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Kwon OH, Choe J, Kim D, Kim S, Moon C. Sensory Stimulation-dependent Npas4 Expression in the Olfactory Bulb during Early Postnatal Development. Exp Neurobiol 2024; 33:77-98. [PMID: 38724478 PMCID: PMC11089401 DOI: 10.5607/en23037] [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: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The development of the olfactory system is influenced by sensory inputs, and it maintains neuronal generation and plasticity throughout the lifespan. The olfactory bulb contains a higher proportion of interneurons than other brain regions, particularly during the early postnatal period of neurogenesis. Although the relationship between sensory stimulation and olfactory bulb development during the postnatal period has been well studied, the molecular mechanisms have yet to be identified. In this study, we used western blotting and immunohistochemistry to analyze the expression of the transcription factor Npas4, a neuron-specific immediate-early gene that acts as a developmental regulator in many brain regions. We found that Npas4 is highly expressed in olfactory bulb interneurons during the early postnatal stages and gradually decreases toward the late postnatal stages. Npas4 expression was observed in all olfactory bulb layers, including the rostral migratory stream, where newborn neurons are generated and migrate to the olfactory bulb. Under sensory deprivation, the olfactory bulb size and the number of olfactory bulb interneurons were reduced. Furthermore, Npas4 expression and the expression of putative Npas4 downstream molecules were decreased. Collectively, these findings indicate that Npas4 expression induced by sensory input plays a role in the formation of neural circuits with excitatory mitral/tufted cells by regulating the survival of olfactory bulb interneurons during the early stages of postnatal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oh-Hoon Kwon
- Convergence Research Advanced Centre for Olfaction, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu 42988, Korea
| | - Jiyun Choe
- Department of Brain Sciences, Graduate School, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu 42988, Korea
| | - Dokyeong Kim
- Department of Brain Sciences, Graduate School, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu 42988, Korea
| | - Sunghwan Kim
- Department of Brain Sciences, Graduate School, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu 42988, Korea
| | - Cheil Moon
- Convergence Research Advanced Centre for Olfaction, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu 42988, Korea
- Department of Brain Sciences, Graduate School, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu 42988, Korea
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2
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Sha Q, Fu Z, Escobar Galvis ML, Madaj Z, Underwood MD, Steiner JA, Dwork A, Simpson N, Galfalvy H, Rozoklija G, Achtyes ED, Mann JJ, Brundin L. Integrative transcriptome- and DNA methylation analysis of brain tissue from the temporal pole in suicide decedents and their controls. Mol Psychiatry 2024; 29:134-145. [PMID: 37938766 PMCID: PMC11078738 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02311-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Suicide rates have increased steadily world-wide over the past two decades, constituting a serious public health crisis that creates a significant burden to affected families and the society as a whole. Suicidal behavior involves a multi-factorial etiology, including psychological, social and biological factors. Since the molecular neural mechanisms of suicide remain vastly uncharacterized, we examined transcriptional- and methylation profiles of postmortem brain tissue from subjects who died from suicide as well as their neurotypical healthy controls. We analyzed temporal pole tissue from 61 subjects, largely free from antidepressant and antipsychotic medication, using RNA-sequencing and DNA-methylation profiling using an array that targets over 850,000 CpG sites. Expression of NPAS4, a key regulator of inflammation and neuroprotection, was significantly downregulated in the suicide decedent group. Moreover, we identified a total of 40 differentially methylated regions in the suicide decedent group, mapping to seven genes with inflammatory function. There was a significant association between NPAS4 DNA methylation and NPAS4 expression in the control group that was absent in the suicide decedent group, confirming its dysregulation. NPAS4 expression was significantly associated with the expression of multiple inflammatory factors in the brain tissue. Overall, gene sets and pathways closely linked to inflammation were significantly upregulated, while specific pathways linked to neuronal development were suppressed in the suicide decedent group. Excitotoxicity as well as suppressed oligodendrocyte function were also implicated in the suicide decedents. In summary, we have identified central nervous system inflammatory mechanisms that may be active during suicidal behavior, along with oligodendrocyte dysfunction and altered glutamate neurotransmission. In these processes, NPAS4 might be a master regulator, warranting further studies to validate its role as a potential biomarker or therapeutic target in suicidality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Sha
- Department of Neurodegenerative Science, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Zhen Fu
- Bioinformatics & Biostatistics Core, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | | | - Zach Madaj
- Bioinformatics & Biostatistics Core, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Mark D Underwood
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
- Division of Molecular Imaging and Neuropathology, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jennifer A Steiner
- Department of Neurodegenerative Science, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Andrew Dwork
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
- Division of Molecular Imaging and Neuropathology, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
- Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Skopje, Macedonia
| | - Norman Simpson
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hanga Galfalvy
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
- Division of Mental Health Data Science, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gorazd Rozoklija
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eric D Achtyes
- Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI, USA
| | - J John Mann
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lena Brundin
- Department of Neurodegenerative Science, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, USA.
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3
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Neves D, Salazar IL, Almeida RD, Silva RM. Molecular mechanisms of ischemia and glutamate excitotoxicity. Life Sci 2023; 328:121814. [PMID: 37236602 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Excitotoxicity is classically defined as the neuronal damage caused by the excessive release of glutamate, and subsequent activation of excitatory plasma membrane receptors. In the mammalian brain, this phenomenon is mainly driven by excessive activation of glutamate receptors (GRs). Excitotoxicity is common to several chronic disorders of the Central Nervous System (CNS) and is considered the primary mechanism of neuronal loss of function and cell death in acute CNS diseases (e.g. ischemic stroke). Multiple mechanisms and pathways lead to excitotoxic cell damage including pro-death signaling cascade events downstream of glutamate receptors, calcium (Ca2+) overload, oxidative stress, mitochondrial impairment, excessive glutamate in the synaptic cleft as well as altered energy metabolism. Here, we review the current knowledge on the molecular mechanisms that underlie excitotoxicity, emphasizing the role of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD) metabolism. We also discuss novel and promising therapeutic strategies to treat excitotoxicity, highlighting recent clinical trials. Finally, we will shed light on the ongoing search for stroke biomarkers, an exciting and promising field of research, which may improve stroke diagnosis, prognosis and allow better treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diogo Neves
- iBiMED - Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ivan L Salazar
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Ageing, MIA - Portugal, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ramiro D Almeida
- iBiMED - Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal; CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Raquel M Silva
- iBiMED - Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal; Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Faculdade de Medicina Dentária, Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Saúde, Viseu, Portugal.
