27710, USA
| | - Anna F Fusco
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center Box 2644, Durham, North Carolina, 27710, USA
| | - Amanda F Kahn
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center Box 2644, Durham, North Carolina, 27710, USA
| | - Mai K ElMallah
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center Box 2644, Durham, North Carolina, 27710, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Valadão PAC, de Aragão BC, Andrade JN, Magalhães-Gomes MPS, Foureaux G, Joviano-Santos JV, Nogueira JC, Machado TCG, de Jesus ICG, Nogueira JM, de Paula RS, Peixoto L, Ribeiro FM, Tapia JC, Jorge ÉC, Guatimosim S, Guatimosim C. Abnormalities in the Motor Unit of a Fast-Twitch Lower Limb Skeletal Muscle in Huntington's Disease. ASN Neuro 2020; 11:1759091419886212. [PMID: 31818120 PMCID: PMC6904785 DOI: 10.1177/1759091419886212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington’s disease (HD) is a disorder characterized by chronic
involuntary movements, dementia, and psychiatric symptoms. It is
caused by a mutation in the gene that encodes for huntingtin protein
(HTT), leading to the formation of mutant proteins expressed in
various tissues. Although brain pathology has become the hallmark for
HD, recent studies suggest that damage of peripheral structures also
contributes to HD progression. We previously identified severe
alterations in the motor units that innervate cervical muscles in
12-month-old BACHD (Bacterial Artificial Chromosome Huntington’s
Disease) mice, a well-established mouse model for HD. Here, we studied
lumbar motoneurons and their projections onto hind limb fast-twitch
skeletal muscles (tibialis anterior), which control balance and gait
in HD patients. We found that lumbar motoneurons were altered in the
HD mouse model; the number and size of lumbar motoneurons were reduced
in BACHD. Structural alterations were also present in the sciatic
nerve and neuromuscular junctions. Acetylcholine receptors were
organized in several small patches (acetylcholine receptor
fragmentation), many of which were partially innervated. In BACHD
mice, we observed atrophy of tibialis anterior muscles, decreased
expression of glycolytic fast Type IIB fibers, and at the
ultrastructural level, alterations of sarcomeres and mitochondria.
Corroborating all these findings, BACHD animals performed worse on
motor behavior tests. Our results provide additional evidences that
nerve–muscle communication is impaired in HD and that motoneurons from
distinct spinal cord locations are similarly affected in the
disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jéssica Neves Andrade
- Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - Giselle Foureaux
- Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - José Carlos Nogueira
- Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Rayan Silva de Paula
- Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Luisa Peixoto
- Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Fabíola Mara Ribeiro
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - ÉriKa Cristina Jorge
- Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Silvia Guatimosim
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofísica, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Cristina Guatimosim
- Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Boaretto ML, de Andrade BZ, Maciel JIHN, Oliveira MDC, de Oliveira CMT, Guimarães ATB, Torrejais MM, Schneider SCS, Ribeiro LDFC, Bertolini GRF. Alterations in neuromuscular junctions and oxidative stress of the soleus muscle of obese Wistar rats caused by vibratory platform training. JOURNAL OF MUSCULOSKELETAL & NEURONAL INTERACTIONS 2020; 20:570-578. [PMID: 33265086 PMCID: PMC7716688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES evaluate the effects that whole-body vibration (WBV) causes on the neuromuscular junctions and oxidative stress of the soleus muscle of obese Wistar rats. METHODS 32 male Wistar rats were used, 16 of which were obesity induced by monosodium glutamate, randomized into four groups: control (GC), control with WBV (GCP), obese (GO) and obese with WBV (GOP). At the 70 days old, the training on WBV was started, performed 3 times a week, during 8 consecutive weeks. At the 130 days old, the animals were euthanized and the soleus muscles were collected. RESULTS Regarding the analysis of the neuromuscular junctions, the obese groups had lower mean size when compared to the control groups. On the other hand, the WBV presented higher averages when compared to the groups that did not perform the training. Regarding the oxidative stress, for the lipid peroxidation there was a significant difference between obese and non-obese animals, however, there was no difference between the animals WBV and those who did not. CONCLUSION WBV promotes beneficial changes such as increased measurements of the structures of the neuromuscular junctions, but is not able to promote changes in the concentration of the cholinesterase enzyme in the synaptic cleft.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Laís Boaretto
- Laboratório de Estudo de Lesões e Recursos Fisioterapêuticos e Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural e Funcional, da Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná (UNIOESTE), Cascavel, Paraná, Brasil
| | - Bárbara Zanardini de Andrade
- Laboratório de Estudo de Lesões e Recursos Fisioterapêuticos e Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural e Funcional, da Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná (UNIOESTE), Cascavel, Paraná, Brasil
| | - Jhyslayne Ignácia Hoff Nunes Maciel
- Laboratório de Estudo de Lesões e Recursos Fisioterapêuticos e Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural e Funcional, da Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná (UNIOESTE), Cascavel, Paraná, Brasil
| | - Mylena de Campos Oliveira
- Laboratório de Estudo de Lesões e Recursos Fisioterapêuticos e Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural e Funcional, da Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná (UNIOESTE), Cascavel, Paraná, Brasil
| | - Camila Maria Toigo de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Estudo de Lesões e Recursos Fisioterapêuticos e Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural e Funcional, da Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná (UNIOESTE), Cascavel, Paraná, Brasil
| | - Ana Tereza Bittencourt Guimarães
- Laboratório de Estudo de Lesões e Recursos Fisioterapêuticos e Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural e Funcional, da Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná (UNIOESTE), Cascavel, Paraná, Brasil
| | - Márcia Miranda Torrejais
- Laboratório de Estudo de Lesões e Recursos Fisioterapêuticos e Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural e Funcional, da Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná (UNIOESTE), Cascavel, Paraná, Brasil
| | - Sara Cristina Sagae Schneider
- Laboratório de Estudo de Lesões e Recursos Fisioterapêuticos e Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural e Funcional, da Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná (UNIOESTE), Cascavel, Paraná, Brasil
| | - Lucinéia de Fátima Chasko Ribeiro
- Laboratório de Estudo de Lesões e Recursos Fisioterapêuticos e Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural e Funcional, da Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná (UNIOESTE), Cascavel, Paraná, Brasil
| | - Gladson Ricardo Flor Bertolini
