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Garg V, Geurten BRH. Diving deep: zebrafish models in motor neuron degeneration research. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1424025. [PMID: 38966756 PMCID: PMC11222423 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1424025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
In the dynamic landscape of biomedical science, the pursuit of effective treatments for motor neuron disorders like hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) remains a key priority. Central to this endeavor is the development of robust animal models, with the zebrafish emerging as a prime candidate. Exhibiting embryonic transparency, a swift life cycle, and significant genetic and neuroanatomical congruencies with humans, zebrafish offer substantial potential for research. Despite the difference in locomotion-zebrafish undulate while humans use limbs, the zebrafish presents relevant phenotypic parallels to human motor control disorders, providing valuable insights into neurodegenerative diseases. This review explores the zebrafish's inherent traits and how they facilitate profound insights into the complex behavioral and cellular phenotypes associated with these disorders. Furthermore, we examine recent advancements in high-throughput drug screening using the zebrafish model, a promising avenue for identifying therapeutically potent compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vranda Garg
- Department of Cellular Neurobiology, Georg-August-University Göttingen, Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Neuroscience, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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2
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De Cock L, Bercier V, Van Den Bosch L. New developments in pre-clinical models of ALS to guide translation. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 176:477-524. [PMID: 38802181 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2024.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder in which selective death of motor neurons leads to muscle weakness and paralysis. Most research has focused on understanding and treating monogenic familial forms, most frequently caused by mutations in SOD1, FUS, TARDBP and C9orf72, although ALS is mostly sporadic and without a clear genetic cause. Rodent models have been developed to study monogenic ALS, but despite numerous pre-clinical studies and clinical trials, few disease-modifying therapies are available. ALS is a heterogeneous disease with complex underlying mechanisms where several genes and molecular pathways appear to play a role. One reason for the high failure rate of clinical translation from the current models could be oversimplification in pre-clinical studies. Here, we review advances in pre-clinical models to better capture the heterogeneous nature of ALS and discuss the value of novel model systems to guide translation and aid in the development of precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenja De Cock
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Louvain-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Center for Brain and Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Valérie Bercier
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Louvain-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Center for Brain and Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Louvain-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Center for Brain and Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium.
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3
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Lauria G, Curcio R, Tucci P. A Machine Learning Approach for Highlighting microRNAs as Biomarkers Linked to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Diagnosis and Progression. Biomolecules 2023; 14:47. [PMID: 38254647 PMCID: PMC10813207 DOI: 10.3390/biom14010047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease characterized by the progressive loss of motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. The early diagnosis of ALS can be challenging, as it usually depends on clinical examination and the exclusion of other possible causes. In this regard, the analysis of miRNA expression profiles in biofluids makes miRNAs promising non-invasive clinical biomarkers. Due to the increasing amount of scientific literature that often provides controversial results, this work aims to deepen the understanding of the current state of the art on this topic using a machine-learning-based approach. A systematic literature search was conducted to analyze a set of 308 scientific articles using the MySLR digital platform and the Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) algorithm. Two relevant topics were identified, and the articles clustered in each of them were analyzed and discussed in terms of biomolecular mechanisms, as well as in translational and clinical settings. Several miRNAs detected in the tissues and biofluids of ALS patients, including blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), have been linked to ALS diagnosis and progression. Some of them may represent promising non-invasive clinical biomarkers. In this context, future scientific priorities and goals have been proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rosita Curcio
- Correspondence: (R.C.); (P.T.); Tel.: +39-0984493046 (R.C.); +39-0984493185 (P.T.)
| | - Paola Tucci
- Correspondence: (R.C.); (P.T.); Tel.: +39-0984493046 (R.C.); +39-0984493185 (P.T.)
