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Cordone V. Biochemical and molecular determinants of the subclinical inflammatory mechanisms in Rett syndrome. Arch Biochem Biophys 2024; 757:110046. [PMID: 38815782 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2024.110046] [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: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
To date, Rett syndrome (RTT), a genetic disorder mainly caused by mutations in the X-linked MECP2 gene, is increasingly considered a broad-spectrum pathology, instead of just a neurodevelopmental disease, due to the multitude of peripheral co-morbidities and the compromised metabolic pathways, affecting the patients. The altered molecular processes include an impaired mitochondrial function, a perturbed redox homeostasis, a chronic subclinical inflammation and an improper cholesterol metabolism. The persistent subclinical inflammatory condition was first defined ten years ago, as a previously unrecognized feature of RTT, playing a role in the pathology progress and modulation of phenotypical severity. In light of this, the present work aims at reviewing the current knowledge on the chronic inflammatory status and the altered immune/inflammatory functions in RTT, as well as investigating the emerging mechanisms underlying this condition with a special focus on the latest findings about inflammasome system, autoimmunity responses and intestinal micro- and mycobiota. On these bases, although further research is needed, future therapeutic strategies able to re-establish an adequate immune/inflammatory response could represent potential approaches for RTT patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Cordone
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.
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2
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Musokhranova U, Grau C, Vergara C, Rodríguez-Pascau L, Xiol C, Castells AA, Alcántara S, Rodríguez-Pombo P, Pizcueta P, Martinell M, García-Cazorla A, Oyarzábal A. Mitochondrial modulation with leriglitazone as a potential treatment for Rett syndrome. J Transl Med 2023; 21:756. [PMID: 37884937 PMCID: PMC10601217 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04622-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rett syndrome is a neuropediatric disease occurring due to mutations in MECP2 and characterized by a regression in the neuronal development following a normal postnatal growth, which results in the loss of acquired capabilities such as speech or purposeful usage of hands. While altered neurotransmission and brain development are the center of its pathophysiology, alterations in mitochondrial performance have been previously outlined, shaping it as an attractive target for the disease treatment. METHODS We have thoroughly described mitochondrial performance in two Rett models, patients' primary fibroblasts and female Mecp2tm1.1Bird-/+ mice brain, discriminating between different brain areas. The characterization was made according to their bioenergetics function, oxidative stress, network dynamics or ultrastructure. Building on that, we have studied the effect of leriglitazone, a PPARγ agonist, in the modulation of mitochondrial performance. For that, we treated Rett female mice with 75 mg/kg/day leriglitazone from weaning until sacrifice at 7 months, studying both the mitochondrial performance changes and their consequences on the mice phenotype. Finally, we studied its effect on neuroinflammation based on the presence of reactive glia by immunohistochemistry and through a cytokine panel. RESULTS We have described mitochondrial alterations in Rett fibroblasts regarding both shape and bioenergetic functions, as they displayed less interconnected and shorter mitochondria and reduced ATP production along with increased oxidative stress. The bioenergetic alterations were recalled in Rett mice models, being especially significant in cerebellum, already detectable in pre-symptomatic stages. Treatment with leriglitazone recovered the bioenergetic alterations both in Rett fibroblasts and female mice and exerted an anti-inflammatory effect in the latest, resulting in the amelioration of the mice phenotype both in general condition and exploratory activity. CONCLUSIONS Our studies confirm the mitochondrial dysfunction in Rett syndrome, setting the differences through brain areas and disease stages. Its modulation through leriglitazone is a potential treatment for this disorder, along with other diseases with mitochondrial involvement. This work constitutes the preclinical necessary evidence to lead to a clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uliana Musokhranova
- Synaptic Metabolism and Personalized Therapies Lab, Department of Neurology and MetabERN, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 39-57 Santa Rosa Street, Esplugues de Llobregat , 08950, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Grau
- Synaptic Metabolism and Personalized Therapies Lab, Department of Neurology and MetabERN, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 39-57 Santa Rosa Street, Esplugues de Llobregat , 08950, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Clara Xiol
- Department of Medical Genetics, Institut de Recerca Pediàtrica, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alba A Castells
- Neural Development Lab, Departament de Patologia i Terapèutica Experimental, Institut de Neurociències, IDIBELL, Universitat de Barcelona, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Soledad Alcántara
- Neural Development Lab, Departament de Patologia i Terapèutica Experimental, Institut de Neurociències, IDIBELL, Universitat de Barcelona, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pilar Rodríguez-Pombo
- Centro de Diagnóstico de Enfermedades Moleculares, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, CBM-CSIC, Departamento de Biología Molecular, Institute for Molecular Biology-IUBM, Universidad Autónoma Madrid, IDIPAZ, Madrid, Spain
- CIBERER-Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Rare Diseases, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Marc Martinell
- Minoryx Therapeutics BE S.A., Gosselies, Charleroi, Belgium
- Minoryx Therapeutics S.L., Barcelona, Spain
| | - Angels García-Cazorla
- Synaptic Metabolism and Personalized Therapies Lab, Department of Neurology and MetabERN, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 39-57 Santa Rosa Street, Esplugues de Llobregat , 08950, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBERER-Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Rare Diseases, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alfonso Oyarzábal
- Synaptic Metabolism and Personalized Therapies Lab, Department of Neurology and MetabERN, Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 39-57 Santa Rosa Street, Esplugues de Llobregat , 08950, Barcelona, Spain.
- CIBERER-Spanish Biomedical Research Centre in Rare Diseases, Madrid, Spain.
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3
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Vallese A, Cordone V, Pecorelli A, Valacchi G. Ox-inflammasome involvement in neuroinflammation. Free Radic Biol Med 2023; 207:161-177. [PMID: 37442280 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2023.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation plays a crucial role in the onset and the progression of several neuropathologies, from neurodegenerative disorders to migraine, from Rett syndrome to post-COVID 19 neurological manifestations. Inflammasomes are cytosolic multiprotein complexes of the innate immune system that fuel inflammation. They have been under study for the last twenty years and more recently their involvement in neuro-related conditions has been of great interest as possible therapeutic target. The role of oxidative stress in inflammasome activation has been described, however the exact way of action of specific endogenous and exogenous oxidants needs to be better clarified. In this review, we provide the current knowledge on the involvement of inflammasome in the main neuropathologies, emphasizing the importance to further clarify the role of oxidative stress in its activation including the role of mitochondria in inflammasome-induced neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Vallese
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Prevention, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valeria Cordone
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Prevention, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandra Pecorelli
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Prevention, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Valacchi
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Prevention, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy; Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University, 28081, Kannapolis, USA; Department of Food and Nutrition, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea.
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4
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Belaïdouni Y, Diabira D, Brosset-Heckel M, Valsamides V, Graziano JC, Santos C, Menuet C, Wayman GA, Gaiarsa JL. Leptin antagonism improves Rett syndrome phenotype in symptomatic male Mecp2-null mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.03.526251. [PMID: 36778454 PMCID: PMC9915649 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.03.526251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder that arise from de novo mutations in the X-linked gene MECP2 (methyl-CpG-binding protein 2). Circulating levels of the adipocyte hormone leptin are elevated in RTT patients and rodent models of the disease. Leptin targets a large number of brain structures and regulates a wide range of developmental and physiological functions which are altered in RTT. We hypothesized that elevated leptin levels might contribute to RTT pathogenesis. Accordingly, we show that pharmacological antagonism of leptin or genetic reduction of leptin production prevents the degradation of health status, weight loss and the progression of breathing and locomotor deficits. At the neuronal level, the anti-leptin strategies rescue the hippocampal excitatory/inhibitory imbalance and synaptic plasticity impairment. Targeting leptin might therefore represent a new approach for RTT treatment.
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5
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Lu S, Chen Y, Wang Z. Advances in the pathogenesis of Rett syndrome using cell models. Animal Model Exp Med 2022; 5:532-541. [PMID: 35785421 PMCID: PMC9773312 DOI: 10.1002/ame2.12236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a progressive neurodevelopmental disorder that occurs mainly in girls with a range of typical symptoms of autism spectrum disorders. MeCP2 protein loss-of-function in neural lineage cells is the main cause of RTT pathogenicity. As it is still hard to understand the mechanism of RTT on the basis of only clinical patients or animal models, cell models cultured in vitro play indispensable roles. Here we reviewed the research progress in the pathogenesis of RTT at the cellular level, summarized the preclinical-research-related applications, and prospected potential future development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sijia Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational MedicineKunming University of Science and TechnologyKunmingChina,Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical ResearchKunmingChina
| | - Yongchang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational MedicineKunming University of Science and TechnologyKunmingChina,Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical ResearchKunmingChina
| | - Zhengbo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational MedicineKunming University of Science and TechnologyKunmingChina,Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical ResearchKunmingChina
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6
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Meneely SJ, McFadzean J. Acute respiratory compromise due to bilateral pneumothoraces in a patient with Rett syndrome. Anaesth Rep 2021; 9:e12135. [PMID: 34820625 DOI: 10.1002/anr3.12135] [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] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
This is a case of acute respiratory distress in a nine-year-old with severe Rett syndrome who required immediate anaesthetic assistance in the emergency department and during her subsequent hospital stay. Rett syndrome is a rare inherited neurodevelopmental disease that more commonly affects females. It is characterised by a period of normal development up to between six and 18 months of age, followed by a gradual but progressive loss of developmental skills leading to severe cognitive and physical decline. Other features include autistic-type behaviour, oral-motor and autonomic dysfunction and gastrointestinal disturbance. Patients can present for elective surgery for scoliosis correction, ear, nose and throat procedures or placement of a gastrostomy. They can also present acutely, either with an un-associated condition or due to aspiration from a poor gag or swallow. This report highlights the specific risks relevant to anaesthesia in patients with Rett syndrome, especially in considering the association with bilateral apical bullae and pneumothorax which could impact on the ventilation strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- S J Meneely
- Department of Anaesthetics and Intensive Care Medicine Royal Hospital for Children and Young People Edinburgh UK
| | - J McFadzean
- Department of Anaesthetics and Intensive Care Medicine Royal Hospital for Children and Young People Edinburgh UK
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7
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Marballi K, MacDonald JL. Proteomic and transcriptional changes associated with MeCP2 dysfunction reveal nodes for therapeutic intervention in Rett syndrome. Neurochem Int 2021; 148:105076. [PMID: 34048843 PMCID: PMC8286335 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2021.105076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in the methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene cause Rett syndrome (RTT), an X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder predominantly impacting females. MECP2 is an epigenetic transcriptional regulator acting mainly to repress gene expression, though it plays multiple gene regulatory roles and has distinct molecular targets across different cell types and specific developmental stages. In this review, we summarize MECP2 loss-of-function associated transcriptome and proteome disruptions, delving deeper into the latter which have been comparatively severely understudied. These disruptions converge on multiple biochemical and cellular pathways, including those involved in synaptic function and neurodevelopment, NF-κB signaling and inflammation, and the vitamin D pathway. RTT is a complex neurological disorder characterized by myriad physiological disruptions, in both the central nervous system and peripheral systems. Thus, treating RTT will likely require a combinatorial approach, targeting multiple nodes within the interactomes of these cellular pathways. To this end, we discuss the use of dietary supplements and factors, namely, vitamin D and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), as possible partial therapeutic agents given their demonstrated benefit in RTT and their ability to restore homeostasis to multiple disrupted cellular pathways simultaneously. Further unravelling the complex molecular alterations induced by MECP2 loss-of-function, and contextualizing them at the level of proteome homeostasis, will identify new therapeutic avenues for this complex disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ketan Marballi
- Department of Biology, Program in Neuroscience, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Jessica L MacDonald
- Department of Biology, Program in Neuroscience, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, USA.