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4
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Jian D, Qin L, Gan H, Zheng S, Xiao H, Duan Y, Zhang M, Liang P, Zhao J, Zhai X. NPAS4 Exacerbates Pyroptosis via Transcriptionally Regulating NLRP6 in the Acute Phase of Intracerebral Hemorrhage in Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098320. [PMID: 37176030 PMCID: PMC10179070 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a severe cerebrovascular disease with a high disability rate and high mortality, and pyroptosis is a type of programmed cell death in the acute phase of ICH. Neuronal Per-Arnt-Sim domain protein 4 (Npas4) is a specific transcription factor highly expressed in the nervous system, yet the role of NPAS4 in ICH-induced pyroptosis is not fully understood. NLR family Pyrin-domain-containing 6 (NLRP6), a new member of the Nod-like receptor family, aggravates pyroptosis via activating cysteine protease-1 (Caspase-1) and Caspase-11. In this study, we found that NPAS4 was upregulated in human and mouse peri-hematoma brain tissues and peaked at approximately 24 h after ICH modeling. Additionally, NPAS4 knockdown improved neurologic dysfunction and brain damage induced by ICH in mice after 24 h. Meanwhile, inhibiting NPAS4 expression reduced the levels of myeloperoxidase (MPO)-positive cells and Caspase-1/TUNEL-double-positive cells and decreased cleaved Caspase-1, cleaved Caspase-11, and N-terminal GSDMD levels. Consistently, NPAS4 overexpression reversed the above alternations after ICH in the mice. Moreover, NPAS4 could interact with the Nlrp6 promoter region (-400--391 bp and -33--24 bp) and activate the transcription of Nlrp6. Altogether, our study demonstrated that NPAS4, as a transcription factor, can exacerbate pyroptosis and transcriptionally activate NLRP6 in the acute phase of intracerebral hemorrhage in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Jian
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
- Center for Neuroscience Research, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Le Qin
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
- Center for Neuroscience Research, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Hui Gan
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Shuyue Zheng
- Center for Neuroscience Research, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Han Xiao
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Yuhao Duan
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
- Center for Neuroscience Research, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Mi Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
- Center for Neuroscience Research, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Ping Liang
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Center for Neuroscience Research, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Xuan Zhai
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
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5
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Ferrier FJ, Saul I, Khoury N, Ruiz AJ, Lao EJP, Escobar I, Dave KR, Young JI, Perez-Pinzon MA. Post cardiac arrest physical exercise mitigates cell death in the septal and thalamic nuclei and ameliorates contextual fear conditioning deficits in rats. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2023; 43:446-459. [PMID: 36369732 PMCID: PMC9941858 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x221137539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
A major concern for cardiac arrest (CA) survivors is the manifestation of long-term cognitive impairments. Physical exercise (PE) is a well-established approach to improve cognitive functions under certain pathological conditions. We previously showed that PE post-CA mitigates cognitive deficits, but the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. To define neuroprotective mechanisms, we analyzed whether PE post-CA protects neurons involved in memory. We first performed a contextual fear conditioning (CFC) test to confirm that PE post-CA preserves memory in rats. We then conducted a cell-count analysis and determined the number of live cells in the hippocampus, and septal and thalamic nuclei, all areas involved in cognitive functions. Lastly, we performed RNA-seq to determine PE post-CA effect on gene expression. Following CA, exercised rats had preserved CFC memory than sham PE animals. Despite this outcome, PE post-CA did not protect hippocampal cells from dying. However, PE ameliorated cell death in septal and thalamic nuclei compared to sham PE animals, suggesting that these nuclei are crucial in mitigating cognitive decline post-CA. Interestingly, PE affected regulation of genes related to neuroinflammation, plasticity, and cell death. These findings reveal potential mechanisms whereby PE post-CA preserves cognitive functions by protecting septal and thalamic cells via gene regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando J Ferrier
- Peritz Scheinberg Cerebral Vascular Disease Research
Laboratories, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami,
FL, USA
- Neuroscience Program, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller
School of Medicine, Miami FL
| | - Isabel Saul
- Peritz Scheinberg Cerebral Vascular Disease Research
Laboratories, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami,
FL, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller
School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Nathalie Khoury
- Peritz Scheinberg Cerebral Vascular Disease Research
Laboratories, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami,
FL, USA
- Neuroscience Program, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller
School of Medicine, Miami FL
| | - Alexander J Ruiz
- Peritz Scheinberg Cerebral Vascular Disease Research
Laboratories, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami,
FL, USA
| | - Efrain J Perez Lao
- Peritz Scheinberg Cerebral Vascular Disease Research
Laboratories, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami,
FL, USA
- Neuroscience Program, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller
School of Medicine, Miami FL
- Hussman Institute for Human Genetics, University of Miami
Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Iris Escobar
- Peritz Scheinberg Cerebral Vascular Disease Research
Laboratories, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami,
FL, USA
- Neuroscience Program, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller
School of Medicine, Miami FL
| | - Kunjan R Dave
- Peritz Scheinberg Cerebral Vascular Disease Research
Laboratories, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami,
FL, USA
- Neuroscience Program, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller
School of Medicine, Miami FL
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller
School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Juan I Young
- Hussman Institute for Human Genetics, University of Miami
Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Miguel A Perez-Pinzon
- Peritz Scheinberg Cerebral Vascular Disease Research
Laboratories, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami,
FL, USA
- Neuroscience Program, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller
School of Medicine, Miami FL
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller
School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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6
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Takahashi H, Yamamoto T, Tsuboi A. Molecular mechanisms underlying activity-dependent ischemic tolerance in the brain. Neurosci Res 2023; 186:3-9. [PMID: 36244569 DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2022.10.005] [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: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Ischemic stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. The inhibition of cerebral blood flow triggers intertwined pathological events, resulting in cell death and loss of brain function. Interestingly, animals pre-exposed to short-term ischemia can tolerate subsequent severe ischemia. This phenomenon is called ischemic tolerance and is also triggered by other noxious stimuli. However, whether short-term exposure to non-noxious stimuli can induce ischemic tolerance remains unknown. Recently, we found that pre-exposing mice to an enriched environment for 40 min is sufficient to facilitate cell survival after a subsequent stroke. The neuroprotective process depends on the neuronal activity soon before stroke, of which the activity-dependent transcription factor Npas4 is essential. Excessive Ca2+ influx triggers Npas4 expression in ischemic neurons, leading to the activation of neuroprotective programs. Pre-induction of Npas4 in the normal brain effectively supports cell survival after stroke. Furthermore, our study revealed that Npas4 regulates L-type voltage-gated Ca2+ channels through expression of the small Ras-like GTPase Gem in ischemic neurons. Ischemic tolerance is a good model for understanding how to promote neuroprotective mechanisms in the normal and injured brain. Here, we highlight activity-dependent ischemic tolerance and discuss its role in promoting neuroprotection against stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroo Takahashi
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Kagawa 761-0793, Japan.