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4
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Shi Y, Zhao Y, Lu L, Gao Q, Yu D, Sun M. CRISPR/Cas9: implication for modeling and therapy of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1223777. [PMID: 37483353 PMCID: PMC10359984 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1223777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a deadly neurological disease with a complicated and variable pathophysiology yet to be fully understood. There is currently no effective treatment available to either slow or terminate it. However, recent advances in ALS genomics have linked genes to phenotypes, encouraging the creation of novel therapeutic approaches and giving researchers more tools to create efficient animal models. Genetically engineered rodent models replicating ALS disease pathology have a high predictive value for translational research. This review addresses the history of the evolution of gene editing tools, the most recent ALS disease models, and the application of CRISPR/Cas9 against ALS disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajun Shi
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Prevention and Genetic Medicine of Shandong Health Commission, Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health Commission of China, Center for Medical Genetics and Prenatal Diagnosis, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Institute for Fetology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Institute for Fetology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Likui Lu
- Institute for Fetology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qinqin Gao
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Prevention and Genetic Medicine of Shandong Health Commission, Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health Commission of China, Center for Medical Genetics and Prenatal Diagnosis, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Institute for Fetology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dongyi Yu
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Prevention and Genetic Medicine of Shandong Health Commission, Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health Commission of China, Center for Medical Genetics and Prenatal Diagnosis, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Miao Sun
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Prevention and Genetic Medicine of Shandong Health Commission, Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health Commission of China, Center for Medical Genetics and Prenatal Diagnosis, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Institute for Fetology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
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5
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Liu Y. Zebrafish as a Model Organism for Studying Pathologic Mechanisms of Neurodegenerative Diseases and other Neural Disorders. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2023:10.1007/s10571-023-01340-w. [PMID: 37004595 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-023-01340-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Abstract
Zebrafish are widely considered an excellent vertebrate model for studying the pathogenesis of human diseases because of their transparency of embryonic development, easy breeding, high similarity with human genes, and easy gene manipulation. Previous studies have shown that zebrafish as a model organism provides an ideal operating platform for clarifying the pathological and molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases and related human diseases. This review mainly summarizes the achievements and prospects of zebrafish used as model organisms in the research of neurodegenerative diseases and other human diseases related to the nervous system in recent years. In the future study of human disease mechanisms, the application of the zebrafish model will continue to provide a valuable operating platform and technical support for investigating and finding better prevention and treatment of these diseases, which has broad application prospects and practical significance. Zebrafish models used in neurodegenerative diseases and other diseases related to the nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanying Liu
- Department of Basic Medicine, School of Nursing and Health, Qingdao Huanghai University, Qingdao, 266427, China.
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6
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Petel Légaré V, Rampal CJ, Gurberg TJN, Aaltonen MJ, Janer A, Zinman L, Shoubridge EA, Armstrong GAB. Loss of mitochondrial Chchd10 or Chchd2 in zebrafish leads to an ALS-like phenotype and Complex I deficiency independent of the mitochondrial integrated stress response. Dev Neurobiol 2023; 83:54-69. [PMID: 36799027 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
Mutations in CHCHD10 and CHCHD2, encoding two paralogous mitochondrial proteins, have been identified in cases of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, frontotemporal lobar degeneration, and Parkinson's disease. Their role in disease is unclear, though both have been linked to mitochondrial respiration and mitochondrial stress responses. Here, we investigated the biological roles of these proteins during vertebrate development using knockout (KO) models in zebrafish. We demonstrate that loss of either or both proteins leads to motor impairment, reduced survival and compromised neuromuscular junction integrity in larval zebrafish. Compensation by Chchd10 was observed in the chchd2-/- model, but not by Chchd2 in the chchd10-/- model. The assembly of mitochondrial respiratory chain Complex I was impaired in chchd10-/- and chchd2-/- zebrafish larvae, but unexpectedly not in a double chchd10-/- and chchd2-/- model, suggesting that reduced mitochondrial Complex I cannot be solely responsible for the observed phenotypes, which are generally more severe in the double KO. We observed transcriptional activation markers of the mitochondrial integrated stress response (mt-ISR) in the double chchd10-/- and chchd2-/- KO model, suggesting that this pathway is involved in the restoration of Complex I assembly in our double KO model. The data presented here demonstrates that the Complex I assembly defect in our single KO models arises independently of the mt-ISR. Furthermore, this study provides evidence that both proteins are required for normal vertebrate development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginie Petel Légaré
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Christian J Rampal
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Tyler J N Gurberg
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Mari J Aaltonen
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Alexandre Janer
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Lorne Zinman
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Eric A Shoubridge
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Gary A B Armstrong
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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7
