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Martínez P, Silva M, Abarzúa S, Tevy MF, Jaimovich E, Constantine-Paton M, Bustos FJ, van Zundert B. Skeletal myotubes expressing ALS mutant SOD1 induce pathogenic changes, impair mitochondrial axonal transport, and trigger motoneuron death. Mol Med 2024; 30:185. [PMID: 39455931 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-024-00942-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 09/24/2024] [Indexed: 10/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease characterized by the loss of motoneurons (MNs), and despite progress, there is no effective treatment. A large body of evidence shows that astrocytes expressing ALS-linked mutant proteins cause non-cell autonomous toxicity of MNs. Although MNs innervate muscle fibers and ALS is characterized by the early disruption of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) and axon degeneration, there are controversies about whether muscle contributes to non-cell-autonomous toxicity to MNs. In this study, we generated primary skeletal myotubes from myoblasts derived from ALS mice expressing human mutant SOD1G93A (termed hereafter mutSOD1). Characterization revealed that mutSOD1 skeletal myotubes display intrinsic phenotypic and functional differences compared to control myotubes generated from non-transgenic (NTg) littermates. Next, we analyzed whether ALS myotubes exert non-cell-autonomous toxicity to MNs. We report that conditioned media from mutSOD1 myotubes (mutSOD1-MCM), but not from control myotubes (NTg-MCM), induced robust death of primary MNs in mixed spinal cord cultures and compartmentalized microfluidic chambers. Our study further revealed that applying mutSOD1-MCM to the MN axonal side in microfluidic devices rapidly reduces mitochondrial axonal transport while increasing Ca2 + transients and reactive oxygen species (i.e., H2O2). These results indicate that soluble factor(s) released by mutSOD1 myotubes cause MN axonopathy that leads to lethal pathogenic changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Martínez
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICB), Faculty of Medicine & Faculty of Life Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile
| | - Mónica Silva
- Center for Exercise, Metabolism and Cancer, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Sebastián Abarzúa
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICB), Faculty of Medicine & Faculty of Life Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Enrique Jaimovich
- Center for Exercise, Metabolism and Cancer, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Martha Constantine-Paton
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Fernando J Bustos
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICB), Faculty of Medicine & Faculty of Life Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile.
- Millennium Nucleus of Neuroepigenetics and Plasticity (EpiNeuro), Santiago, Chile.
| | - Brigitte van Zundert
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICB), Faculty of Medicine & Faculty of Life Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago, Chile.
- Millennium Nucleus of Neuroepigenetics and Plasticity (EpiNeuro), Santiago, Chile.
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School (UMMS), Worcester, MA, USA.
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2
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Shukla M, Chugh D, Ganesh S. Neuromuscular junction dysfunction in Lafora disease. Dis Model Mech 2024; 17:dmm050905. [PMID: 39301689 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.050905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 09/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Lafora disease (LD), a fatal neurodegenerative disorder, is caused by mutations in the EPM2A gene encoding laforin phosphatase or NHLRC1 gene encoding malin ubiquitin ligase. LD symptoms include epileptic seizures, ataxia, dementia and cognitive decline. Studies on LD have primarily concentrated on the pathophysiology in the brain. A few studies have reported motor symptoms, muscle weakness and muscle atrophy. Intriguingly, skeletal muscles are known to accumulate Lafora polyglucosan bodies. Using laforin-deficient mice, an established model for LD, we demonstrate that LD pathology correlated with structural and functional impairments in the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). Specifically, we found impairment in NMJ transmission, which coincided with altered expression of NMJ-associated genes and reduced motor endplate area, fragmented junctions and loss of fully innervated junctions at the NMJ. We also observed a reduction in alpha-motor neurons in the lumbar spinal cord, with significant presynaptic morphological alterations. Disorganised myofibrillar patterns, slight z-line streaming and muscle atrophy were also evident in LD animals. In summary, our study offers insight into the neuropathic and myopathic alterations leading to motor deficits in LD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Shukla
- Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur 208016, India
| | - Deepti Chugh
- Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur 208016, India
| | - Subramaniam Ganesh
- Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur 208016, India
- Mehta Family Centre for Engineering in Medicine, Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur 208016, India
- Gangwal School of Medical Sciences and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur 208016, India
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3
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Zufiría M, Pikatza-Menoio O, Garciandia-Arcelus M, Bengoetxea X, Jiménez A, Elicegui A, Levchuk M, Arnold-García O, Ondaro J, Iruzubieta P, Rodríguez-Gómez L, Fernández-Pelayo U, Muñoz-Oreja M, Aiastui A, García-Verdugo JM, Herranz-Pérez V, Zulaica M, Poza JJ, Ruiz-Onandi R, Fernández-Torrón R, Espinal JB, Bonilla M, Lersundi A, Fernández-Eulate G, Riancho J, Vallejo-Illarramendi A, Holt IJ, Sáenz A, Malfatti E, Duguez S, Blázquez L, López de Munain A, Gerenu G, Gil-Bea F, Alonso-Martín S. Dysregulated FOXO1 activity drives skeletal muscle intrinsic dysfunction in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Acta Neuropathol 2024; 148:43. [PMID: 39283487 PMCID: PMC11405449 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-024-02794-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a multisystemic neurodegenerative disorder, with accumulating evidence indicating metabolic disruptions in the skeletal muscle preceding disease symptoms, rather than them manifesting as a secondary consequence of motor neuron (MN) degeneration. Hence, energy homeostasis is deeply implicated in the complex physiopathology of ALS and skeletal muscle has emerged as a key therapeutic target. Here, we describe intrinsic abnormalities in ALS skeletal muscle, both in patient-derived muscle cells and in muscle cell lines with genetic knockdown of genes related to familial ALS, such as TARDBP (TDP-43) and FUS. We found a functional impairment of myogenesis that parallels defects of glucose oxidation in ALS muscle cells. We identified FOXO1 transcription factor as a key mediator of these metabolic and functional features in ALS muscle, via gene expression profiling and biochemical surveys in TDP-43 and FUS-silenced muscle progenitors. Strikingly, inhibition of FOXO1 mitigated the impaired myogenesis in both the genetically modified and the primary ALS myoblasts. In addition, specific in vivo conditional knockdown of TDP-43 or FUS orthologs (TBPH or caz) in Drosophila muscle precursor cells resulted in decreased innervation and profound dysfunction of motor nerve terminals and neuromuscular synapses, accompanied by motor abnormalities and reduced lifespan. Remarkably, these phenotypes were partially corrected by foxo inhibition, bolstering the potential pharmacological management of muscle intrinsic abnormalities associated with ALS. The findings demonstrate an intrinsic muscle dysfunction in ALS, which can be modulated by targeting FOXO factors, paving the way for novel therapeutic approaches that focus on the skeletal muscle as complementary target tissue.
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Grants
- CB06/05/1126 Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas
- PI2020/08-1 Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas
- P18/01066 Instituto de Salud Carlos III
- PI19/00175 Instituto de Salud Carlos III
- PI21/00153 Instituto de Salud Carlos III
- PI22/00433 Instituto de Salud Carlos III
- IJC2019-039965-I Instituto de Salud Carlos III
- 2020-CIEN-000057-01 Diputación Foral de Gipuzkoa
- 2021-CIEN-000020-01 Diputación Foral de Gipuzkoa
- 2019-FELL-000010-01 Diputación Foral de Gipuzkoa
- 2020-FELL-000016-02-01 Diputación Foral de Gipuzkoa
- 2021-FELL-000013-02-01 Diputación Foral de Gipuzkoa
- BIO17/ND/023/BD EiTB Maratoia
- 2015111122 Osasun Saila, Eusko Jaurlaritzako
- 2017222027 Osasun Saila, Eusko Jaurlaritzako
- 2018111042 Osasun Saila, Eusko Jaurlaritzako
- 2019222020 Osasun Saila, Eusko Jaurlaritzako
- 2020111032 Osasun Saila, Eusko Jaurlaritzako
- 2020333043 Osasun Saila, Eusko Jaurlaritzako
- 2021333050 Osasun Saila, Eusko Jaurlaritzako
- PRE_2015_1_0023 Hezkuntza, Hizkuntza Politika Eta Kultura Saila, Eusko Jaurlaritza
- PRE_2019_1_0339 Hezkuntza, Hizkuntza Politika Eta Kultura Saila, Eusko Jaurlaritza
- PRE_2020_1_0122 Hezkuntza, Hizkuntza Politika Eta Kultura Saila, Eusko Jaurlaritza
- PRE_2020_1_0191 Hezkuntza, Hizkuntza Politika Eta Kultura Saila, Eusko Jaurlaritza
- PRE_2020_1_0119 Hezkuntza, Hizkuntza Politika Eta Kultura Saila, Eusko Jaurlaritza
- PRE_2018_1_0095 Hezkuntza, Hizkuntza Politika Eta Kultura Saila, Eusko Jaurlaritza
- PRE_2021_1_0125 Hezkuntza, Hizkuntza Politika Eta Kultura Saila, Eusko Jaurlaritza
- PRE_2018_1_0253 Hezkuntza, Hizkuntza Politika Eta Kultura Saila, Eusko Jaurlaritza
- NEURODEGENPROT Hezkuntza, Hizkuntza Politika Eta Kultura Saila, Eusko Jaurlaritza
- PIF18/317 Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea
- RYC2018-024397-I Spanish National Plan for Scientific and Technical Research and Innovation
- RF/2019/001 Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science
- RF/2023/010 Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science
- PP/2022/003 Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science
- BIO19/ROCHE/017/BD Roche España
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Zufiría
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERNED, ISCIII (CIBER, Carlos III Institute, Spanish Ministry of Sciences and Innovation), 28031, Madrid, Spain
| | - Oihane Pikatza-Menoio
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERNED, ISCIII (CIBER, Carlos III Institute, Spanish Ministry of Sciences and Innovation), 28031, Madrid, Spain
- Stem Cells and Aging Group, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
| | | | - Xabier Bengoetxea
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Andrés Jiménez
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERNED, ISCIII (CIBER, Carlos III Institute, Spanish Ministry of Sciences and Innovation), 28031, Madrid, Spain
| | - Amaia Elicegui
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERNED, ISCIII (CIBER, Carlos III Institute, Spanish Ministry of Sciences and Innovation), 28031, Madrid, Spain
- Stem Cells and Aging Group, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
| | - María Levchuk
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Olatz Arnold-García
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERNED, ISCIII (CIBER, Carlos III Institute, Spanish Ministry of Sciences and Innovation), 28031, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jon Ondaro
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERNED, ISCIII (CIBER, Carlos III Institute, Spanish Ministry of Sciences and Innovation), 28031, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pablo Iruzubieta
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERNED, ISCIII (CIBER, Carlos III Institute, Spanish Ministry of Sciences and Innovation), 28031, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Neurology, Donostialdea Integrated Health Organization, Osakidetza Basque Health Service, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Laura Rodríguez-Gómez
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Uxoa Fernández-Pelayo
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Mikel Muñoz-Oreja
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERNED, ISCIII (CIBER, Carlos III Institute, Spanish Ministry of Sciences and Innovation), 28031, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Nursery, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Ana Aiastui
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERNED, ISCIII (CIBER, Carlos III Institute, Spanish Ministry of Sciences and Innovation), 28031, Madrid, Spain
- Cell Culture Platform, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
| | - José Manuel García-Verdugo
- CIBERNED, ISCIII (CIBER, Carlos III Institute, Spanish Ministry of Sciences and Innovation), 28031, Madrid, Spain
- Laboratory of Comparative Neurobiology, Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, University of Valencia, 46980, Paterna, Spain
- Department of Cell Biology, Functional Biology and Physical Anthropology, University of Valencia, 46100, Burjassot, Spain
| | - Vicente Herranz-Pérez
- CIBERNED, ISCIII (CIBER, Carlos III Institute, Spanish Ministry of Sciences and Innovation), 28031, Madrid, Spain
- Laboratory of Comparative Neurobiology, Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, University of Valencia, 46980, Paterna, Spain
- Department of Cell Biology, Functional Biology and Physical Anthropology, University of Valencia, 46100, Burjassot, Spain
| | - Miren Zulaica
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERNED, ISCIII (CIBER, Carlos III Institute, Spanish Ministry of Sciences and Innovation), 28031, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan José Poza
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERNED, ISCIII (CIBER, Carlos III Institute, Spanish Ministry of Sciences and Innovation), 28031, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Neurology, Donostialdea Integrated Health Organization, Osakidetza Basque Health Service, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Rebeca Ruiz-Onandi
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Galdakao-Usansolo University Hospital, Osakidetza Basque Health Service, 48960, Galdakao, Spain
- Department of Medical-Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Nursery, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 48940, Leioa, Spain
| | - Roberto Fernández-Torrón
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERNED, ISCIII (CIBER, Carlos III Institute, Spanish Ministry of Sciences and Innovation), 28031, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Neurology, Donostialdea Integrated Health Organization, Osakidetza Basque Health Service, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Juan Bautista Espinal
- Department of Neurology, Donostialdea Integrated Health Organization, Osakidetza Basque Health Service, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Mario Bonilla
- Department of Traumatology and Orthopedic Surgery, Donostialdea Integrated Health Organization, Osakidetza Basque Health Service, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Ana Lersundi
- Department of Traumatology and Orthopedic Surgery, Donostialdea Integrated Health Organization, Osakidetza Basque Health Service, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Nursery, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Gorka Fernández-Eulate
- Department of Neurology, Donostialdea Integrated Health Organization, Osakidetza Basque Health Service, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
- Nord/Est/Ile-de-France Neuromuscular Reference Center, Institut de Myologie, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, 75012, Paris, France
- Institut Necker-Enfants Malades, INSERM U1151, BioSPC (ED562), Université Paris Cité, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Javier Riancho
- CIBERNED, ISCIII (CIBER, Carlos III Institute, Spanish Ministry of Sciences and Innovation), 28031, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Neurology, Hospital de Sierrallana-IDIVAL, 39300, Torrelavega, Cantabria, Spain
- Department of Psychiatry and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cantabria, 39011, Santander, Spain
| | - Ainara Vallejo-Illarramendi
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERNED, ISCIII (CIBER, Carlos III Institute, Spanish Ministry of Sciences and Innovation), 28031, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Nursery, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Ian James Holt
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERNED, ISCIII (CIBER, Carlos III Institute, Spanish Ministry of Sciences and Innovation), 28031, Madrid, Spain
- IKERBASQUE - Basque Foundation for Science, 48009, Bilbao, Spain
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Royal Free Campus, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| | - Amets Sáenz
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERNED, ISCIII (CIBER, Carlos III Institute, Spanish Ministry of Sciences and Innovation), 28031, Madrid, Spain
| | - Edoardo Malfatti
- Université Paris Est Créteil, INSERM, IMRB, 94010, Créteil, France
- Hôpital Henri-Mondor, 94010, Créteil, France
- Paris Reference Center for Neuromuscular Disorders, APHP Henri Mondor University Hospital, 94010, Créteil, France
| | - Stéphanie Duguez
- Personalised Medicine Centre, School of Medicine, Ulster University, Derry, BT47 6SB, UK
- Northern Ireland Center for Stratified Medicine, Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Londonderry, UK
| | - Lorea Blázquez
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERNED, ISCIII (CIBER, Carlos III Institute, Spanish Ministry of Sciences and Innovation), 28031, Madrid, Spain
- IKERBASQUE - Basque Foundation for Science, 48009, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Adolfo López de Munain
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERNED, ISCIII (CIBER, Carlos III Institute, Spanish Ministry of Sciences and Innovation), 28031, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Neurology, Donostialdea Integrated Health Organization, Osakidetza Basque Health Service, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
- Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine and Nursery, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Deusto, 48007, Bilbao, Spain
- Biodonostia Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Gorka Gerenu
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERNED, ISCIII (CIBER, Carlos III Institute, Spanish Ministry of Sciences and Innovation), 28031, Madrid, Spain
- IKERBASQUE - Basque Foundation for Science, 48009, Bilbao, Spain
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursery, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 48940, Leioa, Spain
| | - Francisco Gil-Bea
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain
- CIBERNED, ISCIII (CIBER, Carlos III Institute, Spanish Ministry of Sciences and Innovation), 28031, Madrid, Spain
- IKERBASQUE - Basque Foundation for Science, 48009, Bilbao, Spain
- Department of Health Sciences, Public University of Navarra (UPNA), 31006, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Sonia Alonso-Martín
- Neurosciences Area, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain.