| | - Tohru Yamamoto
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Kagawa 761-0793, Japan
| | - Akio Tsuboi
- Dynamic Brain Network Laboratory, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
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7
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Fyn Signaling in Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury: Potential and Therapeutic Implications. Mediators Inflamm 2022; 2022:9112127. [PMID: 36157893 PMCID: PMC9499810 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9112127] [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: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Ischemic stroke caused by arterial occlusion is the most common type of stroke and is one of the leading causes of disability and death, with the incidence increasing each year. Fyn is a nonreceptor tyrosine kinase belonging to the Src family of kinases (SFKs), which is related to many normal and pathological processes of the nervous system, including neurodevelopment and disease progression. In recent years, more and more evidence suggests that Fyn may be closely related to cerebral ischemia-reperfusion, including energy metabolism disorders, excitatory neurotoxicity, intracellular calcium homeostasis, free radical production, and the activation of apoptotic genes. This paper reviews the role of Fyn in the pathological process of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion, including neuroexcitotoxicity and neuroinflammation, to explore how Fyn affects specific signal cascades and leads to cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. In addition, Fyn also promotes the production of superoxide and endogenous NO, so as to quickly react to produce peroxynitrite, which may also mediate cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury, which is discussed in this paper. Finally, we revealed the treatment methods related to Fyn inhibitors and discussed its potential as a clinical treatment for ischemic stroke.
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Yan Y, Yin X, Li J, Li H, Liu J, Liu Y, Tian G. NPAS4 Polymorphisms Contribute to Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) Risk. Cardiovasc Toxicol 2022; 22:515-527. [PMID: 35532855 DOI: 10.1007/s12012-022-09735-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
As genetic inheritance is an inevitable risk factor in the development of coronary heart disease (CHD), it is critical to identify the polymorphisms of CHD risk. This study explored whether the NPAS4 polymorphisms are related to the CHD risk in the Chinese Han population. Five SNPs in NPAS4 were genotyped using Agena Mass ARRAY from 499 CHD and 500 controls. RT-PCR detected the NPAS4 expression levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 50 CHD and 50 controls. χ2 test compared the distributions of gender, allele and genotypes frequencies between cases and controls. Logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). MDR analyzed the SNP-SNP interactions on risk of CHD. U test compared the differences in gene expression between different groups. The results showed that rs4466842 was correlated with an increased CHD risk in overall, males and age ≤ 60; rs117186164 and rs12785321 were significantly related to an increased CHD risk in male and age ≤ 60, respectively; haplotype Ars117186164Crs4466842 was significantly correlated with an increased CHD risk. SNP-SNP interactions results showed that the best model was the four-locus model was the combination of rs117770654, rs117957381, rs12785321, and rs4466842 (CVC = 10/10, Testing Sensitivity = 0.647). The expression levels of NPAS4 in the case group (0.365 ± 0.139) were significantly lower than that in the control group (0.782 ± 0.224) (P < 0.001). The results revealed that SNPs in NPAS4 may play an important role in the occurrence and development of CHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuping Yan
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, #277 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China.,Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Xi'an Daxing Hospital, Xi'an, 710016, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiangli Yin
- Department of Pathology, Xi'an International Medical Center Hospital, Xi'an, 710100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jingjie Li
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, Shaanxi, China
| | - Haiyue Li
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jianfeng Liu
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuanwei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, Shaanxi, China
| | - Gang Tian
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, #277 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China.
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9
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Zhang T, Ji D, Sun J, Song J, Nie L, Sun N. NPAS4 suppresses propofol-induced neurotoxicity by inhibiting autophagy in hippocampal neuronal cells. Arch Biochem Biophys 2021; 711:109018. [PMID: 34418347 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2021.109018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Propofol, a general intravenous anesthetic, has been demonstrated to cause a profound neuroapoptosis in the developing brain followed by long-term neurocognitive impairment. Our study aimed to examine the neuroprotective effect of neuronal PAS domain protein 4 (NPAS4), an activity-dependent neuron-specific transcription factor, on propofol-induced neurotoxicity in hippocampal neuronal HT22 cells. The differentially expressed genes in HT22 cells after treatment with propofol were screened from Gene Expression Omnibus dataset GSE106799. NPAS4 expression in HT22 cells treated with different doses of propofol was investigated by qRT-PCR and Western blot analysis. Cell viability, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, caspase-3 activity, and apoptosis were evaluated by MTT, a LDH-Cytotoxicity Assay Kit, a Caspase-3 Colorimetric Assay Kit, and TUNEL assay, respectively. The protein levels of LC3-I, LC3-II, Beclin 1, p62 and NPAS4 were detected using Western blot analysis. Propofol treatment concentration-dependently decreased NPAS4 expression in HT22 cells. Propofol treatment inhibited cell viability, increased LDH release and caspase-3 activity, and induced apoptosis and autophagy in HT22 cells. NPAS4 overexpression suppressed propofol-induced cell injury and autophagy in HT22 cells. Mechanistically, autophagy agonist rapamycin attenuated the neuroprotective effect of NPAS4 in propofol-treated HT22 cells. In conclusion, NAPS4 overexpression protected hippocampal neuronal HT22 cells against propofol-induced neurotoxicity by reducing autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tongyin Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Nanshi Hospital Affiliated to Henan University, Nanyang, 473065, China
| | - Daofei Ji
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221006, China
| | - Junyi Sun
- Department of Anesthesiology, Nanshi Hospital Affiliated to Henan University, Nanyang, 473065, China
| | - Jiangling Song
- Department of Anesthesiology, Nanshi Hospital Affiliated to Henan University, Nanyang, 473065, China
| | - Limin Nie
- Department of Anesthesiology, Nanshi Hospital Affiliated to Henan University, Nanyang, 473065, China
| | - Na Sun
- Catheterization Room, Huai'an Second People's Hospital, The Affiliated Huai'an Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Huai'an, 223002, China.