- Laboratório de Estudo de Lesões e Recursos Fisioterapêuticos e Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural e Funcional, da Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná (UNIOESTE), Cascavel, Paraná, Brasil,Corresponding author: Gladson Ricardo Flor Bertolini, Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná, Campus Cascavel, Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universitária St, 2069 – 85819110 Cascavel, PR – Brasil E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Braz LP, Ng YS, Gorman GS, Schaefer AM, McFarland R, Taylor RW, Turnbull DM, Whittaker RG. Neuromuscular Junction Abnormalities in Mitochondrial Disease: An Observational Cohort Study. Neurol Clin Pract 2019; 11:97-104. [PMID: 33842062 PMCID: PMC8032443 DOI: 10.1212/cpj.0000000000000795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Objective To determine the prevalence of neuromuscular junction (NMJ) abnormalities in patients with mitochondrial disease. Methods Eighty patients with genetically proven mitochondrial disease were recruited from a national center for mitochondrial disease in the United Kingdom. Participants underwent detailed clinical and neurophysiologic testing including single-fiber electromyography. Results The overall prevalence of neuromuscular transmission defects was 25.6%. The highest prevalence was in patients with pathogenic dominant RRM2B variants (50%), but abnormalities were found in a wide range of mitochondrial genotypes. The presence of NMJ abnormalities was strongly associated with coexistent myopathy, but not with neuropathy. Furthermore, 15% of patients with NMJ abnormality had no evidence of either myopathy or neuropathy. Conclusions NMJ transmission defects are common in mitochondrial disease. In some patients, NMJ dysfunction occurs in the absence of obvious pre- or post-synaptic pathology, suggesting that the NMJ may be specifically affected.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luis P Braz
- Department of Neurology (LPB), Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal; and Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research (YSN, GSG, AMS, RM, RWT, DMT), Translational and Clinical Research Institute (RGW), Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Yi Shiau Ng
- Department of Neurology (LPB), Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal; and Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research (YSN, GSG, AMS, RM, RWT, DMT), Translational and Clinical Research Institute (RGW), Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Gráinne S Gorman
- Department of Neurology (LPB), Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal; and Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research (YSN, GSG, AMS, RM, RWT, DMT), Translational and Clinical Research Institute (RGW), Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew M Schaefer
- Department of Neurology (LPB), Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal; and Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research (YSN, GSG, AMS, RM, RWT, DMT), Translational and Clinical Research Institute (RGW), Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Robert McFarland
- Department of Neurology (LPB), Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal; and Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research (YSN, GSG, AMS, RM, RWT, DMT), Translational and Clinical Research Institute (RGW), Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Robert W Taylor
- Department of Neurology (LPB), Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal; and Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research (YSN, GSG, AMS, RM, RWT, DMT), Translational and Clinical Research Institute (RGW), Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Doug M Turnbull
- Department of Neurology (LPB), Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal; and Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research (YSN, GSG, AMS, RM, RWT, DMT), Translational and Clinical Research Institute (RGW), Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Roger G Whittaker
- Department of Neurology (LPB), Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal; and Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research (YSN, GSG, AMS, RM, RWT, DMT), Translational and Clinical Research Institute (RGW), Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Zhang X, Liu XD, Xian YF, Zhang F, Huang PY, Tang Y, Yuan QJ, Lin ZX. Berberine enhances survival and axonal regeneration of motoneurons following spinal root avulsion and re-implantation in rats. Free Radic Biol Med 2019; 143:454-470. [PMID: 31472247 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2019.08.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Revised: 08/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Brachial plexus avulsion (BPA) occurs when the spinal nerve roots are pulled away from the surface of the spinal cord and disconnects neuronal cell body from its distal downstream axon, which induces massive motoneuron death, motor axon degeneration and de-innervation of targeted muscles, thereby resulting in permanent paralysis of motor functions in the upper limb. Avulsion injury triggers oxidative stress and intense local neuroinflammation at the lesioned site, leading to the death of most motoneurons. Berberine (BBR), a natural isoquinoline alkaloid derived from medicinal herbs of Berberis and Coptis species, has been reported to possess neuro-protective, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects in various animal models of central nervous system (CNS)-related disorders. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of BBR on motoneuron survival and axonal regeneration following spinal root avulsion plus re-implantation in rats. Our results indicated BBR significantly accelerated motor function recovery in the forelimb as revealed by the increased Terzis grooming test score, facilitated motor axon regeneration as evidenced by the elevated number of Fluoro-Gold-labeled and P75-positive regenerative motoneurons. The survival of motoneurons was notably promoted by BBR administration presented with boosted ChAT-immunopositive and neutral red-stained neurons. BBR treatment efficiently alleviated muscle atrophy, attenuated functional motor endplates loss in biceps and prevented the reduction of motor axons in the musculocutaneous nerve. Additionally, BBR treatment markedly mitigated the avulsion-induced neuroinflammation via inhibiting microglial and astroglial reactivity, up-regulated the expression of antioxidative indicator Cu/Zn SOD, and down-regulated the levels of nNOS, 3-NT, lipid peroxidation and NF-κB, as well as promoted SIRT1, PI3K and Akt activation. Collectively, BBR might be a promising therapy to assist re-implantation surgery for the treatment of BPA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xie Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China; Brain Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China.
| | - Xiao-Dong Liu
- Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China.
| | - Yan-Fang Xian
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China; Brain Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China.
| | - Feng Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China.
| | - Peng-Yun Huang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China; Brain Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China.
| | - Ying Tang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China; Brain Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China.
| | - Qiu-Ju Yuan
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China; Brain Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China.