- CIBERNED, ISCIII (CIBER, Carlos III Institute, Spanish Ministry of Sciences and Innovation), 28031, Madrid, Spain.
- Stem Cells and Aging Group, Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, 20014, Donostia/San Sebastian, Spain.
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Duranti E, Villa C. From Brain to Muscle: The Role of Muscle Tissue in Neurodegenerative Disorders. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:719. [PMID: 39336146 PMCID: PMC11428675 DOI: 10.3390/biology13090719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2024] [Revised: 09/02/2024] [Accepted: 09/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Alzheimer's disease (AD), and Parkinson's disease (PD), primarily affect the central nervous system, leading to progressive neuronal loss and motor and cognitive dysfunction. However, recent studies have revealed that muscle tissue also plays a significant role in these diseases. ALS is characterized by severe muscle wasting as a result of motor neuron degeneration, as well as alterations in gene expression, protein aggregation, and oxidative stress. Muscle atrophy and mitochondrial dysfunction are also observed in AD, which may exacerbate cognitive decline due to systemic metabolic dysregulation. PD patients exhibit muscle fiber atrophy, altered muscle composition, and α-synuclein aggregation within muscle cells, contributing to motor symptoms and disease progression. Systemic inflammation and impaired protein degradation pathways are common among these disorders, highlighting muscle tissue as a key player in disease progression. Understanding these muscle-related changes offers potential therapeutic avenues, such as targeting mitochondrial function, reducing inflammation, and promoting muscle regeneration with exercise and pharmacological interventions. This review emphasizes the importance of considering an integrative approach to neurodegenerative disease research, considering both central and peripheral pathological mechanisms, in order to develop more effective treatments and improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chiara Villa
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy;
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5
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Martínez P, Silva M, Abarzúa S, Tevy MF, Jaimovich E, Constantine-Paton M, Bustos FJ, van Zundert B. Skeletal myotubes expressing ALS mutant SOD1 induce pathogenic changes, impair mitochondrial axonal transport, and trigger motoneuron death. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.24.595817. [PMID: 38826246 PMCID: PMC11142234 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.24.595817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease characterized by the loss of motoneurons (MNs), and despite progress, there is no effective treatment. A large body of evidence shows that astrocytes expressing ALS-linked mutant proteins cause non-cell autonomous toxicity of MNs. Although MNs innervate muscle fibers and ALS is characterized by the early disruption of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) and axon degeneration, there are controversies about whether muscle contributes to non-cell-autonomous toxicity to MNs. In this study, we generated primary skeletal myotubes from myoblasts derived from ALS mice expressing human mutant SOD1 G93A (termed hereafter mutSOD1). Characterization revealed that mutSOD1 skeletal myotubes display intrinsic phenotypic and functional differences compared to control myotubes generated from non-transgenic (NTg) littermates. Next, we analyzed whether ALS myotubes exert non-cell-autonomous toxicity to MNs. We report that conditioned media from mutSOD1 myotubes (mutSOD1-MCM), but not from control myotubes (NTg-MCM), induced robust death of primary MNs in mixed spinal cord cultures and compartmentalized microfluidic chambers. Our study further revealed that applying mutSOD1-MCM to the MN axonal side in microfluidic devices rapidly reduces mitochondrial axonal transport while increasing Ca2+ transients and reactive oxygen species (i.e., H 2 O 2 ). These results indicate that soluble factor(s) released by mutSOD1 myotubes cause MN axonopathy that leads to lethal pathogenic changes.
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6
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King PH. Skeletal muscle as a molecular and cellular biomarker of disease progression in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a narrative review. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:747-753. [PMID: 37843208 PMCID: PMC10664124 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.382226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a fatal multisystemic neurodegenerative disease with motor neurons being a primary target. Although progressive weakness is a hallmark feature of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, there is considerable heterogeneity, including clinical presentation, progression, and the underlying triggers for disease initiation. Based on longitudinal studies with families harboring amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-associated gene mutations, it has become apparent that overt disease is preceded by a prodromal phase, possibly in years, where compensatory mechanisms delay symptom onset. Since 85-90% of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is sporadic, there is a strong need for identifying biomarkers that can detect this prodromal phase as motor neurons have limited capacity for regeneration. Current Food and Drug Administration-approved therapies work by slowing the degenerative process and are most effective early in the disease. Skeletal muscle, including the neuromuscular junction, manifests abnormalities at the earliest stages of the disease, before motor neuron loss, making it a promising source for identifying biomarkers of the prodromal phase. The accessibility of muscle through biopsy provides a lens into the distal motor system at earlier stages and in real time. The advent of "omics" technology has led to the identification of numerous dysregulated molecules in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis muscle, ranging from coding and non-coding RNAs to proteins and metabolites. This technology has opened the door for identifying biomarkers of disease activity and providing insight into disease mechanisms. A major challenge is correlating the myriad of dysregulated molecules with clinical or histological progression and understanding their relevance to presymptomatic phases of disease. There are two major goals of this review. The first is to summarize some of the biomarkers identified in human amyotrophic lateral sclerosis muscle that have a clinicopathological correlation with disease activity, evidence of a similar dysregulation in the SOD1G93A mouse during presymptomatic stages, and evidence of progressive change during disease progression. The second goal is to review the molecular pathways these biomarkers reflect and their potential role in mitigating or promoting disease progression, and as such, their potential as therapeutic targets in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter H. King
- Department of Neurology and Center for Neurodegeneration and Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA; Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA
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7
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Sonkodi B. Progressive Irreversible Proprioceptive Piezo2 Channelopathy-Induced Lost Forced Peripheral Oscillatory Synchronization to the Hippocampal Oscillator May Explain the Onset of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Pathomechanism. Cells 2024; 13:492. [PMID: 38534336 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a mysterious lethal multisystem neurodegenerative disease that gradually leads to the progressive loss of motor neurons. A recent non-contact dying-back injury mechanism theory for ALS proposed that the primary damage is an acquired irreversible intrafusal proprioceptive terminal Piezo2 channelopathy with underlying genetic and environmental risk factors. Underpinning this is the theory that excessively prolonged proprioceptive mechanotransduction under allostasis may induce dysfunctionality in mitochondria, leading to Piezo2 channelopathy. This microinjury is suggested to provide one gateway from physiology to pathophysiology. The chronic, but not irreversible, form of this Piezo2 channelopathy is implicated in many diseases with unknown etiology. Dry eye disease is one of them where replenishing synthetic proteoglycans promote nerve regeneration. Syndecans, especially syndecan-3, are proposed as the first critical link in this hierarchical ordered depletory pathomechanism as proton-collecting/distributing antennas; hence, they may play a role in ALS pathomechanism onset. Even more importantly, the shedding or charge-altering variants of Syndecan-3 may contribute to the Piezo2 channelopathy-induced disruption of the Piezo2-initiated proton-based ultrafast long-range signaling through VGLUT1 and VGLUT2. Thus, these alterations may not only cause disruption to ultrafast signaling to the hippocampus in conscious proprioception, but could disrupt the ultrafast proprioceptive signaling feedback to the motoneurons. Correspondingly, an inert Piezo2-initiated proton-based ultrafast signaled proprioceptive skeletal system is coming to light that is suggested to be progressively lost in ALS. In addition, the lost functional link of the MyoD family of inhibitor proteins, as auxiliary subunits of Piezo2, may not only contribute to the theorized acquired Piezo2 channelopathy, but may explain how these microinjured ion channels evolve to be principal transcription activators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balázs Sonkodi
- Department of Health Sciences and Sport Medicine, Hungarian University of Sports Science, 1123 Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Sports Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary
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8
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Rizzuti M, Sali L, Melzi V, Scarcella S, Costamagna G, Ottoboni L, Quetti L, Brambilla L, Papadimitriou D, Verde F, Ratti A, Ticozzi N, Comi GP, Corti S, Gagliardi D. Genomic and transcriptomic advances in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 92:102126. [PMID: 37972860 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102126] [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: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder and the most common motor neuron disease. ALS shows substantial clinical and molecular heterogeneity. In vitro and in vivo models coupled with multiomic techniques have provided important contributions to unraveling the pathomechanisms underlying ALS. To date, despite promising results and accumulating knowledge, an effective treatment is still lacking. Here, we provide an overview of the literature on the use of genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics and microRNAs to deeply investigate the molecular mechanisms developing and sustaining ALS. We report the most relevant genes implicated in ALS pathogenesis, discussing the use of different high-throughput sequencing techniques and the role of epigenomic modifications. Furthermore, we present transcriptomic studies discussing the most recent advances, from microarrays to bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing. Finally, we discuss the use of microRNAs as potential biomarkers and promising tools for molecular intervention. The integration of data from multiple omic approaches may provide new insights into pathogenic pathways in ALS by shedding light on diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, helping to stratify patients into clinically relevant subgroups, revealing novel therapeutic targets and supporting the development of new effective therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mafalda Rizzuti
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Sali
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Melzi
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Simone Scarcella
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianluca Costamagna
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Linda Ottoboni
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Quetti
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Brambilla
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Federico Verde
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonia Ratti
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicola Ticozzi
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giacomo Pietro Comi
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Neuromuscular and Rare Diseases Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefania Corti
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Delia Gagliardi
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
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9
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Stella R, Bonadio RS, Cagnin S, Andreotti R, Massimino ML, Bertoli A, Peggion C. Secreted Metabolome of ALS-Related hSOD1(G93A) Primary Cultures of Myocytes and Implications for Myogenesis. Cells 2023; 12:2751. [PMID: 38067180 PMCID: PMC10706027 DOI: 10.3390/cells12232751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a motor neuron (MN) disease associated with progressive muscle atrophy, paralysis, and eventually death. Growing evidence demonstrates that the pathological process leading to ALS is the result of multiple altered mechanisms occurring not only in MNs but also in other cell types inside and outside the central nervous system. In this context, the involvement of skeletal muscle has been the subject of a few studies on patients and ALS animal models. In this work, by using primary myocytes derived from the ALS transgenic hSOD1(G93A) mouse model, we observed that the myogenic capability of such cells was defective compared to cells derived from control mice expressing the nonpathogenic hSOD1(WT) isoform. The correct in vitro myogenesis of hSOD1(G93A) primary skeletal muscle cells was rescued by the addition of a conditioned medium from healthy hSOD1(WT) myocytes, suggesting the existence of an in trans activity of secreted factors. To define a dataset of molecules participating in such safeguard action, we conducted comparative metabolomic profiling of a culture medium collected from hSOD1(G93A) and hSOD1(WT) primary myocytes and report here an altered secretion of amino acids and lipid-based signaling molecules. These findings support the urgency of better understanding the role of the skeletal muscle secretome in the regulation of the myogenic program and mechanisms of ALS pathogenesis and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Stella
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Cagnin
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy (S.C.)
- CIR-Myo Myology Center, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Roberta Andreotti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy (A.B.)
| | - Maria Lina Massimino
- Neuroscience Institute, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 35131 Padova, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Bertoli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy (A.B.)
- Neuroscience Institute, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 35131 Padova, Italy;
- Padova Neuroscience Center, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Caterina Peggion
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy (S.C.)