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8
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Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a severe X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by neurodevelopmental regression between 6 and 18 months of life and associated with multi-system comorbidities. Caused mainly by pathogenic variants in the MECP2 (methyl CpG binding protein 2) gene, it is the second leading genetic cause of intellectual disability in girls after Down syndrome. RTT affects not only neurological function but also a wide array of non-neurological organs. RTT-related disorders involve abnormalities of the respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive, metabolic, skeletal, endocrine, muscular, and urinary systems and immune response. Here, we review the different aspects of RTT affecting the main peripheral groups of organs and sometimes occurring independently of nervous system defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Borloz
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, MMG, U1251, Faculté de médecine Timone, 13385, Marseille, France
| | - Laurent Villard
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, MMG, U1251, Faculté de médecine Timone, 13385, Marseille, France
| | - Jean-Christophe Roux
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, MMG, U1251, Faculté de médecine Timone, 13385, Marseille, France
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9
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Zalosnik MI, Fabio MC, Bertoldi ML, Castañares CN, Degano AL. MeCP2 deficiency exacerbates the neuroinflammatory setting and autoreactive response during an autoimmune challenge. Sci Rep 2021; 11:10997. [PMID: 34040112 PMCID: PMC8155097 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-90517-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome is a severe and progressive neurological disorder linked to mutations in the MeCP2 gene. It has been suggested that immune alterations may play an active role in the generation and/or maintenance of RTT phenotypes. However, there is no clear consensus about which pathways are regulated in vivo by MeCP2 in the context of immune activation. In the present work we set to characterize the role of MeCP2 during the progression of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis (EAE) using the MeCP2308/y mouse model (MUT), which represents a condition of "MeCP2 function deficiency". Our results showed that MeCP2 deficiency increased the susceptibility to develop EAE, along with a defective induction of anti-inflammatory responses and an exacerbated MOG-specific IFNγ expression in immune sites. In MUT-EAE spinal cord, we found a chronic increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines gene expression (IFNγ, TNFα and IL-1β) and downregulation of genes involved in immune regulation (IL-10, FoxP3 and CX3CR1). Moreover, our results indicate that MeCP2 acts intrinsically upon immune activation, affecting neuroimmune homeostasis by regulating the pro-inflammatory/anti-inflammatory balance in vivo. These results are relevant to identify the potential consequences of MeCP2 mutations on immune homeostasis and to explore novel therapeutic strategies for MeCP2-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- M I Zalosnik
- Departamento de Química Biológica Ranwel Caputto, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Química Biológica de Córdoba, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CIQUIBIC, CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - M C Fabio
- Instituto de Investigación Médica Mercedes y Martín Ferreyra, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba (INIMEC-CONICET-UNC), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - M L Bertoldi
- Departamento de Química Biológica Ranwel Caputto, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Química Biológica de Córdoba, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CIQUIBIC, CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - C N Castañares
- Instituto de Investigación Médica Mercedes y Martín Ferreyra, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba (INIMEC-CONICET-UNC), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - A L Degano
- Departamento de Química Biológica Ranwel Caputto, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina.
- Centro de Investigaciones en Química Biológica de Córdoba, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CIQUIBIC, CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina.
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10
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Rodrigues DC, Mufteev M, Weatheritt RJ, Djuric U, Ha KCH, Ross PJ, Wei W, Piekna A, Sartori MA, Byres L, Mok RSF, Zaslavsky K, Pasceri P, Diamandis P, Morris Q, Blencowe BJ, Ellis J. Shifts in Ribosome Engagement Impact Key Gene Sets in Neurodevelopment and Ubiquitination in Rett Syndrome. Cell Rep 2021; 30:4179-4196.e11. [PMID: 32209477 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.02.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Revised: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulation of translation during human development is poorly understood, and its dysregulation is associated with Rett syndrome (RTT). To discover shifts in mRNA ribosomal engagement (RE) during human neurodevelopment, we use parallel translating ribosome affinity purification sequencing (TRAP-seq) and RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) on control and RTT human induced pluripotent stem cells, neural progenitor cells, and cortical neurons. We find that 30% of transcribed genes are translationally regulated, including key gene sets (neurodevelopment, transcription and translation factors, and glycolysis). Approximately 35% of abundant intergenic long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are ribosome engaged. Neurons translate mRNAs more efficiently and have longer 3' UTRs, and RE correlates with elements for RNA-binding proteins. RTT neurons have reduced global translation and compromised mTOR signaling, and >2,100 genes are translationally dysregulated. NEDD4L E3-ubiquitin ligase is translationally impaired, ubiquitinated protein levels are reduced, and protein targets accumulate in RTT neurons. Overall, the dynamic translatome in neurodevelopment is disturbed in RTT and provides insight into altered ubiquitination that may have therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deivid C Rodrigues
- Program in Developmental & Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Marat Mufteev
- Program in Developmental & Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Robert J Weatheritt
- Donnelly Center for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Ugljesa Djuric
- Laboratory Medicine and Pathology Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Kevin C H Ha
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; Donnelly Center for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada; Vector Institute, 661 University Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada
| | - P Joel Ross
- Program in Developmental & Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Wei Wei
- Program in Developmental & Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Alina Piekna
- Program in Developmental & Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Maria A Sartori
- Program in Developmental & Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Loryn Byres
- Program in Developmental & Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Rebecca S F Mok
- Program in Developmental & Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Kirill Zaslavsky
- Program in Developmental & Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Peter Pasceri
- Program in Developmental & Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Phedias Diamandis
- Laboratory Medicine and Pathology Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada; Department of Pathology, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Quaid Morris
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; Donnelly Center for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada; Vector Institute, 661 University Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada
| | - Benjamin J Blencowe
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; Donnelly Center for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - James Ellis
- Program in Developmental & Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.
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Unraveling Molecular Pathways Altered in MeCP2-Related Syndromes, in the Search for New Potential Avenues for Therapy. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9020148. [PMID: 33546327 PMCID: PMC7913493 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9020148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2) is an X-linked epigenetic modulator whose dosage is critical for neural development and function. Loss-of-function mutations in MECP2 cause Rett Syndrome (RTT, OMIM #312750) while duplications in the Xq28 locus containing MECP2 and Interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 1 (IRAK1) cause MECP2 duplication syndrome (MDS, OMIM #300260). Both are rare neurodevelopmental disorders that share clinical symptoms, including intellectual disability, loss of speech, hand stereotypies, vasomotor deficits and seizures. The main objective of this exploratory study is to identify novel signaling pathways and potential quantitative biomarkers that could aid early diagnosis and/or the monitoring of disease progression in clinical trials. We analyzed by RT-PCR gene expression in whole blood and microRNA (miRNA) expression in plasma, in a cohort of 20 females with Rett syndrome, 2 males with MECP2 duplication syndrome and 28 healthy controls, and correlated RNA expression with disease and clinical parameters. We have identified a set of potential biomarker panels for RTT diagnostic and disease stratification of patients with microcephaly and vasomotor deficits. Our study sets the basis for larger studies leading to the identification of specific miRNA signatures for early RTT detection, stratification, disease progression and segregation from other neurodevelopmental disorders. Nevertheless, these data will require verification and validation in further studies with larger sample size including a whole range of ages.
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12
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Emerging physiological and pathological roles of MeCP2 in non-neurological systems. Arch Biochem Biophys 2021; 700:108768. [PMID: 33485848 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2021.108768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Numerous neurological and non-neurological disorders are associated with dysfunction of epigenetic modulators, and methyl CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) is one of such proteins. Initially identified as a transcriptional repressor, MeCP2 specifically binds to methylated DNA, and mutations of MeCP2 have been shown to cause Rett syndrome (RTT), a severe neurological disorder. Recently, accumulating evidence suggests that ubiquitously expressed MeCP2 also plays a central role in non-neurological disorders including cardiac dysfunction, liver injury, respiratory disorders, urological dysfunction, adipose tissue metabolism disorders, movement abnormality and inflammatory responses in a DNA methylation dependent or independent manner. Despite significant progresses in our understanding of MeCP2 over the last few decades, there is still a considerable knowledge gap to translate the in vitro and in vivo experimental findings into therapeutic interventions. In this review, we provide a synopsis of the role of MeCP2 in the pathophysiology of non-neurological disorders, MeCP2-based research directions and therapeutic strategies for non-neurological disorders are also discussed.
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Sabitha KR, Shetty AK, Upadhya D. Patient-derived iPSC modeling of rare neurodevelopmental disorders: Molecular pathophysiology and prospective therapies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 121:201-219. [PMID: 33370574 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The pathological alterations that manifest during the early embryonic development due to inherited and acquired factors trigger various neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). Besides major NDDs, there are several rare NDDs, exhibiting specific characteristics and varying levels of severity triggered due to genetic and epigenetic anomalies. The rarity of subjects, paucity of neural tissues for detailed analysis, and the unavailability of disease-specific animal models have hampered detailed comprehension of rare NDDs, imposing heightened challenge to the medical and scientific community until a decade ago. The generation of functional neurons and glia through directed differentiation protocols for patient-derived iPSCs, CRISPR/Cas9 technology, and 3D brain organoid models have provided an excellent opportunity and vibrant resource for decoding the etiology of brain development for rare NDDs caused due to monogenic as well as polygenic disorders. The present review identifies cellular and molecular phenotypes demonstrated from patient-derived iPSCs and possible therapeutic opportunities identified for these disorders. New insights to reinforce the existing knowledge of the pathophysiology of these disorders and prospective therapeutic applications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- K R Sabitha
- Centre for Molecular Neurosciences, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Ashok K Shetty
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M University College of Medicine, College Station, TX, USA.
| | - Dinesh Upadhya
- Centre for Molecular Neurosciences, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, Karnataka, India.
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14
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Cicaloni V, Pecorelli A, Cordone V, Tinti L, Rossi M, Hayek J, Salvini L, Tinti C, Valacchi G. A proteomics approach to further highlight the altered inflammatory condition in Rett syndrome. Arch Biochem Biophys 2020; 696:108660. [PMID: 33159892 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2020.108660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a progressive neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutations in the X-linked MECP2 gene. RTT patients show multisystem disturbances associated with perturbed redox homeostasis and inflammation, which appear as possible key factors in RTT pathogenesis. In this study, using primary dermal fibroblasts from control and RTT subjects, we performed a proteomic analysis that, together with data mining approaches, allowed us to carry out a comprehensive characterization of RTT cellular proteome. Functional and pathway enrichment analyses showed that differentially expressed proteins in RTT were mainly enriched in biological processes related to immune/inflammatory responses. Overall, by using proteomic data mining as supportive approach, our results provide a detailed insight into the molecular pathways involved in RTT immune dysfunction that, causing tissue and organ damage, can increase the vulnerability of affected patients to unknown endogenous factors or infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Cicaloni
- Toscana Life Science Foundation, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandra Pecorelli
- Plants for Human Health Institute, Animal Science Dept., NC Research Campus, NC State University, 600 Laureate Way, Kannapolis, NC, 28081, USA
| | - Valeria Cordone
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Laura Tinti
- Toscana Life Science Foundation, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Marco Rossi
- Toscana Life Science Foundation, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Joussef Hayek
- Toscana Life Science Foundation, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Laura Salvini
- Toscana Life Science Foundation, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Cristina Tinti
- Toscana Life Science Foundation, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Valacchi
- Plants for Human Health Institute, Animal Science Dept., NC Research Campus, NC State University, 600 Laureate Way, Kannapolis, NC, 28081, USA; Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy; Kyung Hee University, Department of Food and Nutrition, Seoul, South Korea.
