1
|
Doskas T, Vadikolias K, Ntoskas K, Vavougios GD, Tsiptsios D, Stamati P, Liampas I, Siokas V, Messinis L, Nasios G, Dardiotis E. Neurocognitive Impairment and Social Cognition in Parkinson's Disease Patients. Neurol Int 2024; 16:432-449. [PMID: 38668129 PMCID: PMC11054167 DOI: 10.3390/neurolint16020032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
In addition to motor symptoms, neurocognitive impairment (NCI) affects patients with prodromal Parkinson's disease (PD). NCI in PD ranges from subjective cognitive complaints to dementia. The purpose of this review is to present the available evidence of NCI in PD and highlight the heterogeneity of NCI phenotypes as well as the range of factors that contribute to NCI onset and progression. A review of publications related to NCI in PD up to March 2023 was performed using PubMed/Medline. There is an interconnection between the neurocognitive and motor symptoms of the disease, suggesting a common underlying pathophysiology as well as an interconnection between NCI and non-motor symptoms, such as mood disorders, which may contribute to confounding NCI. Motor and non-motor symptom evaluation could be used prognostically for NCI onset and progression in combination with imaging, laboratory, and genetic data. Additionally, the implications of NCI on the social cognition of afflicted patients warrant its prompt management. The etiology of NCI onset and its progression in PD is multifactorial and its effects are equally grave as the motor effects. This review highlights the importance of the prompt identification of subjective cognitive complaints in PD patients and NCI management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Triantafyllos Doskas
- Department of Neurology, Athens Naval Hospital, 11521 Athens, Greece;
- Department of Neurology, General University Hospital of Alexandroupoli, 68100 Alexandroupoli, Greece; (K.V.); (D.T.)
| | - Konstantinos Vadikolias
- Department of Neurology, General University Hospital of Alexandroupoli, 68100 Alexandroupoli, Greece; (K.V.); (D.T.)
| | | | - George D. Vavougios
- Department of Neurology, Athens Naval Hospital, 11521 Athens, Greece;
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cyprus, 1678 Lefkosia, Cyprus
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41500 Larissa, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Tsiptsios
- Department of Neurology, General University Hospital of Alexandroupoli, 68100 Alexandroupoli, Greece; (K.V.); (D.T.)
| | - Polyxeni Stamati
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece; (P.S.); (I.L.); (V.S.); (E.D.)
| | - Ioannis Liampas
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece; (P.S.); (I.L.); (V.S.); (E.D.)
| | - Vasileios Siokas
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece; (P.S.); (I.L.); (V.S.); (E.D.)
| | - Lambros Messinis
- School of Psychology, Laboratory of Neuropsychology and Behavioural Neuroscience, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Grigorios Nasios
- Department of Speech and Language Therapy, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45500 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - Efthimios Dardiotis
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece; (P.S.); (I.L.); (V.S.); (E.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Parmasad JLA, Ricke KM, Nguyen B, Stykel MG, Buchner-Duby B, Bruce A, Geertsma HM, Lian E, Lengacher NA, Callaghan SM, Joselin A, Tomlinson JJ, Schlossmacher MG, Stanford WL, Ma J, Brundin P, Ryan SD, Rousseaux MWC. Genetic and pharmacological reduction of CDK14 mitigates synucleinopathy. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:246. [PMID: 38575601 PMCID: PMC10994937 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06534-8] [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: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a debilitating neurodegenerative disease characterized by the loss of midbrain dopaminergic neurons (DaNs) and the abnormal accumulation of α-Synuclein (α-Syn) protein. Currently, no treatment can slow nor halt the progression of PD. Multiplications and mutations of the α-Syn gene (SNCA) cause PD-associated syndromes and animal models that overexpress α-Syn replicate several features of PD. Decreasing total α-Syn levels, therefore, is an attractive approach to slow down neurodegeneration in patients with synucleinopathy. We previously performed a genetic screen for modifiers of α-Syn levels and identified CDK14, a kinase of largely unknown function as a regulator of α-Syn. To test the potential therapeutic effects of CDK14 reduction in PD, we ablated Cdk14 in the α-Syn preformed fibrils (PFF)-induced PD mouse model. We found that loss of Cdk14 mitigates the grip strength deficit of PFF-treated mice and ameliorates PFF-induced cortical α-Syn pathology, indicated by reduced numbers of pS129 α-Syn-containing cells. In primary neurons, we found that Cdk14 depletion protects against the propagation of toxic α-Syn species. We further validated these findings on pS129 α-Syn levels in PD patient neurons. Finally, we leveraged the recent discovery of a covalent inhibitor of CDK14 to determine whether this target is pharmacologically tractable in vitro and in vivo. We found that CDK14 inhibition decreases total and pathologically aggregated α-Syn in human neurons, in PFF-challenged rat neurons and in the brains of α-Syn-humanized mice. In summary, we suggest that CDK14 represents a novel therapeutic target for PD-associated synucleinopathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Louis A Parmasad
- University of Ottawa Brain and Mind Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Konrad M Ricke
- University of Ottawa Brain and Mind Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Benjamin Nguyen
- University of Ottawa Brain and Mind Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Morgan G Stykel
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Brodie Buchner-Duby
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Amanda Bruce
- University of Ottawa Brain and Mind Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Haley M Geertsma
- University of Ottawa Brain and Mind Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Eric Lian
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Program in Neuroscience, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Ottawa Institute for Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Nathalie A Lengacher
- University of Ottawa Brain and Mind Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Steve M Callaghan
- University of Ottawa Brain and Mind Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Alvin Joselin
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Julianna J Tomlinson
- University of Ottawa Brain and Mind Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Michael G Schlossmacher
- University of Ottawa Brain and Mind Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - William L Stanford
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Program in Neuroscience, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Ottawa Institute for Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Jiyan Ma
- Parkinson's Disease Center, Department of Neurodegenerative Science, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China
| | - Patrik Brundin
- Parkinson's Disease Center, Department of Neurodegenerative Science, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Scott D Ryan
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Maxime W C Rousseaux
- University of Ottawa Brain and Mind Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA.