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10
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Duranti E, Villa C. Muscle Involvement in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Understanding the Pathogenesis and Advancing Therapeutics. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1582. [PMID: 38002264 PMCID: PMC10669302 DOI: 10.3390/biom13111582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal condition characterized by the selective loss of motor neurons in the motor cortex, brainstem, and spinal cord. Muscle involvement, muscle atrophy, and subsequent paralysis are among the main features of this disease, which is defined as a neuromuscular disorder. ALS is a persistently progressive disease, and as motor neurons continue to degenerate, individuals with ALS experience a gradual decline in their ability to perform daily activities. Ultimately, muscle function loss may result in paralysis, presenting significant challenges in mobility, communication, and self-care. While the majority of ALS research has traditionally focused on pathogenic pathways in the central nervous system, there has been a great interest in muscle research. These studies were carried out on patients and animal models in order to better understand the molecular mechanisms involved and to develop therapies aimed at improving muscle function. This review summarizes the features of ALS and discusses the role of muscle, as well as examines recent studies in the development of treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chiara Villa
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy;
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11
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Janes LE, Kelsey LJ, Sasson DC, Applebaum S, Ledwon JK, Gosain AK. Drop-off in axonal regeneration along the length of a cross-face nerve graft: An experimental study in rats. Microsurgery 2023; 43:694-701. [PMID: 37162480 DOI: 10.1002/micr.31053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The average nerve graft length utilized in cross-face nerve grafting for reconstruction of facial nerve palsy is 20-22 cm. While the graft length is thought to be one of the greatest determinants of muscle strength, the mechanism through which this happens remains unknown. We studied changes in axonal regeneration along the length of a 2 cm cross-face nerve graft in a rat model. The hypothesis was that axon count would decrease along the length of the graft. METHODS A 2 cm nerve graft (sciatic nerve) was used as a cross-face nerve graft in 16 adult female, 210-250 g, Sprague Dawley rats. Thirteen weeks later, 5 mm nerve biopsies were taken at four sites: the facial nerve trunk (control), proximal graft, midpoint of graft (1 cm distal to coaptation) and distal graft (2 cm distal to coaptation). Retrograde nerve labeling with FluoroGold was performed at the biopsied nerve site and the facial motor nucleus was taken 1 week later. Microscopic imaging and manual counting of axons and labeled motor nuclei was performed. RESULTS Retrograde-labeled motor neuron counts were decreased at the midway point of the graft compared to the facial trunk (1517 ± 335 axons, Δ% = 92.5, p = .01) and even further decreased at the distal end of the graft (269 ± 293 axons, Δ% = 175.5, p = .006). Analysis of the nerve biopsies demonstrated no significant differences in myelinated axon count between the nerve trunk and over the length of the nerve graft (range 6207-7179 axons, Δ% = 14.5, p = .07). CONCLUSION In a rat model, the number of regenerating motor neurons drops off along the length of the graft and axon count is preserved due to axon sprouting. How this pattern correlates to ultimate muscle strength remains unknown, but this study provides insight into why shorter grafts may afford better outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay E Janes
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Lauren J Kelsey
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Daniel C Sasson
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Sarah Applebaum
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Joanna K Ledwon
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Arun K Gosain
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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12
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Lundquist A, Lázár E, Han NS, Emanuelsson EB, Reitzner SM, Chapman MA, Shirokova V, Alkass K, Druid H, Petri S, Sundberg CJ, Bergmann O. FiNuTyper: Design and validation of an automated deep learning-based platform for simultaneous fiber and nucleus type analysis in human skeletal muscle. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2023; 239:e13982. [PMID: 37097015 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
AIM While manual quantification is still considered the gold standard for skeletal muscle histological analysis, it is time-consuming and prone to investigator bias. To address this challenge, we assembled an automated image analysis pipeline, FiNuTyper (Fiber and Nucleus Typer). METHODS We integrated recently developed deep learning-based image segmentation methods, optimized for unbiased evaluation of fresh and postmortem human skeletal muscle, and utilized SERCA1 and SERCA2 as type-specific myonucleus and myofiber markers after validating them against the traditional use of MyHC isoforms. RESULTS Parameters including cross-sectional area, myonuclei per fiber, myonuclear domain, central myonuclei per fiber, and grouped myofiber ratio were determined in a fiber-type-specific manner, revealing that a large degree of sex- and muscle-related heterogeneity could be detected using the pipeline. Our platform was also tested on pathological muscle tissue (ALS and IBM) and adapted for the detection of other resident cell types (leucocytes, satellite cells, capillary endothelium). CONCLUSION In summary, we present an automated image analysis tool for the simultaneous quantification of myofiber and myonuclear types, to characterize the composition and structure of healthy and diseased human skeletal muscle.
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Affiliation(s)
- August Lundquist
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Enikő Lázár
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nan S Han
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eric B Emanuelsson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Stefan M Reitzner
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department for Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mark A Chapman
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Integrated Engineering, University of San Diego, San Diego, USA
| | - Vera Shirokova
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kanar Alkass
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Henrik Druid
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Susanne Petri
- Department of Neurology, Hanover Medical School, Hanover, Germany
| | - Carl J Sundberg
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Learning, Informatics, Management, and Ethics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Olaf Bergmann
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Göttingen (UMG), Göttingen, Germany
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13
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Margotta C, Fabbrizio P, Ceccanti M, Cambieri C, Ruffolo G, D'Agostino J, Trolese MC, Cifelli P, Alfano V, Laurini C, Scaricamazza S, Ferri A, Sorarù G, Palma E, Inghilleri M, Bendotti C, Nardo G. Immune-mediated myogenesis and acetylcholine receptor clustering promote a slow disease progression in ALS mouse models. Inflamm Regen 2023; 43:19. [PMID: 36895050 PMCID: PMC9996869 DOI: 10.1186/s41232-023-00270-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a heterogeneous disease in terms of onset and progression rate. This may account for therapeutic clinical trial failure. Transgenic SOD1G93A mice on C57 or 129Sv background have a slow and fast disease progression rate, mimicking the variability observed in patients. Based on evidence inferring the active influence of skeletal muscle on ALS pathogenesis, we explored whether dysregulation in hindlimb skeletal muscle reflects the phenotypic difference between the two mouse models. METHODS Ex vivo immunohistochemical, biochemical, and biomolecular methodologies, together with in vivo electrophysiology and in vitro approaches on primary cells, were used to afford a comparative and longitudinal analysis of gastrocnemius medialis between fast- and slow-progressing ALS mice. RESULTS We reported that slow-progressing mice counteracted muscle denervation atrophy by increasing acetylcholine receptor clustering, enhancing evoked currents, and preserving compound muscle action potential. This matched with prompt and sustained myogenesis, likely triggered by an early inflammatory response switching the infiltrated macrophages towards a M2 pro-regenerative phenotype. Conversely, upon denervation, fast-progressing mice failed to promptly activate a compensatory muscle response, exhibiting a rapidly progressive deterioration of muscle force. CONCLUSIONS Our findings further pinpoint the pivotal role of skeletal muscle in ALS, providing new insights into underestimated disease mechanisms occurring at the periphery and providing useful (diagnostic, prognostic, and mechanistic) information to facilitate the translation of cost-effective therapeutic strategies from the laboratory to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra Margotta
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri 2, 20156, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Fabbrizio
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri 2, 20156, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Ceccanti
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Rare Neuromuscular Diseases Centre, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Cambieri
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Rare Neuromuscular Diseases Centre, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Ruffolo
- Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy.,IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, 00163, Rome, Italy
| | - Jessica D'Agostino
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri 2, 20156, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Trolese
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri 2, 20156, Milan, Italy
| | - Pierangelo Cifelli
- Department of Applied Clinical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy
| | | | - Christian Laurini
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Rare Neuromuscular Diseases Centre, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Alberto Ferri
- IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy.,Institute of Translational Pharmacology (IFT-CNR), Rome, Italy
| | - Gianni Sorarù
- Department of Neuroscience, Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - Eleonora Palma
- Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy.,IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, 00163, Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Inghilleri
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Rare Neuromuscular Diseases Centre, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Caterina Bendotti
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri 2, 20156, Milan, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Nardo
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri 2, 20156, Milan, Italy
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14
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Lashgari NA, Roudsari NM, Zadeh SST, Momtaz S, Abbasifard M, Reiner Ž, Abdolghaffari AH, Sahebkar A. Statins block mammalian target of rapamycin pathway: a possible novel therapeutic strategy for inflammatory, malignant and neurodegenerative diseases. Inflammopharmacology 2023; 31:57-75. [PMID: 36574095 PMCID: PMC9792946 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-022-01077-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Inflammation plays a critical role in several diseases such as cancer, gastric, heart and nervous system diseases. Data suggest that the activation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway in epithelial cells leads to inflammation. Statins, the inhibitors of the 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA), seem to be able to inhibit the mTOR. Statins are considered to have favorable effects on inflammatory diseases by reducing the complications caused by inflammation and by regulating the inflammatory process and cytokines secretion. This critical review collected data on this topic from clinical, in vivo and in vitro studies published between 1998 and June 2022 in English from databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Cochrane libraries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naser-Aldin Lashgari
- Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nazanin Momeni Roudsari
- Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Saeideh Momtaz
- Medicinal Plants Research Center, Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Toxicology and Diseases Group (TDG), The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), and Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center (PSRC), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- GI Pharmacology Interest Group (GPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mitra Abbasifard
- Immunology of Infectious Diseases Research Center, Research Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ali-Ibn Abi-Talib Hospital, School of Medicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Željko Reiner
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University Hospital Center Zagreb, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Amir Hossein Abdolghaffari
- Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
- Medicinal Plants Research Center, Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
- Toxicology and Diseases Group (TDG), The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), and Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center (PSRC), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- GI Pharmacology Interest Group (GPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
- School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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15
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Phosphodiesterase 5a Signalling in Skeletal Muscle Pathophysiology. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010703. [PMID: 36614143 PMCID: PMC9820699 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Phosphodiesterase 5A (PDE5A) is involved in cGMP hydrolysis, regulating many physiological processes. Increased activity of PDE5A has been found in several pathological conditions, and the pharmacological inhibition of PDE5 has been demonstrated to have several therapeutic applications. We have identified the presence of three different Pde5a isoforms in cardiomyocytes, and we have found that the expression of specific Pde5a isoforms may have a causal role in the onset of pathological responses in these cells. In our previous study, we demonstrated that PDE5A inhibition could ameliorate muscular dystrophy by acting at different levels, as assessed by the altered genomic response of muscular cells following treatment with the PDE5A inhibitor tadalafil. Thus, considering the importance of PDE5A in various pathophysiological conditions, we further investigated the regulation of this enzyme. Here, we analysed the expression of Pde5a isoforms in the pathophysiology of skeletal muscle. We found that skeletal muscle tissues and myogenic cells express Pde5a1 and Pde5a2 isoforms, and we observed an increased expression of Pde5a1 in damaged skeletal muscles, while Pde5a2 levels remained unchanged. We also cloned and characterized the promoters that control the transcription of Pde5a isoforms, investigating which of the transcription factors predicted by bioinformatics analysis could be involved in their modulation. In conclusion, we found an overexpression of Pde5a1 in compromised muscle and identified an involvement of MyoD and Runx1 in Pde5a1 transcriptional activity.
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16
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Mueller M, Thompson R, Osman KL, Andel E, Dejonge C, Kington S, Stephenson Z, Hamad A, Bunyak F, Nichols NL, Lever TE. Impact of Limb Phenotype on Tongue Denervation Atrophy, Dysphagia Penetrance, and Survival Time in a Mouse Model of ALS. Dysphagia 2022; 37:1777-1795. [PMID: 35426522 PMCID: PMC9568622 DOI: 10.1007/s00455-022-10442-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Current treatments for dysphagia in ALS do not target the underlying tongue weakness and denervation atrophy that is prevalent in spinal and bulbar ALS cases. To address this clinical gap, we studied the low copy number SOD1-G93A (LCN-SOD1) mouse model of ALS to quantify the impact of limb phenotype on tongue denervation atrophy, dysphagia penetrance, and survival time in preparation for future treatment-based studies. Two male LCN-SOD1 breeders and 125 offspring were followed for limb phenotype inheritance, of which 52 (30 LCN-SOD1 and 22 wild-type/WT, both sexes) underwent characterization of dysphagia penetrance (via videofluoroscopic swallow study; VFSS) and survival time at disease end-stage (15-20% body weight loss). From these, 16 mice (8/genotype) underwent postmortem histological analysis of the genioglossus for evidence of denervation atrophy. Results revealed that both breeders displayed a mixed (hindlimb and forelimb) ALS phenotype and sired equal proportions of hindlimb vs. mixed phenotype offspring. Dysphagia penetrance was complete for mixed (100%) versus incomplete for hindlimb (64%) phenotype mice; yet survival times were similar. Regardless of limb phenotype, LCN-SOD1 mice had significantly smaller genioglossus myofibers and more centralized myonuclei compared to WT mice (p < 0.05). These biomarkers of denervation atrophy were significantly correlated with VFSS metrics (lick and swallow rates, p < 0.05) but not survival time. In conclusion, both LCN-SOD1 phenotypes had significant tongue denervation atrophy, even hindlimb phenotype mice without dysphagia. This finding recapitulates human ALS, providing robust rationale for using this preclinical model to explore targeted treatments for tongue denervation atrophy and ensuing dysphagia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kate L. Osman
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Ellyn Andel
- University of Missouri Students, Columbia, MO, USA
| | | | | | | | - Ali Hamad
- University of Missouri Students, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Filiz Bunyak
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Missouri College of Engineering, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Nicole L. Nichols
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Teresa E. Lever
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, USA,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine, Columbia, MO, USA
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17
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Martinelli A, Andreo L, Dos Santos Malavazzi TC, Terena SML, da Cruz Tobelem D, Bussadori SK, Fernandes KPS, Mesquita-Ferrari RA. Vascular photobiomodulation increases muscle fiber diameter and improves the gait during compensatory hypertrophy of plantar muscle in rats. JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2022; 15:e202200192. [PMID: 36054438 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.202200192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The local photobiomodulation (LPBM) has demonstrated positive effects during compensatory hypertrophy (CH) in skeletal muscle as a response to an overload. The aim was to compare the effects of the transcutaneous vascular photobiomodulation (VPBM) and the LPBM on muscle fiber size, gait functionality, and on mechanical sensitivity during the CH model in rats. VPBM was administered over the rat's main tail vein and LPBM was applied over the plantar muscle region. VPBM induced an increase in muscle fiber diameter and cross-sectional area (CSA) after 7 days. At 14 days, an increase in the fiber diameter was found in both irradiated groups. The VPBM and LPBM promoted the reestablishment of normal gait evaluated by the sciatic functional index after 14 days. No changes were found in the mechanical (nociceptive) sensitivity in VPBM and LPBM groups in comparison to the CH group but there was an increase in the nociceptive sensitivity in the CH groups in comparison to the control after 7 and 14 days. In conclusion, both PBM, vascular and local, were able to improve the muscle size and gait during the CH process with more pronounced effects when irradiation was performed systemically (VPBM).