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15
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Singh J, Lanzarini E, Santosh P. Organic features of autonomic dysregulation in paediatric brain injury - Clinical and research implications for the management of patients with Rett syndrome. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 118:809-827. [PMID: 32861739 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Rett Syndrome (RTT) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder with autonomic nervous system dysfunction. The understanding of this autonomic dysregulation remains incomplete and treatment recommendations are lacking. By searching literature regarding childhood brain injury, we wanted to see whether understanding autonomic dysregulation following childhood brain injury as a prototype can help us better understand the autonomic dysregulation in RTT. Thirty-one (31) articles were identified and following thematic analysis the three main themes that emerged were (A) Recognition of Autonomic Dysregulation, (B) Possible Mechanisms & Assessment of Autonomic Dysregulation and (C) Treatment of Autonomic Dysregulation. We conclude that in patients with RTT (I) anatomically, thalamic and hypothalamic function should be explored, (II) sensory issues and medication induced side effects that can worsen autonomic function should be considered, and (III) diaphoresis and dystonia ought to be better managed. Our synthesis of data from autonomic dysregulation in paediatric brain injury has led to increased knowledge and a better understanding of its underpinnings, leading to the development of application protocols in children with RTT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jatinder Singh
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Centre for Interventional Paediatric Psychopharmacology and Rare Diseases, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; Centre for Personalised Medicine in Rett Syndrome, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Evamaria Lanzarini
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Infermi Hospital, Rimini, Italy
| | - Paramala Santosh
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Centre for Interventional Paediatric Psychopharmacology and Rare Diseases, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; Centre for Personalised Medicine in Rett Syndrome, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
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16
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Cicaloni V, Pecorelli A, Tinti L, Rossi M, Benedusi M, Cervellati C, Spiga O, Santucci A, Hayek J, Salvini L, Tinti C, Valacchi G. Proteomic profiling reveals mitochondrial alterations in Rett syndrome. Free Radic Biol Med 2020; 155:37-48. [PMID: 32445864 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2020.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a pervasive neurodevelopmental disorder associated with mutation in MECP2 gene. Despite a well-defined genetic cause, there is a growing consensus that a metabolic component could play a pivotal role in RTT pathophysiology. Indeed, perturbed redox homeostasis and inflammation, i.e. oxinflammation, with mitochondria dysfunction as the central hub between the two phenomena, appear as possible key contributing factors to RTT pathogenesis and its clinical features. While these RTT-related changes have been widely documented by transcriptomic profiling, proteomics studies supporting these evidences are still limited. Here, using primary dermal fibroblasts from control and patients, we perform a large-scale proteomic analysis that, together with data mining approaches, allow us to carry out the first comprehensive characterization of RTT cellular proteome, showing mainly changes in expression of proteins involved in the mitochondrial network. These findings parallel with an altered expression of key mediators of mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy associated with abnormal mitochondrial morphology. In conclusion, our proteomic analysis confirms the pathological relevance of mitochondrial dysfunction in RTT pathogenesis and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Cicaloni
- Toscana Life Science Foundation, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandra Pecorelli
- Plants for Human Health Institute, Animal Science Dept., NC Research Campus, NC State University, 600 Laureate Way, Kannapolis, NC, 28081, USA
| | - Laura Tinti
- Toscana Life Science Foundation, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Marco Rossi
- Toscana Life Science Foundation, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Mascia Benedusi
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlo Cervellati
- Department of Morphology and Experimental Medicine University of Ferrara, via Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ottavia Spiga
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Via Aldo Moro 2, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Annalisa Santucci
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Via Aldo Moro 2, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Joussef Hayek
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University General Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Viale M. Bracci 16, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Laura Salvini
- Toscana Life Science Foundation, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Cristina Tinti
- Toscana Life Science Foundation, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Valacchi
- Plants for Human Health Institute, Animal Science Dept., NC Research Campus, NC State University, 600 Laureate Way, Kannapolis, NC, 28081, USA; Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy; Kyung Hee University, Department of Food and Nutrition, Seoul, South Korea.
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17
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Pecorelli A, Cervellati C, Cordone V, Hayek J, Valacchi G. Compromised immune/inflammatory responses in Rett syndrome. Free Radic Biol Med 2020; 152:100-106. [PMID: 32119978 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2020.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in X-linked gene methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2), a key transcriptional regulator, account for most cases of Rett syndrome (RTT), a devastating neurodevelopmental disorder with no known cure. Despite extensive research to elucidate MeCP2 functions, the mechanisms underlying RTT pathophysiology are still unclear. In addition to a variety of neurological symptoms, RTT also includes a plethora of additional phenotypical features including altered lipid metabolism, redox imbalance, immune dysfunction and mitochondrial abnormalities that explain its multisystemic nature. Here, we provide an overview of the current knowledge on the potential role of dysregulated inflammatory and immune responses in RTT. The findings show that abnormalities of humoral and cell-mediated immunity together with chronic low-grade inflammation in multiple organs represent not only clinical manifestations of RTT but rather can contribute to its development and deteriorating course. A future research challenge could be to target therapeutically immune dysfunction as a novel means for RTT management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Pecorelli
- Plants for Human Health Institute, Dept. of Animal Science, NC Research Campus, NC State University, Kannapolis, 28081, NC, USA
| | - Carlo Cervellati
- Dept. of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valeria Cordone
- Dept. of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Joussef Hayek
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University General Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Valacchi
- Plants for Human Health Institute, Dept. of Animal Science, NC Research Campus, NC State University, Kannapolis, 28081, NC, USA; Dept. of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121, Ferrara, Italy; Dept. of Food and Nutrition, Kyung Hee University, 02447, Seoul, South Korea.
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18
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Sbardella D, Tundo GR, Cunsolo V, Grasso G, Cascella R, Caputo V, Santoro AM, Milardi D, Pecorelli A, Ciaccio C, Di Pierro D, Leoncini S, Campagnolo L, Pironi V, Oddone F, Manni P, Foti S, Giardina E, De Felice C, Hayek J, Curatolo P, Galasso C, Valacchi G, Coletta M, Graziani G, Marini S. Defective proteasome biogenesis into skin fibroblasts isolated from Rett syndrome subjects with MeCP2 non-sense mutations. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2020; 1866:165793. [PMID: 32275946 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2020.165793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2019] [Revised: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Rett Syndrome (RTT) is a rare X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder which affects about 1: 10000 live births. In >95% of subjects RTT is caused by a mutation in Methyl-CpG binding protein-2 (MECP2) gene, which encodes for a transcription regulator with pleiotropic genetic/epigenetic activities. The molecular mechanisms underscoring the phenotypic alteration of RTT are largely unknown and this has impaired the development of therapeutic approaches to alleviate signs and symptoms during disease progression. A defective proteasome biogenesis into two skin primary fibroblasts isolated from RTT subjects harbouring non-sense (early-truncating) MeCP2 mutations (i.e., R190fs and R255X) is herewith reported. Proteasome is the proteolytic machinery of Ubiquitin Proteasome System (UPS), a pathway of overwhelming relevance for post-mitotic cells metabolism. Molecular, transcription and proteomic analyses indicate that MeCP2 mutations down-regulate the expression of one proteasome subunit, α7, and of two chaperones, PAC1 and PAC2, which bind each other in the earliest step of proteasome biogenesis. Furthermore, this molecular alteration recapitulates in neuron-like SH-SY5Y cells upon silencing of MeCP2 expression, envisaging a general significance of this transcription regulator in proteasome biogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Sbardella
- IRCSS-Fondazione GB Bietti, Via Livenza, 3, 00198 Rome, Italy
| | - Grazia Raffaella Tundo
- Dept of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Grasso
- Department of Chemistry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Raffaella Cascella
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy; Molecular Genetics Laboratory UILDM, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Valerio Caputo
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy; Molecular Genetics Laboratory UILDM, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Danilo Milardi
- Institute of Crystallography, National Research Council, Catania, Italy
| | - Alessandra Pecorelli
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy; Plant for Human Health Institute, North Carolina State University, Kannapolis, NC, USA
| | - Chiara Ciaccio
- Dept of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Donato Di Pierro
- Dept of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Leoncini
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese (AOUS), Siena, Italy; Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese (AOUS), Siena, Italy
| | - Luisa Campagnolo
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy
| | - Virginia Pironi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy
| | | | - Priscilla Manni
- Ophthalmology Unit, St. Andrea Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, NESMOS Department, University of Rome "Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Salvatore Foti
- Department of Chemistry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Emiliano Giardina
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy; Molecular Genetics Laboratory UILDM, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio De Felice
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese (AOUS), Siena, Italy
| | - Joussef Hayek
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese (AOUS), Siena, Italy; "Isola di Bau", Multi-Specialist Centre, Certaldo (Florence), Italy
| | - Paolo Curatolo
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy
| | - Cinzia Galasso
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Valacchi
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy; Plant for Human Health Institute, North Carolina State University, Kannapolis, NC, USA
| | - Massimiliano Coletta
- Dept of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Grazia Graziani
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Marini
- Dept of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
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19
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Magdalon J, Mansur F, Teles E Silva AL, de Goes VA, Reiner O, Sertié AL. Complement System in Brain Architecture and Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:23. [PMID: 32116493 PMCID: PMC7015047 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Current evidence indicates that certain immune molecules such as components of the complement system are directly involved in neurobiological processes related to brain development, including neurogenesis, neuronal migration, synaptic remodeling, and response to prenatal or early postnatal brain insults. Consequently, complement system dysfunction has been increasingly implicated in disorders of neurodevelopmental origin, such as schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Rett syndrome. However, the mechanistic evidence for a causal relationship between impaired complement regulation and these disorders varies depending on the disease involved. Also, it is still unclear to what extent altered complement expression plays a role in these disorders through inflammation-independent or -dependent mechanisms. Furthermore, pathogenic mutations in specific complement components have been implicated in the etiology of 3MC syndrome, a rare autosomal recessive developmental disorder. The aims of this review are to discuss the current knowledge on the roles of the complement system in sculpting brain architecture and function during normal development as well as after specific inflammatory insults, such as maternal immune activation (MIA) during pregnancy, and to evaluate the existing evidence associating aberrant complement with developmental brain disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Magdalon
- Center for Experimental Research, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil.,School of Medicine, Faculdade Israelita de Ciências da Saúde Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Mansur
- Center for Experimental Research, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - André Luiz Teles E Silva
- Center for Experimental Research, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Genetics and Evolutionary Biology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vitor Abreu de Goes
- Center for Experimental Research, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil.,School of Medicine, Faculdade Israelita de Ciências da Saúde Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Orly Reiner
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Andréa Laurato Sertié
- Center for Experimental Research, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
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20
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Comprehensive Analysis of GABA A-A1R Developmental Alterations in Rett Syndrome: Setting the Focus for Therapeutic Targets in the Time Frame of the Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21020518. [PMID: 31947619 PMCID: PMC7014188 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21020518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Revised: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome, a serious neurodevelopmental disorder, has been associated with an altered expression of different synaptic-related proteins and aberrant glutamatergic and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic neurotransmission. Despite its severity, it lacks a therapeutic option. Through this work we aimed to define the relationship between MeCP2 and GABAA.-A1 receptor expression, emphasizing the time dependence of such relationship. For this, we analyzed the expression of the ionotropic receptor subunit in different MeCP2 gene-dosage and developmental conditions, in cells lines, and in primary cultured neurons, as well as in different developmental stages of a Rett mouse model. Further, RNAseq and systems biology analysis was performed from post-mortem brain biopsies of Rett patients. We observed that the modulation of the MeCP2 expression in cellular models (both Neuro2a (N2A) cells and primary neuronal cultures) revealed a MeCP2 positive effect on the GABAA.-A1 receptor subunit expression, which did not occur in other proteins such as KCC2 (Potassium-chloride channel, member 5). In the Mecp2+/− mouse brain, both the KCC2 and GABA subunits expression were developmentally regulated, with a decreased expression during the pre-symptomatic stage, while the expression was variable in the adult symptomatic mice. Finally, the expression of the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor-related synaptic proteins from the postmortem brain biopsies of two Rett patients was evaluated, specifically revealing the GABA A1R subunit overexpression. The identification of the molecular changes along with the Rett syndrome prodromic stages strongly endorses the importance of time frame when addressing this disease, supporting the need for a neurotransmission-targeted early therapeutic intervention.