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Lépine S, Castellanos-Montiel MJ, Durcan TM. TDP-43 dysregulation and neuromuscular junction disruption in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Transl Neurodegener 2022; 11:56. [PMID: 36575535 PMCID: PMC9793560 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-022-00331-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a disease characterized by upper and lower motor neuron (MN) loss with a signature feature of cytoplasmic aggregates containing TDP-43, which are detected in nearly all patients. Mutations in the gene that encodes TDP-43 (TARBDP) are known to result in both familial and sporadic ALS. In ALS, disruption of neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) constitutes a critical event in disease pathogenesis, leading to denervation atrophy, motor impairments and disability. Morphological defects and impaired synaptic transmission at NMJs have been reported in several TDP-43 animal models and in vitro, linking TDP-43 dysregulation to the loss of NMJ integrity in ALS. Through the lens of the dying-back and dying-forward hypotheses of ALS, this review discusses the roles of TDP-43 related to synaptic function, with a focus on the potential molecular mechanisms occurring within MNs, skeletal muscles and glial cells that may contribute to NMJ disruption in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Lépine
- grid.14709.3b0000 0004 1936 8649The Neuro’s Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, 3801 University Street, Montreal, QC H3A 2B4 Canada ,grid.14709.3b0000 0004 1936 8649Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, 3605 De La Montagne, Montreal, QC H3G 2M1 Canada
| | - Maria José Castellanos-Montiel
- grid.14709.3b0000 0004 1936 8649The Neuro’s Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, 3801 University Street, Montreal, QC H3A 2B4 Canada
| | - Thomas Martin Durcan
- grid.14709.3b0000 0004 1936 8649The Neuro’s Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital, McGill University, 3801 University Street, Montreal, QC H3A 2B4 Canada
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8
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Chia K, Klingseisen A, Sieger D, Priller J. Zebrafish as a model organism for neurodegenerative disease. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:940484. [PMID: 36311026 PMCID: PMC9606821 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.940484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The zebrafish is increasingly recognized as a model organism for translational research into human neuropathology. The zebrafish brain exhibits fundamental resemblance with human neuroanatomical and neurochemical pathways, and hallmarks of human brain pathology such as protein aggregation, neuronal degeneration and activation of glial cells, for example, can be modeled and recapitulated in the fish central nervous system. Genetic manipulation, imaging, and drug screening are areas where zebrafish excel with the ease of introducing mutations and transgenes, the expression of fluorescent markers that can be detected in vivo in the transparent larval stages overtime, and simple treatment of large numbers of fish larvae at once followed by automated screening and imaging. In this review, we summarize how zebrafish have successfully been employed to model human neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Huntington’s disease. We discuss advantages and disadvantages of choosing zebrafish as a model for these neurodegenerative conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelda Chia
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- United Kingdom Dementia Research Institute at University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Klingseisen
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- United Kingdom Dementia Research Institute at University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Dirk Sieger
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Dirk Sieger,
| | - Josef Priller
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- United Kingdom Dementia Research Institute at University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Neuropsychiatry and Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, DZNE, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Josef Priller,
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Tonelotto V, Consorti C, Facchinello N, Trapani V, Sabatelli P, Giraudo C, Spizzotin M, Cescon M, Bertolucci C, Bonaldo P. Collagen VI ablation in zebrafish causes neuromuscular defects during developmental and adult stages. Matrix Biol 2022; 112:39-61. [PMID: 35961424 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2022.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Collagen VI (COL6) is an extracellular matrix protein exerting multiple functions in different tissues. In humans, mutations of COL6 genes cause rare inherited congenital disorders, primarily affecting skeletal muscles and collectively known as COL6-related myopathies, for which no cure is available yet. In order to get insights into the pathogenic mechanisms underlying COL6-related diseases, diverse animal models were produced. However, the roles exerted by COL6 during embryogenesis remain largely unknown. Here, we generated the first zebrafish COL6 knockout line through CRISPR/Cas9 site-specific mutagenesis of the col6a1 gene. Phenotypic characterization during embryonic and larval development revealed that lack of COL6 leads to neuromuscular defects and motor dysfunctions, together with distinctive alterations in the three-dimensional architecture of craniofacial cartilages. These phenotypic features were maintained in adult col6a1 null fish, which displayed defective muscle organization and impaired swimming capabilities. Moreover, col6a1 null fish showed autophagy defects and organelle abnormalities at both embryonic and adult stages, thus recapitulating the main features of patients affected by COL6-related myopathies. Mechanistically, lack of COL6 led to increased BMP signaling, and direct inhibition of BMP activity ameliorated the locomotor col6a1 null embryos. Finally performance of, treatment with salbutamol, a β2-adrenergic receptor agonist, elicited a significant amelioration of the neuromuscular and motility defects of col6a1 null fish embryos. Altogether, these findings indicate that this newly generated zebrafish col6a1 null line is a valuable in vivo tool to model COL6-related myopathies and suitable for drug screenings aimed at addressing the quest for effective therapeutic strategies for these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chiara Consorti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Nicola Facchinello
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Valeria Trapani
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Patrizia Sabatelli
- CNR - Institute of Molecular Genetics "Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza", Unit of Bologna, 40136, Bologna, Italy; IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, 40136 Bologna, Italy
| | - Chiara Giraudo
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Advanced Clinical and Translational Imaging, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Marianna Spizzotin
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Matilde Cescon
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Cristiano Bertolucci
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Paolo Bonaldo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; CRIBI Biotechnology Center, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy.