| | - Zhi-Xiu Lin
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China; Brain Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Rovira Gonzalez YI, Moyer AL, LeTexier NJ, Bratti AD, Feng S, Sun C, Liu T, Mula J, Jha P, Iyer SR, Lovering R, O’Rourke B, Noh HL, Suk S, Kim JK, Essien Umanah GK, Wagner KR. Mss51 deletion enhances muscle metabolism and glucose homeostasis in mice. JCI Insight 2019; 4:122247. [PMID: 31527314 PMCID: PMC6824300 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.122247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Myostatin is a negative regulator of muscle growth and metabolism and its inhibition in mice improves insulin sensitivity, increases glucose uptake into skeletal muscle, and decreases total body fat. A recently described mammalian protein called MSS51 is significantly downregulated with myostatin inhibition. In vitro disruption of Mss51 results in increased levels of ATP, β-oxidation, glycolysis, and oxidative phosphorylation. To determine the in vivo biological function of Mss51 in mice, we disrupted the Mss51 gene by CRISPR/Cas9 and found that Mss51-KO mice have normal muscle weights and fiber-type distribution but reduced fat pads. Myofibers isolated from Mss51-KO mice showed an increased oxygen consumption rate compared with WT controls, indicating an accelerated rate of skeletal muscle metabolism. The expression of genes related to oxidative phosphorylation and fatty acid β-oxidation were enhanced in skeletal muscle of Mss51-KO mice compared with that of WT mice. We found that mice lacking Mss51 and challenged with a high-fat diet were resistant to diet-induced weight gain, had increased whole-body glucose turnover and glycolysis rate, and increased systemic insulin sensitivity and fatty acid β-oxidation. These findings demonstrate that MSS51 modulates skeletal muscle mitochondrial respiration and regulates whole-body glucose and fatty acid metabolism, making it a potential target for obesity and diabetes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yazmin I. Rovira Gonzalez
- The Hugo W. Moser Research Institute, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Cellular and Molecular Medicine Graduate Program
| | - Adam L. Moyer
- The Hugo W. Moser Research Institute, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Cellular and Molecular Medicine Graduate Program
| | - Nicolas J. LeTexier
- The Hugo W. Moser Research Institute, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - August D. Bratti
- The Hugo W. Moser Research Institute, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Siyuan Feng
- The Hugo W. Moser Research Institute, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Congshan Sun
- The Hugo W. Moser Research Institute, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Neurology
- Department of Neuroscience, and
| | - Ting Liu
- Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jyothi Mula
- The Hugo W. Moser Research Institute, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Pankhuri Jha
- The Hugo W. Moser Research Institute, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Shama R. Iyer
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Richard Lovering
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Brian O’Rourke
- Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Hye Lim Noh
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sujin Suk
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jason K. Kim
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Kathryn R. Wagner
- The Hugo W. Moser Research Institute, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Neurology
- Department of Neuroscience, and
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Trajanovska S, Ban J, Huang J, Gregorevic P, Morsch M, Allen DG, Phillips WD. Muscle specific kinase protects dystrophic mdx mouse muscles from eccentric contraction-induced loss of force-producing capacity. J Physiol 2019; 597:4831-4850. [PMID: 31340406 DOI: 10.1113/jp277839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Adeno-associated viral vector was used to elevate the expression of muscle specific kinase (MuSK) and rapsyn (a cytoplasmic MuSK effector protein) in the tibialis anterior muscle of wild-type and dystrophic (mdx) mice. In mdx mice, enhanced expression of either MuSK or rapsyn ameliorated the acute loss of muscle force associated with strain injury. Increases in sarcolemmal immunolabelling for utrophin and β-dystroglycan suggest a mechanism for the protective effect of MuSK in mdx muscles. MuSK also caused subtle changes to the structure and function of the neuromuscular junction, suggesting novel roles for MuSK in muscle physiology and pathophysiology. ABSTRACT Muscle specific kinase (MuSK) has a well-defined role in stabilizing the developing mammalian neuromuscular junction, but MuSK might also be protective in some neuromuscular diseases. In the dystrophin-deficient mdx mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, limb muscles are especially fragile. We injected the tibialis anterior muscle of 8-week-old mdx and wild-type (C57BL10) mice with adeno-associated viral vectors encoding either MuSK or rapsyn (a cytoplasmic MuSK effector protein) fused to green fluorescent protein (MuSK-GFP and rapsyn-GFP, respectively). Contralateral muscles injected with empty vector served as controls. One month later mice were anaesthetized with isoflurane and isometric force-producing capacity was recorded from the distal tendon. MuSK-GFP caused an unexpected decay in nerve-evoked tetanic force, both in wild-type and mdx muscles, without affecting contraction elicited by direct electrical stimulation of the muscle. Muscle fragility was probed by challenging muscles with a strain injury protocol consisting of a series of four strain-producing eccentric contractions in vivo. When applied to muscles of mdx mice, eccentric contraction produced an acute 27% reduction in directly evoked muscle force output, affirming the susceptibility of mdx muscles to strain injury. mdx muscles overexpressing MuSK-GFP or rapsyn-GFP exhibited significantly milder force deficits after the eccentric contraction challenge (15% and 14%, respectively). The protective effect of MuSK-GFP in muscles of mdx mice was associated with increased immunolabelling for utrophin and β-dystroglycan in the sarcolemma. Elevating the expression of MuSK or rapsyn revealed several distinct synaptic and extrasynaptic effects, suggesting novel roles for MuSK signalling in muscle physiology and pathophysiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Trajanovska
- Physiology and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - J Ban
- Physiology and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - J Huang
- Physiology and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - P Gregorevic
- Department of Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Neurology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - M Morsch
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - D G Allen
- Physiology and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - W D Phillips
- Physiology and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