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21
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Byiers BJ, Merbler AM, Barney CC, Frenn KA, Panoskaltsis-Mortari A, Ehrhardt MJ, Feyma TJ, Beisang AA, Symons F. Evidence of altered salivary cytokine concentrations in Rett syndrome and associations with clinical severity. Brain Behav Immun Health 2020; 1:100008. [PMID: 38377412 PMCID: PMC8474566 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2019.100008] [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: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Immune dysregulation may play a role in the development of Rett syndrome (RTT), a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutations of the MECP2 gene. Abnormal cytokine concentrations have been documented in the serum of individuals with RTT. Measurement of salivary cytokines has been investigated as a potential alternative approach to measurement in blood and serum, but it is unclear whether salivary cytokine concentrations can provide valid information about systemic immune function in neurodevelopmental disorders. The goal of this study was to evaluate the potential validity of salivary cytokines as biomarkers of immune dysregulation in RTT. Methods Saliva samples from 16 individuals with RTT (all female; age range 2-40 years) and 16 healthy control females (age range 2-40 years) were analyzed for concentrations of 12 cytokines. Between-group differences in concentrations, and correlations with clinical severity in the RTT group were evaluated. Results Concentrations of several salivary cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, GM-CSF, TNF-α, and VEGF) were increased in RTT compared to controls. The same cytokines showed significant positive correlations with clinical severity scores. There were no differences in concentrations of IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-12p70, and IFN-γ. Conclusion The results suggest that salivary cytokines may be a possible indicator of immune dysregulation in RTT. Future research should investigate whether these results can be applied to other neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Breanne J. Byiers
- Department of Educational Psychology, 56 E River Rd, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Alyssa M. Merbler
- Department of Educational Psychology, 56 E River Rd, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Chantel C. Barney
- Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare, 200 University Ave E, St. Paul, Minnesota, 55101, USA
| | - Kristin A. Frenn
- Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare, 200 University Ave E, St. Paul, Minnesota, 55101, USA
| | - Angela Panoskaltsis-Mortari
- Cancer Center and Department of Pediatrics, Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, 2450 Riverside Ave, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55454, USA
| | - Michael J. Ehrhardt
- Cancer Center and Department of Pediatrics, Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, 2450 Riverside Ave, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55454, USA
| | - Timothy J. Feyma
- Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare, 200 University Ave E, St. Paul, Minnesota, 55101, USA
| | - Arthur A. Beisang
- Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare, 200 University Ave E, St. Paul, Minnesota, 55101, USA
| | - Frank Symons
- Department of Educational Psychology, 56 E River Rd, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
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22
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Cordone V, Pecorelli A, Amicarelli F, Hayek J, Valacchi G. The complexity of Rett syndrome models: Primary fibroblasts as a disease-in-a-dish reliable approach. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ddmod.2019.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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23
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Smith ES, Smith DR, Eyring C, Braileanu M, Smith-Connor KS, Ei Tan Y, Fowler AY, Hoffman GE, Johnston MV, Kannan S, Blue ME. Altered trajectories of neurodevelopment and behavior in mouse models of Rett syndrome. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2019; 165:106962. [PMID: 30502397 PMCID: PMC8040058 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2018.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Revised: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Rett Syndrome (RTT) is a genetic disorder that is caused by mutations in the x-linked gene coding for methyl-CpG-biding-protein 2 (MECP2) and that mainly affects females. Male and female transgenic mouse models of RTT have been studied extensively, and we have learned a great deal regarding RTT neuropathology and how MeCP2 deficiency may be influencing brain function and maturation. In this manuscript we review what is known concerning structural and coinciding functional and behavioral deficits in RTT and in mouse models of MeCP2 deficiency. We also introduce our own corroborating data regarding behavioral phenotype and morphological alterations in volume of the cortex and striatum and the density of neurons, aberrations in experience-dependent plasticity within the barrel cortex and the impact of MeCP2 loss on glial structure. We conclude that regional structural changes in genetic models of RTT show great similarity to the alterations in brain structure of patients with RTT. These region-specific modifications often coincide with phenotype onset and contribute to larger issues of circuit connectivity, progression, and severity. Although the alterations seen in mouse models of RTT appear to be primarily due to cell-autonomous effects, there are also non-cell autonomous mechanisms including those caused by MeCP2-deficient glia that negatively impact healthy neuronal function. Collectively, this body of work has provided a solid foundation on which to continue to build our understanding of the role of MeCP2 on neuronal and glial structure and function, its greater impact on neural development, and potential new therapeutic avenues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth S Smith
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Dani R Smith
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Charlotte Eyring
- The Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, Inc., Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Maria Braileanu
- Undergraduate Program in Neuroscience, The Krieger School of Arts and Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Karen S Smith-Connor
- The Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, Inc., Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Yew Ei Tan
- Perdana University Graduate School of Medicine, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Amanda Y Fowler
- Department of Biology, Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD 21251, USA
| | - Gloria E Hoffman
- Department of Biology, Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD 21251, USA
| | - Michael V Johnston
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; The Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, Inc., Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Sujatha Kannan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; The Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, Inc., Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Mary E Blue
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; The Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, Inc., Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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Saleh A, Macia A, Muotri AR. Transposable Elements, Inflammation, and Neurological Disease. Front Neurol 2019; 10:894. [PMID: 31481926 PMCID: PMC6710400 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Transposable Elements (TE) are mobile DNA elements that can replicate and insert themselves into different locations within the host genome. Their propensity to self-propagate has a myriad of consequences and yet their biological significance is not well-understood. Indeed, retrotransposons have evaded evolutionary attempts at repression and may contribute to somatic mosaicism. Retrotransposons are emerging as potent regulatory elements within the human genome. In the diseased state, there is mounting evidence that endogenous retroelements play a role in etiopathogenesis of inflammatory diseases, with a disposition for both autoimmune and neurological disorders. We postulate that active mobile genetic elements contribute more to human disease pathogenesis than previously thought.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurian Saleh
- Department of Pediatrics, Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Angela Macia
- Department of Pediatrics, Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Alysson R Muotri
- Department of Pediatrics, Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
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Faundez V, Wynne M, Crocker A, Tarquinio D. Molecular Systems Biology of Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Rett Syndrome as an Archetype. Front Integr Neurosci 2019; 13:30. [PMID: 31379529 PMCID: PMC6650571 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2019.00030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders represent a challenging biological and medical problem due to their genetic and phenotypic complexity. In many cases, we lack the comprehensive understanding of disease mechanisms necessary for targeted therapeutic development. One key component that could improve both mechanistic understanding and clinical trial design is reliable molecular biomarkers. Presently, no objective biological markers exist to evaluate most neurodevelopmental disorders. Here, we discuss how systems biology and "omic" approaches can address the mechanistic and biomarker limitations in these afflictions. We present heuristic principles for testing the potential of systems biology to identify mechanisms and biomarkers of disease in the example of Rett syndrome, a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a well-defined monogenic defect in methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2). We propose that such an approach can not only aid in monitoring clinical disease severity but also provide a measure of target engagement in clinical trials. By deepening our understanding of the "big picture" of systems biology, this approach could even help generate hypotheses for drug development programs, hopefully resulting in new treatments for these devastating conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Faundez
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Meghan Wynne
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Amanda Crocker
- Program in Neuroscience, Middlebury College, Middlebury, VT, United States
| | - Daniel Tarquinio
- Rare Neurological Diseases (Private Research Institution), Atlanta, GA, United States
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26
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Sanfeliu A, Hokamp K, Gill M, Tropea D. Transcriptomic Analysis of Mecp2 Mutant Mice Reveals Differentially Expressed Genes and Altered Mechanisms in Both Blood and Brain. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:278. [PMID: 31110484 PMCID: PMC6501143 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome is a rare neuropsychiatric disorder with a wide symptomatology including impaired communication and movement, cardio-respiratory abnormalities, and seizures. The clinical presentation is typically associated to mutations in the gene coding for the methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2), which is a transcription factor. The gene is ubiquitously present in all the cells of the organism with a peak of expression in neurons. For this reason, most of the studies in Rett models have been performed in brain. However, some of the symptoms of Rett are linked to the peripheral expression of MECP2, suggesting that the effects of the mutations affect gene expression levels in tissues other than the brain. We used RNA sequencing in Mecp2 mutant mice and matched controls, to identify common genes and pathways differentially regulated across different tissues. We performed our study in brain and peripheral blood, and we identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and pathways in each tissue. Then, we compared the genes and mechanisms identified in each preparation. We found that some genes and molecular pathways that are differentially expressed in brain are also differentially expressed in blood of Mecp2 mutant mice at a symptomatic-but not presymptomatic-stage. This is the case for the gene Ube2v1, linked to ubiquitination system, and Serpin1, involved in complement and coagulation cascades. Analysis of biological functions in the brain shows the enrichment of mechanisms correlated to circadian rhythms, while in the blood are enriched the mechanisms of response to stimulus-including immune response. Some mechanisms are enriched in both preparations, such as lipid metabolism and response to stress. These results suggest that analysis of peripheral blood can reveal ubiquitous altered molecular mechanisms of Rett and have applications in diagnosis and treatments' assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Sanfeliu
- Neuropsychiatric Genetics, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, St James Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Karsten Hokamp
- Department of Genetics, School of Genetics and Microbiology, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Michael Gill
- Neuropsychiatric Genetics, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, St James Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Daniela Tropea
- Neuropsychiatric Genetics, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, St James Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Trinity College Institute for Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Pecorelli A, Cervellati C, Cordone V, Amicarelli F, Hayek J, Valacchi G. 13-HODE, 9-HODE and ALOX15 as potential players in Rett syndrome OxInflammation. Free Radic Biol Med 2019; 134:598-603. [PMID: 30743046 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2019.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Revised: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in the MECP2 gene are the main cause of Rett syndrome (RTT), a pervasive neurodevelopmental disorder, that shows also multisystem disturbances associated with a metabolic component. The aim of this study was to investigate whether an increased production of oxidized linoleic acid metabolites, specifically 9- and 13-hydroxyoctadecadienoic acids (HODEs), can contribute to the altered the redox and immune homeostasis, suggested to be involved in RTT. Serum levels of 9- and 13-HODEs were elevated in RTT and associated with the expression of arachidonate 15-Lipoxygenase (ALOX15) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids supplementation has shown to lower HODEs levels in RTT. Statistically significant correlation was demonstrated between the increased plasma HODEs levels and the lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) activity. Collectively, these findings reinforce the concept of the key role played by lipid peroxidation in RTT, and the possible ability of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids supplementation in improving the oxinflammation status in RTT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Pecorelli
- Plants for Human Health Institute, Animal Science Dept., NC Research Campus, NC State University, 600 Laureate Way, Kannapolis, NC, 28081, USA
| | - Carlo Cervellati
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valeria Cordone
- Plants for Human Health Institute, Animal Science Dept., NC Research Campus, NC State University, 600 Laureate Way, Kannapolis, NC, 28081, USA; Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy; Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Fernanda Amicarelli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Joussef Hayek
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University General Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Viale M. Bracci 16, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Valacchi
- Plants for Human Health Institute, Animal Science Dept., NC Research Campus, NC State University, 600 Laureate Way, Kannapolis, NC, 28081, USA; Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
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Cordone V, Pecorelli A, Benedusi M, Santini S, Falone S, Hayek J, Amicarelli F, Valacchi G. Antiglycative Activity and RAGE Expression in Rett Syndrome. Cells 2019; 8:cells8020161. [PMID: 30781346 PMCID: PMC6406506 DOI: 10.3390/cells8020161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2019] [Revised: 02/09/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a human neurodevelopmental disorder, whose pathogenesis has been linked to both oxidative stress and subclinical inflammatory status (OxInflammation). Methylglyoxal (MG), a glycolytic by-product with cytotoxic and pro-oxidant power, is the major precursor in vivo of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which are known to exert their detrimental effect via receptor- (e.g., RAGE) or non-receptor-mediated mechanisms in several neurological diseases. On this basis, we aimed to compare fibroblasts from healthy subjects (CTR) with fibroblasts from RTT patients (N = 6 per group), by evaluating gene/protein expression patterns, and enzymatic activities of glyoxalases (GLOs), along with the levels of MG-dependent damage in both basal and MG-challenged conditions. Our results revealed that RTT is linked to an alteration of the GLOs system (specifically, increased GLO2 activity), that ensures unchanged MG-dependent damage levels. However, RTT cells underwent more pronounced cell death upon exogenous MG-treatment, as compared to CTR, and displayed lower RAGE levels than CTR, with no alterations following MG-treatment, thus suggesting that an adaptive response to dicarbonyl stress may occur. In conclusion, besides OxInflammation, RTT is associated with reshaping of the major defense systems against dicarbonyl stress, along with an altered cellular stress response towards pro-glycating insults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Cordone
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Alessandra Pecorelli
- Plants for Human Health Institute, Animal Science Department, NC Research Campus, NC State University, 600 Laureate Way, Kannapolis, NC 28081, USA.
| | - Mascia Benedusi
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Silvano Santini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Stefano Falone
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Joussef Hayek
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University General Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Viale M. Bracci 16, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Fernanda Amicarelli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Valacchi
- Plants for Human Health Institute, Animal Science Department, NC Research Campus, NC State University, 600 Laureate Way, Kannapolis, NC 28081, USA.