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Affiliation(s)
- Andréia Martinelli
- Postgraduate Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lucas Andreo
- Postgraduate Program in Biophotonics Applied to the Health Sciences, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Stella Maris Lins Terena
- Postgraduate Program in Biophotonics Applied to the Health Sciences, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Daysi da Cruz Tobelem
- Postgraduate Program in Biophotonics Applied to the Health Sciences, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sandra Kalil Bussadori
- Postgraduate Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), São Paulo, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Biophotonics Applied to the Health Sciences, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Raquel Agnelli Mesquita-Ferrari
- Postgraduate Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), São Paulo, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Biophotonics Applied to the Health Sciences, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), São Paulo, Brazil
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18
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Anakor E, Duddy WJ, Duguez S. The Cellular and Molecular Signature of ALS in Muscle. J Pers Med 2022; 12:1868. [PMID: 36579600 PMCID: PMC9692882 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12111868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a disease affecting upper and lower motor neurons. Although motor neuron death is the core event of ALS pathology, it is increasingly recognized that other tissues and cell types are affected in the disease, making potentially major contributions to the occurrence and progression of pathology. We review here the known cellular and molecular characteristics of muscle tissue affected by ALS. Evidence of toxicity in skeletal muscle tissue is considered, including metabolic dysfunctions, impaired proteostasis, and deficits in muscle regeneration and RNA metabolism. The role of muscle as a secretory organ, and effects on the skeletal muscle secretome are also covered, including the increase in secretion of toxic factors or decrease in essential factors that have consequences for neuronal function and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Stephanie Duguez
- Northern Ireland Center for Personalised Medicine, School of Medicine, Ulster University, Derry-Londonderry BT47 6SB, UK
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The Cell Autonomous and Non-Cell Autonomous Aspects of Neuronal Vulnerability and Resilience in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11081191. [PMID: 36009818 PMCID: PMC9405388 DOI: 10.3390/biology11081191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal disease characterized by a progressive paralysis due to the loss of particular neurons in our nervous system called motor neurons, that exert voluntary control of all our skeletal muscles. It is not entirely understood why motor neurons are particularly vulnerable in ALS, neither is it completely clear why certain groups of motor neurons, including those that regulate eye movement, are rather resilient to this disease. However, both vulnerability and resilience to ALS likely reflect cell intrinsic properties of different motor neuron subpopulations as well as non-cell autonomous events regulated by surrounding cell types. In this review we dissect the particular properties of different motor neuron types and their responses to disease that may underlie their respective vulnerabilities and resilience. Disease progression in ALS involves multiple cell types that are closely connected to motor neurons and we here also discuss their contributions to the differential vulnerability of motor neurons. Abstract Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is defined by the loss of upper motor neurons (MNs) that project from the cerebral cortex to the brain stem and spinal cord and of lower MNs in the brain stem and spinal cord which innervate skeletal muscles, leading to spasticity, muscle atrophy, and paralysis. ALS involves several disease stages, and multiple cell types show dysfunction and play important roles during distinct phases of disease initiation and progression, subsequently leading to selective MN loss. Why MNs are particularly vulnerable in this lethal disease is still not entirely clear. Neither is it fully understood why certain MNs are more resilient to degeneration in ALS than others. Brain stem MNs of cranial nerves III, IV, and VI, which innervate our eye muscles, are highly resistant and persist until the end-stage of the disease, enabling paralyzed patients to communicate through ocular tracking devices. MNs of the Onuf’s nucleus in the sacral spinal cord, that innervate sphincter muscles and control urogenital functions, are also spared throughout the disease. There is also a differential vulnerability among MNs that are intermingled throughout the spinal cord, that directly relate to their physiological properties. Here, fast-twitch fatigable (FF) MNs, which innervate type IIb muscle fibers, are affected early, before onset of clinical symptoms, while slow-twitch (S) MNs, that innervate type I muscle fibers, remain longer throughout the disease progression. The resilience of particular MN subpopulations has been attributed to intrinsic determinants and multiple studies have demonstrated their unique gene regulation and protein content in health and in response to disease. Identified factors within resilient MNs have been utilized to protect more vulnerable cells. Selective vulnerability may also, in part, be driven by non-cell autonomous processes and the unique surroundings and constantly changing environment close to particular MN groups. In this article, we review in detail the cell intrinsic properties of resilient and vulnerable MN groups, as well as multiple additional cell types involved in disease initiation and progression and explain how these may contribute to the selective MN resilience and vulnerability in ALS.
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20
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Zhu Y, Xu Y, Xuan R, Huang J, István B, Fekete G, Gu Y. Mixed Comparison of Different Exercise Interventions for Function, Respiratory, Fatigue, and Quality of Life in Adults With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:919059. [PMID: 35898325 PMCID: PMC9309467 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.919059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundAmyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neuromuscular disease whose primary hallmark is the progressive degeneration of motor neurons in the brainstem, spinal cord, and cerebral cortex that leads to weakness, spasticity, fatigue, skeletal muscle atrophy, paralysis, and even death. Exercise, as a non-pharmacological tool, may generally improve muscle strength, cardiovascular function, and quality of life. However, there are conflicting reports about the effect of exercise training in adults with ALS.AimsThis systematic review and network meta-analysis aim to conduct a mixed comparison of different exercise interventions for function, respiratory, fatigue, and quality of life in adults with ALS.MethodsRandomized controlled trials with ALS participants were screened and included from the databases of PubMed, Medline, and Web of Science. Physical exercise interventions were reclassified into aerobic exercise, resistance training, passive exercise, expiratory muscle exercise, and standard rehabilitation. Patient-reported outcome measures would be reclassified from perspectives of function, respiratory, fatigue, and quality of life. The effect size would be transferred into the percentage change of the total score.ResultThere were 10 studies included, with the agreement between authors reaching a kappa-value of 0.73. The network meta-analysis, which was conducted under the consistency model, identified that a combined program of aerobic exercise, resistance exercise, and standard rehabilitation showed the highest potential to improve quality of life (0.64 to be the best) and reduce the fatigue (0.39 to be the best) for ALS patients, while exercise program of aerobic and resistance training showed the highest potential (0.51 to be the best) to improve ALS patients' physical function. The effect of exercise on the respiratory was still unclear.ConclusionA multi-modal exercise and rehabilitation program would be more beneficial to ALS patients. However, the safety and guide for practice remain unclear, and further high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with a larger sample are still needed.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021253442, CRD42021253442.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yining Zhu
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Yining Xu
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Rongrong Xuan
- The Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- *Correspondence: Rongrong Xuan
| | - Jialu Huang
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Bíró István
- Faculty of Engineering, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Gusztáv Fekete
- Savaria Institute of Technology, Eötvös Loránd University, Szombathely, Hungary
| | - Yaodong Gu
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- Savaria Institute of Technology, Eötvös Loránd University, Szombathely, Hungary
- Yaodong Gu
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21
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Schooling CN, Healey T, McDonough HE, French SJ, McDermott CJ, Shaw PJ, Kadirkamanathan V, Alix JJ. Tensor electrical impedance myography identifies bulbar disease progression in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Clin Neurophysiol 2022; 139:69-75. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2022.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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22
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Alvia M, Aytan N, Spencer KR, Foster ZW, Rauf NA, Guilderson L, Robey I, Averill JG, Walker SE, Alvarez VE, Huber BR, Mathais R, Cormier KA, Nicks R, Pothast M, Labadorf A, Agus F, Alosco ML, Mez J, Kowall NW, McKee AC, Brady CB, Stein TD. MicroRNA Alterations in Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:855096. [PMID: 35663558 PMCID: PMC9160996 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.855096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Repetitive head impacts (RHI) and traumatic brain injuries are risk factors for the neurodegenerative diseases chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). ALS and CTE are distinct disorders, yet in some instances, share pathology, affect similar brain regions, and occur together. The pathways involved and biomarkers for diagnosis of both diseases are largely unknown. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) involved in gene regulation may be altered in neurodegeneration and be useful as stable biomarkers. Thus, we set out to determine associations between miRNA levels and disease state within the prefrontal cortex in a group of brain donors with CTE, ALS, CTE + ALS and controls. Of 47 miRNAs previously implicated in neurological disease and tested here, 28 (60%) were significantly different between pathology groups. Of these, 21 (75%) were upregulated in both ALS and CTE, including miRNAs involved in inflammatory, apoptotic, and cell growth/differentiation pathways. The most significant change occurred in miR-10b, which was significantly increased in ALS, but not CTE or CTE + ALS. Overall, we found patterns of miRNA expression that are common and unique to CTE and ALS and that suggest shared and distinct mechanisms of pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Alvia
- Boston University Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Boston University CTE Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Nurgul Aytan
- Boston University Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Boston University CTE Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Neurology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | | | | | | | - Ian Robey
- Southern Arizona VA Healthcare System, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - James G. Averill
- Southern Arizona VA Healthcare System, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Sean E. Walker
- Southern Arizona VA Healthcare System, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Victor E. Alvarez
- Boston University Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Boston University CTE Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Neurology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bedford, MA, United States
| | - Bertrand R. Huber
- Boston University Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Boston University CTE Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Neurology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Rebecca Mathais
- Boston University Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Boston University CTE Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Kerry A. Cormier
- Boston University Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Boston University CTE Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bedford, MA, United States
| | - Raymond Nicks
- Boston University Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Boston University CTE Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Morgan Pothast
- Boston University Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Boston University CTE Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Adam Labadorf
- Department of Neurology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Filisia Agus
- Department of Neurology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Michael L. Alosco
- Boston University Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Boston University CTE Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Neurology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jesse Mez
- Boston University Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Boston University CTE Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Neurology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Neil W. Kowall
- Boston University Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Boston University CTE Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Neurology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Ann C. McKee
- Boston University Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Boston University CTE Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Neurology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bedford, MA, United States
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Christopher B. Brady
- Department of Neurology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bedford, MA, United States
| | - Thor D. Stein
- Boston University Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Boston University CTE Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bedford, MA, United States
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
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23
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Ding Q, Kesavan K, Lee KM, Wimberger E, Robertson T, Gill M, Power D, Chang J, Fard AT, Mar JC, Henderson RD, Heggie S, McCombe PA, Jeffree RL, Colditz MJ, Hilliard MA, Ng DCH, Steyn FJ, Phillips WD, Wolvetang EJ, Ngo ST, Noakes PG. Impaired signaling for neuromuscular synaptic maintenance is a feature of Motor Neuron Disease. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2022; 10:61. [PMID: 35468848 PMCID: PMC9040261 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-022-01360-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A central event in the pathogenesis of motor neuron disease (MND) is the loss of neuromuscular junctions (NMJs), yet the mechanisms that lead to this event in MND remain to be fully elucidated. Maintenance of the NMJ relies upon neural agrin (n-agrin) which, when released from the nerve terminal, activates the postsynaptic Muscle Specific Kinase (MuSK) signaling complex to stabilize clusters of acetylcholine receptors. Here, we report that muscle from MND patients has an increased proportion of slow fibers and muscle fibers with smaller diameter. Muscle cells cultured from MND biopsies failed to form large clusters of acetylcholine receptors in response to either non-MND human motor axons or n-agrin. Furthermore, levels of expression of MuSK, and MuSK-complex components: LRP4, Caveolin-3, and Dok7 differed between muscle cells cultured from MND patients compared to those from non-MND controls. To our knowledge, this is the first time a fault in the n-agrin-LRP4-MuSK signaling pathway has been identified in muscle from MND patients. Our results highlight the n-agrin-LRP4-MuSK signaling pathway as a potential therapeutic target to prolong muscle function in MND.
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Combined Treatment with Bojungikgi-Tang and Riluzole Regulates Muscle Metabolism and Dysfunction in the hSOD1 G93A Mouse Model. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11030579. [PMID: 35326229 PMCID: PMC8944858 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11030579] [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: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The progressive neurodegenerative disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), is characterized by muscle weakness and atrophy owing to selective motoneuron degeneration. The anti-glutamatergic drug, riluzole (RZ), is the standard-of-care treatment for ALS. Bojungikgi-tang (BJIGT), a traditional herbal formula, improves motor function and prolongs the survival of mice with ALS. As ALS is a multicomplex disease, effective therapies must target multiple mechanisms. Here, we evaluated the efficacy of a BJIGT/RZ combination (5-week treatment) in 2-month-old hSOD1G93A mice with ALS. We performed quantitative polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and enzyme activity assays. BJIGT/RZ significantly attenuated inflammation, autophagy, and metabolic and mitochondrial dysfunctions in the gastrocnemius (GC) compared with the control. It reduced the mRNA and protein levels of muscle denervation-related proteins and creatine kinase levels. The total creatine level was significantly higher in the BJIGT/RZ-treated GC. Moreover, after BJIGT/RZ treatment, the number of Nissl-stained motoneurons and choline acetyl transferase-positive neurons in the spinal cord significantly increased via the regulation of proinflammatory cytokines. Collectively, the BJIGT/RZ treatment was superior to single-drug treatments in alleviating multiple ALS-related pathological mechanisms in the ALS mouse model. Overall, BJIGT can serve as a dietary supplement and be combined with RZ to achieve superior therapeutic effects against ALS.