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10
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Takahashi H, Asahina R, Fujioka M, Matsui TK, Kato S, Mori E, Hioki H, Yamamoto T, Kobayashi K, Tsuboi A. Ras-like Gem GTPase induced by Npas4 promotes activity-dependent neuronal tolerance for ischemic stroke. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:e2018850118. [PMID: 34349016 PMCID: PMC8364162 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2018850118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [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] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Ischemic stroke, which results in loss of neurological function, initiates a complex cascade of pathological events in the brain, largely driven by excitotoxic Ca2+ influx in neurons. This leads to cortical spreading depolarization, which induces expression of genes involved in both neuronal death and survival; yet, the functions of these genes remain poorly understood. Here, we profiled gene expression changes that are common to ischemia (modeled by middle cerebral artery occlusion [MCAO]) and to experience-dependent activation (modeled by exposure to an enriched environment [EE]), which also induces Ca2+ transients that trigger transcriptional programs. We found that the activity-dependent transcription factor Npas4 was up-regulated under MCAO and EE conditions and that transient activation of cortical neurons in the healthy brain by the EE decreased cell death after stroke. Furthermore, both MCAO in vivo and oxygen-glucose deprivation in vitro revealed that Npas4 is necessary and sufficient for neuroprotection. We also found that this protection involves the inhibition of L-type voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (VGCCs). Next, our systematic search for Npas4-downstream genes identified Gem, which encodes a Ras-related small GTPase that mediates neuroprotective effects of Npas4. Gem suppresses the membrane localization of L-type VGCCs to inhibit excess Ca2+ influx, thereby protecting neurons from excitotoxic death after in vitro and in vivo ischemia. Collectively, our findings indicate that Gem expression via Npas4 is necessary and sufficient to promote neuroprotection in the injured brain. Importantly, Gem is also induced in human cerebral organoids cultured under an ischemic condition, revealing Gem as a new target for drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroo Takahashi
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Kagawa 761-0793, Japan;
- Laboratory for Molecular Biology of Neural Systems, Advanced Medical Research Center, Nara Medical University, Nara 634-8521, Japan
| | - Ryo Asahina
- Laboratory for Molecular Biology of Neural Systems, Advanced Medical Research Center, Nara Medical University, Nara 634-8521, Japan
| | - Masayuki Fujioka
- Laboratory for Molecular Biology of Neural Systems, Advanced Medical Research Center, Nara Medical University, Nara 634-8521, Japan
| | - Takeshi K Matsui
- Department of Future Basic Medicine, School of Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara 634-8521, Japan
| | - Shigeki Kato
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Eiichiro Mori
- Department of Future Basic Medicine, School of Medicine, Nara Medical University, Nara 634-8521, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Hioki
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
| | - Tohru Yamamoto
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Kagawa 761-0793, Japan
| | - Kazuto Kobayashi
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Akio Tsuboi
- Laboratory for Molecular Biology of Neural Systems, Advanced Medical Research Center, Nara Medical University, Nara 634-8521, Japan;
- Laboratory for Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
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11
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Wu QJ, Sun X, Teves L, Mayor D, Tymianski M. Mice and Rats Exhibit Striking Inter-species Differences in Gene Response to Acute Stroke. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2021; 42:2773-2789. [PMID: 34350530 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-021-01138-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Neuroprotection in acute stroke has not been successfully translated from animals to humans. Animal research on promising agents continues largely in rats and mice which are commonly available to researchers. However, controversies continue on the most suitable species to model the human situation. Generally, putative agents seem less effective in mice as compared with rats. We hypothesized that this may be due to inter-species differences in stroke response and that this might be manifest at a genetic level. Here we used whole-genome microarrays to examine the differential gene regulation in the ischemic penumbra of mice and rats at 2 and 6 h after permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (pMCAO; Raw microarray CEL data files are available in the GEO database with an accession number GSE163654). Differentially expressed genes (adj. p ≤ 0.05) were organized by hierarchical clustering, correlation plots, Venn diagrams and pathway analyses in each species and at each time-point. Emphasis was placed on genes already known to be associated with stroke, including validation by RT-PCR. Gene expression patterns in the ischemic penumbra differed strikingly between the species at both 2 h and 6 h. Nearly 90% of significantly regulated genes and most pathways modulated by ischemia differed between mice and rats. These differences were evident globally, among stroke-associated genes, immediate early genes, genes implicated in stress response, inflammation, neuroprotection, ion channels, and signal transduction. The findings of this study may have significant implications for the choice of species for screening putative stroke therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiu Jing Wu
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, 60 Leonard Ave., Toronto, ON, M5T0S8, Canada.,Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Xiujun Sun
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, 60 Leonard Ave., Toronto, ON, M5T0S8, Canada
| | - Lucy Teves
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, 60 Leonard Ave., Toronto, ON, M5T0S8, Canada
| | - Diana Mayor
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, 60 Leonard Ave., Toronto, ON, M5T0S8, Canada.,Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Michael Tymianski
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, 60 Leonard Ave., Toronto, ON, M5T0S8, Canada. .,Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada. .,Division of Neurosurgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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12