- Ottawa Institute for Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Williams GP, Michaelis T, Lima-Junior JR, Frazier A, Tran NK, Phillips EJ, Mallal SA, Litvan I, Goldman JG, Alcalay RN, Sidney J, Sulzer D, Sette A, Lindestam Arlehamn CS. PINK1 is a target of T cell responses in Parkinson's disease. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.09.579465. [PMID: 38405939 PMCID: PMC10888789 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.09.579465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is associated with autoimmune T cells that recognize the protein alpha-synuclein in a subset of individuals. Multiple neuroantigens are targets of autoinflammatory T cells in classical central nervous system autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS). Here, we explored whether additional autoantigenic targets of T cells in PD. We generated 15-mer peptide pools spanning several PD-related proteins implicated in PD pathology, including GBA, SOD1, PINK1, parkin, OGDH, and LRRK2. Cytokine production (IFNγ, IL-5, IL-10) against these proteins was measured using a fluorospot assay and PBMCs from patients with PD and age-matched healthy controls. This approach identified unique epitopes and their HLA restriction from the mitochondrial-associated protein PINK1, a regulator of mitochondrial stability, as an autoantigen targeted by T cells. The T cell reactivity was predominantly found in male patients with PD, which may contribute to the heterogeneity of PD. Identifying and characterizing PINK1 and other autoinflammatory targets may lead to antigen-specific diagnostics, progression markers, and/or novel therapeutic strategies for PD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gregory P Williams
- Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Tanner Michaelis
- Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | - April Frazier
- Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Ngan K Tran
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University, Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elizabeth J Phillips
- Institute for Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Simon A Mallal
- Institute for Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Irene Litvan
- Department of Neuroscience, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer G Goldman
- JPG Enterprises LLC; prior: Shirley Ryan AbilityLab and Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Roy N Alcalay
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, NY, USA; Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - John Sidney
- Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - David Sulzer
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University, Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
- Departments of Psychiatry and Pharmacology, Columbia University; New York State Psychiatric Institute, NY, USA
| | - Alessandro Sette
- Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, CA
| | - Cecilia S Lindestam Arlehamn
- Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Naoi M, Maruyama W, Shamoto-Nagai M, Riederer P. Toxic interactions between dopamine, α-synuclein, monoamine oxidase, and genes in mitochondria of Parkinson's disease. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2024:10.1007/s00702-023-02730-6. [PMID: 38196001 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-023-02730-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease is characterized by its distinct pathological features; loss of dopamine neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta and accumulation of Lewy bodies and Lewy neurites containing modified α-synuclein. Beneficial effects of L-DOPA and dopamine replacement therapy indicate dopamine deficit as one of the main pathogenic factors. Dopamine and its oxidation products are proposed to induce selective vulnerability in dopamine neurons. However, Parkinson's disease is now considered as a generalized disease with dysfunction of several neurotransmitter systems caused by multiple genetic and environmental factors. The pathogenic factors include oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, α-synuclein accumulation, programmed cell death, impaired proteolytic systems, neuroinflammation, and decline of neurotrophic factors. This paper presents interactions among dopamine, α-synuclein, monoamine oxidase, its inhibitors, and related genes in mitochondria. α-Synuclein inhibits dopamine synthesis and function. Vice versa, dopamine oxidation by monoamine oxidase produces toxic aldehydes, reactive oxygen species, and quinones, which modify α-synuclein, and promote its fibril production and accumulation in mitochondria. Excessive dopamine in experimental models modifies proteins in the mitochondrial electron transport chain and inhibits the function. α-Synuclein and familiar Parkinson's disease-related gene products modify the expression and activity of monoamine oxidase. Type A monoamine oxidase is associated with neuroprotection by an unspecific dose of inhibitors of type B monoamine oxidase, rasagiline and selegiline. Rasagiline and selegiline prevent α-synuclein fibrillization, modulate this toxic collaboration, and exert neuroprotection in experimental studies. Complex interactions between these pathogenic factors play a decisive role in neurodegeneration in PD and should be further defined to develop new therapies for Parkinson's disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Makoto Naoi
- Department of Health and Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aichi Gakuin University, 12 Araike, Iwasaki-cho, Nisshin, Aichi, 320-0195, Japan.
| | - Wakako Maruyama
- Department of Health and Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aichi Gakuin University, 12 Araike, Iwasaki-cho, Nisshin, Aichi, 320-0195, Japan
| | - Masayo Shamoto-Nagai
- Department of Health and Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aichi Gakuin University, 12 Araike, Iwasaki-cho, Nisshin, Aichi, 320-0195, Japan
| | - Peter Riederer
- Clinical Neurochemistry, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sastre D, Zafar F, Torres CAM, Piper D, Kirik D, Sanders LH, Qi LS, Schüle B. Inactive S. aureus Cas9 downregulates alpha-synuclein and reduces mtDNA damage and oxidative stress levels in human stem cell model of Parkinson's disease. Sci Rep 2023; 13:17796. [PMID: 37853101 PMCID: PMC10584834 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-45078-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases, but no disease modifying therapies have been successful in clinical translation presenting a major unmet medical need. A promising target is alpha-synuclein or its aggregated form, which accumulates in the brain of PD patients as Lewy bodies. While it is not entirely clear which alpha-synuclein protein species is disease relevant, mere overexpression of alpha-synuclein in hereditary forms leads to neurodegeneration. To specifically address gene regulation of alpha-synuclein, we developed a CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) system based on the nuclease dead S. aureus Cas9 (SadCas9) fused with the transcriptional repressor domain Krueppel-associated box to controllably repress alpha-synuclein expression at the transcriptional level. We screened single guide (sg)RNAs across the SNCA promoter and identified several sgRNAs that mediate downregulation of alpha-synuclein at varying levels. CRISPRi downregulation of alpha-synuclein in iPSC-derived neuronal cultures from a patient with an SNCA genomic triplication showed functional recovery by reduction of oxidative stress and mitochondrial DNA damage. Our results are proof-of-concept in vitro for precision medicine by targeting the SNCA gene promoter. The SNCA CRISPRi approach presents a new model to understand safe levels of alpha-synuclein downregulation and a novel therapeutic strategy for PD and related alpha-synucleinopathies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danuta Sastre
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Dr., R271/217, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Faria Zafar
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Dr., R271/217, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - C Alejandra Morato Torres
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Dr., R271/217, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Desiree Piper
- Department of Biological Sciences, San Jose State University, San Jose, CA, 95192, USA
| | - Deniz Kirik
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Laurie H Sanders
- Departments of Neurology and Pathology, Duke Center for Neurodegeneration and Neurotherapeutics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - L Stanley Qi
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Birgitt Schüle
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Dr., R271/217, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