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10
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Petel Légaré V, Rampal CJ, Gurberg TJN, Harji ZA, Allard-Chamard X, Rodríguez EC, Armstrong GAB. Development of an endogenously myc-tagged TARDBP (TDP-43) zebrafish model using the CRISPR/Cas9 system and homology directed repair. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2022; 261:110756. [PMID: 35580804 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2022.110756] [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: 03/12/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Many of the modern advances in cellular biology have been made by the expression of engineered constructs with epitope tags for subsequent biochemical investigations. While the utility of epitope tags has permitted insights in cellular and animal models, these are often expressed using traditional transgenic approaches. Using the CRISPR/Cas9 system and homology directed repair we recombine a single myc epitope sequence following the start codon of the zebrafish ortholog of TARDBP (TDP-43). TDP-43 is an RNA binding protein that is involved in the neurodegenerative disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia. We report that zebrafish expressing the myc-tardbp engendered allele produced a stable protein that was detected by both western blot and immunofluorescence. Furthermore, both heterozygous and homozygous carriers of the myc-tardbp allele developed to sexual maturity. We propose that the methodology used here will be useful for zebrafish researchers and other comparative animal biologists interested in developing animal models expressing endogenously tagged proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginie Petel Légaré
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University. https://twitter.com/virginiepet
| | - Christian J Rampal
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University. https://twitter.com/ChristianRampal
| | - Tyler J N Gurberg
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University
| | - Ziyaan A Harji
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University. https://twitter.com/ziyaanharji
| | - Xavier Allard-Chamard
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University
| | - Esteban C Rodríguez
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University
| | - Gary A B Armstrong
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University.
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11
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Voisard P, Diofano F, Glazier AA, Rottbauer W, Just S. CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated Constitutive Loss of VCP (Valosin-Containing Protein) Impairs Proteostasis and Leads to Defective Striated Muscle Structure and Function In Vivo. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23126722. [PMID: 35743185 PMCID: PMC9223409 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23126722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Valosin-containing protein (VCP) acts as a key regulator of cellular protein homeostasis by coordinating protein turnover and quality control. Mutations in VCP lead to (cardio-)myopathy and neurodegenerative diseases such as inclusion body myopathy with Paget’s disease of the bone and frontotemporal dementia (IBMPFD) or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). To date, due to embryonic lethality, no constitutive VCP knockout animal model exists. Here, we generated a constitutive CRISPR/Cas9-induced vcp knockout zebrafish model. Similar to the phenotype of vcp morphant knockdown zebrafish embryos, we found that vcp-null embryos displayed significantly impaired cardiac and skeletal muscle function. By ultrastructural analysis of skeletal muscle cells and cardiomyocytes, we observed severely disrupted myofibrillar organization and accumulation of inclusion bodies as well as mitochondrial degeneration. vcp knockout was associated with a significant accumulation of ubiquitinated proteins, suggesting impaired proteasomal function. Additionally, markers of unfolded protein response (UPR)/ER-stress and autophagy-related mTOR signaling were elevated in vcp-deficient embryos, demonstrating impaired proteostasis in VCP-null zebrafish. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate the successful generation of a stable constitutive vcp knockout zebrafish line that will enable characterization of the detailed mechanistic underpinnings of vcp loss, particularly the impact of disturbed protein homeostasis on organ development and function in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Voisard
- Molecular Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine II, University of Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (P.V.); (F.D.); (A.A.G.)
| | - Federica Diofano
- Molecular Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine II, University of Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (P.V.); (F.D.); (A.A.G.)
| | - Amelia A. Glazier
- Molecular Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine II, University of Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (P.V.); (F.D.); (A.A.G.)