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Yildirim F, Foddis M, Blumenau S, Müller S, Kajetan B, Holtgrewe M, Kola V, Beule D, Sassi C. Shared and oppositely regulated transcriptomic signatures in Huntington's disease and brain ischemia confirm known and unveil novel potential neuroprotective genes. Neurobiol Aging 2021; 104:122.e1-122.e17. [PMID: 33875290 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2021.03.001] [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: 02/23/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Huntington's disease and subcortical vascular dementia display similar dementing features, shaped by different degrees of striatal atrophy, deep white matter degeneration and tau pathology. To investigate the hypothesis that Huntington's disease transcriptomic hallmarks may provide a window into potential protective genes upregulated during brain acute and subacute ischemia, we compared RNA sequencing signatures in the most affected brain areas of 2 widely used experimental mouse models: Huntington's disease, (R6/2, striatum and cortex and Q175, hippocampus) and brain ischemia-subcortical vascular dementia (BCCAS, striatum, cortex and hippocampus). We identified a cluster of 55 shared genes significantly differentially regulated in both models and we screened these in 2 different mouse models of Alzheimer's disease, and 96 early-onset familial and apparently sporadic small vessel ischemic disease patients. Our data support the prevalent role of transcriptional regulation upon genetic coding variability of known neuroprotective genes (Egr2, Fos, Ptgs2, Itga5, Cdkn1a, Gsn, Npas4, Btg2, Cebpb) and provide a list of potential additional ones likely implicated in different dementing disorders and worth further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferah Yildirim
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Marco Foddis
- Department of Experimental Neurology, Center for Stroke Research Berlin (CSB), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sonja Blumenau
- Department of Experimental Neurology, Center for Stroke Research Berlin (CSB), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Müller
- Department of Experimental Neurology, Center for Stroke Research Berlin (CSB), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bentele Kajetan
- Berlin Institute of Health, BIH, Core Unit Bioinformatics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Manuel Holtgrewe
- Berlin Institute of Health, BIH, Core Unit Bioinformatics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Vasilis Kola
- Department of Experimental Neurology, Center for Stroke Research Berlin (CSB), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Dieter Beule
- Berlin Institute of Health, BIH, Core Unit Bioinformatics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Celeste Sassi
- Department of Experimental Neurology, Center for Stroke Research Berlin (CSB), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.
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13
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Li Z, Cao P, Meng H, Li D, Zhang Y, Li Y, Wang S. Long-term exposure to 2-amino-3-methylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoline can trigger a potential risk of Parkinson's disease. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 412:125230. [PMID: 33548786 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.125230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Humans are exposed to heterocyclic amines (HCAs) from a wide range of sources, such as protein-rich thermally processed foods, cigarette smoke, contaminated river water, the atmosphere, soil, and forest fire ash. Although the carcinogenic and mutagenic hazards of HCAs have been widely studied, the potential neurotoxicity of these compounds still needs to be further elucidated. Here, we studied the neurotoxicity of the HCA 2-amino-3-methylimidazole[4,5-f]quinoline (IQ) in vivo by utilizing a zebrafish model. After 35 days of exposure at 8, 80, and 800 ng/mL, zebrafish exploratory behavior and locomotor activity were significantly inhibited, and light/dark preference behaviors were also disturbed. Moreover, the expression of Parkinson's disease (PD)-related genes and proteins, dopamine-related genes, neuroplasticity-related genes, antioxidant enzyme genes and inflammatory cytokine genes in the zebrafish brain was significantly affected. The numbers of NeuN neurons in the midbrain were decreased in exposed zebrafish, while the numbers of apoptotic cells were increased. In summary, our research suggests that IQ is neurotoxic and significantly associated with PD and that long-term exposure to IQ may contribute to PD risk. This risk may be related to IQ-mediated effects on mitochondrial homeostasis and induction of oxidative stress and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Food Science and Health, School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Peipei Cao
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Food Science and Health, School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Huiling Meng
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Food Science and Health, School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Dan Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Food Science and Health, School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Food Science and Health, School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Yuhao Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Food Science and Health, School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Shuo Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Food Science and Health, School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China.
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14
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The Participation of the Intrinsically Disordered Regions of the bHLH-PAS Transcription Factors in Disease Development. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22062868. [PMID: 33799876 PMCID: PMC8001110 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22062868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The basic helix–loop–helix/Per-ARNT-SIM (bHLH-PAS) proteins are a family of transcription factors regulating expression of a wide range of genes involved in different functions, ranging from differentiation and development control by oxygen and toxins sensing to circadian clock setting. In addition to the well-preserved DNA-binding bHLH and PAS domains, bHLH-PAS proteins contain long intrinsically disordered C-terminal regions, responsible for regulation of their activity. Our aim was to analyze the potential connection between disordered regions of the bHLH-PAS transcription factors, post-transcriptional modifications and liquid-liquid phase separation, in the context of disease-associated missense mutations. Highly flexible disordered regions, enriched in short motives which are more ordered, are responsible for a wide spectrum of interactions with transcriptional co-regulators. Based on our in silico analysis and taking into account the fact that the functions of transcription factors can be modulated by posttranslational modifications and spontaneous phase separation, we assume that the locations of missense mutations inducing disease states are clearly related to sequences directly undergoing these processes or to sequences responsible for their regulation.