- Biosciences Division, SRI International, Menlo Park, CA, 94025, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Karaca M, Tahtasakal R, Dana H, Sahin M, Pirencioglu SN, Tughan E, Dal F, Demirci E, Sener EF. Decreased levels of alpha synuclein in families with autism spectrum disorder and relationship between the disease severity. Brain Res 2023; 1814:148410. [PMID: 37244604 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2023.148410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorders that begin in early childhood. Mutations in α-synuclein (SNCA) gene have been shown to result in the accumulation of α-synuclein, which occurs in many neurodegenerative diseases. Our aim was to determine the changes in the expression profile and protein level of this gene by comparing the autistic children with their healthy siblings, their mothers and healthy controls in order to elucidate the possible contribution of the SNCA gene to the etiology of ASD. 50 autistic patients, their mothers, siblings and 25 healthy controls and their mothers were enrolled to determine SNCA gene expression and serum α-synuclein levels. It was determined that α-synuclein serum levels decreased in the autistic patients. Similarly, it was found that SNCA gene expression and serum α-synuclein levels were significantly decreased in the mothers of the patients. Significant negative correlation was observed between the SNCA gene and protein expression amounts in the 6-8 age of the patients. This family-based study is the first in the literature, with both gene expression and serum levels of α-synuclein. The relationship between ASD severity and α-synuclein level needs to be confirmed in larger-scale studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mukaddes Karaca
- Erciyes University Genome and Stem Cell Center (GENKOK), Erciyes University Medical Faculty Department of Medical Biology, 38039 Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Reyhan Tahtasakal
- Erciyes University Genome and Stem Cell Center (GENKOK), Erciyes University Medical Faculty Department of Medical Biology, 38039 Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Halime Dana
- Erciyes University Genome and Stem Cell Center (GENKOK), Erciyes University Medical Faculty Department of Medical Biology, 38039 Kayseri, Turkey; Erciyes University Medical Faculty Department of Medical Biology, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Murside Sahin
- Erciyes University Medical Faculty Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 38039 Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Seyda Nur Pirencioglu
- Erciyes University Genome and Stem Cell Center (GENKOK), Erciyes University Medical Faculty Department of Medical Biology, 38039 Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Emre Tughan
- Erciyes University Genome and Stem Cell Center (GENKOK), Erciyes University Medical Faculty Department of Medical Biology, 38039 Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Fatma Dal
- Erciyes University Genome and Stem Cell Center (GENKOK), Erciyes University Medical Faculty Department of Medical Biology, 38039 Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Esra Demirci
- Erciyes University Medical Faculty Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 38039 Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Elif Funda Sener
- Erciyes University Genome and Stem Cell Center (GENKOK), Erciyes University Medical Faculty Department of Medical Biology, 38039 Kayseri, Turkey; Erciyes University Medical Faculty Department of Medical Biology, Kayseri, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Sastre D, Zafar F, Torres CAM, Piper D, Kirik D, Sanders LH, Qi S, Schüle B. Nuclease-dead S. aureus Cas9 downregulates alpha-synuclein and reduces mtDNA damage and oxidative stress levels in patient-derived stem cell model of Parkinson's disease. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.24.525105. [PMID: 36747875 PMCID: PMC9900844 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.24.525105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases, but no disease modifying therapies have been successful in clinical translation presenting a major unmet medical need. A promising target is alpha-synuclein or its aggregated form, which accumulates in the brain of PD patients as Lewy bodies. While it is not entirely clear which alpha-synuclein protein species is disease relevant, mere overexpression of alpha-synuclein in hereditary forms leads to neurodegeneration. To specifically address gene regulation of alpha-synuclein, we developed a CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) system based on the nuclease dead S. aureus Cas9 (SadCas9) fused with the transcriptional repressor domain Krueppel-associated box to controllably repress alpha-synuclein expression at the transcriptional level. We screened single guide (sg)RNAs across the SNCA promoter and identified several sgRNAs that mediate downregulation of alpha-synuclein at varying levels. CRISPRi downregulation of alpha-synuclein in iPSC-derived neuronal cultures from a patient with an SNCA genomic triplication showed functional recovery by reduction of oxidative stress and mitochondrial DNA damage. Our results are proof-of-concept in vitro for precision medicine by targeting the SNCA gene promoter. The SNCA CRISPRi approach presents a new model to understand safe levels of alpha-synuclein downregulation and a novel therapeutic strategy for PD and related alpha-synucleinopathies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danuta Sastre
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Stanford, CA 94305, U.S.A
| | - Faria Zafar
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Stanford, CA 94305, U.S.A
| | | | - Desiree Piper
- San Jose State University, Department of Biological Sciences, San Jose, 95192 CA, U.S.A
| | - Deniz Kirik
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Laurie H. Sanders
- Departments of Neurology and Pathology, Duke Center for Neurodegeneration and Neurotherapeutics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, U.S.A
| | - Stanley Qi
- Stanford University, Department of Bioengineering, Stanford, CA 94305, U.S.A
| | - Birgitt Schüle
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Stanford, CA 94305, U.S.A
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Yang NN, Sang SS, Peng T, lu H. SNCA rs3910105 Is Associated With Development of Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Behavior Disorder in Parkinson’s Disease. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:832550. [PMID: 35310107 PMCID: PMC8927062 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.832550] [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: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose Rapid eye movement (REM) Rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD) is a common non-motor symptom of PD. However, the association between the SNCA rs3910105 genotype and RBD in Parkinson’s disease (PD) remains unclear. Methods This study used Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) data and included 270 patients with newly diagnosed PD without RBD who were divided into SNCA rs3910105 C carriers (CC+CT; n = 187) and TT carriers (n = 83). They were followed up for 5 years to identify the development of RBD. To investigate the influence of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) alpha-synuclein (α-syn) and β-amyloid 1–42 (Aβ42) in the association between rs3910105 and RBD, the patients were additionally classified into “high-level” and “low-level” groups using cutoff values for CSF α-syn and Aβ42 levels. Results At baseline, the rs3910105 C allele group had lower CSF α-syn and Aβ42 levels than the TT group. During the 5.0-year follow-up, the rs3910105 C allele group had a higher incidence of RBD than the TT group. In the subgroup analyses, the effect of the rs3910105 C allele was not found in the “low-level” group. However, in the “high-level” group, the rs3910105 C allele independently increased the risk of RBD. Conclusion The SNCA rs3910105 C allele might be a novel genetic risk factor for RBD development in PD, α-syn pathways might have a role in this association and more basic research would be needed to elucidate the mechanism in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nan-nan Yang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Nan-nan Yang,
| | - Shu-shan Sang
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Tao Peng
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hong lu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Hong lu,
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Chu AJ, Williams JM. Astrocytic MicroRNA in Ageing, Inflammation, and Neurodegenerative Disease. Front Physiol 2022; 12:826697. [PMID: 35222067 PMCID: PMC8867065 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.826697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes actively regulate numerous cell types both within and outside of the central nervous system in health and disease. Indeed, astrocyte morphology, gene expression and function, alongside the content of astrocyte-derived extracellular vesicles (ADEVs), is significantly altered by ageing, inflammatory processes and in neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Here, we review the relevant emerging literature focussed on perturbation in expression of microRNA (miRNA), small non-coding RNAs that potently regulate gene expression. Synthesis of this literature shows that ageing-related processes, neurodegenerative disease-associated mutations or peptides and cytokines induce dysregulated expression of miRNA in astrocytes and in some cases can lead to selective incorporation of miRNA into ADEVs. Analysis of the miRNA targets shows that the resulting downstream consequences of alterations to levels of miRNA include release of cytokines, chronic activation of the immune response, increased apoptosis, and compromised cellular functioning of both astrocytes and ADEV-ingesting cells. We conclude that perturbation of these functions likely exacerbates mechanisms leading to neuropathology and ultimately contributes to the cognitive or motor symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases. This field requires comprehensive miRNA expression profiling of both astrocytes and ADEVs to fully understand the effect of perturbed astrocytic miRNA expression in ageing and neurodegenerative disease.