McMacken GM, Spendiff S, Whittaker RG, O’Connor E, Howarth RM, Boczonadi V, Horvath R, Slater CR, Lochmüller H. Salbutamol modifies the neuromuscular junction in a mouse model of ColQ myasthenic syndrome. Hum Mol Genet 2019; 28:2339-2351. [PMID: 31220253 PMCID: PMC6606850 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddz059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2019] [Revised: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The β-adrenergic agonists salbutamol and ephedrine have proven to be effective as therapies for human disorders of the neuromuscular junction, in particular many subsets of congenital myasthenic syndromes. However, the mechanisms underlying this clinical benefit are unknown and improved understanding of the effect of adrenergic signalling on the neuromuscular junction is essential to facilitate the development of more targeted therapies. Here, we investigated the effect of salbutamol treatment on the neuromuscular junction in the ColQ deficient mouse, a model of end-plate acetylcholinesterase deficiency. ColQ-/- mice received 7 weeks of daily salbutamol injection, and the effect on muscle strength and neuromuscular junction morphology was analysed. We show that salbutamol leads to a gradual improvement in muscle strength in ColQ-/- mice. In addition, the neuromuscular junctions of salbutamol treated mice showed significant improvements in several postsynaptic morphological defects, including increased synaptic area, acetylcholine receptor area and density, and extent of postjunctional folds. These changes occurred without alterations in skeletal muscle fibre size or type. These findings suggest that β-adrenergic agonists lead to functional benefit in the ColQ-/- mouse and to long-term structural changes at the neuromuscular junction. These effects are primarily at the postsynaptic membrane and may lead to enhanced neuromuscular transmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Grace M McMacken
- John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Sally Spendiff
- John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Roger G Whittaker
- Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Emily O’Connor
- John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Rachel M Howarth
- John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Veronika Boczonadi
- Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Rita Horvath
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Clarke R Slater
- Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Hanns Lochmüller
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
- Department of Neuropediatrics and Muscle Disorders, Medical Center – University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, Freiburg, Germany
- Centro Nacional de Análisis Genómico (CNAG-CRG), Center for Genomic Regulation, Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Slater CR. 'Fragmentation' of NMJs: a sign of degeneration or regeneration? A long journey with many junctions. Neuroscience 2019; 439:28-40. [PMID: 31129203 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2019.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) often consist of curved bands of synaptic contact, about 3-6 μm wide, which resemble pretzels. This contrasts with the NMJs of most animal species which consist of a cluster of separate synaptic spots, each of which is also about 3-6 μm across. In a number of situations, including a variety of disease states as well as normal ageing, mammalian NMJs acquire a more 'fragmented' appearance that resembles somewhat that of other species. This 'fragmentation' of the NMJ has sometimes been interpreted as a 'disintegration' or 'degeneration', with the suggestion that it might be associated with impaired neuromuscular transmission. An alternative view is that NMJ fragmentation is the outcome of a normal process by which the NMJ is maintained in an effective state. In this highly personal commentary, I cite a number of examples of this and point out that although the 'pretzel' form arises during normal development as a result of the sculpting of an immature synaptic 'plaque', in virtually all situations where new synaptic contact is established in adult mammals this occurs by the addition of new synaptic 'spots' rather than by the extension, or neoformation, of 'pretzels'. Further, where appropriate studies have been performed, no evidence of a correlation between the degree of fragmentation and the efficacy of transmission has emerged. It may therefore be more appropriate to consider NMJ 'fragmentation' as a form of regeneration, rather than of degeneration. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Honoring Ricardo Miledi - outstanding neuroscientist of XX-XXI centuries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clarke R Slater
- Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Iyer SR, Shah SB, Ward CW, Stains JP, Spangenburg EE, Folker ES, Lovering RM. Differential YAP nuclear signaling in healthy and dystrophic skeletal muscle. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2019; 317:C48-C57. [PMID: 30995108 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00432.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Mechanical forces regulate muscle development, hypertrophy, and homeostasis. Force-transmitting structures allow mechanotransduction at the sarcolemma, cytoskeleton, and nuclear envelope. There is growing evidence that Yes-associated protein (YAP) serves as a nuclear relay of mechanical signals and can induce a range of downstream signaling cascades. Dystrophin is a sarcolemma-associated protein, and its absence underlies the pathology in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. We tested the hypothesis that the absence of dystrophin in muscle would result in reduced YAP signaling in response to loading. Following in vivo contractile loading in muscles of healthy (wild-type; WT) mice and mice lacking dystrophin (mdx), we performed Western blots of whole and fractionated muscle homogenates to examine the ratio of phospho (cytoplasmic) YAP to total YAP and nuclear YAP, respectively. We show that in vivo contractile loading induced a robust increase in YAP expression and its nuclear localization in WT muscles. Surprisingly, in mdx muscles, active YAP expression was constitutively elevated and unresponsive to load. Results from qRT-PCR analysis support the hyperactivation of YAP in vivo in mdx muscles, as evidenced by increased gene expression of YAP downstream targets. In vitro assays of isolated myofibers plated on substrates with high stiffness showed YAP nuclear labeling for both genotypes, indicating functional YAP signaling in mdx muscles. We conclude that while YAP signaling can occur in the absence of dystrophin, dystrophic muscles have altered mechanotransduction, whereby constitutively active YAP results in a failure to respond to load, which could be attributed to the increased state of "pre-stress" with increased cytoskeletal and extracellular matrix stiffness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shama R Iyer
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine , Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Sameer B Shah
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California San Diego , La Jolla, California.,Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego , La Jolla, California
| | - Christopher W Ward
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine , Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Joseph P Stains
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine , Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Espen E Spangenburg
- Department of Physiology, East Carolina Diabetes and Obesity Institute, East Carolina University , Greenville, North Carolina
| | - Eric S Folker
- Department of Biology, Boston College , Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts
| | - Richard M Lovering
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine , Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine , Baltimore, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Lindsay A, Schmiechen A, Chamberlain CM, Ervasti JM, Lowe DA. Neopterin/7,8-dihydroneopterin is elevated in Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients and protects mdx skeletal muscle function. Exp Physiol 2019; 103:995-1009. [PMID: 29791760 DOI: 10.1113/ep087031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