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25
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Tallon C, Sharma A, Zhang Z, Thomas AG, Ng J, Zhu X, Donoghue A, Schulte M, Joe TR, Kambhampati SP, Sharma R, Liaw K, Kannan S, Kannan RM, Slusher BS. Dendrimer-2PMPA Delays Muscle Function Loss and Denervation in a Murine Model of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Neurotherapeutics 2022; 19:274-288. [PMID: 34984651 PMCID: PMC9130402 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-021-01159-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease where muscle weakness and neuromuscular junction (NMJ) denervation precede motor neuron cell death. Although acetylcholine is the canonical neurotransmitter at the mammalian NMJ synapse, glutamate has recently been identified as a critical neurotransmitter for NMJ development and maintenance. One source of glutamate is through the catabolism of N-acetyl-aspartyl-glutamate (NAAG), which is found in mM concentrations in mammalian motoneurons, where it is released upon stimulation and hydrolyzed to glutamate by the glial enzyme glutamate carboxypeptidase II (GCPII). Using the SOD1G93A model of ALS, we found an almost fourfold elevation of GCPII enzymatic activity in SOD1G93A versus WT muscle and a robust increase in GCPII expression which was specifically associated with activated macrophages infiltrating the muscle. 2-(Phosphonomethyl)pentanedioic acid (2PMPA) is a potent GCPII inhibitor which robustly blocks glutamate release from NAAG but is highly polar with limited tissue penetration. To improve this, we covalently attached 2PMPA to a hydroxyl polyamidoamine (PAMAM-G4-OH) dendrimer delivery system (D-2PMPA) which is known to target activated macrophages in affected tissues. Systemic D-2PMPA therapy (20 mg/kg 2PMPA equivalent; IP 2 × /week) was found to localize in muscle macrophages in SOD1G93A mice and completely normalize the enhanced GCPII activity. Although no changes in body weight or survival were observed, D-2PMPA significantly improved grip strength and inhibited the loss of NMJ innervation in the gastrocnemius muscles. Our finding that inhibiting elevated GCPII activity in SOD1G93A muscle can prolong muscle function and delay NMJ denervation may have early therapeutic implications for ALS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn Tallon
- Johns Hopkins Drug Discovery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Anjali Sharma
- Center for Nanomedicine-Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Zhi Zhang
- Center for Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
- Department of Natural Sciences, University of Michigan-Dearborn, Dearborn, MI, 48128, USA
| | - Ajit G Thomas
- Johns Hopkins Drug Discovery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Justin Ng
- Johns Hopkins Drug Discovery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Xiaolei Zhu
- Johns Hopkins Drug Discovery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Amanda Donoghue
- Johns Hopkins Drug Discovery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Michael Schulte
- Johns Hopkins Drug Discovery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Tawnjerae R Joe
- Johns Hopkins Drug Discovery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Siva P Kambhampati
- Center for Nanomedicine-Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Rishi Sharma
- Center for Nanomedicine-Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Kevin Liaw
- Center for Nanomedicine-Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Sujatha Kannan
- Center for Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
- Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy-Krieger, Inc, Baltimore, USA
| | - Rangaramanujam M Kannan
- Center for Nanomedicine-Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
- Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy-Krieger, Inc, Baltimore, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Barbara S Slusher
- Johns Hopkins Drug Discovery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA.
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA.
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA.
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 855 N. Wolfe Street, Rangos 278, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
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Rahmati M, Malakoutinia F. Aerobic, resistance and combined exercise training for patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Physiotherapy 2021; 113:12-28. [PMID: 34555670 DOI: 10.1016/j.physio.2021.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the effect of aerobic, resistance and combined exercise training in patients with ALS. DATA SOURCE A comprehensive systematic search of CENTRAL, CINAHL, SPORTDiscuss, Embase, Scopus, ProQuest was performed from inception to February 2021. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA The systematic review included all studies that examined the effect of exercise training in ALS patients. Meta-analysis was also carried out on randomized controlled trials (RCTs). DATA EXTRACTION AND DATA SYNTHESIS Data related to primary outcomes (functional ability, respiratory function, fatigue, pain, quality of life, upper-body strength, lower-body strength and Vo2peak) and secondary outcomes (adverse events and feasibility of exercises) was extracted from all studies and systematically reviewed. RESULTS 16 trials including 532 patients met the inclusion criteria; of these, eight studies were included in this meta-analysis. The meta-analysis found a statistically significant difference in favor of exercise in functional ability (P=0.001), overall quality of life (P=0.03) and Vo2peak (P=0.01). The included trials were generally of poor quality and had a risk of bias. However, the results of sensitivity analysis, after omitting studies with high risk of bias, showed no statistically significant difference in functional ability (P=0.05), overall quality of life (P=0.12) and Vo2peak (P=0.13). Finally, no significant difference was found in respiratory function, fatigue, pain, and upper-body and lower-body strength. CONCLUSIONS The safety and effectiveness of exercise therapy in ALS patients remains unclear and further high quality RCTs with larger sample size are needed. Systematic Review Registration Number PROSPERO CRD42019140011.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoud Rahmati
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Literature and Human Sciences, Lorestan University, Khoramabad, Iran.
| | - Fatemeh Malakoutinia
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Literature and Human Sciences, Lorestan University, Khoramabad, Iran
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Dubuisson N, Versele R, Davis-López de Carrizosa MA, Selvais CM, Brichard SM, Abou-Samra M. Walking down Skeletal Muscle Lane: From Inflammasome to Disease. Cells 2021; 10:cells10113023. [PMID: 34831246 PMCID: PMC8616386 DOI: 10.3390/cells10113023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last decade, innate immune system receptors and sensors called inflammasomes have been identified to play key pathological roles in the development and progression of numerous diseases. Among them, the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD-), leucine-rich repeat (LRR-) and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is probably the best characterized. To date, NLRP3 has been extensively studied in the heart, where its effects and actions have been broadly documented in numerous cardiovascular diseases. However, little is still known about NLRP3 implications in muscle disorders affecting non-cardiac muscles. In this review, we summarize and present the current knowledge regarding the function of NLRP3 in diseased skeletal muscle, and discuss the potential therapeutic options targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome in muscle disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Dubuisson
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition Unit, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Medical Sector, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (R.V.); (M.A.D.-L.d.C.); (C.M.S.); (S.M.B.); (M.A.-S.)
- Neuromuscular Reference Center, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
- Correspondence:
| | - Romain Versele
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition Unit, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Medical Sector, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (R.V.); (M.A.D.-L.d.C.); (C.M.S.); (S.M.B.); (M.A.-S.)
| | - María A. Davis-López de Carrizosa
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition Unit, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Medical Sector, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (R.V.); (M.A.D.-L.d.C.); (C.M.S.); (S.M.B.); (M.A.-S.)
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, 41012 Seville, Spain
| | - Camille M. Selvais
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition Unit, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Medical Sector, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (R.V.); (M.A.D.-L.d.C.); (C.M.S.); (S.M.B.); (M.A.-S.)
| | - Sonia M. Brichard
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition Unit, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Medical Sector, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (R.V.); (M.A.D.-L.d.C.); (C.M.S.); (S.M.B.); (M.A.-S.)
| | - Michel Abou-Samra
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition Unit, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research, Medical Sector, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (R.V.); (M.A.D.-L.d.C.); (C.M.S.); (S.M.B.); (M.A.-S.)
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Laneve P, Tollis P, Caffarelli E. RNA Deregulation in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: The Noncoding Perspective. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10285. [PMID: 34638636 PMCID: PMC8508793 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA metabolism is central to cellular physiopathology. Almost all the molecular pathways underpinning biological processes are affected by the events governing the RNA life cycle, ranging from transcription to degradation. The deregulation of these processes contributes to the onset and progression of human diseases. In recent decades, considerable efforts have been devoted to the characterization of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) and to the study of their role in the homeostasis of the nervous system (NS), where they are highly enriched. Acting as major regulators of gene expression, ncRNAs orchestrate all the steps of the differentiation programs, participate in the mechanisms underlying neural functions, and are crucially implicated in the development of neuronal pathologies, among which are neurodegenerative diseases. This review aims to explore the link between ncRNA dysregulation and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the most frequent motoneuron (MN) disorder in adults. Notably, defective RNA metabolism is known to be largely associated with this pathology, which is often regarded as an RNA disease. We also discuss the potential role that these transcripts may play as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Laneve
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, National Research Council, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Tollis
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology Charles Darwin, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Elisa Caffarelli
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, National Research Council, 00185 Rome, Italy
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Two distinct skeletal muscle microRNA signatures revealing the complex mechanism of sporadic ALS. Acta Neurol Belg 2021; 122:1499-1509. [PMID: 34241798 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-021-01743-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Skeletal muscle pathology is thought to have an important role in the onset and/or progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive muscle weakness. Since miRNAs are recognized as important regulatory factors of essential biological processes, we aimed to identify differentially expressed miRNAs in the skeletal muscle of sporadic ALS patients through the combination of molecular-omic technologies and bioinformatic tools. We analyzed the miRnome profiles of skeletal muscle biopsies acquired from ten sALS patients and five controls with Affymetrix GeneChip miRNA 4.0 Array. To find out differentially expressed miRNAs in patients, data were analyzed by The Institute for Genomic Research-Multi Experiment Viewer (MeV) and miRNAs whose expression difference were statistically significant were identified as candidates. The potential target genes of these miRNAs were predicted by miRWalk 2.0 and were functionally enriched by gene ontology (GO) analysis. The expression level of priority candidates was validated by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis. We identified ten differentially expressed miRNAs in patients with a fold change threshold ≥ 2.0, FDR = 0. We identified ten differentially expressed miRNAs in patients with a fold change threshold ≥ 2.0, FDR = 0. Nine out of the ten miRNAs were found to be related to top three enriched ALS-related terms. Based on the qRT-PCR validation of candidate miRNAs, patients were separated into two groups: those with upregulated miR-4429 and miR-1825 expression and those with downregulated miR-638 expression. The different muscle-specific miRNA profiles in sALS patients may indicate the involvement of etiologic heterogeneity, which may allow the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
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Giagnorio E, Malacarne C, Mantegazza R, Bonanno S, Marcuzzo S. MyomiRs and their multifaceted regulatory roles in muscle homeostasis and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Cell Sci 2021; 134:269129. [PMID: 34137441 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.258349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease characterized by loss of both upper and lower motor neurons (MNs). The main clinical features of ALS are motor function impairment, progressive muscle weakness, muscle atrophy and, ultimately, paralysis. Intrinsic skeletal muscle deterioration plays a crucial role in the disease and contributes to ALS progression. Currently, there are no effective treatments for ALS, highlighting the need to obtain a deeper understanding of the molecular events underlying degeneration of both MNs and muscle tissue, with the aim of developing successful therapies. Muscle tissue is enriched in a group of microRNAs called myomiRs, which are effective regulators of muscle homeostasis, plasticity and myogenesis in both physiological and pathological conditions. After providing an overview of ALS pathophysiology, with a focus on the role of skeletal muscle, we review the current literature on myomiR network dysregulation as a contributing factor to myogenic perturbations and muscle atrophy in ALS. We argue that, in view of their critical regulatory function at the interface between MNs and skeletal muscle fiber, myomiRs are worthy of further investigation as potential molecular targets of therapeutic strategies to improve ALS symptoms and counteract disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Giagnorio
- Neurology IV - Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan 20133, Italy.,PhD program in Neuroscience, University of Milano-Bicocca, via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Claudia Malacarne
- Neurology IV - Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan 20133, Italy.,PhD program in Neuroscience, University of Milano-Bicocca, via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Renato Mantegazza
- Neurology IV - Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Silvia Bonanno
- Neurology IV - Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Stefania Marcuzzo
- Neurology IV - Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan 20133, Italy
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31
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Malacarne C, Galbiati M, Giagnorio E, Cavalcante P, Salerno F, Andreetta F, Cagnoli C, Taiana M, Nizzardo M, Corti S, Pensato V, Venerando A, Gellera C, Fenu S, Pareyson D, Masson R, Maggi L, Dalla Bella E, Lauria G, Mantegazza R, Bernasconi P, Poletti A, Bonanno S, Marcuzzo S. Dysregulation of Muscle-Specific MicroRNAs as Common Pathogenic Feature Associated with Muscle Atrophy in ALS, SMA and SBMA: Evidence from Animal Models and Human Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115673. [PMID: 34073630 PMCID: PMC8198536 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Motor neuron diseases (MNDs) are neurodegenerative disorders characterized by upper and/or lower MN loss. MNDs include amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), and spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA). Despite variability in onset, progression, and genetics, they share a common skeletal muscle involvement, suggesting that it could be a primary site for MND pathogenesis. Due to the key role of muscle-specific microRNAs (myomiRs) in skeletal muscle development, by real-time PCR we investigated the expression of miR-206, miR-133a, miR-133b, and miR-1, and their target genes, in G93A-SOD1 ALS, Δ7SMA, and KI-SBMA mouse muscle during disease progression. Further, we analyzed their expression in serum of SOD1-mutated ALS, SMA, and SBMA patients, to demonstrate myomiR role as noninvasive biomarkers. Our data showed a dysregulation of myomiRs and their targets, in ALS, SMA, and SBMA mice, revealing a common pathogenic feature associated with muscle impairment. A similar myomiR signature was observed in patients’ sera. In particular, an up-regulation of miR-206 was identified in both mouse muscle and serum of human patients. Our overall findings highlight the role of myomiRs as promising biomarkers in ALS, SMA, and SBMA. Further investigations are needed to explore the potential of myomiRs as therapeutic targets for MND treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Malacarne
- Neurology IV–Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.M.); (E.G.); (P.C.); (F.S.); (F.A.); (L.M.); (R.M.); (P.B.); (S.B.)
- PhD Program in Neuroscience, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Mariarita Galbiati
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Centro di Eccellenza sulle Malattie Neurodegenerative, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti, 9, 20133 Milano, Italy;
| | - Eleonora Giagnorio
- Neurology IV–Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.M.); (E.G.); (P.C.); (F.S.); (F.A.); (L.M.); (R.M.); (P.B.); (S.B.)
- PhD Program in Neuroscience, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Paola Cavalcante
- Neurology IV–Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.M.); (E.G.); (P.C.); (F.S.); (F.A.); (L.M.); (R.M.); (P.B.); (S.B.)
| | - Franco Salerno
- Neurology IV–Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.M.); (E.G.); (P.C.); (F.S.); (F.A.); (L.M.); (R.M.); (P.B.); (S.B.)
| | - Francesca Andreetta
- Neurology IV–Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.M.); (E.G.); (P.C.); (F.S.); (F.A.); (L.M.); (R.M.); (P.B.); (S.B.)
| | - Cinza Cagnoli
- Molecular Neuroanatomy and Pathogenesis Unit, Neurology VII—Clinical and Experimental Epileptology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy;
| | - Michela Taiana
- Dino Ferrari Centre, Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), University of Milan, Via Francesco Sforza 35, 20122 Milan, Italy; (M.T.); (S.C.)
| | - Monica Nizzardo
- Neurology Unit, IRCCS Foundation Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza 35, 20122 Milan, Italy;
| | - Stefania Corti
- Dino Ferrari Centre, Neuroscience Section, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation (DEPT), University of Milan, Via Francesco Sforza 35, 20122 Milan, Italy; (M.T.); (S.C.)