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15
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Xiong H, Wang H, Yu Q. Circular RNA circ_0003420 mediates inflammation in sepsis-induced liver damage by downregulating neuronal PAS domain protein 4. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2021; 43:271-282. [PMID: 33719821 DOI: 10.1080/08923973.2021.1887212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our aim was to investigate whether circular RNA (circRNA) circ_0003420 mediates inflammation in sepsis-induced liver damage and to determine the mechanism involved. MATERIALS AND METHODS Liver tissue samples from patients with sepsis and healthy subjects were used to identify differentially expressed circRNAs. Additionally, Kupffer cells were treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to establish an in vitro model of sepsis-induced liver damage. Cell viability and proliferation were measured with a cell counting kit-8 and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) labeling, respectively. Relative mRNA and protein levels of IL-6, IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and neuronal PAS domain protein 4 (NPAS4) were determined via reverse-transcription quantitative PCR and western blotting, respectively. RESULTS We observed circ_0003420 upregulation accompanied by NPAS4 downregulation in liver samples from patients with sepsis-associated damage and in Kupffer cells treated with LPS. Results of in vitro experiments indicated that LPS treatment reduced cell viability and induced well-pronounced apoptosis and inflammatory signs. Circ_0003420 silencing counteracted LPS's influence on cell proliferation, apoptosis, and inflammation signs. Bioinformatics and a dual-luciferase reporter assay revealed that circ_0003420 targets NPAS4 mRNA and negatively correlates with NPAS4 expression. Moreover, NPAS4 knockdown recovered the apoptosis rate and expression levels of inflammatory cytokines in the LPS-treated circ_0003420 knockdown cells, whereas NPAS4 overexpression had similar effects on Kupffer cell properties as circ_0003420 silencing. CONCLUSION We demonstrate that circ_0003420 targets NPAS4 mRNA thereby mediating the cell damage and inflammation caused by LPS. This study provides a possible target for treatment of liver damage induced by sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huawei Xiong
- Department of Emergency, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Emergency, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Qichun Yu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
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16
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Fu J, Guo O, Zhen Z, Zhen J. Essential Functions of the Transcription Factor Npas4 in Neural Circuit Development, Plasticity, and Diseases. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:603373. [PMID: 33335473 PMCID: PMC7736240 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.603373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Signaling from the synapse to nucleus is mediated by the integration and propagation of both membrane potential changes (postsynaptic potentials) and intracellular second messenger cascades. The electrical propagation of postsynaptic potentials allows for rapid neural information processing, while propagating second messenger pathways link synaptic activity to the transcription of genes required for neuronal survival and adaptive changes (plasticity) underlying circuit formation and learning. The propagation of activity-induced calcium signals to the cell nucleus is a major synapse-to-nucleus communication pathway. Neuronal PAS domain protein 4 (Npas4) is a recently discovered calcium-dependent transcription factor that regulates the activation of genes involved in the homeostatic regulation of excitatory–inhibitory balance, which is critical for neural circuit formation, function, and ongoing plasticity, as well as for defense against diseases such as epilepsy. Here, we summarize recent findings on the neuroprotective functions of Npas4 and the potential of Npas4 as a therapeutic target for the treatment of acute and chronic diseases of the central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Fu
- Department of Emergency Surgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Ouyang Guo
- Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Zhihang Zhen
- Department of Neurology, Key Laboratory of Neurology of Hebei Province, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Junli Zhen
- Department of Neurology, Key Laboratory of Neurology of Hebei Province, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
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17
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Wu D, Chen J, Hussain M, Wu L, Shi J, Wu C, Ma Y, Zhang M, Yang Q, Fu Y, Duan Y, Ma C, Yan F, Zhu Z, He X, Yao T, Song M, Zhi X, Wang C, Cai L, Li C, Li S, Zhang Y, Ding Y, Ji X. Selective intra-arterial brain cooling improves long-term outcomes in a non-human primate model of embolic stroke: Efficacy depending on reperfusion status. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2020; 40:1415-1426. [PMID: 32126876 PMCID: PMC7308521 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x20903697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Nearly all stroke neuroprotection modalities, including selective intra-arterial cooling (SI-AC), have failed to be translated from bench to bed side. Potentially overlooked reasons may be biological gaps, inadequate attention to reperfusion states and mismatched attention to neurological benefits. To advance stroke translation, we describe a novel thrombus-based stroke model in adult rhesus macaques. Intra-arterial thrombolysis with tissue plasminogen activator leads to three clinically relevant outcomes - complete, partial, and no recanalization based on digital subtraction angiography. We also find reperfusion as a prerequisite for SI-AC-induced benefits, in which models with complete or partial reperfusion exhibit significantly reduced infarct volumes, mitigated neurological deficits, improved upper limb motor dysfunction in both acute and chronic stages; however, no further neuroprotection is observed in those without reperfusion. In summary, we discover reperfusion as a crucial regulator of SI-AC-induced neuroprotection and provide insights of long-term functional benefits in behavior and imaging levels. Our findings could be important not only for the translational prerequisite and potential molecular targets, but also for this thrombus-thrombolysis model in monkeys as a powerful tool for further translational stroke studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Wu
- Department of Neurology and China-America Institute of Neuroscience, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Hypoxia Conditioning Translational Medicine, Beijing, China.,Center of Stroke, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
| | - Jian Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Mohammed Hussain
- Department of Neurosurgery, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Longfei Wu
- Department of Neurology and China-America Institute of Neuroscience, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Hypoxia Conditioning Translational Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jingfei Shi
- Department of Neurology and China-America Institute of Neuroscience, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chuanjie Wu
- Department of Neurology and China-America Institute of Neuroscience, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Hypoxia Conditioning Translational Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yanhui Ma
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Mo Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Yang
- Department of Radiology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yongjuan Fu
- Department of Pathology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yunxia Duan
- Department of Neurology and China-America Institute of Neuroscience, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Cui Ma
- Interdisciplinary Innovation Institute of Medicine and Engineering, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Big Data-Based Precision Medicine, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Feng Yan
- Department of Neurology and China-America Institute of Neuroscience, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zixin Zhu
- Department of Neurology and China-America Institute of Neuroscience, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoduo He
- Department of Neurology and China-America Institute of Neuroscience, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Tianqi Yao
- Department of Neurology and China-America Institute of Neuroscience, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Song
- Interdisciplinary Innovation Institute of Medicine and Engineering, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Big Data-Based Precision Medicine, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Xinglong Zhi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chunxiu Wang
- Department of Neurology and China-America Institute of Neuroscience, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lipeng Cai
- Department of Neurology and China-America Institute of Neuroscience, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chuanhui Li
- Department of Neurology and China-America Institute of Neuroscience, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shengli Li
- Department of Neurology and China-America Institute of Neuroscience, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yongbiao Zhang
- Brainnetome Center, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yuchuan Ding
- Department of Neurology and China-America Institute of Neuroscience, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Xunming Ji
- Department of Neurology and China-America Institute of Neuroscience, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Hypoxia Conditioning Translational Medicine, Beijing, China.,Center of Stroke, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
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18
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Abstract
IMPACT STATEMENT Brain development and degeneration are highly complex processes that are regulated by a large number of molecules and signaling pathways the identities of which are being unraveled. Accumulating evidence points to histone deacetylases and epigenetic mechanisms as being important regulators of these processes. In this review, we describe that histone deacetylase-3 (HDAC3) is a particularly crucial regulator of both neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration. In addition, HDAC3 regulates memory formation, synaptic plasticity, and the cognitive impairment associated with normal aging. Understanding how HDAC3 functions contributes to the normal development and functioning of the brain while also promoting neurodegeneration could lead to the development of therapeutic approaches for neurodevelopmental, neuropsychiatric, and neurodegenerative disorders.