NEW FINDINGS What is the central question of this study? We examined whether the macrophage-synthesized antioxidant 7,8-dihydroneopterin was elevated in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) patients. We then examined whether 7,8-dihydroneopterin could protect dystrophic skeletal mouse muscle from eccentric contraction-induced force loss and improve recovery. What is the main finding and its importance? Urinary neopterin/creatinine and 7,8-dihydroneopterin/creatinine were elevated in DMD patients. 7,8-Dihydroneopterin attenuated eccentric contraction-induced force loss of dystrophic skeletal mouse muscle and accelerated recovery of force. These results suggest that eccentric contraction-induced force loss is mediated, in part, by an oxidative component and provides a potential protective role for 7,8-dihydroneopterin in DMD. ABSTRACT Macrophage infiltration is a hallmark of dystrophin-deficient muscle. We tested the hypothesis that Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) patients would have elevated levels of the macrophage-synthesized pterins, neopterin and 7,8-dihydroneopterin, compared with unaffected age-matched control subjects. Urinary neopterin/creatinine and 7,8-dihydroneopterin/creatinine were elevated in DMD patients, and 7,8-dihydroneopterin/creatinine was associated with patient age and ambulation. Urinary 7,8-dihydroneopterin corrected for specific gravity was also elevated in DMD patients. Given that 7,8-dihydroneopterin is an antioxidant, we then identified a potential role for 7,8-dihydroneopterin in disease pathology. We assessed whether 7,8-dihydroneopterin could: (i) protect against isometric force loss in wild-type skeletal muscle exposed to various pro-oxidants; and (ii) protect wild-type and mdx muscle from eccentric contraction-induced force loss, which has an oxidative component. Force loss was elicited in isolated extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscles by 10 eccentric contractions, and recovery of force after the contractions was measured in the presence of exogenous 7,8-dihydroneopterin. 7,8-Dihydroneopterin attenuated isometric force loss by wild-type EDL muscles when challenged by H2 O2 and HOCl, but exacerbated force loss when challenged by SIN-1 (NO• , O2• , ONOO- ). 7,8-Dihydroneopterin attenuated eccentric contraction-induced force loss in mdx muscle. Isometric force production by EDL muscles of mdx mice also recovered to a greater degree after eccentric contractions in the presence of 7,8-dihydroneopterin. The results corroborate macrophage activation in DMD patients, provide a potential protective role for 7,8-dihydroneopterin in the susceptibility of dystrophic muscle to eccentric contractions and indicate that oxidative stress contributes to eccentric contraction-induced force loss in mdx skeletal muscle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angus Lindsay
- Division of Rehabilitation Science and Division of Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Alexandra Schmiechen
- Lillehei Heart Institute, Cancer and Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Christopher M Chamberlain
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - James M Ervasti
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Dawn A Lowe
- Division of Rehabilitation Science and Division of Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Larsson L, Degens H, Li M, Salviati L, Lee YI, Thompson W, Kirkland JL, Sandri M. Sarcopenia: Aging-Related Loss of Muscle Mass and Function. Physiol Rev 2019; 99:427-511. [PMID: 30427277 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00061.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 719] [Impact Index Per Article: 143.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Sarcopenia is a loss of muscle mass and function in the elderly that reduces mobility, diminishes quality of life, and can lead to fall-related injuries, which require costly hospitalization and extended rehabilitation. This review focuses on the aging-related structural changes and mechanisms at cellular and subcellular levels underlying changes in the individual motor unit: specifically, the perikaryon of the α-motoneuron, its neuromuscular junction(s), and the muscle fibers that it innervates. Loss of muscle mass with aging, which is largely due to the progressive loss of motoneurons, is associated with reduced muscle fiber number and size. Muscle function progressively declines because motoneuron loss is not adequately compensated by reinnervation of muscle fibers by the remaining motoneurons. At the intracellular level, key factors are qualitative changes in posttranslational modifications of muscle proteins and the loss of coordinated control between contractile, mitochondrial, and sarcoplasmic reticulum protein expression. Quantitative and qualitative changes in skeletal muscle during the process of aging also have been implicated in the pathogenesis of acquired and hereditary neuromuscular disorders. In experimental models, specific intervention strategies have shown encouraging results on limiting deterioration of motor unit structure and function under conditions of impaired innervation. Translated to the clinic, if these or similar interventions, by saving muscle and improving mobility, could help alleviate sarcopenia in the elderly, there would be both great humanitarian benefits and large cost savings for health care systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lars Larsson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Basic and Clinical Muscle Biology Group, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden ; Section of Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden ; Department of Biobehavioral Health, The Pennsylvania State University , University Park, Pennsylvania ; School of Healthcare Science, Metropolitan University , Manchester , United Kingdom ; Institute of Sport Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University , Kaunas , Lithuania ; Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Woman and Child Health, University of Padova , Padova , Italy ; IRP Città della Speranza, Padova , Italy ; Department of Biology, Texas A&M University , College Station, Texas ; Robert and Arlene Kogod Center on Aging, Mayo Clinic , Rochester, Minnesota ; Department of Biomedical Science, Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova , Padova , Italy
| | - Hans Degens
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Basic and Clinical Muscle Biology Group, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden ; Section of Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden ; Department of Biobehavioral Health, The Pennsylvania State University , University Park, Pennsylvania ; School of Healthcare Science, Metropolitan University , Manchester , United Kingdom ; Institute of Sport Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University , Kaunas , Lithuania ; Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Woman and Child Health, University of Padova , Padova , Italy ; IRP Città della Speranza, Padova , Italy ; Department of Biology, Texas A&M University , College Station, Texas ; Robert and Arlene Kogod Center on Aging, Mayo Clinic , Rochester, Minnesota ; Department of Biomedical Science, Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova , Padova , Italy
| | - Meishan Li