| | - Wolfgang Rottbauer
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University of Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081 Ulm, Germany;
| | - Steffen Just
- Molecular Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine II, University of Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (P.V.); (F.D.); (A.A.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-731-500-45118; Fax: +49-731-500-45159
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12
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Dubinskaya AD, Yurova OV, Fesyun AD, Kukshina AA. Correction of Psycho-Emotional Status Using Neuromuscular Relaxation of the Face. J Nerv Ment Dis 2022; 210:179-185. [PMID: 34456322 DOI: 10.1097/nmd.0000000000001413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT This article is relevant, as most healthy women face the problem of increased facial muscle tone. The purpose of the study was to investigate current problems of the relationship between tonic activity of the facial muscles and psycho-emotional states. The study included a group of 151 women subjected to psychological testing. According to its results, they were randomized into five study groups depending on sex and age. The frequency and severity of psycho-emotional states and parameters of tonic activity of the facial muscles were studied. Currently accepted methods for the correction of psycho-emotional states based on the feedback mechanism were analyzed. The efficacy of myofascial facial massage as an instrument for psychological status correction was evaluated. The long-term effects of various massage techniques aimed at facial muscle relaxation on the psycho-emotional state were established. The most effective tools for muscle tone correction were proposed for psycho-emotional status correction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia D Dubinskaya
- Moscow Centre for Research and Practice in Medical Rehabilitation, Restorative and Sports Medicine of the Moscow Healthcare Department
| | - Olga V Yurova
- Moscow Centre for Research and Practice in Medical Rehabilitation, Restorative and Sports Medicine of the Moscow Healthcare Department
| | - Anatoliy D Fesyun
- Medical Research Center of Rehabilitation and Balneology of the Ministry of Health of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Anastasia A Kukshina
- Moscow Centre for Research and Practice in Medical Rehabilitation, Restorative and Sports Medicine of the Moscow Healthcare Department
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13
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The Biogenesis of miRNAs and Their Role in the Development of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Cells 2022; 11:cells11030572. [PMID: 35159383 PMCID: PMC8833997 DOI: 10.3390/cells11030572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease that affects upper and lower motor neurons. As there is no effective treatment for ALS, it is particularly important to screen key gene therapy targets. The identifications of microRNAs (miRNAs) have completely changed the traditional view of gene regulation. miRNAs are small noncoding single-stranded RNA molecules involved in the regulation of post-transcriptional gene expression. Recent advances also indicate that miRNAs are biomarkers in many diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we summarize recent advances regarding the mechanisms underlying the role of miRNAs in ALS pathogenesis and its application to gene therapy for ALS. The potential of miRNAs to target diverse pathways opens a new avenue for ALS therapy.
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Verma S, Khurana S, Vats A, Sahu B, Ganguly NK, Chakraborti P, Gourie-Devi M, Taneja V. Neuromuscular Junction Dysfunction in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:1502-1527. [PMID: 34997540 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-021-02658-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurological disorder characterized by progressive degeneration of motor neurons leading to skeletal muscle denervation. Earlier studies have shown that motor neuron degeneration begins in motor cortex and descends to the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) in a dying forward fashion. However, accumulating evidences support that ALS is a distal axonopathy where early pathological changes occur at the NMJ, prior to onset of clinical symptoms and propagates towards the motor neuron cell body supporting "dying back" hypothesis. Despite several evidences, series of events triggering NMJ disassembly in ALS are still obscure. Neuromuscular junction is a specialized tripartite chemical synapse which involves a well-coordinated communication among the presynaptic motor neuron, postsynaptic skeletal muscle, and terminal Schwann cells. This review provides comprehensive insight into the role of NMJ in ALS pathogenesis. We have emphasized the molecular alterations in cellular components of NMJ leading to loss of effective neuromuscular transmission in ALS. Further, we provide a preview into research involved in exploring NMJ as potential target for designing effective therapies for ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sagar Verma
- Department of Research, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi, India.,Department of Biotechnology, Jamia Hamdard, Delhi, India
| | - Shiffali Khurana
- Department of Research, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi, India.,Department of Biomedical Science, Bhaskaracharya College of Applied Sciences, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Abhishek Vats
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Bandana Sahu
- Department of Research, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi, India
| | | | | | | | - Vibha Taneja
- Department of Research, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi, India.