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19
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The relationship between DNA methylation in neurotrophic genes and age as evidenced from three independent cohorts: differences by delirium status. Neurobiol Aging 2020; 94:227-235. [PMID: 32650186 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2020.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
We previously reported the association between DNA methylation (DNAm) of pro-inflammatory cytokine genes and age. In addition, neurotrophic factors are known to be associated with age and neurocognitive disorders. Therefore, we hypothesized that DNAm of neurotrophic genes change with age, especially in delirium patients. DNAm was analyzed using the Illumina HumanMethylation450 or HumanMethylationEPIC BeadChip Kit in 3 independent cohorts: blood from 383 Grady Trauma Project subjects, brain from 21 neurosurgery patients, and blood from 87 inpatients with and without delirium. Both blood and brain samples showed that most of the DNAm of neurotrophic genes were positively correlated with age. Furthermore, DNAm of neurotrophic genes was more positively correlated with age in delirium cases than in non-delirium controls. These findings support our hypothesis that the neurotrophic genes may be epigenetically modulated with age, and this process may be contributing to the pathophysiology of delirium.
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20
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Deng F, Cai L, Zhou B, Zhou Z, Xu G. Whole transcriptome sequencing reveals dexmedetomidine-improves postoperative cognitive dysfunction in rats via modulating lncRNA. 3 Biotech 2020; 10:202. [PMID: 32309111 PMCID: PMC7154046 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-020-02190-9] [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: 01/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to explore the underlying mechanism and function of dexmedetomidine (Dex)-regulated long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in improving postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) in rats. The established POCD model, Dex treatment model in rats, Morris water maze testing, and HE staining assays were used to evaluate the efficacy of Dex in POCD treatment in rats. Hippocampus samples of rats from the POCD group and the Dex group were used for lncRNA sequencing. The expression of five differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs) was verified by quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR). Competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNA) network was constructed using Cytoscape. The concentration of inflammatory cytokines were measured by ELISA. Microglia proliferation and apoptosis were assessed using CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry, respectively. In the Dex group, the escape latency was shorter, neuron cell injury levels were alleviated, and the expression levels of TNF-α and IL-1β were significantly down-regulated compared with the POCD group. A total of 60 DE lncRNAs were identified, including 16 up- and 44 down-regulated lncRNAs in the Dex group. KEGG pathway analysis revealed that DElncRNAs were significantly enriched in cytokine-cytokine receptor interactions, the p53 signaling pathway, and the NF-kappa B signaling pathway. The qRT-PCR results and ceRNA network suggested that the lncRNA LOC102546895 may play a key role in POCD. LOC102546895 inhibited proliferation while promoting apoptosis in microglial cells and promoted the mRNA and protein expression of the target gene Npas4. Our findings showed that Dex alleviated POCD in rats and regulated lncRNAs expression profile in the hippocampus tissues of rats with POCD. In conclusion, our study outcome proposes that Dex-regulated lncRNA LOC102546895 may play a role in rats with POCD through targeting Npas4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumou Deng
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.1 Minde Road, Donghu District, Nanchang, Jiangxi China
| | - Lily Cai
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi China
| | - Bin Zhou
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.1 Minde Road, Donghu District, Nanchang, Jiangxi China
| | - Zhidong Zhou
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.1 Minde Road, Donghu District, Nanchang, Jiangxi China
| | - GuoHai Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.1 Minde Road, Donghu District, Nanchang, Jiangxi China
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21
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Fine mapping and identification of serum urate loci in American Indians: The Strong Heart Family Study. Sci Rep 2019; 9:17899. [PMID: 31784582 PMCID: PMC6884539 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-52924-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
While studies have reported genetic loci affecting serum urate (SU) concentrations, few studies have been conducted in minority populations. Our objective for this study was to identify genetic loci regulating SU in a multigenerational family-based cohort of American Indians, the Strong Heart Family Study (SHFS). We genotyped 162,718 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 2000 SHFS participants using an Illumina MetaboChip array. A genome-wide association analysis of SU was conducted using measured genotype analysis approach accounting for kinships in SOLAR, and meta-analysis in METAL. Our results showed strong association of SU with rs4481233, rs9998811, rs7696092 and rs13145758 (minor allele frequency (MAF) = 25–44%; P < 3 × 10−14) of solute carrier family 2, member 9 (SLC2A9) and rs41481455, rs2231142 and rs1481012 (MAF = 29%; p < 3 × 10−9) of ATP-binding cassette protein, subfamily G, member 2 (ABCG2). Carriers of G alleles of rs9998811, rs4148155 and rs1481012 and A alleles of rs4481233, rs7696092 and rs13145758 and rs2231142 had lower SU concentrations as compared to non-carriers. Genetic analysis of SU conditional on significant SLC2A9 and ABCG2 SNPs revealed new loci, nucleobindin 1 (NUCB1) and neuronal PAS domain protein 4 (NPAS4) (p <6× 10−6). To identify American Indian-specific SNPs, we conducted targeted sequencing of key regions of SLC2A9. A total of 233 SNPs were identified of which 89 were strongly associated with SU (p < 7.1 × 10−10) and 117 were American Indian specific. Analysis of key SNPs in cohorts of Mexican-mestizos, European, Indian and East Asian ancestries showed replication of common SNPs, including our lead SNPs. Our results demonstrate the association of SU with uric acid transporters in a minority population of American Indians and potential novel associations of SU with neuronal-related genes which warrant further investigation.