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Basic and Clinical Muscle Biology Group, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden ; Section of Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden ; Department of Biobehavioral Health, The Pennsylvania State University , University Park, Pennsylvania ; School of Healthcare Science, Metropolitan University , Manchester , United Kingdom ; Institute of Sport Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University , Kaunas , Lithuania ; Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Woman and Child Health, University of Padova , Padova , Italy ; IRP Città della Speranza, Padova , Italy ; Department of Biology, Texas A&M University , College Station, Texas ; Robert and Arlene Kogod Center on Aging, Mayo Clinic , Rochester, Minnesota ; Department of Biomedical Science, Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova , Padova , Italy
| | - Leonardo Salviati
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Basic and Clinical Muscle Biology Group, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden ; Section of Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden ; Department of Biobehavioral Health, The Pennsylvania State University , University Park, Pennsylvania ; School of Healthcare Science, Metropolitan University , Manchester , United Kingdom ; Institute of Sport Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University , Kaunas , Lithuania ; Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Woman and Child Health, University of Padova , Padova , Italy ; IRP Città della Speranza, Padova , Italy ; Department of Biology, Texas A&M University , College Station, Texas ; Robert and Arlene Kogod Center on Aging, Mayo Clinic , Rochester, Minnesota ; Department of Biomedical Science, Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova , Padova , Italy
| | - Young Il Lee
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Basic and Clinical Muscle Biology Group, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden ; Section of Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden ; Department of Biobehavioral Health, The Pennsylvania State University , University Park, Pennsylvania ; School of Healthcare Science, Metropolitan University , Manchester , United Kingdom ; Institute of Sport Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University , Kaunas , Lithuania ; Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Woman and Child Health, University of Padova , Padova , Italy ; IRP Città della Speranza, Padova , Italy ; Department of Biology, Texas A&M University , College Station, Texas ; Robert and Arlene Kogod Center on Aging, Mayo Clinic , Rochester, Minnesota ; Department of Biomedical Science, Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova , Padova , Italy
| | - Wesley Thompson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Basic and Clinical Muscle Biology Group, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden ; Section of Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden ; Department of Biobehavioral Health, The Pennsylvania State University , University Park, Pennsylvania ; School of Healthcare Science, Metropolitan University , Manchester , United Kingdom ; Institute of Sport Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University , Kaunas , Lithuania ; Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Woman and Child Health, University of Padova , Padova , Italy ; IRP Città della Speranza, Padova , Italy ; Department of Biology, Texas A&M University , College Station, Texas ; Robert and Arlene Kogod Center on Aging, Mayo Clinic , Rochester, Minnesota ; Department of Biomedical Science, Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova , Padova , Italy
| | - James L Kirkland
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Basic and Clinical Muscle Biology Group, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden ; Section of Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden ; Department of Biobehavioral Health, The Pennsylvania State University , University Park, Pennsylvania ; School of Healthcare Science, Metropolitan University , Manchester , United Kingdom ; Institute of Sport Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University , Kaunas , Lithuania ; Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Woman and Child Health, University of Padova , Padova , Italy ; IRP Città della Speranza, Padova , Italy ; Department of Biology, Texas A&M University , College Station, Texas ; Robert and Arlene Kogod Center on Aging, Mayo Clinic , Rochester, Minnesota ; Department of Biomedical Science, Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova , Padova , Italy
| | - Marco Sandri
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Basic and Clinical Muscle Biology Group, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden ; Section of Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden ; Department of Biobehavioral Health, The Pennsylvania State University , University Park, Pennsylvania ; School of Healthcare Science, Metropolitan University , Manchester , United Kingdom ; Institute of Sport Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University , Kaunas , Lithuania ; Clinical Genetics Unit, Department of Woman and Child Health, University of Padova , Padova , Italy ; IRP Città della Speranza, Padova , Italy ; Department of Biology, Texas A&M University , College Station, Texas ; Robert and Arlene Kogod Center on Aging, Mayo Clinic , Rochester, Minnesota ; Department of Biomedical Science, Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova , Padova , Italy
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Song T, Manoharan P, Millay DP, Koch SE, Rubinstein J, Heiny JA, Sadayappan S. Dilated cardiomyopathy-mediated heart failure induces a unique skeletal muscle myopathy with inflammation. Skelet Muscle 2019; 9:4. [PMID: 30678732 PMCID: PMC6345027 DOI: 10.1186/s13395-019-0189-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Skeletal muscle myopathy and exercise intolerance are diagnostic hallmarks of heart failure (HF). However, the molecular adaptations of skeletal muscles during dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)-mediated HF are not completely understood. Methods Skeletal muscle structure and function were compared in wild-type (WT) and cardiac myosin binding protein-C null mice (t/t), which develop DCM-induced HF. Cardiac function was examined by echocardiography. Exercise tolerance was measured using a graded maximum treadmill running test. Hindlimb muscle function was assessed in vivo from measurements of plantar flexor strength. Inflammatory status was evaluated from the expression of inflammatory markers and the presence of specific immune cell types in gastrocnemius muscles. Muscle regenerative capacityat days 3, 7, and 14 after eccentric contraction-induced injury was determined from the number of phenotypically new and adult fibers in the gastrocnemius, and functional recovery of plantar flexion torque. Results t/t mice developed DCM-induced HF in association with profound exercise intolerance, consistent with previous reports. Compared to WT, t/t mouse hearts show significant hypertrophy of the atria and ventricles and reduced fractional shortening, both systolic and diastolic. In parallel, the skeletal muscles of t/t mice exhibit weakness and myopathy. Compared to WT, plantar flexor muscles of t/t null mice produce less peak isometric plantar torque (Po), develop torque more slowly (+ dF/dt), and relax more slowly (− dF/dt, longer half-relaxation times,1/2RT). Gastrocnemius muscles of t/t mice have a greater number of fibers with smaller diameters and central nuclei. Oxidative fibers, both type I and type IIa, show significantly smaller cross-sectional areas and more central nuclei. These fiber phenotypes suggest ongoing repair and regeneration under homeostatic conditions. In addition, the ability of muscles to recover and regenerate after acute injury is impaired in t/t mice. Conclusions Our studies concluded that DCM-induced HF induces a unique skeletal myopathy characterized by decreased muscle strength, atrophy of oxidative fiber types, ongoing inflammation and damage under homeostasis, and impaired regeneration after acute muscle injury. Furthermore, this unique myopathy in DCM-induced HF likely contributes to and exacerbates exercise intolerance. Therefore, efforts to develop therapeutic interventions to treat skeletal myopathy during DCM-induced HF should be considered. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13395-019-0189-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taejeong Song