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15
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Taylor HBC, Jeans AF. Friend or Foe? The Varied Faces of Homeostatic Synaptic Plasticity in Neurodegenerative Disease. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:782768. [PMID: 34955753 PMCID: PMC8702499 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.782768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Homeostatic synaptic plasticity (HSP) regulates synaptic strength both pre- and postsynaptically to ensure stability and efficient information transfer in neural networks. A number of neurological diseases have been associated with deficits in HSP, particularly diseases characterised by episodic network instability such as migraine and epilepsy. Recently, it has become apparent that HSP also plays a role in many neurodegenerative diseases. In this mini review, we present an overview of the evidence linking HSP to each of the major neurodegenerative diseases, finding that HSP changes in each disease appear to belong to one of three broad functional categories: (1) deficits in HSP at degenerating synapses that contribute to pathogenesis or progression; (2) HSP induced in a heterosynaptic or cell non-autonomous manner to support the function of networks of which the degenerating synapses or cells are part; and (3) induction of HSP within the degenerating population of synapses to preserve function and to resist the impact of synapse loss. Understanding the varied manifestations of HSP in neurodegeneration will not only aid understanding mechanisms of disease but could also inspire much-needed novel approaches to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexander F. Jeans
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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16
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Braems E, Tziortzouda P, Van Den Bosch L. Exploring the alternative: Fish, flies and worms as preclinical models for ALS. Neurosci Lett 2021; 759:136041. [PMID: 34118308 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.136041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an incurable neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of upper and lower motor neurons. In general, patients succumb to respiratory insufficiency due to respiratory muscle weakness. Despite many promising therapeutic strategies primarily identified in rodent models, patient trials remain rather unsuccessful. There is a clear need for alternative approaches, which could provide directions towards the justified use of rodents and which increase the likelihood to identify new promising clinical candidates. In the last decades, the use of fast genetic approaches and the development of high-throughput screening platforms in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, in the fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster) and in zebrafish (Danio rerio) have contributed to new insights into ALS pathomechanisms, disease modifiers and therapeutic targets. In this mini-review, we provide an overview of these alternative small animal studies, modeling the most common ALS genes and discuss the most recent preclinical discoveries. We conclude that small animal models will not replace rodent models, yet they clearly represent an important asset for preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Braems
- KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium; VIB, Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Paraskevi Tziortzouda
- KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium; VIB, Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), Leuven, Belgium; VIB, Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, Leuven, Belgium.
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Rimington RP, Fleming JW, Capel AJ, Wheeler PC, Lewis MP. Bioengineered model of the human motor unit with physiologically functional neuromuscular junctions. Sci Rep 2021; 11:11695. [PMID: 34083648 PMCID: PMC8175425 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-91203-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Investigations of the human neuromuscular junction (NMJ) have predominately utilised experimental animals, model organisms, or monolayer cell cultures that fail to represent the physiological complexity of the synapse. Consequently, there remains a paucity of data regarding the development of the human NMJ and a lack of systems that enable investigation of the motor unit. This work addresses this need, providing the methodologies to bioengineer 3D models of the human motor unit. Spheroid culture of iPSC derived motor neuron progenitors augmented the transcription of OLIG2, ISLET1 and SMI32 motor neuron mRNAs ~ 400, ~ 150 and ~ 200-fold respectively compared to monolayer equivalents. Axon projections of adhered spheroids exceeded 1000 μm in monolayer, with transcription of SMI32 and VACHT mRNAs further enhanced by addition to 3D extracellular matrices in a type I collagen concentration dependent manner. Bioengineered skeletal muscles produced functional tetanic and twitch profiles, demonstrated increased acetylcholine receptor (AChR) clustering and transcription of MUSK and LRP4 mRNAs, indicating enhanced organisation of the post-synaptic membrane. The number of motor neuron spheroids, or motor pool, required to functionally innervate 3D muscle tissues was then determined, generating functional human NMJs that evidence pre- and post-synaptic membrane and motor nerve axon co-localisation. Spontaneous firing was significantly elevated in 3D motor units, confirmed to be driven by the motor nerve via antagonistic inhibition of the AChR. Functional analysis outlined decreased time to peak twitch and half relaxation times, indicating enhanced physiology of excitation contraction coupling in innervated motor units. Our findings provide the methods to maximise the maturity of both iPSC motor neurons and primary human skeletal muscle, utilising cell type specific extracellular matrices and developmental timelines to bioengineer the human motor unit for the study of neuromuscular junction physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowan P. Rimington
- grid.6571.50000 0004 1936 8542National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine, School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU Leicestershire UK