Collapse
|
10
|
Srinivasan E, Chandrasekhar G, Chandrasekar P, Anbarasu K, Vickram AS, Karunakaran R, Rajasekaran R, Srikumar PS. Alpha-Synuclein Aggregation in Parkinson's Disease. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:736978. [PMID: 34733860 PMCID: PMC8558257 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.736978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD), a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by distinct aging-independent loss of dopaminergic neurons in substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) region urging toward neuronal loss. Over the decade, various key findings from clinical perspective to molecular pathogenesis have aided in understanding the genetics with assorted genes related with PD. Subsequently, several pathways have been incriminated in the pathogenesis of PD, involving mitochondrial dysfunction, protein aggregation, and misfolding. On the other hand, the sporadic form of PD cases is found with no genetic linkage, which still remain an unanswered question? The exertion in ascertaining vulnerability factors in PD considering the genetic factors are to be further dissevered in the forthcoming decades with advancement in research studies. One of the major proponents behind the prognosis of PD is the pathogenic transmutation of aberrant alpha-synuclein protein into amyloid fibrillar structures, which actuates neurodegeneration. Alpha-synuclein, transcribed by SNCA gene is a neuroprotein found predominantly in brain. It is implicated in the modulation of synaptic vesicle transport and eventual release of neurotransmitters. Due to genetic mutations and other elusive factors, the alpha-synuclein misfolds into its amyloid form. Therefore, this review aims in briefing the molecular understanding of the alpha-synuclein associated with PD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Srinivasan
- Bioinformatics Lab, Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (Deemed to be University), Vellore, India.,Department of Bioinformatics, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Chennai, India
| | - G Chandrasekhar
- Bioinformatics Lab, Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (Deemed to be University), Vellore, India
| | - P Chandrasekar
- Bioinformatics Lab, Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (Deemed to be University), Vellore, India
| | - K Anbarasu
- Department of Bioinformatics, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Chennai, India
| | - A S Vickram
- Department of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Chennai, India
| | - Rohini Karunakaran
- Unit of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, AIMST University, Bedong, Malaysia
| | - R Rajasekaran
- Bioinformatics Lab, Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (Deemed to be University), Vellore, India
| | - P S Srikumar
- Unit of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, AIMST University, Bedong, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Booms A, Coetzee GA. Functions of Intracellular Alpha-Synuclein in Microglia: Implications for Parkinson's Disease Risk. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:759571. [PMID: 34671245 PMCID: PMC8521067 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.759571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alpha-synuclein accumulation in dopaminergic neurons is one of the primary features of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Despite its toxic properties during PD, alpha-synuclein has some important physiological functions. Although the activity of the protein has been extensively studied in neurons, the protein is also expressed in other cell types including immune cells and glia. Genetic studies show that mutations in synuclein alpha (SNCA), the gene that encodes alpha-synuclein, and alterations in its expression levels are a significant risk factor for PD, which likely impact the functions of a broad range of cell types. The consequences of altered SNCA expression in other cell types is beginning to be explored. Microglia, the primary macrophage population in the Central Nervous System (CNS), for example, are affected by variations in alpha-synuclein levels and functions. Studies suggest that deviations of alpha-synuclein’s normal activity influence hematopoiesis, the process that gives rise to microglia, and microglia’s immune functions. Alpha-synuclein levels also dictate the efficiency of SNARE-mediated vesicle formation, which could influence autophagy and cytokine release in microglia. Starting from the time of conception, these effects could impact one’s risk for developing PD. Further studies are needed to determine the physiological role of alpha-synuclein and how the protein is affected during PD in non-neuronal cells such as microglia. In this review we will discuss the known roles of alpha-synuclein in differentiation, immune responses, and vesicle formation, with insights into how abnormal alpha-synuclein expression and activity are linked to altered functions of microglia during PD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alix Booms
- Coetzee Laboratory, Department of Neurodegenerative Science, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| | - Gerhard A Coetzee
- Coetzee Laboratory, Department of Neurodegenerative Science, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, United States
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Strauß T, Marvian-Tayaranian A, Sadikoglou E, Dhingra A, Wegner F, Trümbach D, Wurst W, Heutink P, Schwarz SC, Höglinger GU. iPS Cell-Based Model for MAPT Haplotype as a Risk Factor for Human Tauopathies Identifies No Major Differences in TAU Expression. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:726866. [PMID: 34532319 PMCID: PMC8438159 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.726866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The H1 haplotype of the microtubule-associated protein tau (MAPT) gene is a common genetic risk factor for some neurodegenerative diseases such as progressive supranuclear palsy, corticobasal degeneration, and Parkinson's disease. The molecular mechanism causing the increased risk for the named diseases, however, remains unclear. In this paper, we present a valuable tool of eight small molecule neural precursor cell lines (smNPC) homozygous for the MAPT haplotypes (four H1/H1 and four H2/H2 cell lines), which can be used to identify MAPT-dependent phenotypes. The employed differentiation protocol is fast due to overexpression of NEUROGENIN-2 and therefore suitable for high-throughput approaches. A basic characterization of all human cell lines was performed, and their TAU and α-SYNUCLEIN profiles were compared during a differentiation time of 30 days. We could identify higher levels of conformationally altered TAU in cell lines carrying the H2 haplotype. Additionally, we found increased expression levels of α-SYNUCLEIN in H1/H1 cells. With this resource, we aim to fill a gap in neurodegenerative disease modeling with induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) for sporadic tauopathies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tabea Strauß
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Munich, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Amir Marvian-Tayaranian
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Munich, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Eldem Sadikoglou
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ashutosh Dhingra
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Tübingen, Germany
| | - Florian Wegner
- Department of Neurology, Hanover Medical School, Hanover, Germany
- Center for Systems Neuroscience, Hanover, Germany
| | - Dietrich Trümbach
- Institute of Developmental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Wurst
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Munich, Germany
- Institute of Developmental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Oberschleißheim, Germany
- TUM School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
| | - Peter Heutink
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Tübingen, Germany
- Department for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Sigrid C. Schwarz
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Munich, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
- Geriatric Clinic Haag, Haag in Oberbayern, Germany
| | - Günter U. Höglinger
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Munich, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department of Neurology, Hanover Medical School, Hanover, Germany
- Center for Systems Neuroscience, Hanover, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
The Impact of SNCA Variations and Its Product Alpha-Synuclein on Non-Motor Features of Parkinson's Disease. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11080804. [PMID: 34440548 PMCID: PMC8401994 DOI: 10.3390/life11080804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a common and progressive neurodegenerative disease, caused by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta in the midbrain, which is clinically characterized by a constellation of motor and non-motor manifestations. The latter include hyposmia, constipation, depression, pain and, in later stages, cognitive decline and dysautonomia. The main pathological features of PD are neuronal loss and consequent accumulation of Lewy bodies (LB) in the surviving neurons. Alpha-synuclein (α-syn) is the main component of LB, and α-syn aggregation and accumulation perpetuate neuronal degeneration. Mutations in the α-syn gene (SNCA) were the first genetic cause of PD to be identified. Generally, patients carrying SNCA mutations present early-onset parkinsonism with severe and early non-motor symptoms, including cognitive decline. Several SNCA polymorphisms were also identified, and some of them showed association with non-motor manifestations. The functional role of these polymorphisms is only partially understood. In this review we explore the contribution of SNCA and its product, α-syn, in predisposing to the non-motor manifestations of PD.