- Heart Lung Vascular Institute, Division of Cardiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA
| | - Palanikumar Manoharan
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry, and Microbiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA
| | - Douglas P Millay
- Division of Molecular Cardiovascular Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 240 Albert Sabin Way, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA
| | - Sheryl E Koch
- Heart Lung Vascular Institute, Division of Cardiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA
| | - Jack Rubinstein
- Heart Lung Vascular Institute, Division of Cardiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA
| | - Judith A Heiny
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA
| | - Sakthivel Sadayappan
- Heart Lung Vascular Institute, Division of Cardiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA. .,Department of Internal Medicine, Heart, Lung and Vascular Institute, Division of Cardiovascular Health and Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, 231 Albert Sabin Way, Cincinnati, OH, 45267-0575, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Yin X, Yu T, Chen B, Xu J, Chen W, Qi Y, Zhang P, Li Y, Kou Y, Ma Y, Han N, Wan P, Luo Q, Zhu D, Jiang B. Spatial Distribution of Motor Endplates and its Adaptive Change in Skeletal Muscle. Theranostics 2019; 9:734-746. [PMID: 30809305 PMCID: PMC6376466 DOI: 10.7150/thno.28729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 12/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Motor endplates (MEPs) are the important interfaces between peripheral nerves and muscle fibers. Investigation of the spatial distribution of MEPs could help us better understand neuromuscular functional activities and improve the diagnosis and therapy of related diseases. Methods: Fluorescent α-bungarotoxin was injected to label the motor endplates in whole-mount skeletal muscles, and tissue optical clearing combined with light-sheet microscopy was used to investigate the spatial distribution of MEPs and in-muscle nerve branches in different skeletal muscles in wild-type and transgenic fluorescent mice. Electrophysiology was used to determine the relationship between the spatial distribution of MEPs and muscle function. Results: The exact three-dimensional distribution of MEPs in whole skeletal muscles was first obtained. We found that the MEPs in the muscle were distributed in an organized pattern of lamella clusters, with no MEPs outside the lamella zone. Each MEP lamella was innervated by one independent in-muscle nerve branch and mediated an independent muscle subgroup contraction. Additionally, the MEPs changed along the lamella clusters after denervation and regained the initial pattern after reinnervation. The integrity and spatial distribution of MEPs could reflect the functional state of muscles. The signal absence of a certain MEP lamella could suggest a problem in certain part of the muscle. Conclusions: The MEP lamella clusters might be the basis of neuromuscular function, and the spatial distribution of MEPs could serve as a testbed for evaluating the functional status of muscle and the therapeutic targeting map related to MEPs.
Collapse
|
47
|
Villalón E, Shababi M, Kline R, Lorson ZC, Florea KM, Lorson CL. Selective vulnerability in neuronal populations in nmd/SMARD1 mice. Hum Mol Genet 2019; 27:679-690. [PMID: 29272405 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddx434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy with respiratory distress type 1 (SMARD1) is an autosomal recessive motor neuron disease causing distal limb muscle atrophy that progresses proximally and is accompanied by diaphragmatic paralysis. Neuromuscular junction (NMJ) alterations have been reported in muscles of SMARD1 model mice, known as nmd mice, with varying degrees of severity, suggesting that different muscles are specifically and selectively resistant or susceptible to denervation. To evaluate the extent of NMJ pathology in a broad range of muscles, a panel of axial and appendicular muscles were isolated and immunostained from nmd mice. These analyses revealed that selective distal appendage muscles were highly vulnerable to denervation. Susceptibility to pathology was not limited to NMJ alterations, but included defects in myelination within those neurons innervating susceptible muscles. Interestingly, end plate fragmentation was present within all muscles independent of the extent of NMJ alterations, suggesting that end plate fragmentation is an early hallmark of SMARD1 pathogenesis. Expressing the full-length IGHMBP2 cDNA using an adeno-associated virus (AAV9) significantly decreased all aspects of muscle and nerve disease pathology. These results shed new light onto the pathogenesis of SMARD1 by identifying specific motor units that are resistant and susceptible to neurodegeneration in an important model of SMARD1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric Villalón
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Christopher S. Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.,Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Monir Shababi
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Christopher S. Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.,Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Rachel Kline
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Christopher S. Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.,Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Zachary C Lorson
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Christopher S. Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.,Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Kyra M Florea
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Christopher S. Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.,Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Christian L Lorson
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Christopher S. Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.,Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Defects in sarcolemma repair and skeletal muscle function after injury in a mouse model of Niemann-Pick type A/B disease. Skelet Muscle 2019; 9:1. [PMID: 30611303 PMCID: PMC6320626 DOI: 10.1186/s13395-018-0187-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Accepted: 12/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Niemann-Pick disease type A (NPDA), a disease caused by mutations in acid sphingomyelinase (ASM), involves severe neurodegeneration and early death. Intracellular lipid accumulation and plasma membrane alterations are implicated in the pathology. ASM is also linked to the mechanism of plasma membrane repair, so we investigated the impact of ASM deficiency in skeletal muscle, a tissue that undergoes frequent cycles of injury and repair in vivo. Methods Utilizing the NPDA/B mouse model ASM−/− and wild type (WT) littermates, we performed excitation-contraction coupling/Ca2+ mobilization and sarcolemma injury/repair assays with isolated flexor digitorum brevis fibers, proteomic analyses with quadriceps femoris, flexor digitorum brevis, and tibialis posterior muscle and in vivo tests of the contractile force (maximal isometric torque) of the quadriceps femoris muscle before and after eccentric contraction-induced muscle injury. Results ASM−/− flexor digitorum