| | - Jacob W. Fleming
- grid.6571.50000 0004 1936 8542National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine, School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU Leicestershire UK
| | - Andrew J. Capel
- grid.6571.50000 0004 1936 8542National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine, School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU Leicestershire UK
| | - Patrick C. Wheeler
- grid.6571.50000 0004 1936 8542National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine, School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU Leicestershire UK
| | - Mark P. Lewis
- grid.6571.50000 0004 1936 8542National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine, School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU Leicestershire UK
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18
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Asakawa K, Handa H, Kawakami K. Illuminating ALS Motor Neurons With Optogenetics in Zebrafish. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:640414. [PMID: 33816488 PMCID: PMC8012537 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.640414] [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: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurological disorder characterized by progressive degeneration of motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. Spinal motor neurons align along the spinal cord length within the vertebral column, and extend long axons to connect with skeletal muscles covering the body surface. Due to this anatomy, spinal motor neurons are among the most difficult cells to observe in vivo. Larval zebrafish have transparent bodies that allow non-invasive visualization of whole cells of single spinal motor neurons, from somas to the neuromuscular synapses. This unique feature, combined with its amenability to genome editing, pharmacology, and optogenetics, enables functional analyses of ALS-associated proteins in the spinal motor neurons in vivo with subcellular resolution. Here, we review the zebrafish skeletal neuromuscular system and the optical methods used to study it. We then introduce a recently developed optogenetic zebrafish ALS model that uses light illumination to control oligomerization, phase transition and aggregation of the ALS-associated DNA/RNA-binding protein called TDP-43. Finally, we will discuss how this disease-in-a-fish ALS model can help solve key questions about ALS pathogenesis and lead to new ALS therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhide Asakawa
- Department of Chemical Biology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Handa
- Department of Chemical Biology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koichi Kawakami
- Division of Molecular and Developmental Biology, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Japan.,Department of Genetics, Graduate University for Advanced Studies (SOKENDAI), Mishima, Japan
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Presynaptic Homeostasis Opposes Disease Progression in Mouse Models of ALS-Like Degeneration: Evidence for Homeostatic Neuroprotection. Neuron 2020; 107:95-111.e6. [PMID: 32380032 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2020.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Progressive synapse loss is an inevitable and insidious part of age-related neurodegenerative disease. Typically, synapse loss precedes symptoms of cognitive and motor decline. This suggests the existence of compensatory mechanisms that can temporarily counteract the effects of ongoing neurodegeneration. Here, we demonstrate that presynaptic homeostatic plasticity (PHP) is induced at degenerating neuromuscular junctions, mediated by an evolutionarily conserved activity of presynaptic ENaC channels in both Drosophila and mouse. To assess the consequence of eliminating PHP in a mouse model of ALS-like degeneration, we generated a motoneuron-specific deletion of Scnn1a, encoding the ENaC channel alpha subunit. We show that Scnn1a is essential for PHP without adversely affecting baseline neural function or lifespan. However, Scnn1a knockout in a degeneration-causing mutant background accelerated motoneuron loss and disease progression to twice the rate observed in littermate controls with intact PHP. We propose a model of neuroprotective homeostatic plasticity, extending organismal lifespan and health span.
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20
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Espino-Saldaña AE, Rodríguez-Ortiz R, Pereida-Jaramillo E, Martínez-Torres A. Modeling Neuronal Diseases in Zebrafish in the Era of CRISPR. Curr Neuropharmacol 2020; 18:136-152. [PMID: 31573887 PMCID: PMC7324878 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x17666191001145550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Revised: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Danio rerio is a powerful experimental model for studies in genetics and development. Recently, CRISPR technology has been applied in this species to mimic various human diseases, including those affecting the nervous system. Zebrafish offer multiple experimental advantages: external embryogenesis, rapid development, transparent embryos, short life cycle, and basic neurobiological processes shared with humans. This animal model, together with the CRISPR system, emerging imaging technologies, and novel behavioral approaches, lay the basis for a prominent future in neuropathology and will undoubtedly accelerate our understanding of brain function and its disorders. OBJECTIVE Gather relevant findings from studies that have used CRISPR technologies in zebrafish to explore basic neuronal function and model human diseases. METHODS We systematically reviewed the most recent literature about CRISPR technology applications for understanding brain function and neurological disorders in D. rerio. We highlighted the key role of CRISPR in driving forward our understanding of particular topics in neuroscience. RESULTS We show specific advances in neurobiology when the CRISPR system has been applied in zebrafish and describe how CRISPR is accelerating our understanding of brain organization. CONCLUSION Today, CRISPR is the preferred method to modify genomes of practically any living organism. Despite the rapid development of CRISPR technologies to generate disease models in zebrafish, more efforts are needed to efficiently combine different disciplines to find the etiology and treatments for many brain diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angeles Edith Espino-Saldaña