Collapse
|
14
|
Li W, Fu Y, Halliday GM, Sue CM. PARK Genes Link Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Alpha-Synuclein Pathology in Sporadic Parkinson's Disease. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:612476. [PMID: 34295884 PMCID: PMC8291125 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.612476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is an age-related neurodegenerative disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. The disease is characterized by the progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons and spread of Lewy pathology (α-synuclein aggregates) in the brain but the pathogenesis remains elusive. PD presents substantial clinical and genetic variability. Although its complex etiology and pathogenesis has hampered the breakthrough in targeting disease modification, recent genetic tools advanced our approaches. As such, mitochondrial dysfunction has been identified as a major pathogenic hub for both familial and sporadic PD. In this review, we summarize the effect of mutations in 11 PARK genes (SNCA, PRKN, PINK1, DJ-1, LRRK2, ATP13A2, PLA2G6, FBXO7, VPS35, CHCHD2, and VPS13C) on mitochondrial function as well as their relevance in the formation of Lewy pathology. Overall, these genes play key roles in mitochondrial homeostatic control (biogenesis and mitophagy) and functions (e.g., energy production and oxidative stress), which may crosstalk with the autophagy pathway, induce proinflammatory immune responses, and increase oxidative stress that facilitate the aggregation of α-synuclein. Thus, rectifying mitochondrial dysregulation represents a promising therapeutic approach for neuroprotection in PD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen Li
- Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - YuHong Fu
- Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,School of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Glenda M Halliday
- Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,School of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Carolyn M Sue
- Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
α-Synuclein E46K Mutation and Involvement of Oxidative Stress in a Drosophila Model of Parkinson's Disease. PARKINSONS DISEASE 2021; 2021:6621507. [PMID: 34285796 PMCID: PMC8275411 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6621507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is an age-associated neurodegenerative condition in which some genetic variants are known to increase disease susceptibility on interaction with environmental factors inducing oxidative stress. Different mutations in the SNCA gene are reported as the major genetic contributors to PD. E46K mutation pathogenicity has not been investigated as intensive as other SNCA gene mutations including A30P and A53T. In this study, based on the GAL4-UAS binary genetic tool, transgenic Drosophila melanogaster flies expressing wild-type and E46K-mutated copies of the human SNCA gene were constructed. Western blotting, immunohistochemical analysis, and light and confocal microscopy of flies' brains were undertaken along with the survival rate measurement, locomotor function assay, and ethanol and paraquat (PQ) tolerance to study α-synuclein neurotoxicity. Biochemical bioassays were carried out to investigate the activity of antioxidant enzymes and alterations in levels of oxidative markers following damages induced by human α-synuclein to the neurons of the transgenic flies. Overexpression of human α-synuclein in the central nervous system of these transgenic flies led to disorganized ommatidia structures and loss of dopaminergic neurons. E46K α-synuclein caused remarkable climbing defects, reduced survivorship, higher ethanol sensitivity, and increased PQ-mediated mortality. A noticeable decline in activity of catalase and superoxide dismutase enzymes besides considerable increase in the levels of lipid peroxidation and reactive oxygen species was observed in head capsule homogenates of α-synuclein-expressing flies, which indicates obvious involvement of oxidative stress as a causal factor in SNCAE46K neurotoxicity. In all the investigations, E46K copy of the SNCA gene was found to impose more severe defects when compared to wild-type SNCA. It can be concluded that the constructed Drosophila models developed PD-like symptoms that facilitate comparative studies of molecular and cellular pathways implicated in the pathogenicity of different α-synuclein mutations.
Collapse
|
16
|
Tirozzi A, Modugno N, Palomba NP, Ferese R, Lombardi A, Olivola E, Gialluisi A, Esposito T. Analysis of Genetic and Non-genetic Predictors of Levodopa Induced Dyskinesia in Parkinson's Disease. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:640603. [PMID: 33995045 PMCID: PMC8118664 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.640603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Levodopa (L-Dopa), representing the therapeutic gold standard for the treatment of Parkinson disease (PD), is associated with side effects like L-Dopa induced dyskinesia (LID). Although several non-genetic and genetic factors have been investigated for association with LID risk, contrasting results were reported and its genetic basis remain largely unexplored. Methods: In an Italian PD cohort (N = 460), we first performed stepwise multivariable Cox Proportional Hazard regressions modeling LID risk as a function of gender, PD familiarity, clinical subtype, weight, age-at-onset (AAO) and years-of-disease (YOD), L-Dopa dosage, severity scores, and scales assessing motor (UPDRS-III), cognitive (MoCA), and non-motor symptoms (NMS). Then we enriched the resulting model testing two variants—rs356219 and D4S3481—increasing the expression of the SNCA gene, previously suggested as a potential mechanism of LID onset. To account for more complex (non-linear) relations of these variables with LID risk, we built a survival random forest (SRF) algorithm including all the covariates mentioned above. Results: Among tested variables (N = 460 case-complete, 211 LID events; total follow-up 31,361 person-months, median 61 months), disease duration showed significant association (p < 0.005), with 6 (3–8)% decrease of LID risk per additional YOD. Other nominally significant associations were observed for gender—with women showing a 39 (5–82)% higher risk of LID—and AAO, with 2 (0.3–3)% decrease of risk for each year increase of PD onset. The SRF algorithm confirmed YOD as the most prominent feature influencing LID risk, with a variable importance of about 8% in the model. In genetic models, no statistically significant effects on incident LID risk was observed. Conclusions: This evidence supports a protective effect of late PD onset and gender (men) against LID risk and suggests a new independent protective factor, YOD. Moreover, it underlines the importance of personalized therapeutic protocols for PD patients in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Teresa Esposito
- IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy.,Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, CNR, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ernest James Phillips T, Maguire E. Phosphoinositides: Roles in the Development of Microglial-Mediated Neuroinflammation and Neurodegeneration. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:652593. [PMID: 33841102 PMCID: PMC8032904 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.652593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Microglia are increasingly recognized as vital players in the pathology of a variety of neurodegenerative conditions including Alzheimer’s (AD) and Parkinson’s (PD) disease. While microglia have a protective role in the brain, their dysfunction can lead to neuroinflammation and contributes to disease progression. Also, a growing body of literature highlights the seven phosphoinositides, or PIPs, as key players in the regulation of microglial-mediated neuroinflammation. These small signaling lipids are phosphorylated derivates of phosphatidylinositol, are enriched in the brain, and have well-established roles in both homeostasis and disease.Disrupted PIP levels and signaling has been detected in a variety of dementias. Moreover, many known AD disease modifiers identified via genetic studies are expressed in microglia and are involved in phospholipid metabolism. One of these, the enzyme PLCγ2 that hydrolyzes the PIP species PI(4,5)P2, displays altered expression in AD and PD and is currently being investigated as a potential therapeutic target.Perhaps unsurprisingly, neurodegenerative conditions exhibiting PIP dyshomeostasis also tend to show alterations in aspects of microglial function regulated by these lipids. In particular, phosphoinositides regulate the activities of proteins and enzymes required for endocytosis, toll-like receptor signaling, purinergic signaling, chemotaxis, and migration, all of which are affected in a variety of neurodegenerative conditions. These functions are crucial to allow microglia to adequately survey the brain and respond appropriately to invading pathogens and other abnormalities, including misfolded proteins. AD and PD therapies are being developed to target many of the above pathways, and although not yet investigated, simultaneous PIP manipulation might enhance the beneficial effects observed. Currently, only limited therapeutics are available for dementia, and although these show some benefits for symptom severity and progression, they are far from curative. Given the importance of microglia and PIPs in dementia development, this review summarizes current research and asks whether we can exploit this information to design more targeted, or perhaps combined, dementia therapeutics. More work is needed to fully characterize the pathways discussed in this review, but given the strength of the current literature, insights in this area could be invaluable for the future of neurodegenerative disease research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Emily Maguire
- UK Dementia Research Institute at Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Kim YC, Jeong BH. Identification of Somatic Mutations in Dementia-related Genes in Cancer Patients. Curr Alzheimer Res 2020; 17:835-844. [PMID: 33272183 DOI: 10.2174/1567205017666201203124341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dementia is an overall term of brain diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), tauopathies and synucleinopathies. To date, somatic mutations in dementia-related genes, including the amyloid precursor protein (APP) gene, presenilin 1 (PSEN1) gene, PSEN2 gene, microtubule- associated protein tau (MAPT) gene, alpha-synuclein (SNCA) gene and leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) gene, have been considered one cause of dementia. We have questioned the impact of somatic mutations in dementia-related genes on cancer. METHODS In the present study, we investigated somatic mutations in the APP, PSEN1, PSEN2, MAPT, SNCA and LRRK2 genes and the impact of these somatic mutations. RESULTS From The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, we found 1,643 somatic mutations in the APP, PSEN1, PSEN2, MAPT, SNCA and LRRK2 genes in cancer patients. Strikingly, compared to the distributions of cancer types in total cancer patients, somatic mutations in the dementia-related genes showed an extremely low distribution in glioblastoma patients. CONCLUSION To the best of our knowledge, this is the first investigation of dementia-related genes in cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Chan Kim
- Korea Zoonosis Research Institute, Jeonbuk National University, Iksan, Jeonbuk 54531, Korea
| | - Byung-Hoon Jeong
- Korea Zoonosis Research Institute, Jeonbuk National University, Iksan, Jeonbuk 54531, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Barbuti P, Antony P, Santos B, Massart F, Cruciani G, Dording C, Arias J, Schwamborn J, Krüger R. Using High-Content Screening to Generate Single-Cell Gene-Corrected Patient-Derived iPS Clones Reveals Excess Alpha-Synuclein with Familial Parkinson's Disease Point Mutation A30P. Cells 2020; 9:cells9092065. [PMID: 32927687 PMCID: PMC7564375 DOI: 10.3390/cells9092065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The generation of isogenic induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines using CRISPR-Cas9 technology is a technically challenging, time-consuming process with variable efficiency. Here we use fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) to sort biallelic CRISPR-Cas9 edited single-cell iPSC clones into high-throughput 96-well microtiter plates. We used high-content screening (HCS) technology and generated an in-house developed algorithm to select the correctly edited isogenic clones for continued expansion and validation. In our model we have gene-corrected the iPSCs of a Parkinson’s disease (PD) patient carrying the autosomal dominantly inherited heterozygous c.88G>C mutation in the SNCA gene, which leads to the pathogenic p.A30P form of the alpha-synuclein protein. Undertaking a PCR restriction-digest mediated clonal selection strategy prior to sequencing, we were able to post-sort validate each isogenic clone using a quadruple screening strategy prior to generating footprint-free isogenic iPSC lines, retaining a normal molecular karyotype, pluripotency and three germ-layer differentiation potential. Directed differentiation into midbrain dopaminergic neurons revealed that SNCA expression is reduced in the gene-corrected clones, which was validated by a reduction at the alpha-synuclein protein level. The generation of single-cell isogenic clones facilitates new insights in the role of alpha-synuclein in PD and furthermore is applicable across patient-derived disease models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Barbuti
- Translational Neuroscience, Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, L-4362 Luxembourg, Luxembourg; (P.A.); (B.S.); (F.M.); (G.C.); (C.D.)
- Transversal Translational Medicine, Luxembourg Institute of Health, L-1445 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Correspondence: (P.B.); (R.K.); Tel.: +352-26970-967 (R.K.)
| | - Paul Antony
- Translational Neuroscience, Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, L-4362 Luxembourg, Luxembourg; (P.A.); (B.S.); (F.M.); (G.C.); (C.D.)
| | - Bruno Santos
- Translational Neuroscience, Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, L-4362 Luxembourg, Luxembourg; (P.A.); (B.S.); (F.M.); (G.C.); (C.D.)
- Transversal Translational Medicine, Luxembourg Institute of Health, L-1445 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - François Massart
- Translational Neuroscience, Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, L-4362 Luxembourg, Luxembourg; (P.A.); (B.S.); (F.M.); (G.C.); (C.D.)
| | - Gérald Cruciani
- Translational Neuroscience, Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, L-4362 Luxembourg, Luxembourg; (P.A.); (B.S.); (F.M.); (G.C.); (C.D.)
| | - Claire Dording
- Translational Neuroscience, Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, L-4362 Luxembourg, Luxembourg; (P.A.); (B.S.); (F.M.); (G.C.); (C.D.)