brevis fibers showed impaired excitation-contraction coupling compared to WT, a defect expressed as reduced tetanic [Ca2+]i in response to electrical stimulation and early failure in sustaining [Ca2+]i during repeated tetanic contractions. When injured mechanically by needle passage, ASM−/− flexor digitorum brevis fibers showed susceptibility to injury similar to WT, but a reduced ability to reseal the sarcolemma. Proteomic analyses revealed changes in a small group of skeletal muscle proteins as a consequence of ASM deficiency, with downregulation of calsequestrin occurring in the three different muscles analyzed. In vivo, the loss in maximal isometric torque of WT quadriceps femoris was similar immediately after and 2 min after injury. The loss in ASM−/− mice immediately after injury was similar to WT, but was markedly larger at 2 min after injury. Conclusions Skeletal muscle fibers from ASM−/− mice have an impairment in intracellular Ca2+ handling that results in reduced Ca2+ mobilization and a more rapid decline in peak Ca2+ transients during repeated contraction-relaxation cycles. Isolated fibers show reduced ability to repair damage to the sarcolemma, and this is associated with an exaggerated deficit in force during recovery from an in vivo eccentric contraction-induced muscle injury. Our findings uncover the possibility that skeletal muscle functional defects may play a role in the pathology of NPDA/B disease. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13395-018-0187-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
|
49
|
Yuan YS, Niu SP, Yu YL, Zhang PX, Yin XF, Han N, Zhang YJ, Zhang DY, Xu HL, Kou YH, Jiang BG. Reinnervation of spinal cord anterior horn cells after median nerve repair using transposition with other nerves. Neural Regen Res 2019; 14:699-705. [PMID: 30632511 PMCID: PMC6352579 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.247474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Our previous studies have confirmed that during nerve transposition repair to injured peripheral nerves, the regenerated nerve fibers of motor neurons in the anterior horn of the spinal cord can effectively repair distal nerve and target muscle tissue and restore muscle motor function. To observe the effect of nerve regeneration and motor function recovery after several types of nerve transposition for median nerve defect (2 mm), 30 Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into sham operation group, epineurial neurorrhaphy group, musculocutaneous nerve transposition group, medial pectoral nerve transposition group, and radial nerve muscular branch transposition group. Three months after nerve repair, the wrist flexion test was used to evaluate the recovery of wrist flexion after regeneration of median nerve in the affected limbs of rats. The number of myelinated nerve fibers, the thickness of myelin sheath, the diameter of axons and the cross-sectional area of axons in the proximal and distal segments of the repaired nerves were measured by osmic acid staining. The ratio of newly produced distal myelinated nerve fibers to the number of proximal myelinated nerve fibers was calculated. Wet weights of the flexor digitorum superficialis muscles were measured. Muscle fiber morphology was detected using hematoxylin-eosin staining. The cross-sectional area of muscle fibers was calculated to assess the recovery of muscles. Results showed that wrist flexion function was restored, and the nerve grew into the distal effector in all three nerve transposition groups and the epineurial neurorrhaphy group. There were differences in the number of myelinated nerve fibers in each group. The magnification of proximal to distal nerves was 1.80, 3.00, 2.50, and 3.12 in epineurial neurorrhaphy group, musculocutaneous nerve transposition group, medial pectoral nerve transposition group, and radial nerve muscular branch transposition group, respectively. Nevertheless, axon diameters of new nerve fibers, cross-sectional areas of axons, thicknesses of myelin sheath, wet weights of flexor digitorum superficialis muscle and cross-sectional areas of muscle fibers of all three groups of donor nerves from different anterior horn motor neurons after nerve transposition were similar to those in the epineurial neurorrhaphy group. Our findings indicate that donor nerve translocation from different anterior horn motor neurons can effectively repair the target organs innervated by the median nerve. The corresponding spinal anterior horn motor neurons obtain functional reinnervation and achieve some degree of motor function in the affected limbs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Song Yuan
- Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Su-Ping Niu
- Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - You-Lai Yu
- The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | | | | | - Na Han
- Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ya-Jun Zhang
- Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | | | - Hai-Lin Xu
- Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Hui Kou
- Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Olthoff JT, Lindsay A, Abo-Zahrah R, Baltgalvis KA, Patrinostro X, Belanto JJ, Yu DY, Perrin BJ, Garry DJ, Rodney GG, Lowe DA, Ervasti JM. Loss of peroxiredoxin-2 exacerbates eccentric contraction-induced force loss in dystrophin-deficient muscle. Nat Commun 2018; 9:5104. [PMID: 30504831 PMCID: PMC6269445 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-07639-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Force loss in skeletal muscle exposed to eccentric contraction is often attributed to injury. We show that EDL muscles from dystrophin-deficient mdx mice recover 65% of lost force within 120 min of eccentric contraction and exhibit minimal force loss when the interval between contractions is increased from 3 to 30 min. A proteomic screen of mdx muscle identified an 80% reduction in the antioxidant peroxiredoxin-2, likely due to proteolytic degradation following hyperoxidation by NADPH Oxidase 2. Eccentric contraction-induced force loss in mdx muscle was exacerbated by peroxiredoxin-2 ablation, and improved by peroxiredoxin-2 overexpression or myoglobin knockout. Finally, overexpression of γcyto- or βcyto-actin protects mdx muscle from eccentric contraction-induced force loss by blocking NADPH Oxidase 2 through a mechanism dependent on cysteine 272 unique to cytoplasmic actins. Our data suggest that eccentric contraction-induced force loss may function as an adaptive circuit breaker that protects mdx muscle from injurious contractions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John T Olthoff
- Molecular, Cellular, Developmental Biology, and Genetics Graduate Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Angus Lindsay
- Divisions of Rehabilitation Science and Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Reem Abo-Zahrah
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Kristen A Baltgalvis
- Divisions of Rehabilitation Science and Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Xiaobai Patrinostro
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Joseph J Belanto
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Dae-Yeul Yu
- Aging Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Benjamin J Perrin
- Department of Biology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, 46022, USA
| | - Daniel J Garry
- Lillehei Heart Institute and Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - George G Rodney
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Dawn A Lowe
- Divisions of Rehabilitation Science and Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - James M Ervasti
- Molecular, Cellular, Developmental Biology, and Genetics Graduate Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
| |
Collapse
|