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
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Vogel Ciernia A, Yasui DH, Pride MC, Durbin-Johnson B, Noronha AB, Chang A, Knotts TA, Rutkowsky JR, Ramsey JJ, Crawley JN, LaSalle JM. MeCP2 isoform e1 mutant mice recapitulate motor and metabolic phenotypes of Rett syndrome. Hum Mol Genet 2018; 27:4077-4093. [PMID: 30137367 PMCID: PMC6240741 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddy301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Revised: 08/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the X-linked gene MECP2 cause the majority of Rett syndrome (RTT) cases. Two differentially spliced isoforms of exons 1 and 2 (MeCP2-e1 and MeCP2-e2) contribute to the diverse functions of MeCP2, but only mutations in exon 1, not exon 2, are observed in RTT. We previously described an isoform-specific MeCP2-e1-deficient male mouse model of a human RTT mutation that lacks MeCP2-e1 while preserving expression of MeCP2-e2. However, RTT patients are heterozygous females that exhibit delayed and progressive symptom onset beginning in late infancy, including neurologic as well as metabolic, immune, respiratory and gastrointestinal phenotypes. Consequently, we conducted a longitudinal assessment of symptom development in MeCP2-e1 mutant females and males. A delayed and progressive onset of motor impairments was observed in both female and male MeCP2-e1 mutant mice, including hind limb clasping and motor deficits in gait and balance. Because these motor impairments were significantly impacted by age-dependent increases in body weight, we also investigated metabolic phenotypes at an early stage of disease progression. Both male and female MeCP2-e1 mutants exhibited significantly increased body fat compared to sex-matched wild-type littermates prior to weight differences. Mecp2e1-/y males exhibited significant metabolic phenotypes of hypoactivity, decreased energy expenditure, increased respiratory exchange ratio, but decreased food intake compared to wild-type. Untargeted analysis of lipid metabolites demonstrated a distinguishable profile in MeCP2-e1 female mutant liver characterized by increased triglycerides. Together, these results demonstrate that MeCP2-e1 mutation in mice of both sexes recapitulates early and progressive metabolic and motor phenotypes of human RTT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Vogel Ciernia
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, UC Davis School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
- UC Davis Genome Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
- UC Davis MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Dag H Yasui
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, UC Davis School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Michael C Pride
- UC Davis MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, UC Davis School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Blythe Durbin-Johnson
- Department of Public Health Sciences, UC Davis School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Adriana B Noronha
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, UC Davis School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Alene Chang
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, UC Davis School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Trina A Knotts
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer R Rutkowsky
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Jon J Ramsey
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Jacqueline N Crawley
- UC Davis MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, UC Davis School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Janine M LaSalle
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, UC Davis School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
- UC Davis Genome Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
- UC Davis MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
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30
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Valacchi G, Virgili F, Cervellati C, Pecorelli A. OxInflammation: From Subclinical Condition to Pathological Biomarker. Front Physiol 2018; 9:858. [PMID: 30038581 PMCID: PMC6046448 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.00858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is a complex systemic response evolved to cope with cellular injury, either due to infectious agents or, in general, with sporadic events challenging tissue integrity and function. Researchers involved in different fields have the tendency to look at the inflammatory response with different angles, according to their specific interest. Established its complexity, one of the most evident features of the inflammatory response is the generation of a pro-oxidative environment due to the production of high fluxes of pro-oxidant species. This production begins locally, close to the sites of tissue damage or infection, but eventually becomes a chronic challenge for the organism, if the inflammatory response is not properly controlled. In this review, we focus on this specific aspect of chronic, low-level sub-clinical inflammatory response. We propose the term "OxInflammation" as a novel operative term describing a permanent pro-oxidative feature that interact, in a positive feed-back manner, to a not yet clinically detectable inflammatory process, leading in a long run (chronically) to a systemic/local damage, as a consequence of the cross talk between inflammatory, and oxidative stress mediators. Therefore, it could be useful to analyze inflammatory markers in pathologies where there is an alteration of the redox homeostasis, although an inflammatory status is not clinically evident.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Valacchi
- Plants for Human Health Institute, Department of Animal Sciences, North Carolina State University, Kannapolis, NC, United States
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fabio Virgili
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics - Food and Nutrition Research Centre (C.R.E.A.-AN), Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Cervellati
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandra Pecorelli
- Plants for Human Health Institute, Department of Animal Sciences, North Carolina State University, Kannapolis, NC, United States
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31
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Garcelon N, Neuraz A, Salomon R, Bahi-Buisson N, Amiel J, Picard C, Mahlaoui N, Benoit V, Burgun A, Rance B. Next generation phenotyping using narrative reports in a rare disease clinical data warehouse. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2018; 13:85. [PMID: 29855327 PMCID: PMC5984368 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-018-0830-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Secondary use of data collected in Electronic Health Records opens perspectives for increasing our knowledge of rare diseases. The clinical data warehouse (named Dr. Warehouse) at the Necker-Enfants Malades Children's Hospital contains data collected during normal care for thousands of patients. Dr. Warehouse is oriented toward the exploration of clinical narratives. In this study, we present our method to find phenotypes associated with diseases of interest. METHODS We leveraged the frequency and TF-IDF to explore the association between clinical phenotypes and rare diseases. We applied our method in six use cases: phenotypes associated with the Rett, Lowe, Silver Russell, Bardet-Biedl syndromes, DOCK8 deficiency and Activated PI3-kinase Delta Syndrome (APDS). We asked domain experts to evaluate the relevance of the top-50 (for frequency and TF-IDF) phenotypes identified by Dr. Warehouse and computed the average precision and mean average precision. RESULTS Experts concluded that between 16 and 39 phenotypes could be considered as relevant in the top-50 phenotypes ranked by descending frequency discovered by Dr. Warehouse (resp. between 11 and 41 for TF-IDF). Average precision ranges from 0.55 to 0.91 for frequency and 0.52 to 0.95 for TF-IDF. Mean average precision was 0.79. Our study suggests that phenotypes identified in clinical narratives stored in Electronic Health Record can provide rare disease specialists with candidate phenotypes that can be used in addition to the literature. CONCLUSIONS Clinical Data Warehouses can be used to perform Next Generation Phenotyping, especially in the context of rare diseases. We have developed a method to detect phenotypes associated with a group of patients using medical concepts extracted from free-text clinical narratives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Garcelon
- Institut Imagine, Paris Descartes Paris Descartes-Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Paris, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, UMR 1138 Equipe 22, Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Paris, France
- Imagine - Institute of Genetic Diseases, 24 boulevard du Montparnasse, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Antoine Neuraz
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, UMR 1138 Equipe 22, Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Paris, France
- Department of Medical Informatics, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France
| | - Rémi Salomon
- Institut Imagine, Paris Descartes Paris Descartes-Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Paris, France
- Pediatric Nephrology, Necker Enfants Malades Hospital AP-HP, Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Nadia Bahi-Buisson
- Institut Imagine, Paris Descartes Paris Descartes-Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Paris, France
- Pediatric Neurology, Necker Enfants Malades Hospital AP-HP, Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Jeanne Amiel
- Institut Imagine, Paris Descartes Paris Descartes-Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Paris, France
- Laboratory of embryology and genetics of congenital malformations, INSERM UMR 1163, Institut Imagine, Paris, France
- Department of Genetic, Necker Enfants Malades Hospital AP-HP, Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Capucine Picard
- Institut Imagine, Paris Descartes Paris Descartes-Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Paris, France
- Laboratory of Lymphocyte Activation and Susceptibility to EBV infection, INSERM UMR 1163, Paris Descartes Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Imagine Institute, Paris, France
- Study center for primary immunodeficiencies (CEDI) Necker Enfants Malades Hospital AP-HP, Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Nizar Mahlaoui
- Institut Imagine, Paris Descartes Paris Descartes-Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Paris, France
- Laboratory of Lymphocyte Activation and Susceptibility to EBV infection, INSERM UMR 1163, Paris Descartes Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Imagine Institute, Paris, France
- French National Reference Center for Primary Immuno Deficiencies (CEREDIH), Necker Enfants Malades Hospital AP-HP, Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
- Pediatric Immuno-Haematology and Rheumatology Necker Enfants Malades Hospital AP-HP, Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Vincent Benoit
- Institut Imagine, Paris Descartes Paris Descartes-Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Paris, France
| | - Anita Burgun
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, UMR 1138 Equipe 22, Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Paris, France
- Department of Medical Informatics, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France
- Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, AP-HP, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Bastien Rance
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, UMR 1138 Equipe 22, Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Paris, France
- Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, AP-HP, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
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Strati F, Calabrò A, Donati C, De Felice C, Hayek J, Jousson O, Leoncini S, Renzi D, Rizzetto L, De Filippo C, Cavalieri D. Intestinal Candida parapsilosis isolates from Rett syndrome subjects bear potential virulent traits and capacity to persist within the host. BMC Gastroenterol 2018; 18:57. [PMID: 29720131 PMCID: PMC5930502 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-018-0785-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rett syndrome (RTT) is a neurological disorder mainly caused by mutations in MeCP2 gene. It has been shown that MeCP2 impairments can lead to cytokine dysregulation due to MeCP2 regulatory role in T-helper and T-reg mediated responses, thus contributing to the pro-inflammatory status associated with RTT. Furthermore, RTT subjects suffer from an intestinal dysbiosis characterized by an abnormal expansion of the Candida population, a known factor responsible for the hyper-activation of pro-inflammatory immune responses. Therefore, we asked whether the intestinal fungal population of RTT subjects might contribute the sub-inflammatory status triggered by MeCP2 deficiency. METHODS We evaluated the cultivable gut mycobiota from a cohort of 50 RTT patients and 29 healthy controls characterizing the faecal fungal isolates for their virulence-related traits, antifungal resistance and immune reactivity in order to elucidate the role of fungi in RTT's intestinal dysbiosis and gastrointestinal physiology. RESULTS Candida parapsilosis, the most abundant yeast species in RTT subjects, showed distinct genotypic profiles if compared to healthy controls' isolates as measured by hierarchical clustering analysis from RAPD genotyping. Their phenotypical analysis revealed that RTT's isolates produced more biofilm and were significantly more resistant to azole antifungals compared to the isolates from the healthy controls. In addition, the high levels of IL-1β and IL-10 produced by peripheral blood mononuclear cells and the mixed Th1/Th17 cells population induced by RTT C. parapsilosis isolates suggest the capacity of these intestinal fungi to persist within the host, being potentially involved in chronic, pro-inflammatory responses. CONCLUSIONS Here we demonstrated that intestinal C. parapsilosis isolates from RTT subjects hold phenotypic traits that might favour the previously observed low-grade intestinal inflammatory status associated with RTT. Therefore, the presence of putative virulent, pro-inflammatory C. parapsilosis strains in RTT could represent an additional factor in RTT's gastrointestinal pathophysiology, whose mechanisms are not yet clearly understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Strati
- Computational Biology Research Unit, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, Via E. Mach 1, 38010, San Michele all'Adige, Italy.,Centre for Integrative Biology, University of Trento, Via Sommarive 9, 38123, Trento, Italy.,Present address: T Cell Development Lab, Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Università della Svizzera Italiana, Via Vincenzo Vela 6, CH-6500, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Antonio Calabrò
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, Gastroenterology Unit, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 40, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Claudio Donati
- Computational Biology Research Unit, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, Via E. Mach 1, 38010, San Michele all'Adige, Italy
| | - Claudio De Felice
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital AOUS, Viale Bracci 16, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Joussef Hayek
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University Hospital AOUS, Viale Bracci 16, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Olivier Jousson
- Centre for Integrative Biology, University of Trento, Via Sommarive 9, 38123, Trento, Italy
| | - Silvia Leoncini
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University Hospital AOUS, Viale Bracci 16, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Daniela Renzi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, Gastroenterology Unit, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 40, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Lisa Rizzetto
- Nutrition and Nutrigenomics Unit, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, Via E. Mach 1, 38010, San Michele all'Adige, Italy
| | - Carlotta De Filippo
- Institute of Agriculture Biology and Biotechnology (IBBA), National Research Council (CNR), Via Moruzzi 1, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Duccio Cavalieri
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Madonna del Piano 6, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy.