- Neurology Unit, IRCCS Foundation Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza 35, 20122 Milan, Italy;
| | - Viviana Pensato
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (V.P.); (A.V.); (C.G.)
| | - Anna Venerando
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (V.P.); (A.V.); (C.G.)
| | - Cinzia Gellera
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (V.P.); (A.V.); (C.G.)
| | - Silvia Fenu
- Unit of Rare Neurodegenerative and Neurometabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (S.F.); (D.P.)
| | - Davide Pareyson
- Unit of Rare Neurodegenerative and Neurometabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (S.F.); (D.P.)
| | - Riccardo Masson
- Developmental Neurology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy;
| | - Lorenzo Maggi
- Neurology IV–Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.M.); (E.G.); (P.C.); (F.S.); (F.A.); (L.M.); (R.M.); (P.B.); (S.B.)
| | - Eleonora Dalla Bella
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (E.D.B.); (G.L.)
| | - Giuseppe Lauria
- Neuroalgology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (E.D.B.); (G.L.)
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences “Luigi Sacco”, University of Milan, Via G.B. Grassi 74, 20157 Milan, Italy
| | - Renato Mantegazza
- Neurology IV–Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.M.); (E.G.); (P.C.); (F.S.); (F.A.); (L.M.); (R.M.); (P.B.); (S.B.)
| | - Pia Bernasconi
- Neurology IV–Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.M.); (E.G.); (P.C.); (F.S.); (F.A.); (L.M.); (R.M.); (P.B.); (S.B.)
| | - Angelo Poletti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Centro di Eccellenza sulle Malattie Neurodegenerative, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti, 9, 20133 Milano, Italy;
- Correspondence: (A.P.); (S.M.); Tel.: +39-02-5031-8215 (A.P.); Tel.: +39-02-2394-4511 (ext. 4651) (S.M.); Fax: +39-02-70633874 (S.M.)
| | - Silvia Bonanno
- Neurology IV–Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.M.); (E.G.); (P.C.); (F.S.); (F.A.); (L.M.); (R.M.); (P.B.); (S.B.)
| | - Stefania Marcuzzo
- Neurology IV–Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.M.); (E.G.); (P.C.); (F.S.); (F.A.); (L.M.); (R.M.); (P.B.); (S.B.)
- Correspondence: (A.P.); (S.M.); Tel.: +39-02-5031-8215 (A.P.); Tel.: +39-02-2394-4511 (ext. 4651) (S.M.); Fax: +39-02-70633874 (S.M.)
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Scaricamazza S, Salvatori I, Ferri A, Valle C. Skeletal Muscle in ALS: An Unappreciated Therapeutic Opportunity? Cells 2021; 10:525. [PMID: 33801336 PMCID: PMC8000428 DOI: 10.3390/cells10030525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the selective degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons and by the progressive weakness and paralysis of voluntary muscles. Despite intense research efforts and numerous clinical trials, it is still an incurable disease. ALS had long been considered a pure motor neuron disease; however, recent studies have shown that motor neuron protection is not sufficient to prevent the course of the disease since the dismantlement of neuromuscular junctions occurs before motor neuron degeneration. Skeletal muscle alterations have been described in the early stages of the disease, and they seem to be mainly involved in the "dying back" phenomenon of motor neurons and metabolic dysfunctions. In recent years, skeletal muscles have been considered crucial not only for the etiology of ALS but also for its treatment. Here, we review clinical and preclinical studies that targeted skeletal muscles and discuss the different approaches, including pharmacological interventions, supplements or diets, genetic modifications, and training programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Scaricamazza
- Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS, c/o CERC, 00143 Rome, Italy; (S.S.); (I.S.)
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Illari Salvatori
- Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS, c/o CERC, 00143 Rome, Italy; (S.S.); (I.S.)
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “La Sapienza”, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Ferri
- Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS, c/o CERC, 00143 Rome, Italy; (S.S.); (I.S.)
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Research Council, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Cristiana Valle
- Fondazione Santa Lucia IRCCS, c/o CERC, 00143 Rome, Italy; (S.S.); (I.S.)
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Research Council, 00133 Rome, Italy
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Marshall KL, Farah MH. Axonal regeneration and sprouting as a potential therapeutic target for nervous system disorders. Neural Regen Res 2021; 16:1901-1910. [PMID: 33642358 PMCID: PMC8343323 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.308077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Nervous system disorders are prevalent health issues that will only continue to increase in frequency as the population ages. Dying-back axonopathy is a hallmark of many neurologic diseases and leads to axonal disconnection from their targets, which in turn leads to functional impairment. During the course of many of neurologic diseases, axons can regenerate or sprout in an attempt to reconnect with the target and restore synapse function. In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), distal motor axons retract from neuromuscular junctions early in the disease-course before significant motor neuron death. There is evidence of compensatory motor axon sprouting and reinnervation of neuromuscular junctions in ALS that is usually quickly overtaken by the disease course. Potential drugs that enhance compensatory sprouting and encourage reinnervation may slow symptom progression and retain muscle function for a longer period of time in ALS and in other diseases that exhibit dying-back axonopathy. There remain many outstanding questions as to the impact of distinct disease-causing mutations on axonal outgrowth and regeneration, especially in regards to motor neurons derived from patient induced pluripotent stem cells. Compartmentalized microfluidic chambers are powerful tools for studying the distal axons of human induced pluripotent stem cells-derived motor neurons, and have recently been used to demonstrate striking regeneration defects in human motor neurons harboring ALS disease-causing mutations. Modeling the human neuromuscular circuit with human induced pluripotent stem cells-derived motor neurons will be critical for developing drugs that enhance axonal regeneration, sprouting, and reinnervation of neuromuscular junctions. In this review we will discuss compensatory axonal sprouting as a potential therapeutic target for ALS, and the use of compartmentalized microfluidic devices to find drugs that enhance regeneration and axonal sprouting of motor axons.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohamed H Farah
- Department of Neurology at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Simvastatin Enhances Muscle Regeneration Through Autophagic Defect-Mediated Inflammation and mTOR Activation in G93ASOD1 Mice. Mol Neurobiol 2020; 58:1593-1606. [PMID: 33222146 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-020-02216-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a fatal neurodegenerative disease characterised by the selective loss of motor neurons, muscular atrophy, and degeneration. Statins, as 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors, are the most widely prescribed drugs to lower cholesterol levels and used for the treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. However, statins are seldom used in muscular diseases, primarily because of their rare statin-associated myopathy. Recently, statins have been shown to reduce muscular damage and improve its function. Here, we investigated the role of statins in myopathy using G93ASOD1 mice. Our results indicated that simvastatin significantly increased the autophagic flux defect and increased inflammation in the skeletal muscles of G93ASOD1 mice. We also found that increased inflammation correlated with aggravated muscle atrophy and fibrosis. Nevertheless, long-term simvastatin treatment promoted the regeneration of damaged muscle by activating the mammalian target of rapamycin pathway. However, administration of simvastatin did not impede vast muscle degeneration and movement dysfunction resulting from the enhanced progressive impairment of the neuromuscular junction. Together, our findings highlighted that simvastatin exacerbated skeletal muscle atrophy and denervation in spite of promoting myogenesis in damaged muscle, providing new insights into the selective use of statin-induced myopathy in ALS.
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35
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Manzano R, Toivonen JM, Moreno-Martínez L, de la Torre M, Moreno-García L, López-Royo T, Molina N, Zaragoza P, Calvo AC, Osta R. What skeletal muscle has to say in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: Implications for therapy. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 178:1279-1297. [PMID: 32986860 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an adult onset disorder characterized by progressive neuromuscular junction (NMJ) dismantling and degeneration of motor neurons leading to atrophy and paralysis of voluntary muscles responsible for motion and breathing. Except for a minority of patients harbouring genetic mutations, the origin of most ALS cases remains elusive. Peripheral tissues, and particularly skeletal muscle, have lately demonstrated an active contribution to disease pathology attracting a growing interest for these tissues as therapeutic targets in ALS. In this sense, molecular mechanisms essential for cell and tissue homeostasis have been shown to be deregulated in the disease. These include muscle metabolism and mitochondrial activity, RNA processing, tissue-resident stem cell function responsible for muscle regeneration, and proteostasis that regulates muscle mass in adulthood. This review aims to compile scientific evidence that demonstrates the role of skeletal muscle in ALS pathology and serves as reference for development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting this tissue to delay disease onset and progression. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Neurochemistry in Japan. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v178.6/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Manzano
- Department of Anatomy, Embryology and Animal Genetics, University of Zaragoza, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Agroalimentary Institute of Aragon (IA2), Institute of Health Research of Aragon (IIS), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Janne Markus Toivonen
- Department of Anatomy, Embryology and Animal Genetics, University of Zaragoza, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Agroalimentary Institute of Aragon (IA2), Institute of Health Research of Aragon (IIS), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Laura Moreno-Martínez
- Department of Anatomy, Embryology and Animal Genetics, University of Zaragoza, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Agroalimentary Institute of Aragon (IA2), Institute of Health Research of Aragon (IIS), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Miriam de la Torre
- Department of Anatomy, Embryology and Animal Genetics, University of Zaragoza, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Agroalimentary Institute of Aragon (IA2), Institute of Health Research of Aragon (IIS), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Leticia Moreno-García
- Department of Anatomy, Embryology and Animal Genetics, University of Zaragoza, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Agroalimentary Institute of Aragon (IA2), Institute of Health Research of Aragon (IIS), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Tresa López-Royo
- Department of Anatomy, Embryology and Animal Genetics, University of Zaragoza, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Agroalimentary Institute of Aragon (IA2), Institute of Health Research of Aragon (IIS), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Nora Molina
- Department of Anatomy, Embryology and Animal Genetics, University of Zaragoza, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Agroalimentary Institute of Aragon (IA2), Institute of Health Research of Aragon (IIS), Zaragoza, Spain.,Geriatrics Service, Hospital Nuestra Señora de Gracia, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Pilar Zaragoza
- Department of Anatomy, Embryology and Animal Genetics, University of Zaragoza, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Agroalimentary Institute of Aragon (IA2), Institute of Health Research of Aragon (IIS), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ana Cristina Calvo
- Department of Anatomy, Embryology and Animal Genetics, University of Zaragoza, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Agroalimentary Institute of Aragon (IA2), Institute of Health Research of Aragon (IIS), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Rosario Osta
- Department of Anatomy, Embryology and Animal Genetics, University of Zaragoza, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Agroalimentary Institute of Aragon (IA2), Institute of Health Research of Aragon (IIS), Zaragoza, Spain
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Guo X, Smith V, Jackson M, Tran M, Thomas M, Patel A, Lorusso E, Nimbalkar S, Cai Y, McAleer CW, Wang Y, Long CJ, Hickman JJ. A Human-Based Functional NMJ System for Personalized ALS Modeling and Drug Testing. ADVANCED THERAPEUTICS 2020; 3:2000133. [PMID: 33709015 PMCID: PMC7942691 DOI: 10.1002/adtp.202000133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Loss of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is an early and critical hallmark in all forms of ALS. The study design was to develop a functional NMJ disease model by integrating motoneurons (MNs) differentiated from multiple ALS-patients' induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and primary human muscle into a chambered system. NMJ functionality was tested by recording myotube contractions while stimulating MNs by field electrodes and a set of clinically relevant parameters were defined to characterize the NMJ function. Three ALS lines were analyzed, 2 with SOD1 mutations and 1 with a FUS mutation. The ALS-MNs reproduced pathological phenotypes, including increased axonal varicosities, reduced axonal branching and elongation and increased excitability. These MNs formed functional NMJs with wild type muscle, but with significant deficits in NMJ quantity, fidelity and fatigue index. Furthermore, treatment with the Deana protocol was found to correct the NMJ deficits in all the ALS mutant lines tested. Quantitative analysis also revealed the variations inherent in each mutant lines. This functional NMJ system provides a platform for the study of both fALS and sALS and has the capability of being adapted into subtype-specific or patient-specific models for ALS etiological investigation and patient stratification for drug testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiufang Guo
- NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, 12424 Research Parkway, Suite 400, Orlando, FL 32826, USA
| | - Virginia Smith
- NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, 12424 Research Parkway, Suite 400, Orlando, FL 32826, USA
| | - Max Jackson
- NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, 12424 Research Parkway, Suite 400, Orlando, FL 32826, USA
| | - My Tran
- NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, 12424 Research Parkway, Suite 400, Orlando, FL 32826, USA
| | - Michael Thomas
- NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, 12424 Research Parkway, Suite 400, Orlando, FL 32826, USA
| | - Aakash Patel
- NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, 12424 Research Parkway, Suite 400, Orlando, FL 32826, USA
| | - Eric Lorusso
- NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, 12424 Research Parkway, Suite 400, Orlando, FL 32826, USA
| | - Siddharth Nimbalkar
- NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, 12424 Research Parkway, Suite 400, Orlando, FL 32826, USA
| | - Yunqing Cai
- NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, 12424 Research Parkway, Suite 400, Orlando, FL 32826, USA
| | - Christopher W. McAleer
- NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, 12424 Research Parkway, Suite 400, Orlando, FL 32826, USA
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, 305 Weill Hall, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Christopher J. Long
- NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, 12424 Research Parkway, Suite 400, Orlando, FL 32826, USA
| | - James J. Hickman
- NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, 12424 Research Parkway, Suite 400, Orlando, FL 32826, USA
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37
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Badu-Mensah A, Guo X, McAleer CW, Rumsey JW, Hickman JJ. Functional skeletal muscle model derived from SOD1-mutant ALS patient iPSCs recapitulates hallmarks of disease progression. Sci Rep 2020; 10:14302. [PMID: 32868812 PMCID: PMC7459299 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-70510-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent findings suggest a pathologic role of skeletal muscle in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) onset and progression. However, the exact mechanism by which this occurs remains elusive due to limited human-based studies. To this end, phenotypic ALS skeletal muscle models were developed from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived from healthy individuals (WT) and ALS patients harboring mutations in the superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) gene. Although proliferative, SOD1 myoblasts demonstrated delayed and reduced fusion efficiency compared to WT. Additionally, SOD1 myotubes exhibited significantly reduced length and cross-section. Also, SOD1 myotubes had loosely arranged myosin heavy chain and reduced acetylcholine receptor expression per immunocytochemical analysis. Functional analysis indicated considerably reduced contractile force and synchrony in SOD1 myotubes. Mitochondrial assessment indicated reduced inner mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) and metabolic plasticity in the SOD1-iPSC derived myotubes. This work presents the first well-characterized in vitro iPSC-derived muscle model that demonstrates SOD1 toxicity effects on human muscle regeneration, contractility and metabolic function in ALS. Current findings align with previous ALS patient biopsy studies and suggest an active contribution of skeletal muscle in NMJ dysfunction. Further, the results validate this model as a human-relevant platform for ALS research and drug discovery studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnes Badu-Mensah
- NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, 12424 Research Parkway, Suite 400, Orlando, FL, 32826, USA.,College of Medicine, Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, 32816, USA
| | - Xiufang Guo
- NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, 12424 Research Parkway, Suite 400, Orlando, FL, 32826, USA
| | | | - John W Rumsey
- Hesperos Inc., 12501 Research Pkwy, Suite 100, Orlando, FL, 32826, USA
| | - James J Hickman
- NanoScience Technology Center, University of Central Florida, 12424 Research Parkway, Suite 400, Orlando, FL, 32826, USA. .,Hesperos Inc., 12501 Research Pkwy, Suite 100, Orlando, FL, 32826, USA.