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Laboratorio de Neurobiología Molecular y Celular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Campus UNAM Juriquilla, Querétaro, Qro CP76230, México
- Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Av. de las Ciencias S/N, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Roberto Rodríguez-Ortiz
- CONACYT - Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México. Querétaro, Qro., México
| | - Elizabeth Pereida-Jaramillo
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Laboratorio de Neurobiología Molecular y Celular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Campus UNAM Juriquilla, Querétaro, Qro CP76230, México
| | - Ataúlfo Martínez-Torres
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Laboratorio de Neurobiología Molecular y Celular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Campus UNAM Juriquilla, Querétaro, Qro CP76230, México
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21
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Bose P. Novel small molecule TRVA242 targets neuromuscular junction in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Neural Regen Res 2019; 15:1041-1042. [PMID: 31823882 PMCID: PMC7034275 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.270309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Poulomee Bose
- Department of Neuroscience, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire St. Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
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22
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DNA repair and neurological disease: From molecular understanding to the development of diagnostics and model organisms. DNA Repair (Amst) 2019; 81:102669. [PMID: 31331820 DOI: 10.1016/j.dnarep.2019.102669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In both replicating and non-replicating cells, the maintenance of genomic stability is of utmost importance. Dividing cells can repair DNA damage during cell division, tolerate the damage by employing potentially mutagenic DNA polymerases or die via apoptosis. However, the options for accurate DNA repair are more limited in non-replicating neuronal cells. If DNA damage is left unresolved, neuronal cells die causing neurodegenerative disorders. A number of pathogenic variants of DNA repair proteins have been linked to multiple neurological diseases. The current challenge is to harness our knowledge of fundamental properties of DNA repair to improve diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of such debilitating disorders. In this perspective, we will focus on recent efforts in identifying novel DNA repair biomarkers for the diagnosis of neurological disorders and their use in monitoring the patient response to therapy. These efforts are greatly facilitated by the development of model organisms such as zebrafish, which will also be summarised.
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23
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Petel Légaré V, Harji ZA, Rampal CJ, Allard-Chamard X, Rodríguez EC, Armstrong GAB. Augmentation of spinal cord glutamatergic synaptic currents in zebrafish primary motoneurons expressing mutant human TARDBP (TDP-43). Sci Rep 2019; 9:9122. [PMID: 31235725 PMCID: PMC6591224 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-45530-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [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: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Though there is compelling evidence that de-innervation of neuromuscular junctions (NMJ) occurs early in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), defects arising at synapses in the spinal cord remain incompletely understood. To investigate spinal cord synaptic dysfunction, we took advantage of a zebrafish larval model and expressed either wild type human TARDBP (wtTARDBP) or the ALS-causing G348C variant (mutTARDBP). The larval zebrafish is ideally suited to examine synaptic connectivity between descending populations of neurons and spinal cord motoneurons as a fully intact spinal cord is preserved during experimentation. Here we provide evidence that the tail-beat motor pattern is reduced in both frequency and duration in larvae expressing mutTARDBP. In addition, we report that motor-related synaptic depolarizations in primary motoneurons of the spinal cord are shorter in duration and fewer action potentials are evoked in larvae expressing mutTARDBP. To more thoroughly examine spinal cord synaptic dysfunction in our ALS model, we isolated AMPA/kainate-mediated glutamatergic miniature excitatory post-synaptic currents in primary motoneurons and found that in addition to displaying a larger amplitude, the frequency of quantal events was higher in larvae expressing mutTARDBP when compared to larvae expressing wtTARDBP. In a final series of experiments, we optogenetically drove neuronal activity in the hindbrain and spinal cord population of descending ipsilateral glutamatergic interneurons (expressing Chx10) using the Gal4-UAS system and found that larvae expressing mutTARDBP displayed abnormal tail-beat patterns in response to optogenetic stimuli and augmented synaptic connectivity with motoneurons. These findings indicate that expression of mutTARDBP results in functionally altered glutamatergic synapses in the spinal cord.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginie Petel Légaré
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Ziyaan A Harji
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Christian J Rampal
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Xavier Allard-Chamard
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Esteban C Rodríguez
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Gary A B Armstrong
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.
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