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van der Vaart M, Svoboda O, Weijts BG, Espín-Palazón R, Sapp V, Pietri T, Bagnat M, Muotri AR, Traver D. Mecp2 regulates tnfa during zebrafish embryonic development and acute inflammation. Dis Model Mech 2017; 10:1439-1451. [PMID: 28993314 PMCID: PMC5769600 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.026922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in MECP2 cause Rett syndrome, a severe neurological disorder with autism-like features. Duplication of MECP2 also causes severe neuropathology. Both diseases display immunological abnormalities that suggest a role for MECP2 in controlling immune and inflammatory responses. Here, we used mecp2-null zebrafish to study the potential function of Mecp2 as an immunological regulator. Mecp2 deficiency resulted in an increase in neutrophil infiltration and upregulated expression of the pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines Il1b and Il10 as a secondary response to disturbances in tissue homeostasis. By contrast, expression of the proinflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor alpha (Tnfa) was consistently downregulated in mecp2-null animals during development, representing the earliest developmental phenotype described for MECP2 deficiency to date. Expression of tnfa was unresponsive to inflammatory stimulation, and was partially restored by re-expression of functional mecp2 Thus, Mecp2 is required for tnfa expression during zebrafish development and inflammation. Finally, RNA sequencing of mecp2-null embryos revealed dysregulated processes predictive for Rett syndrome phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- M van der Vaart
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, 92093 CA, USA
| | - O Svoboda
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, 92093 CA, USA
| | - B G Weijts
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, 92093 CA, USA
| | - R Espín-Palazón
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, 92093 CA, USA
| | - V Sapp
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, 92093 CA, USA
| | - T Pietri
- Federated Department of Biological Sciences, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, 07102 NJ, USA
| | - M Bagnat
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University, Durham, 27708 NC, USA
| | - A R Muotri
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, 92093 CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics/Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, 92093 CA, USA
| | - D Traver
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, 92093 CA, USA
- Section of Cell and Developmental Biology, Division of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, 92093 CA, USA
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Nance E, Kambhampati SP, Smith ES, Zhang Z, Zhang F, Singh S, Johnston MV, Kannan RM, Blue ME, Kannan S. Dendrimer-mediated delivery of N-acetyl cysteine to microglia in a mouse model of Rett syndrome. J Neuroinflammation 2017; 14:252. [PMID: 29258545 PMCID: PMC5735803 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-017-1004-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Rett syndrome (RTT) is a pervasive developmental disorder that is progressive and has no effective cure. Immune dysregulation, oxidative stress, and excess glutamate in the brain mediated by glial dysfunction have been implicated in the pathogenesis and worsening of symptoms of RTT. In this study, we investigated a new nanotherapeutic approach to target glia for attenuation of brain inflammation/injury both in vitro and in vivo using a Mecp2-null mouse model of Rett syndrome. Methods To determine whether inflammation and immune dysregulation were potential targets for dendrimer-based therapeutics in RTT, we assessed the immune response of primary glial cells from Mecp2-null and wild-type (WT) mice to LPS. Using dendrimers that intrinsically target activated microglia and astrocytes, we studied N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) and dendrimer-conjugated N-acetyl cysteine (D-NAC) effects on inflammatory cytokines by PCR and multiplex assay in WT vs Mecp2-null glia. Since the cysteine-glutamate antiporter (Xc−) is upregulated in Mecp2-null glia when compared to WT, the role of Xc− in the uptake of NAC and l-cysteine into the cell was compared to that of D-NAC using BV2 cells in vitro. We then assessed the ability of D-NAC given systemically twice weekly to Mecp2-null mice to improve behavioral phenotype and lifespan. Results We demonstrated that the mixed glia derived from Mecp2-null mice have an exaggerated inflammatory and oxidative stress response to LPS stimulation when compared to WT glia. Expression of Xc− was significantly upregulated in the Mecp2-null glia when compared to WT and was further increased in the presence of LPS stimulation. Unlike NAC, D-NAC bypasses the Xc− for cell uptake, increasing intracellular GSH levels while preventing extracellular glutamate release and excitotoxicity. Systemically administered dendrimers were localized in microglia in Mecp2-null mice, but not in age-matched WT littermates. Treatment with D-NAC significantly improved behavioral outcomes in Mecp2-null mice, but not survival. Conclusions These results suggest that delivery of drugs using dendrimer nanodevices offers a potential strategy for targeting glia and modulating oxidative stress and immune responses in RTT. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12974-017-1004-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Nance
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.,Center for Nanomedicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA.,Present address: Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA
| | - Siva P Kambhampati
- Center for Nanomedicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA
| | - Elizabeth S Smith
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Zhi Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Fan Zhang
- Center for Nanomedicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA.,Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA.,Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Sarabdeep Singh
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Michael V Johnston
- Hugo W. Moser Research Institute, Kennedy Krieger, Inc., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Rangaramanujam M Kannan
- Center for Nanomedicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA.,Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA.,Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA.,Hugo W. Moser Research Institute, Kennedy Krieger, Inc., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Mary E Blue
- Hugo W. Moser Research Institute, Kennedy Krieger, Inc., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Sujatha Kannan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA. .,Center for Nanomedicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA. .,Hugo W. Moser Research Institute, Kennedy Krieger, Inc., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
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Antipurinergic therapy for autism-An in-depth review. Mitochondrion 2017; 43:1-15. [PMID: 29253638 DOI: 10.1016/j.mito.2017.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2017] [Revised: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Are the symptoms of autism caused by a treatable metabolic syndrome that traces to the abnormal persistence of a normal, alternative functional state of mitochondria? A small clinical trial published in 2017 suggests this is possible. Based on a new unifying theory of pathogenesis for autism called the cell danger response (CDR) hypothesis, this study of 10 boys, ages 5-14years, showed that all 5 boys who received antipurinergic therapy (APT) with a single intravenous dose of suramin experienced improvements in all the core symptoms of autism that lasted for 5-8weeks. Language, social interaction, restricted interests, and repetitive movements all improved. Two children who were non-verbal spoke their first sentences. None of these improvements were observed in the placebo group. Larger and longer studies are needed to confirm this promising discovery. This review introduces the concept of M2 (anti-inflammatory) and M1 (pro-inflammatory) mitochondria that are polarized along a functional continuum according to cell stress. The pathophysiology of the CDR, the complementary functions of M1 and M2 mitochondria, relevant gene-environment interactions, and the metabolic underpinnings of behavior are discussed as foundation stones for understanding the improvements in ASD behaviors produced by antipurinergic therapy in this small clinical trial.
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Pacheco NL, Heaven MR, Holt LM, Crossman DK, Boggio KJ, Shaffer SA, Flint DL, Olsen ML. RNA sequencing and proteomics approaches reveal novel deficits in the cortex of Mecp2-deficient mice, a model for Rett syndrome. Mol Autism 2017; 8:56. [PMID: 29090078 PMCID: PMC5655833 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-017-0174-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rett syndrome (RTT) is an X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutations in the transcriptional regulator MeCP2. Much of our understanding of MeCP2 function is derived from transcriptomic studies with the general assumption that alterations in the transcriptome correlate with proteomic changes. Advances in mass spectrometry-based proteomics have facilitated recent interest in the examination of global protein expression to better understand the biology between transcriptional and translational regulation. METHODS We therefore performed the first comprehensive transcriptome-proteome comparison in a RTT mouse model to elucidate RTT pathophysiology, identify potential therapeutic targets, and further our understanding of MeCP2 function. The whole cortex of wild-type and symptomatic RTT male littermates (n = 4 per genotype) were analyzed using RNA-sequencing and data-independent acquisition liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Ingenuity® Pathway Analysis was used to identify significantly affected pathways in the transcriptomic and proteomic data sets. RESULTS Our results indicate these two "omics" data sets supplement one another. In addition to confirming previous works regarding mRNA expression in Mecp2-deficient animals, the current study identified hundreds of novel protein targets. Several selected protein targets were validated by Western blot analysis. These data indicate RNA metabolism, proteostasis, monoamine metabolism, and cholesterol synthesis are disrupted in the RTT proteome. Hits common to both data sets indicate disrupted cellular metabolism, calcium signaling, protein stability, DNA binding, and cytoskeletal cell structure. Finally, in addition to confirming disrupted pathways and identifying novel hits in neuronal structure and synaptic transmission, our data indicate aberrant myelination, inflammation, and vascular disruption. Intriguingly, there is no evidence of reactive gliosis, but instead, gene, protein, and pathway analysis suggest astrocytic maturation and morphological deficits. CONCLUSIONS This comparative omics analysis supports previous works indicating widespread CNS dysfunction and may serve as a valuable resource for those interested in cellular dysfunction in RTT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha L. Pacheco
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1918 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35294 USA
| | - Michael R. Heaven
- Vulcan Analytical, LLC, 1500 1st Ave. North, Birmingham, AL 35203 USA
| | - Leanne M. Holt
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1918 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35294 USA
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Life Sciences Building Room 213, 970 Washington St. SW, Blacksburg, VA 24061 USA
| | - David K. Crossman
- UAB Heflin Center for Genomic Science, Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Kaul 424A, 1720 2nd Ave. South, Birmingham, AL 35294 USA
| | - Kristin J. Boggio
- Proteomics and Mass Spectrometry Facility, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 222 Maple Ave., Fuller Building, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 USA
| | - Scott A. Shaffer
- Proteomics and Mass Spectrometry Facility, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 222 Maple Ave., Fuller Building, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 USA
| | - Daniel L. Flint
- Luxumbra Strategic Research, LLC, 1331 South Eads St, Arlington, VA 22202 USA
| | - Michelle L. Olsen
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1918 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35294 USA
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Life Sciences Building Room 213, 970 Washington St. SW, Blacksburg, VA 24061 USA
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Valacchi G, Pecorelli A, Cervellati C, Hayek J. 4-hydroxynonenal protein adducts: Key mediator in Rett syndrome oxinflammation. Free Radic Biol Med 2017; 111:270-280. [PMID: 28063942 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2016.12.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2016] [Revised: 12/24/2016] [Accepted: 12/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In the last 15 years a strong correlation between oxidative stress (OxS) and Rett syndrome (RTT), a rare neurodevelopmental disorder known to be caused in 95% of the cases, by a mutation in the methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene, has been well documented. Here, we revised, summarized and discussed the current knowledge on the role of lipid peroxidation byproducts, with special emphasis on 4-hydroxynonenal (4HNE), in RTT pathophysiology. The posttranslational modifications of proteins via 4HNE, known as 4HNE protein adducts (4NHE-PAs), causing detrimental effects on protein functions, appear to contribute to the clinical severity of the syndrome, since their levels increase significantly during the subsequent 4 clinical stages, reaching the maximum degree at stage 4, represented by a late motor deterioration. In addition, 4HNE-PA are only partially removed due to the compromised functionality of the proteasome activity, contributing therefore to the cellular damage in RTT. All this will lead to a characteristic subclinical inflammation, defined "OxInflammation", derived by a positive feedback loop between OxS byproducts and inflammatory mediators that in a long run further aggravates the clinical features of RTT patients. Therefore, in a pathology completely orphan of any therapy, aiming 4HNE as a therapeutic target could represent a coadjuvant treatment with some beneficial impact in these patients..