- Transversal Translational Medicine, Luxembourg Institute of Health, L-1445 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Jonathan Arias
- Developmental and Cellular Biology, Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, L-4362 Luxembourg, Luxembourg; (J.A.); (J.S.)
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Neo, Karolinska Institutet, SE-141 83 Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Jens Schwamborn
- Developmental and Cellular Biology, Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, L-4362 Luxembourg, Luxembourg; (J.A.); (J.S.)
| | - Rejko Krüger
- Translational Neuroscience, Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, L-4362 Luxembourg, Luxembourg; (P.A.); (B.S.); (F.M.); (G.C.); (C.D.)
- Transversal Translational Medicine, Luxembourg Institute of Health, L-1445 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
- Department of Neurodegenerative diseases, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University Clinics Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Parkinson Research Clinic, Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg (CHL), L-1210 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
- Correspondence: (P.B.); (R.K.); Tel.: +352-26970-967 (R.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Sharma A, Osato N, Liu H, Asthana S, Dakal TC, Ambrosini G, Bucher P, Schmitt I, Wüllner U. Common genetic variants associated with Parkinson's disease display widespread signature of epigenetic plasticity. Sci Rep 2019; 9:18464. [PMID: 31804560 PMCID: PMC6895091 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-54865-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Parkinson disease (PD) is characterized by a pivotal progressive loss of substantia nigra dopaminergic neurons and aggregation of α-synuclein protein encoded by the SNCA gene. Genome-wide association studies identified almost 100 sequence variants linked to PD in SNCA. However, the consequences of this genetic variability are rather unclear. Herein, our analysis on selective single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) which are highly associated with the PD susceptibility revealed that several SNP sites attribute to the nucleosomes and overlay with bivalent regions poised to adopt either active or repressed chromatin states. We also identified large number of transcription factor (TF) binding sites associated with these variants. In addition, we located two docking sites in the intron-1 methylation prone region of SNCA which are required for the putative interactions with DNMT1. Taken together, our analysis reflects an additional layer of epigenomic contribution for the regulation of the SNCA gene in PD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amit Sharma
- Department of Neurology, University Clinic Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,Department of Ophthalmology, University Clinic Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Naoki Osato
- Department of Bioinformatics Engineering, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hongde Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shailendra Asthana
- Drug Discovery Research Centre (DDRC), Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI), Haryana, 121001, India
| | - Tikam Chand Dakal
- Genome & Computational Biology Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, 313001, Rajasthan, India
| | | | - Philipp Bucher
- EPFL and Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ina Schmitt
- Department of Neurology, University Clinic Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Ullrich Wüllner
- Department of Neurology, University Clinic Bonn, Bonn, Germany. .,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Bonn, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Reynolds RH, Hardy J, Ryten M, Gagliano Taliun SA. Informing disease modelling with brain-relevant functional genomic annotations. Brain 2019; 142:3694-3712. [PMID: 31603214 PMCID: PMC6885670 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awz295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The past decade has seen a surge in the number of disease/trait-associated variants, largely because of the union of studies to share genetic data and the availability of electronic health records from large cohorts for research use. Variant discovery for neurological and neuropsychiatric genome-wide association studies, including schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease, has greatly benefitted; however, the translation of these genetic association results to interpretable biological mechanisms and models is lagging. Interpreting disease-associated variants requires knowledge of gene regulatory mechanisms and computational tools that permit integration of this knowledge with genome-wide association study results. Here, we summarize key conceptual advances in the generation of brain-relevant functional genomic annotations and amongst tools that allow integration of these annotations with association summary statistics, which together provide a new and exciting opportunity to identify disease-relevant genes, pathways and cell types in silico. We discuss the opportunities and challenges associated with these developments and conclude with our perspective on future advances in annotation generation, tool development and the union of the two.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Regina H Reynolds
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, University College London (UCL) Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - John Hardy
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, University College London (UCL) Institute of Neurology, London, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at University College London (UCL), London, UK
| | - Mina Ryten
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, University College London (UCL) Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Sarah A Gagliano Taliun
- Center for Statistical Genetics and Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Han Z, Tian R, Ren P, Zhou W, Wang P, Luo M, Jin S, Jiang Q. Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease: a Mendelian randomization study. BMC MEDICAL GENETICS 2018; 19:215. [PMID: 30598082 PMCID: PMC6311900 DOI: 10.1186/s12881-018-0721-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) are the top two common neurodegenerative diseases in elderly. Recent studies found the α-synuclein have a key role in AD. Although many clinical and pathological features between AD and PD are shared, the genetic association between them remains unclear, especially whether α-synuclein in PD genetically alters AD risk. RESULTS We did not obtain any significant result (OR = 0.918, 95% CI: 0.782-1.076, P = 0.291) in MR analysis between PD and AD risk. In MR between α-synuclein in PD with AD risk, we only extracted rs356182 as the IV through a strict screening process. The result indicated a significant association based on IVW method (OR = 0.638, 95% CI: 0.485-0.838, P = 1.20E-03). In order to examine the robustness of the IVW method, we used other three complementary analytical methods and also obtained consistent results. CONCLUSION The overall PD genetic risk factors did not predict AD risk, but the α-synuclein susceptibility genetic variants in PD reduce the AD risk. We believe that our findings may help to understand the association between them, which may be useful for future genetic studies for both diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhifa Han
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Rui Tian
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Peng Ren
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Wenyang Zhou
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Pingping Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Meng Luo
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Shuilin Jin
- Department of Mathematics, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Qinghua Jiang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Xu X, Stoyanova EI, Lemiesz AE, Xing J, Mash DC, Heintz N. Species and cell-type properties of classically defined human and rodent neurons and glia. eLife 2018; 7:e37551. [PMID: 30320555 PMCID: PMC6188473 DOI: 10.7554/elife.37551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Determination of the molecular properties of genetically targeted cell types has led to fundamental insights into mouse brain function and dysfunction. Here, we report an efficient strategy for precise exploration of gene expression and epigenetic events in specific cell types in a range of species, including postmortem human brain. We demonstrate that classically defined, homologous neuronal and glial cell types differ between rodent and human by the expression of hundreds of orthologous, cell specific genes. Confirmation that these genes are differentially active was obtained using epigenetic mapping and immunofluorescence localization. Studies of sixteen human postmortem brains revealed gender specific transcriptional differences, cell-specific molecular responses to aging, and the induction of a shared, robust response to an unknown external event evident in three donor samples. Our data establish a comprehensive approach for analysis of molecular events associated with specific circuits and cell types in a wide variety of human conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Xu