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Tosolini AP, Sleigh JN. Intramuscular Delivery of Gene Therapy for Targeting the Nervous System. Front Mol Neurosci 2020; 13:129. [PMID: 32765219 PMCID: PMC7379875 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2020.00129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Virus-mediated gene therapy has the potential to deliver exogenous genetic material into specific cell types to promote survival and counteract disease. This is particularly enticing for neuronal conditions, as the nervous system is renowned for its intransigence to therapeutic targeting. Administration of gene therapy viruses into skeletal muscle, where distal terminals of motor and sensory neurons reside, has been shown to result in extensive transduction of cells within the spinal cord, brainstem, and sensory ganglia. This route is minimally invasive and therefore clinically relevant for gene therapy targeting to peripheral nerve soma. For successful transgene expression, viruses administered into muscle must undergo a series of processes, including host cell interaction and internalization, intracellular sorting, long-range retrograde axonal transport, endosomal liberation, and nuclear import. In this review article, we outline key characteristics of major gene therapy viruses—adenovirus, adeno-associated virus (AAV), and lentivirus—and summarize the mechanisms regulating important steps in the virus journey from binding at peripheral nerve terminals to nuclear delivery. Additionally, we describe how neuropathology can negatively influence these pathways, and conclude by discussing opportunities to optimize the intramuscular administration route to maximize gene delivery and thus therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew P Tosolini
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - James N Sleigh
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,UK Dementia Research Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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39
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Martinelli A, Andreo L, Alves AN, Terena SML, Santos TC, Bussadori SK, Fernandes KPS, Mesquita-Ferrari RA. Photobiomodulation modulates the expression of inflammatory cytokines during the compensatory hypertrophy process in skeletal muscle. Lasers Med Sci 2020; 36:791-802. [PMID: 32638240 DOI: 10.1007/s10103-020-03095-y] [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: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Compensatory hypertrophy (CH) occurs due to excessive mechanical load on a muscle, promoting an increase in the size of muscle fibers. In clinical practice, situations such as partial nerve injuries, denervation, and muscle imbalance caused by trauma to muscles and nerves or diseases that promote the loss of nerve conduction can induce CH in muscle fibers. Photobiomodulation (PBM) has demonstrated beneficial effects on muscle tissue during CH. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of PBM on the inflammatory cytokines interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) as well as type 2 metalloproteinases (MMP-2) during the process of CH due to excessive load on the plantaris muscle in rats. Forty-five Wistar rats weighing 250 g were divided into three groups: control group (n = 10), hypertrophy (H) group (n = 40), and H + PBM group (n = 40). CH was induced through the ablation of synergist muscles of the plantaris muscle. The tendons of the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles were isolated and sectioned to enable the partial removal of each of muscle. The preserved plantaris muscle below the removed muscles was submitted to excessive functional load. PBM was performed with low-level laser (AsGaAl, λ = 780 nm; 40 mW; energy density: 10 J/cm2; 10 s on each point, 8 points; 3.2 J). Animals from each group were euthanized after 7 and 14 days. The plantaris muscles were carefully removed and sent for analysis of the gene and protein expression of IL-6 and TNF-α using qPCR and ELISA, respectively. MMP-2 activity was analyzed using zymography. The results were submitted to statistical analysis (ANOVA + Tukey's test, p < 0.05). The protein expression analysis revealed an increase in IL-6 levels in the H + PBM group compared to the H group and a reduction in the H group compared to the control group. A reduction in TNF-α was found in the H and H + PBM groups compared to the control group at 7 days. The gene expression analysis revealed an increase in IL-6 in the H + PBM group compared to the H group at 14 days as well as an increase in TNF-α in the H + PBM group compared to the H group at 7 days. Increases in MMP-2 were found in the H and H + PBM groups compared to the control group at both 7 and 14 days. Based on findings in the present study, it is concluded that PBM was able to modulate pro-inflammatory cytokines that are essential for the compensatory hypertrophy process. However, it has not shown a modulation effect directly in MMP-2 activity during the same period evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Martinelli
- Postgraduate Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), Rua Vergueiro, 349, São Paulo, SP, 01504001, Brazil
| | - L Andreo
- Postgraduate Program in Biophotonics Applied to Health Sciences, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), Rua Vergueiro, 349, São Paulo, SP, 01504001, Brazil
| | - A N Alves
- Postgraduate Program in Biophotonics Applied to Health Sciences, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), Rua Vergueiro, 349, São Paulo, SP, 01504001, Brazil
| | - S M L Terena
- Postgraduate Program in Biophotonics Applied to Health Sciences, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), Rua Vergueiro, 349, São Paulo, SP, 01504001, Brazil
| | - T C Santos
- Postgraduate Program in Biophotonics Applied to Health Sciences, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), Rua Vergueiro, 349, São Paulo, SP, 01504001, Brazil
| | - S K Bussadori
- Postgraduate Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), Rua Vergueiro, 349, São Paulo, SP, 01504001, Brazil.,Postgraduate Program in Biophotonics Applied to Health Sciences, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), Rua Vergueiro, 349, São Paulo, SP, 01504001, Brazil
| | - K P S Fernandes
- Postgraduate Program in Biophotonics Applied to Health Sciences, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), Rua Vergueiro, 349, São Paulo, SP, 01504001, Brazil
| | - Raquel Agnelli Mesquita-Ferrari
- Postgraduate Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), Rua Vergueiro, 349, São Paulo, SP, 01504001, Brazil. .,Postgraduate Program in Biophotonics Applied to Health Sciences, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), Rua Vergueiro, 349, São Paulo, SP, 01504001, Brazil.
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40
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Williamson MG, Finelli MJ, Sleigh JN, Reddington A, Gordon D, Talbot K, Davies KE, Oliver PL. Neuronal over-expression of Oxr1 is protective against ALS-associated mutant TDP-43 mislocalisation in motor neurons and neuromuscular defects in vivo. Hum Mol Genet 2020; 28:3584-3599. [PMID: 31642482 PMCID: PMC6927465 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddz190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Revised: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A common pathological hallmark of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and the related neurodegenerative disorder frontotemporal dementia, is the cellular mislocalization of transactive response DNA-binding protein 43 kDa (TDP-43). Additionally, multiple mutations in the TARDBP gene (encoding TDP-43) are associated with familial forms of ALS. While the exact role for TDP-43 in the onset and progression of ALS remains unclear, the identification of factors that can prevent aberrant TDP-43 localization and function could be clinically beneficial. Previously, we discovered that the oxidation resistance 1 (Oxr1) protein could alleviate cellular mislocalization phenotypes associated with TDP-43 mutations, and that over-expression of Oxr1 was able to delay neuromuscular abnormalities in the hSOD1G93A ALS mouse model. Here, to determine whether Oxr1 can protect against TDP-43-associated phenotypes in vitro and in vivo, we used the same genetic approach in a newly described transgenic mouse expressing the human TDP-43 locus harbouring an ALS disease mutation (TDP-43M337V). We show in primary motor neurons from TDP-43M337V mice that genetically-driven Oxr1 over-expression significantly alleviates cytoplasmic mislocalization of mutant TDP-43. We also further quantified newly-identified, late-onset neuromuscular phenotypes of this mutant line, and demonstrate that neuronal Oxr1 over-expression causes a significant reduction in muscle denervation and neuromuscular junction degeneration in homozygous mutants in parallel with improved motor function and a reduction in neuroinflammation. Together these data support the application of Oxr1 as a viable and safe modifier of TDP-43-associated ALS phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew G Williamson
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PT, UK
| | - Mattéa J Finelli
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PT, UK
| | - James N Sleigh
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London WC1N 3BG, UK.,UK Dementia Research Institute, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Amy Reddington
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PT, UK
| | - David Gordon
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, West Wing, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Kevin Talbot
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, West Wing, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Kay E Davies
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PT, UK
| | - Peter L Oliver
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PT, UK.,MRC Harwell Institute, Harwell Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire, OX11 0RD, UK
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41
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Christoforidou E, Joilin G, Hafezparast M. Potential of activated microglia as a source of dysregulated extracellular microRNAs contributing to neurodegeneration in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Neuroinflammation 2020; 17:135. [PMID: 32345319 PMCID: PMC7187511 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-020-01822-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common form of motor neuron degeneration in adults, and several mechanisms underlying the disease pathology have been proposed. It has been shown that glia communicate with other cells by releasing extracellular vesicles containing proteins and nucleic acids, including microRNAs (miRNAs), which play a role in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Dysregulation of miRNAs is commonly observed in ALS patients, together with inflammation and an altered microglial phenotype. However, the role of miRNA-containing vesicles in microglia-to-neuron communication in the context of ALS has not been explored in depth. This review summarises the evidence for the presence of inflammation, pro-inflammatory microglia and dysregulated miRNAs in ALS, then explores how microglia may potentially be responsible for this miRNA dysregulation. The possibility of pro-inflammatory ALS microglia releasing miRNAs which may then enter neuronal cells to contribute to degeneration is also explored. Based on the literature reviewed here, microglia are a likely source of dysregulated miRNAs and potential mediators of neurodegenerative processes. Therefore, dysregulated miRNAs may be promising candidates for the development of therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Greig Joilin
- School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton, BN1 9QG, UK
| | - Majid Hafezparast
- School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton, BN1 9QG, UK.
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42
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Bonanno S, Marcuzzo S, Malacarne C, Giagnorio E, Masson R, Zanin R, Arnoldi MT, Andreetta F, Simoncini O, Venerando A, Gellera C, Pantaleoni C, Mantegazza R, Bernasconi P, Baranello G, Maggi L. Circulating MyomiRs as Potential Biomarkers to Monitor Response to Nusinersen in Pediatric SMA Patients. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8020021. [PMID: 31991852 PMCID: PMC7168147 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8020021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in survival motor neuron (SMN) 1 gene, resulting in a truncated SMN protein responsible for degeneration of brain stem and spinal motor neurons. The paralogous SMN2 gene partially compensates full-length SMN protein production, mitigating the phenotype. Antisense oligonucleotide nusinersen (Spinraza®) enhances SMN2 gene expression. SMN is involved in RNA metabolism and biogenesis of microRNA (miRNA), key gene expression modulators, whose dysregulation contributes to neuromuscular diseases. They are stable in body fluids and may reflect distinct pathophysiological states, thus acting as promising biomarkers. Muscle-specific miRNAs (myomiRs) as biomarkers for clinical use in SMA have not been investigated yet. Here, we analyzed the expression of miR-133a, -133b, -206 and -1, in serum of 21 infantile SMA patients at baseline and after 6 months of nusinersen treatment, and correlated molecular data with response to therapy evaluated by the Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale Expanded (HFMSE). Our results demonstrate that myomiR serological levels decrease over disease course upon nusinersen treatment. Notably, miR-133a reduction predicted patients’ response to therapy. Our findings identify myomiRs as potential biomarkers to monitor disease progression and therapeutic response in SMA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Bonanno
- Neurology IV–Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.M.); (E.G.); (F.A.); (O.S.); (P.B.); (L.M.)
- Correspondence: (S.B.); (S.M.); Tel.: +39-02-2394-2284 (S.B.); +39-02-2394-4651 (S.M.); Fax: +39-02-70633874 (S.B. & S.M.)
| | - Stefania Marcuzzo
- Neurology IV–Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.M.); (E.G.); (F.A.); (O.S.); (P.B.); (L.M.)
- Correspondence: (S.B.); (S.M.); Tel.: +39-02-2394-2284 (S.B.); +39-02-2394-4651 (S.M.); Fax: +39-02-70633874 (S.B. & S.M.)
| | - Claudia Malacarne
- Neurology IV–Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.M.); (E.G.); (F.A.); (O.S.); (P.B.); (L.M.)
- PhD Program in Neuroscience, University of Milano-Bicocca, via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Eleonora Giagnorio
- Neurology IV–Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.M.); (E.G.); (F.A.); (O.S.); (P.B.); (L.M.)
- PhD Program in Neuroscience, University of Milano-Bicocca, via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, Italy
| | - Riccardo Masson
- Developmental Neurology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (R.M.); (R.Z.); (M.T.A.); (C.P.); (G.B.)
| | - Riccardo Zanin
- Developmental Neurology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (R.M.); (R.Z.); (M.T.A.); (C.P.); (G.B.)
| | - Maria Teresa Arnoldi
- Developmental Neurology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (R.M.); (R.Z.); (M.T.A.); (C.P.); (G.B.)
| | - Francesca Andreetta
- Neurology IV–Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.M.); (E.G.); (F.A.); (O.S.); (P.B.); (L.M.)
| | - Ornella Simoncini
- Neurology IV–Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.M.); (E.G.); (F.A.); (O.S.); (P.B.); (L.M.)
| | - Anna Venerando
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.G.); (A.V.)
| | - Cinzia Gellera
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.G.); (A.V.)
| | - Chiara Pantaleoni
- Developmental Neurology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (R.M.); (R.Z.); (M.T.A.); (C.P.); (G.B.)
| | - Renato Mantegazza
- Neurology IV–Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.M.); (E.G.); (F.A.); (O.S.); (P.B.); (L.M.)
| | - Pia Bernasconi
- Neurology IV–Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.M.); (E.G.); (F.A.); (O.S.); (P.B.); (L.M.)
| | - Giovanni Baranello
- Developmental Neurology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (R.M.); (R.Z.); (M.T.A.); (C.P.); (G.B.)