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Valacchi
- Plants for Human Health Institute, Department of Animal Sciences, NC State University, NC Research Campus, 600 Laureate Way, Kannapolis, NC 28081, USA; Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Alessandra Pecorelli
- Plants for Human Health Institute, Department of Animal Sciences, NC State University, NC Research Campus, 600 Laureate Way, Kannapolis, NC 28081, USA; Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlo Cervellati
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Joussef Hayek
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University Hospital, AOUS, Viale Mario Bracci, 53100 Siena, Italy
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Sbardella D, Tundo GR, Campagnolo L, Valacchi G, Orlandi A, Curatolo P, Borsellino G, D'Esposito M, Ciaccio C, Cesare SD, Pierro DD, Galasso C, Santarone ME, Hayek J, Coletta M, Marini S. Retention of Mitochondria in Mature Human Red Blood Cells as the Result of Autophagy Impairment in Rett Syndrome. Sci Rep 2017; 7:12297. [PMID: 28951555 PMCID: PMC5614985 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-12069-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 09/04/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Rett Syndrome (RTT), which affects approximately 1:10.000 live births, is a X-linked pervasive neuro-developmental disorder which is caused, in the vast majority of cases, by a sporadic mutation in the Methyl-CpG-binding protein-2 (MeCP2) gene. This is a transcriptional activator/repressor with presumed pleiotropic activities. The broad tissue expression of MeCP2 suggests that it may be involved in several metabolic pathways, but the molecular mechanisms which provoke the onset and progression of the syndrome are largely unknown. In this paper, we report that primary fibroblasts that have been isolated from RTT patients display a defective formation of autophagosomes under conditions of nutrient starvation and that the mature Red Blood Cells of some RTT patients retain mitochondria. Moreover, we provide evidence regarding the accumulation of the p62/SQSTM1 protein and ubiquitin-aggregated structures in the cerebellum of Mecp2 knockout mouse model (Mecp2−/y) during transition from the non-symptomatic to the symptomatic stage of the disease. Hence, we propose that a defective autophagy could be involved in the RTT clinical phenotype, which introduces new molecular perspectives in the pathogenesis of the syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Sbardella
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Grazia Raffaella Tundo
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa Campagnolo
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Valacchi
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Plant for Human Health Institute, North Carolina State University, Kannapolis, NC, USA
| | - Augusto Orlandi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Curatolo
- Department of Medicine of Systems, University of Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Maurizio D'Esposito
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "A.Buzzati Traverso", Naples, Italy.,IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzuoli, (Is), Italy
| | - Chiara Ciaccio
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Di Cesare
- University Department of Pediatrics, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Donato Di Pierro
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Cinzia Galasso
- Department of Medicine of Systems, University of Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Joussef Hayek
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese (AOUS), Siena, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Coletta
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Marini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
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Persistent Unresolved Inflammation in the Mecp2-308 Female Mutated Mouse Model of Rett Syndrome. Mediators Inflamm 2017; 2017:9467819. [PMID: 28592917 PMCID: PMC5448068 DOI: 10.1155/2017/9467819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2016] [Accepted: 04/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder usually caused by mutations in the X-linked gene methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2). Several Mecp2 mutant mouse lines have been developed recapitulating part of the clinical features. In particular, Mecp2-308 female heterozygous mice, bearing a truncating mutation, are a validated model of the disease. While recent data suggest a role for inflammation in RTT, little information on the inflammatory status in murine models of the disease is available. Here, we investigated the inflammatory status by proteomic 2-DE/MALDI-ToF/ToF analyses in symptomatic Mecp2-308 female mice. Ten differentially expressed proteins were evidenced in the Mecp2-308 mutated plasma proteome. In particular, 5 positive acute-phase response (APR) proteins increased (i.e., kininogen-1, alpha-fetoprotein, mannose-binding protein C, alpha-1-antitrypsin, and alpha-2-macroglobulin), and 3 negative APR reactants were decreased (i.e., serotransferrin, albumin, and apolipoprotein A1). CD5 antigen-like and vitamin D-binding protein, two proteins strictly related to inflammation, were also changed. These results indicate for the first time a persistent unresolved inflammation of unknown origin in the Mecp2-308 mouse model.
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Cortelazzo A, Pietri T, De Felice C, Leoncini S, Guerranti R, Signorini C, Timperio AM, Zolla L, Ciccoli L, Hayek J. Proteomic analysis of the Rett syndrome experimental model mecp2 Q63X mutant zebrafish. J Proteomics 2017; 154:128-133. [PMID: 28062374 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2016.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2016] [Revised: 12/09/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a severe genetic disorder resulting from mutations in the X-linked methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene. Recently, a zebrafish carrying a mecp2-null mutation has been developed with the resulting phenotypes exhibiting defective sensory and thigmotactic responses, and abnormal motor behavior reminiscent of the human disease. Here, we performed a proteomic analysis to examine protein expression changes in mecp2-null vs. wild-type larvae and adult zebrafish. We found a total of 20 proteins differentially expressed between wild-type and mutant zebrafish, suggesting skeletal and cardiac muscle functional defects, a stunted glycolysis and depleted energy availability. This molecular evidence is directly linked to the mecp2-null zebrafish observed phenotype. In addition, we identified changes in expression of proteins critical for a proper redox balance, suggesting an enhanced oxidative stress, a phenomenon also documented in human patients and RTT murine models. The molecular alterations observed in the mecp2-null zebrafish expand our knowledge on the molecular cascade of events that lead to the RTT phenotype. BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE We performed a proteomic study of a non-mammalian vertebrate model (zebrafish, Danio rerio) for Rett syndrome (RTT) at larval and adult stages of development. Our results reveal major protein expression changes pointing out to defects in energy metabolism, redox status imbalance, and muscle function, both skeletal and cardiac. Our molecular analysis grants the mecp2-null zebrafish as a valuable RTT model, triggering new research approaches for a better understanding of the RTT pathogenesis and phenotype expression. This non-mammalian vertebrate model of RTT strongly suggests a broad impact of Mecp2 dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Cortelazzo
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese (AOUS), Siena, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; Clinical Pathology Laboratory Unit, University Hospital, AOUS, Siena, Italy.
| | - Thomas Pietri
- Ecole Normale Supérieure, Institut de Biologie de l'ENS, Paris, France
| | - Claudio De Felice
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital, AOUS, Siena, Italy
| | - Silvia Leoncini
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese (AOUS), Siena, Italy; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Roberto Guerranti
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; Clinical Pathology Laboratory Unit, University Hospital, AOUS, Siena, Italy
| | - Cinzia Signorini
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Timperio
- Department of Ecological and Biological Sciences, University of Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Lello Zolla
- Department of Ecological and Biological Sciences, University of Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Lucia Ciccoli
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Joussef Hayek
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese (AOUS), Siena, Italy
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Pecorelli A, Cervellati C, Hayek J, Valacchi G. OxInflammation in Rett syndrome. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2016; 81:246-253. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2016.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2016] [Revised: 07/11/2016] [Accepted: 07/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Cortelazzo A, de Felice C, Leoncini S, Signorini C, Guerranti R, Leoncini R, Armini A, Bini L, Ciccoli L, Hayek J. Inflammatory protein response in CDKL5-Rett syndrome: evidence of a subclinical smouldering inflammation. Inflamm Res 2016; 66:269-280. [PMID: 27900411 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-016-1014-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2016] [Revised: 11/06/2016] [Accepted: 11/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mutations in the cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 gene cause a clinical variant of Rett syndrome (CDKL5-RTT). A role for the acute-phase response (APR) is emerging in typical RTT caused by methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 gene mutations (MECP2-RTT). No information is, to date, available on the inflammatory protein response in CDKL5-RTT. We evaluated, for the first time, the APR protein response in CDKL5-RTT. METHODS Protein patterns in albumin- and IgG-depleted plasma proteome from CDKL5-RTT patients were evaluated by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis/mass spectrometry. The resulting data were related to circulating cytokines and compared to healthy controls or MECP2-RTT patients. The effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFAs) were evaluated. RESULTS CDKL5-RTT mutations resulted in a subclinical attenuated inflammation, specifically characterized by an overexpression of the complement component C3 and CD5 antigen-like, both strictly related to the inflammatory response. Cytokine dysregulation featuring a bulk increase of anti-inflammatory cytokines, predominantly IL-10, could explain the unchanged erythrocyte sedimentation rate and atypical features of inflammation in CDKL5-RTT. Omega-3 PUFAs were able to counterbalance the pro-inflammatory status. CONCLUSION For the first time, we revealed a subclinical smouldering inflammation pattern in CDKL5-RTT consisting in the coexistence of an atypical APR coupled with a dysregulated cytokine response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Cortelazzo
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University Hospital Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese (AOUS), Viale M. Bracci 16, 53100, Siena, Italy. .,Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy. .,Clinical Pathology Laboratory Unit, University Hospital AOUS, Viale M. Bracci 16, 53100, Siena, Italy.
| | - Claudio de Felice
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital AOUS, Viale M. Bracci 16, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Silvia Leoncini
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University Hospital Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese (AOUS), Viale M. Bracci 16, 53100, Siena, Italy.,Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Via A. Moro 6, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Cinzia Signorini
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Via A. Moro 6, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Roberto Guerranti
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy.,Clinical Pathology Laboratory Unit, University Hospital AOUS, Viale M. Bracci 16, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Roberto Leoncini
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy.,Clinical Pathology Laboratory Unit, University Hospital AOUS, Viale M. Bracci 16, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Armini
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Luca Bini
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Lucia Ciccoli
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Via A. Moro 6, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Joussef Hayek
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University Hospital Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese (AOUS), Viale M. Bracci 16, 53100, Siena, Italy
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Ciccoli L, De Felice C, Leoncini S, Signorini C, Cortelazzo A, Zollo G, Pecorelli A, Rossi M, Hayek J. Red blood cells in Rett syndrome: oxidative stress, morphological changes and altered membrane organization. Biol Chem 2016; 396:1233-40. [PMID: 26040005 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2015-0117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Accepted: 05/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
In this review, we summarize the current evidence on the erythrocyte as a previously unrecognized target cell in Rett syndrome, a rare (1:10 000 females) and devastating neurodevelopmental disorder caused by loss-of-function mutations in a single gene (i.e. MeCP2, CDKL5, or rarely FOXG1). In particular, we focus on morphological changes, membrane oxidative damage, altered membrane fatty acid profile, and aberrant skeletal organization in erythrocytes from patients with typical Rett syndrome and MeCP2 gene mutations. The beneficial effects of ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are also summarized for this condition to be considered as a 'model' condition for autism spectrum disorders.
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Strati F, Cavalieri D, Albanese D, De Felice C, Donati C, Hayek J, Jousson O, Leoncini S, Pindo M, Renzi D, Rizzetto L, Stefanini I, Calabrò A, De Filippo C. Altered gut microbiota in Rett syndrome. MICROBIOME 2016; 4:41. [PMID: 27473171 PMCID: PMC4967335 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-016-0185-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 07/21/2016] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human gut microbiota directly affects human health, and its alteration can lead to gastrointestinal abnormalities and inflammation. Rett syndrome (RTT), a progressive neurological disorder mainly caused by mutations in MeCP2 gene, is commonly associated with gastrointestinal dysfunctions and constipation, suggesting a link between RTT's gastrointestinal abnormalities and the gut microbiota. The aim of this study was to evaluate the bacterial and fungal gut microbiota in a cohort of RTT subjects integrating clinical, metabolomics and metagenomics data to understand if changes in the gut microbiota of RTT subjects could be associated with gastrointestinal abnormalities and inflammatory status. RESULTS Our findings revealed the occurrence of an intestinal sub-inflammatory status in RTT subjects as measured by the elevated values of faecal calprotectin and erythrocyte sedimentation rate. We showed that, overall, RTT subjects harbour bacterial and fungal microbiota altered in terms of relative abundances from those of healthy controls, with a reduced microbial richness and dominated by microbial taxa belonging to Bifidobacterium, several Clostridia (among which Anaerostipes, Clostridium XIVa, Clostridium XIVb) as well as Erysipelotrichaceae, Actinomyces, Lactobacillus, Enterococcus, Eggerthella, Escherichia/Shigella and the fungal genus Candida. We further observed that alterations of the gut microbiota do not depend on the constipation status of RTT subjects and that this dysbiotic microbiota produced altered short chain fatty acids profiles. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrated for the first time that RTT is associated with a dysbiosis of both the bacterial and fungal component of the gut microbiota, suggesting that impairments of MeCP2 functioning favour the establishment of a microbial community adapted to the costive gastrointestinal niche of RTT subjects. The altered production of short chain fatty acids associated with this microbiota might reinforce the constipation status of RTT subjects and contribute to RTT gastrointestinal physiopathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Strati
- Department of Computational Biology, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, Via E. Mach 1, 38010, San Michele all' Adige, Italy
- Centre for Integrative Biology, University of Trento, Via Sommarive 9, 38123, Trento, Italy
| | - Duccio Cavalieri
- Department of Computational Biology, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, Via E. Mach 1, 38010, San Michele all' Adige, Italy
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Madonna del Piano 6, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Davide Albanese
- Department of Computational Biology, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, Via E. Mach 1, 38010, San Michele all' Adige, Italy
| | - Claudio De Felice
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital AOUS, Viale Bracci 16, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Claudio Donati
- Department of Computational Biology, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, Via E. Mach 1, 38010, San Michele all' Adige, Italy
| | - Joussef Hayek
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University Hospital AOUS, Viale Bracci 16, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Olivier Jousson
- Centre for Integrative Biology, University of Trento, Via Sommarive 9, 38123, Trento, Italy
| | - Silvia Leoncini
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University Hospital AOUS, Viale Bracci 16, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Massimo Pindo
- Department of Genomics and Biology of Fruit Crop, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, Via E. Mach 1, 38010, San Michele all' Adige, Italy
| | - Daniela Renzi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, Gastroenterology Unit, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 40, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Lisa Rizzetto
- Department of Computational Biology, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, Via E. Mach 1, 38010, San Michele all' Adige, Italy
| | - Irene Stefanini
- Department of Computational Biology, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, Via E. Mach 1, 38010, San Michele all' Adige, Italy
| | - Antonio Calabrò
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, Gastroenterology Unit, University of Florence, Viale Morgagni 40, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Carlotta De Filippo
- Institute of Biometeorology (IBIMET), National Research Council (CNR), Via Giovanni Caproni 8, I-50145, Florence, Italy.