- Laboratory of Molecular BiologyHoward Hughes Medical Institute, The Rockefeller UniversityNew YorkUnited States
| | - Elitsa I Stoyanova
- Laboratory of Molecular BiologyHoward Hughes Medical Institute, The Rockefeller UniversityNew YorkUnited States
| | - Agata E Lemiesz
- Laboratory of Molecular BiologyHoward Hughes Medical Institute, The Rockefeller UniversityNew YorkUnited States
| | - Jie Xing
- Laboratory of Molecular BiologyHoward Hughes Medical Institute, The Rockefeller UniversityNew YorkUnited States
| | - Deborah C Mash
- Miller School of MedicineUniversity of MiamiMiamiUnited States
| | - Nathaniel Heintz
- Laboratory of Molecular BiologyHoward Hughes Medical Institute, The Rockefeller UniversityNew YorkUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Kumar S, Yadav N, Pandey S, Thelma BK. Advances in the discovery of genetic risk factors for complex forms of neurodegenerative disorders: contemporary approaches, success, challenges and prospects. J Genet 2018; 97:625-648. [PMID: 30027900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases constitute a large proportion of disorders in elderly, majority being sporadic in occurrence with ∼5-10% familial. A strong genetic component underlies the Mendelian forms but nongenetic factors together with genetic vulnerability contributes to the complex sporadic forms. Several gene discoveries in the familial forms have provided novel insights into the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration with implications for treatment. Conversely, findings from genetic dissection of the sporadic forms, despite large genomewide association studies and more recently whole exome and whole genome sequencing, have been limited. This review provides a concise account of the genetics that we know, the pathways that they implicate, the challenges that are faced and the prospects that are envisaged for the sporadic, complex forms of neurodegenerative diseases, taking four most common conditions, namely Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and Huntington disease as examples. Poor replication across studies, inability to establish genotype-phenotype correlations and the overall failure to predict risk and/or prevent disease in this group poses a continuing challenge. Among others, clinical heterogeneity emerges as the most important impediment warranting newer approaches. Advanced computational and system biology tools to analyse the big data are being generated and the alternate strategy such as subgrouping of case-control cohorts based on deep phenotyping using the principles of Ayurveda to overcome current limitation of phenotype heterogeneity seem to hold promise. However, at this point, with advances in discovery genomics and functional analysis of putative determinants with translation potential for the complex forms being minimal, stem cell therapies are being attempted as potential interventions. In this context, the possibility to generate patient derived induced pluripotent stem cells, mutant/gene/genome correction through CRISPR/Cas9 technology and repopulating the specific brain regions with corrected neurons, which may fulfil the dream of personalized medicine have been mentioned briefly. Understanding disease pathways/biology using this technology, with implications for development of novel therapeutics are optimistic expectations in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sumeet Kumar
- Department of Genetics, University of Delhi South Campus, New Delhi 110 021, India.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Piper DA, Sastre D, Schüle B. Advancing Stem Cell Models of Alpha-Synuclein Gene Regulation in Neurodegenerative Disease. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:199. [PMID: 29686602 PMCID: PMC5900030 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Alpha-synuclein (non A4 component of amyloid precursor, SNCA, NM_000345.3) plays a central role in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD) and related Lewy body disorders such as Parkinson's disease dementia, Lewy body dementia, and multiple system atrophy. Since its discovery as a disease-causing gene in 1997, alpha-synuclein has been a central point of scientific interest both at the protein and gene level. Mutations, including copy number variants, missense mutations, short structural variants, and single nucleotide polymorphisms, can be causative for PD and affect conformational changes of the protein, can contribute to changes in expression of alpha-synuclein and its isoforms, and can influence regulation of temporal as well as spatial levels of alpha-synuclein in different tissues and cell types. A lot of progress has been made to understand both the physiological transcriptional and epigenetic regulation of the alpha-synuclein gene and whether changes in transcriptional regulation could lead to disease and neurodegeneration in PD and related alpha-synucleinopathies. Although the histopathological changes in these neurodegenerative disorders are similar, the temporal and spatial presentation and progression distinguishes them which could be in part due to changes or disruption of transcriptional regulation of alpha-synuclein. In this review, we describe different genetic alterations that contribute to PD and neurodegenerative conditions and review aspects of transcriptional regulation of the alpha-synuclein gene in the context of the development of PD. New technologies, advanced gene engineering and stem cell modeling, are on the horizon to shed further light on a better understanding of gene regulatory processes and exploit them for therapeutic developments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Desiree A Piper
- Parkinson's Institute and Clinical Center, Sunnyvale, CA, United States
| | - Danuta Sastre
- Parkinson's Institute and Clinical Center, Sunnyvale, CA, United States
| | - Birgitt Schüle
- Parkinson's Institute and Clinical Center, Sunnyvale, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Maiti P, Manna J, Dunbar GL. Current understanding of the molecular mechanisms in Parkinson's disease: Targets for potential treatments. Transl Neurodegener 2017; 6:28. [PMID: 29090092 PMCID: PMC5655877 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-017-0099-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 281] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Gradual degeneration and loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, pars compacta and subsequent reduction of dopamine levels in striatum are associated with motor deficits that characterize Parkinson’s disease (PD). In addition, half of the PD patients also exhibit frontostriatal-mediated executive dysfunction, including deficits in attention, short-term working memory, speed of mental processing, and impulsivity. The most commonly used treatments for PD are only partially or transiently effective and are available or applicable to a minority of patients. Because, these therapies neither restore the lost or degenerated dopaminergic neurons, nor prevent or delay the disease progression, the need for more effective therapeutics is critical. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of the molecular signaling pathways involved in PD, particularly within the context of how genetic and environmental factors contribute to the initiation and progression of this disease. The involvement of molecular chaperones, autophagy-lysosomal pathways, and proteasome systems in PD are also highlighted. In addition, emerging therapies, including pharmacological manipulations, surgical procedures, stem cell transplantation, gene therapy, as well as complementary, supportive and rehabilitation therapies to prevent or delay the progression of this complex disease are reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Panchanan Maiti
- Field Neurosciences Institute Laboratory for Restorative Neurology, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48859 USA.,Program in Neuroscience, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48859 USA.,Department of Psychology, Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48859 USA.,Field Neurosciences Institute, St. Mary's of Michigan, Saginaw, MI 48604 USA.,Department of Biology, Saginaw Valley State University, Saginaw, MI 48604 USA
| | - Jayeeta Manna
- Department of Physiology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38105 USA
| | - Gary L Dunbar
- Field Neurosciences Institute Laboratory for Restorative Neurology, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48859 USA.,Program in Neuroscience, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48859 USA.,Department of Psychology, Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48859 USA.,Field Neurosciences Institute, St. Mary's of Michigan, Saginaw, MI 48604 USA
| |
Collapse
|