- The Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, UCL NIHR GOSH Biomedical Research Centre, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Lorenzo Maggi
- Neurology IV–Neuroimmunology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.M.); (E.G.); (F.A.); (O.S.); (P.B.); (L.M.)
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Transforming growth factor beta 1 signaling is altered in the spinal cord and muscle of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis mice and patients. Neurobiol Aging 2019; 82:48-59. [PMID: 31394426 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2019.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Gender differences characterize amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Because ALS patients have increased circulating levels of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFB1), here we analyzed gender and disease progression-related modification of TGFB1 and its related signaling molecules in the spinal cord and skeletal muscle of ALS mice and in muscle biopsies from sporadic ALS patients. At presymptomatic stage, Tgfb1 mRNA expression is reduced in the mouse spinal cord but is increased selectively in the male skeletal muscle. At symptomatic stage, it is induced both in the mouse spinal cord and muscle, as well as in the muscle of ALS patients. Tgfbr2 levels are induced only in the mouse spinal cord. Smad2 and Smad4 mRNAs are decreased in the mouse spinal cord and muscle, but SMAD2 protein levels are augmented selectively in the male mouse muscle. Smad3 mRNA and SMAD3 protein are increased in the mouse muscle. The expression of genes controlled by TGFB1 in the muscle (Pax7, Collagen1a1, and Fibronectin) are reduced both in male and female ALS mice at symptomatic stage. Thus, TGFB1 modulation may serve as a novel therapeutic target for ALS.
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Foggin S, Mesquita-Ribeiro R, Dajas-Bailador F, Layfield R. Biological Significance of microRNA Biomarkers in ALS-Innocent Bystanders or Disease Culprits? Front Neurol 2019; 10:578. [PMID: 31244752 PMCID: PMC6579821 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) represent potential biomarkers for neurodegenerative disorders including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, whether expression changes of individual miRNAs are simply an indication of cellular dysfunction and degeneration, or actually promote functional changes in target gene expression relevant to disease pathogenesis, is unclear. Here we used bioinformatics to test the hypothesis that ALS-associated miRNAs exert their effects through targeting genes implicated in disease etiology. We documented deregulated miRNAs identified in studies of ALS patients, noting variations in participants, tissue samples, miRNA detection or quantification methods used, and functional or bioinformatic assessments (if performed). Despite lack of experimental standardization, overlap of many deregulated miRNAs between studies was noted; however, direction of reported expression changes did not always concur. The use of in silico predictions of target genes for the most commonly deregulated miRNAs, cross-referenced to a selection of previously identified ALS genes, did not support our hypothesis. Specifically, although deregulated miRNAs were predicted to commonly target ALS genes, random miRNAs gave similar predictions. To further investigate biological patterns in the deregulated miRNAs, we grouped them by tissue source in which they were identified, indicating that for a core of frequently detected miRNAs, blood/plasma/serum may be useful for future profiling experiments. We conclude that in silico predictions of gene targets of deregulated ALS miRNAs, at least using currently available algorithms, are unlikely to be sufficient in informing disease pathomechanisms. We advocate experimental functional testing of candidate miRNAs and their predicted targets, propose miRNAs to prioritise, and suggest a concerted move towards protocol standardization for biomarker identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Foggin
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Medical School, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Raquel Mesquita-Ribeiro
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Medical School, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Federico Dajas-Bailador
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Medical School, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Rob Layfield
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Medical School, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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Campanari ML, Bourefis AR, Kabashi E. Diagnostic Challenge and Neuromuscular Junction Contribution to ALS Pathogenesis. Front Neurol 2019; 10:68. [PMID: 30787905 PMCID: PMC6372519 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) represents the major adult-onset motor neuron disease. Both human and animal studies reveal the critical implication of muscle and neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) in the initial phase of this disease. Despite the common efforts, ALS diagnosis remains particularly challenging since many other disorders can overlap yielding similar clinical phenotypic features. A combination of further research on the NMJ parameters that are specific for this disease and laboratory tests are crucial for the early determination of specific changes in the muscle, as well as in motor neuron and the prediction of ALS progression. Also, it could provide a powerful tool in the discrimination of particular ALS and ALS-mimic cases and increase the efficacy of therapeutic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Letizia Campanari
- Sorbonne Université, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Université de Paris 06, Unité Mixte 75, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) Unité 1127, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7225 Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle Épinière, Paris, France.,Imagine Institute, INSERM Unité 1163, Paris Descartes Université, Paris, France
| | - Annis-Rayan Bourefis
- Sorbonne Université, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Université de Paris 06, Unité Mixte 75, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) Unité 1127, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7225 Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle Épinière, Paris, France.,Imagine Institute, INSERM Unité 1163, Paris Descartes Université, Paris, France
| | - Edor Kabashi
- Sorbonne Université, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Université de Paris 06, Unité Mixte 75, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) Unité 1127, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7225 Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle Épinière, Paris, France.,Imagine Institute, INSERM Unité 1163, Paris Descartes Université, Paris, France
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46
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Pegoraro V, Merico A, Angelini C. MyomiRNAs Dysregulation in ALS Rehabilitation. Brain Sci 2019; 9:brainsci9010008. [PMID: 30634563 PMCID: PMC6356197 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci9010008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 01/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rare, progressive, neurodegenerative disorder caused by degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons. The disease process leads, because of lower motor neuron involvement, to progressive muscle atrophy, weakness, and fasciculations and for the upper motor neuron involvement leads to spasticity. Muscle atrophy in ALS is caused by a neural dysregulation in the molecular network controlling fast and slow muscle fibers. Denervation and reinnervation processes in skeletal muscle occur in the course of ALS and are modulated by rehabilitation. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNAs that are involved in different biological functions under various pathophysiological conditions. MiRNAs can be secreted by various cell types and they are markedly stable in body fluids. MiR-1, miR-133 a miR-133b, and miR-206 are called “myomiRs” and are considered markers of myogenesis during muscle regeneration and contribute to neuromuscular junction stabilization or sprouting. We observed a positive effect of a standard aerobic exercise rehabilitative protocol conducted for six weeks in 18 ALS patients during hospitalization in our center. This is a preliminary study, in which we correlated clinical scales with molecular data on myomiRs. After six weeks of moderate aerobic exercise, we found lower levels in serum of myomiRNAs. Our data suggest that circulating miRNAs changed during skeletal muscle recovery in response to physical rehabilitation in ALS. However, no firm conclusions can be made on the ALS-specific effect of exercise on miRNA levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Pegoraro
- Fondazione Ospedale San Camillo IRCCS, via Alberoni 70, 30126 Venezia, Italy.
| | - Antonio Merico
- Fondazione Ospedale San Camillo IRCCS, via Alberoni 70, 30126 Venezia, Italy.
| | - Corrado Angelini
- Fondazione Ospedale San Camillo IRCCS, via Alberoni 70, 30126 Venezia, Italy.
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MicroRNAs as Biomarkers in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Cells 2018; 7:cells7110219. [PMID: 30463376 PMCID: PMC6262636 DOI: 10.3390/cells7110219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Revised: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an incurable and fatal disorder characterized by the progressive loss of motor neurons in the cerebral cortex, brain stem, and spinal cord. Sporadic ALS form accounts for the majority of patients, but in 1–13.5% of cases the disease is inherited. The diagnosis of ALS is mainly based on clinical assessment and electrophysiological examinations with a history of symptom progression and is then made with a significant delay from symptom onset. Thus, the identification of biomarkers specific for ALS could be of a fundamental importance in the clinical practice. An ideal biomarker should display high specificity and sensitivity for discriminating ALS from control subjects and from ALS-mimics and other neurological diseases, and should then monitor disease progression within individual patients. microRNAs (miRNAs) are considered promising biomarkers for neurodegenerative diseases, since they are remarkably stable in human body fluids and can reflect physiological and pathological processes relevant for ALS. Here, we review the state of the art of miRNA biomarker identification for ALS in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), blood and muscle tissue; we discuss advantages and disadvantages of different approaches, and underline the limits but also the great potential of this research for future practical applications.
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48
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Trias E, King PH, Si Y, Kwon Y, Varela V, Ibarburu S, Kovacs M, Moura IC, Beckman JS, Hermine O, Barbeito L. Mast cells and neutrophils mediate peripheral motor pathway degeneration in ALS. JCI Insight 2018; 3:123249. [PMID: 30282815 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.123249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is a recognized pathogenic mechanism underlying motor neuron degeneration in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), but the inflammatory mechanisms influencing peripheral motor axon degeneration remain largely unknown. A recent report showed a pathogenic role for c-Kit-expressing mast cells mediating inflammation and neuromuscular junction denervation in muscles from SOD1G93A rats. Here, we have explored whether mast cells infiltrate skeletal muscles in autopsied muscles from ALS patients. We report that degranulating mast cells were abundant in the quadriceps muscles from ALS subjects but not in controls. Mast cells were associated with myofibers and motor endplates and, remarkably, interacted with neutrophils forming large extracellular traps. Mast cells and neutrophils were also abundant around motor axons in the extensor digitorum longus muscle, sciatic nerve, and ventral roots of symptomatic SOD1G93A rats, indicating that immune cell infiltration extends along the entire peripheral motor pathway. Postparalysis treatment of SOD1G93A rats with the tyrosine kinase inhibitor drug masitinib prevented mast cell and neutrophil infiltration, axonal pathology, secondary demyelination, and the loss of type 2B myofibers, compared with vehicle-treated rats. These findings provide further evidence for a yet unrecognized contribution of immune cells in peripheral motor pathway degeneration that can be therapeutically targeted by tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter H King
- Department of Neurology, University of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama, USA.,Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Ying Si
- Department of Neurology, University of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama, USA.,Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Yuri Kwon
- Department of Neurology, University of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | | | | | | | - Ivan C Moura
- Imagine Institute, Hôpital Necker, Paris, France.,INSERM UMR 1163, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Hematological Disorders and Therapeutic Implications, Paris, France.,Paris Descartes-Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Imagine Institute, Paris, France.,CNRS ERL 8254, Paris, France.,Laboratory of Excellence GR-Ex, Paris, France.,Equipe Labélisée par la Ligue Nationale contre le cancer, Nantes, France
| | - Joseph S Beckman
- Linus Pauling Institute, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Environmental Health Sciences Center, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
| | - Olivier Hermine
- Imagine Institute, Hôpital Necker, Paris, France.,INSERM UMR 1163, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Hematological Disorders and Therapeutic Implications, Paris, France.,Paris Descartes-Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Imagine Institute, Paris, France.,CNRS ERL 8254, Paris, France.,Laboratory of Excellence GR-Ex, Paris, France.,Equipe Labélisée par la Ligue Nationale contre le cancer, Nantes, France.,AB Science, Paris, France.,Department of Hematology, Necker Hospital, Paris, France.,Centre national de référence des mastocytoses (CEREMAST), Paris, France
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49
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Bojungikgi-tang Improves Muscle and Spinal Cord Function in an Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Model. Mol Neurobiol 2018; 56:2394-2407. [PMID: 30030751 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-018-1236-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a motor neuron disease characterized by progressive motor function impairment, dysphagia, and respiratory failure. Owing to the complexity of its pathogenic mechanisms, an effective therapy for ALS is lacking. Herbal medicines with multiple targets have good efficacy and low adverse reactions for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, the effects of Bojungikgi-tang (BJIGT), an herbal medicine with eight component herbs, on muscle and spinal cord function were evaluated in an ALS animal model. Animals were randomly divided into three groups: a non-transgenic group (nTg, n = 24), a hSOD1G93A transgenic group (Tg, n = 24), and a hSOD1G93A transgenic group in which 8-week-old mice were orally administered BJIGT (1 mg/g) once daily for 6 weeks (Tg+BJIGT, n = 24). The effects of BJIGT were evaluated using a rotarod test, foot-printing, and survival analyses based on Kaplan-Meier survival curves. To determine the biological mechanism underlying the effects of BJIGT in hSOD1G93A mice, western blotting, transmission electron microscopy, and Bungarotoxin staining were used. BJIGT improved motor function and extended the survival duration of hSOD1G93A mice. In addition, BJIGT had protective effects, including anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects, in both the spinal cord and muscle of hSOD1G93A mice. Our results demonstrated that BJIGT causes muscle atrophy and the denervation of neuromuscular junctions in the gastrocnemius of hSOD1G93A mice. The components of BJIGT may alleviate the symptoms of ALS via different mechanisms, and accordingly, BJIGT treatment may be an effective therapeutic approach.
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50
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Di Pietro L, Lattanzi W, Bernardini C. Skeletal Muscle MicroRNAs as Key Players in the Pathogenesis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19051534. [PMID: 29786645 PMCID: PMC5983603 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Revised: 05/17/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder, for which, to date, no effective treatment to ameliorate the clinical manifestations is available. The long-standing view of ALS as affecting only motor neurons has been challenged by the finding that the skeletal muscle plays an active role in the disease pathogenesis and can be a valuable target for therapeutic strategies. In recent years, non-coding RNAs, including microRNAs, have emerged as important molecules that play key roles in several cellular mechanisms involved in the pathogenic mechanisms underlying various human conditions. In this review, we summarize how the expression of some microRNAs is dysregulated in the skeletal muscle of ALS mouse models and patients. Shedding light on the mechanisms underlying microRNAs dysregulation in the skeletal muscle could clarify some of the processes involved in the pathogenesis of ALS and especially identify new promising therapeutic targets in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Di Pietro
- Istituto di Anatomia Umana e Biologia Cellulare, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy.
| | - Wanda Lattanzi
- Istituto di Anatomia Umana e Biologia Cellulare, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy.
| | - Camilla Bernardini
- Istituto di Anatomia Umana e Biologia Cellulare, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy.
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