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Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a devastating neurodevelopmental disease, previously included into the autistic spectrum disorders, affecting almost exclusively females (frequency 1:10,000). RTT leads to intellective deficit, purposeful hands use loss and late major motor impairment besides featuring breathing disorders, epilepsy and increased risk of sudden death. The condition is caused in up to 95% of the cases by mutations in the X-linked methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene. Our group has shown a number of previously unrecognized features, such as systemic redox imbalance, chronic inflammatory status, respiratory bronchiolitis-associated interstitial lung disease-like lung disease, and erythrocyte morphology changes. While evidence on an intimate involvement of MeCP2 in the immune response is cumulating, we have recently shown a cytokine dysregulation in RTT. Increasing evidence on the relationship between MeCP2 and an immune dysfunction is reported, with, apparently, a link between MECP2 gene polymorphisms and autoimmune diseases, including primary Sjögren's syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic sclerosis. Antineuronal (i.e., brain proteins) antibodies have been shown in RTT. Recently, high levels of anti-N-glucosylation (N-Glc) IgM serum autoantibodies [i.e., anti-CSF114(N-Glc) IgMs] have been detected by our group in a statistically significant number of RTT patients. In the current review, the Authors explore the current evidence, either in favor or against, the presence of an autoimmune component in RTT.
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Stagi S, Cavalli L, Congiu L, Scusa MF, Ferlini A, Bigoni S, Benincasa A, Rossi B, Pini G. Thyroid function in Rett syndrome. Horm Res Paediatr 2015; 83:118-25. [PMID: 25614013 DOI: 10.1159/000370066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2014] [Accepted: 11/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Thyroid function in Rett syndrome (RTT) has rarely been studied with unanimous results. However, this aspect is of great concern regarding the effect thyroid hormones (TH) have on proper mammalian brain development. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the prevalence of abnormalities of thyroid function in a cohort of children with RTT. PATIENTS AND METHODS Forty-five consecutive Caucasian girls (mean age: 8.6 ± 5.3 years, range: 2.0-26.1) meeting the clinical criteria for RTT were recruited. In all of the subjects, we evaluated the serum concentrations of free-T3 (FT3), free-T4 (FT4), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroperoxidase autoantibodies, thyroglobulin autoantibodies (TgA), and TSH receptor (TSHr) autoantibodies. The results were compared with a group of 146 age-matched healthy Caucasian children and adolescent girls (median age: 9.5 years, range: 1.8-14.6) from the same geographical area. RESULTS Mean FT3 and TSH levels were not significantly different between the RTT patients and controls. Nevertheless, FT4 levels were significantly higher in RTT patients than in controls (p < 0.005). In particular, 17.7% showed FT4 levels higher than the upper reference limit (vs. 0.7% of controls, p < 0.0001), whereas 12 patients (26.7%) showed higher FT3 levels than the upper reference limit, significantly differing in respect to controls (2.0%, p < 0.0001). Finally, 5 patients (11.1%) showed higher levels of TSH, statistically differing from the control subjects (2.0%, p < 0.0001). However, evaluating the patients on the basis of different RTT genotype subgroups, patients with CDKL5 deletions showed significantly higher FT4 values than patients with MeCP2 deletions (p < 0.05). On the other hand, patients with other types of MeCP2 mutations also showed FT4 levels significantly higher than patients with MeCP2 deletions (p < 0.05). In fact, out of 8 patients with FT4 levels higher than the upper references limit, 3 of them presented with CDKL5 deletions (3 patients, 37.5%), 4 (50%) had MeCP2 mutations, and 1 (12.5%) belonged to the subgroup of MeCP2 deletions. However, when analyzing FT3 levels of the 12 patients showing higher FT3 levels than the upper references limit, 6 (50%) belonged to the subgroup with MeCP2 mutations, 4 (33.3%) to the subgroup with MeCP2 deletions, and 2 (16.7%) to the subgroups with CDKL5 deletions. Furthermore, no patient with RTT was positive for antithyroglobulin autoantibodies, antithyroid peroxidase, or anti-TSHr, with no statistical differences in respect to the controls. L-thyroxine treatment was not necessary for any patient. CONCLUSIONS Abnormalities of thyroid function are not rare in RTT. The possible relationship between these disorders and the RTT phenotype should be confirmed and studied. Children with RTT should be screened for potential thyroid dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Stagi
- Health Sciences Department, University of Florence, Anna Meyer Children's University Hospital, Florence, Italy
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Cytokine Dysregulation in MECP2- and CDKL5-Related Rett Syndrome: Relationships with Aberrant Redox Homeostasis, Inflammation, and ω-3 PUFAs. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2015; 2015:421624. [PMID: 26236424 PMCID: PMC4510261 DOI: 10.1155/2015/421624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2015] [Accepted: 05/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
An involvement of the immune system has been suggested in Rett syndrome (RTT), a devastating neurodevelopmental disorder related to oxidative stress, and caused by a mutation in the methyl-CpG binding protein 2 gene (MECP2) or, more rarely, cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 (CDKL5). To date, it is unclear whether both mutations may have an impact on the circulating cytokine patterns. In the present study, cytokines involved in the Th1-, Th2-, and T regulatory (T-reg) response, as well as chemokines, were investigated in MECP2- (MECP2-RTT) (n = 16) and CDKL5-Rett syndrome (CDKL5-RTT) (n = 8), before and after ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) supplementation. A major cytokine dysregulation was evidenced in untreated RTT patients. In MECP2-RTT, a Th2-shifted balance was evidenced, whereas in CDKL5-RTT both Th1- and Th2-related cytokines (except for IL-4) were upregulated. In MECP2-RTT, decreased levels of IL-22 were observed, whereas increased IL-22 and T-reg cytokine levels were evidenced in CDKL5-RTT. Chemokines were unchanged. The cytokine dysregulation was proportional to clinical severity, inflammatory status, and redox imbalance. Omega-3 PUFAs partially counterbalanced cytokine changes, as well as aberrant redox homeostasis and the inflammatory status. RTT is associated with a subclinical immune dysregulation as the likely consequence of a defective inflammation regulatory signaling system.
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Signorini C, De Felice C, Leoncini S, Durand T, Galano JM, Cortelazzo A, Zollo G, Guerranti R, Gonnelli S, Caffarelli C, Rossi M, Pecorelli A, Valacchi G, Ciccoli L, Hayek J. Altered erythrocyte membrane fatty acid profile in typical Rett syndrome: effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2014; 91:183-93. [PMID: 25240461 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2014.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2014] [Revised: 07/28/2014] [Accepted: 08/01/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
This study mainly aims at examining the erythrocyte membrane fatty acid (FAs) profile in Rett syndrome (RTT), a genetically determined neurodevelopmental disease. Early reports suggest a beneficial effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFAs) on disease severity in RTT. A total of 24 RTT patients were assigned to ω-3 PUFAs-containing fish oil for 12 months in a randomized controlled study (average DHA and EPA doses of 72.9, and 117.1mg/kgb.w./day, respectively). A distinctly altered FAs profile was detectable in RTT, with deficient ω-6 PUFAs, increased saturated FAs and reduced trans 20:4 FAs. FAs changes were found to be related to redox imbalance, subclinical inflammation, and decreased bone density. Supplementation with ω-3 PUFAs led to improved ω-6/ω-3 ratio and serum plasma lipid profile, decreased PUFAs peroxidation end-products, normalization of biochemical markers of inflammation, and reduction of bone hypodensity as compared to the untreated RTT group. Our data indicate that a significant FAs abnormality is detectable in the RTT erythrocyte membranes and is partially rescued by ω-3 PUFAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Signorini
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro, I-53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Claudio De Felice
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese (AOUS), Policlinico S.M. alle Scotte, Viale M. Bracci 1, I-53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Silvia Leoncini
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro, I-53100 Siena, Italy; Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University Hospital (AOUS), I-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Thierry Durand
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron (IBMM), UMR 5247-CNRS, UM I, UM II, ENSCM, BP 14491 34093 Montpellier, Cedex 5, France
| | - Jean-Marie Galano
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron (IBMM), UMR 5247-CNRS, UM I, UM II, ENSCM, BP 14491 34093 Montpellier, Cedex 5, France
| | - Alessio Cortelazzo
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University Hospital (AOUS), I-53100 Siena, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, I-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Gloria Zollo
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro, I-53100 Siena, Italy; Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University Hospital (AOUS), I-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Roberto Guerranti
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, I-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Stefano Gonnelli
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, I-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Carla Caffarelli
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, I-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Marcello Rossi
- Respiratory Pathophysiology and Rehabilitation Unit, University Hospital, AOUS, Viale M. Bracci 16, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandra Pecorelli
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro, I-53100 Siena, Italy; Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University Hospital (AOUS), I-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Valacchi
- Department of Life Science and Biotechnologies, University of Ferrara, I-44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Lucia Ciccoli
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro, I-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Joussef Hayek
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, University Hospital (AOUS), I-53100 Siena, Italy
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Inflammatory lung disease in Rett syndrome. Mediators Inflamm 2014; 2014:560120. [PMID: 24757286 PMCID: PMC3976920 DOI: 10.1155/2014/560120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2013] [Revised: 01/06/2014] [Accepted: 01/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a pervasive neurodevelopmental disorder mainly linked to mutations in the gene encoding the methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2). Respiratory dysfunction, historically credited to brainstem immaturity, represents a major challenge in RTT. Our aim was to characterize the relationships between pulmonary gas exchange abnormality (GEA), upper airway obstruction, and redox status in patients with typical RTT (n = 228) and to examine lung histology in a Mecp2-null mouse model of the disease. GEA was detectable in ~80% (184/228) of patients versus ~18% of healthy controls, with “high” (39.8%) and “low” (34.8%) patterns dominating over “mixed” (19.6%) and “simple mismatch” (5.9%) types. Increased plasma levels of non-protein-bound iron (NPBI), F2-isoprostanes (F2-IsoPs), intraerythrocyte NPBI (IE-NPBI), and reduced and oxidized glutathione (i.e., GSH and GSSG) were evidenced in RTT with consequently decreased GSH/GSSG ratios. Apnea frequency/severity was positively correlated with IE-NPBI, F2-IsoPs, and GSSG and negatively with GSH/GSSG ratio. A diffuse inflammatory infiltrate of the terminal bronchioles and alveoli was evidenced in half of the examined Mecp2-mutant mice, well fitting with the radiological findings previously observed in RTT patients. Our findings indicate that GEA is a key feature of RTT and that terminal bronchioles are a likely major target of the disease.
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