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Chuang CS, Chang JC, Soong BW, Chuang SF, Lin TT, Cheng WL, Orr HT, Liu CS. Treadmill training increases the motor activity and neuron survival of the cerebellum in a mouse model of spinocerebellar ataxia type 1. Kaohsiung J Med Sci 2019; 35:679-685. [PMID: 31271500 DOI: 10.1002/kjm2.12106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) type 1 (SCA1) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder that is characterized by worsening of disordered coordination, ataxia of the trunk, and other neurological symptoms. Physical activity improves both mobility and the daily living activities of patients with SCA. Intervention with daily regular treadmill exercise may slow the deterioration of cerebellar neurons in SCA1. Therefore, the signal changes and performance of cerebellar neurons after exercise in SCA1 was investigated in this study. We employed a transgenic mouse model of SCA1, generated by amplifying the cytosine-adenine-guanine trinucleotide repeat expansions, and the mice underwent 1 month of moderate daily treadmill exercise for 1 hour. The rotarod test revealed that the motor function of the SCA1 mice that underwent training was superior to that of the control SCA1 mice, which did not undergo training. Moreover, the cerebellar pathology revealed preserved Purkinje neurons stained by carbindin with an increase of the neuronal Per Arnt Sim domain protein 4, a key regulation in the structural and functional plasticity of neurons, in the excised SCA1 mice relative to the controls. The mechanism was related to an increase of phosphorylation of ribosomal protein S6, a downstream target of the mammalian target of rapamycin pathway, but not to autophagy activation. This study determined that regular treadmill exercise may play a crucial role in the viable support of cerebellar neurons in SCA1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chieh-Sen Chuang
- Department of Neurology, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan.,Vascular and Genomic Center, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Jui-Chih Chang
- Vascular and Genomic Center, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Bing-Wen Soong
- Department of Neurology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Institute of Neuroscience, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Fei Chuang
- Vascular and Genomic Center, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Ta-Tsung Lin
- Vascular and Genomic Center, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Ling Cheng
- Vascular and Genomic Center, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Harry T Orr
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Minnesota Supercomputing Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Chin-San Liu
- Department of Neurology, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan.,Vascular and Genomic Center, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan.,School of Chinese Medicine, Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, Research Center for Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
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23
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Environmental enrichment improves pain sensitivity, depression-like phenotype, and memory deficit in mice with neuropathic pain: role of NPAS4. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2019; 236:1999-2014. [PMID: 30798405 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-019-5187-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Patients suffering from neuropathic pain have a higher incidence of depression and cognitive decline. Although environment enrichment (EE) may be effective in the treatment of neuropathic pain, the precise mechanisms underlying its actions remain determined. The aim of the study was to examine the molecular mechanisms underlying the EE's beneficial effects in mice with neuropathic pain. EE attenuated the pain threshold reduction, depression-like phenotype, and memory deficit in mice after chronic constriction injury (CCI). Furthermore, EE attenuated decreased neurogenesis and increased inflammation in the hippocampus of mice with neuropathic pain after CCI. Moreover, the suppression of adult hippocampal neurogenesis by temozolomide antagonized the beneficial effects of EE on depression-like phenotype and cognitive deficit in the mice with neuropathic pain. In addition, lipopolysaccharide-induced increase in tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in the hippocampus antagonized the beneficial effects of EE for these behavioral abnormalities in mice with neuropathic pain. Knock-down of NPAS4 (neuronal PAS domain protein 4) in the hippocampus by lentivirus targeting NPAS4 blocked these beneficial effects of EE in the mice with neuropathic pain. These all findings suggest that hippocampal NPAS4 plays a key role in the beneficial effects of EE on the pain sensitivity, depression-like phenotype, and memory deficit in mice with neuropathic pain. Therefore, it is likely that NPAS4 would be a new therapeutic target for perceptional, affective, and cognitive dimensions in patients with chronic pain.
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Ji LL, Ye Y, Nie PY, Peng JB, Fu CH, Wang ZY, Tong L. Dysregulation of miR-142 results in anxiety-like behaviors following single prolonged stress. Behav Brain Res 2019; 365:157-163. [PMID: 30857769 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2019.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Revised: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/07/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a prevalent mental disorder that is classified as a trauma- and stressor-related disorder. While numerous epigenetic factors are related to the risk for PTSD, the precise mechanisms underlying this disorder remain unclear. However, accumulating evidence has demonstrated that dysregulation of microRNAs is involved in stress-related psychiatric disorders, resulting in anxiety-like behavior, memory-related deficits and aberrant neuronal plasticity. Here, rats exposed to single prolonged stress showed increased microRNA-142-5p levels in the amygdala and a concurrent reduction in the levels of its predicted target Npas4, an activity-regulated transcription factor, which was implicated in stress-related psychopathologies. In addition, the inhibition of microRNA-142 following exposure to single prolonged stress exhibited decreased anxiety-like behaviors and memory deficits, as well as increased expression of Npas4 and BDNF. Furthermore, a dual-luciferase reporter assay indicated that Npas4 was a direct downstream target of miR-142. Taken together, these data suggest that miR-142 may play a key role in the pathogenesis of stress-related psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Li Ji
- Department of Anatomy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yao Ye
- Department of Anatomy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Peng-Yin Nie
- Department of Anatomy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun-Bo Peng
- Department of Anatomy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Chang-Hai Fu
- Department of Anatomy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhen-Yu Wang
- Department of Anatomy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Tong
- Department of Anatomy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China.
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25
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Lee HR, Kong SY, Sung SH, Kim HJ. DA-9801 and its saponins, dioscin and protodioscin, protect primary cortical neurons from hyperglycemia-induced neurotoxicity. J Funct Foods 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2019.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
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26
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Fahim A, Rehman Z, Bhatti MF, Ali A, Virk N, Rashid A, Paracha RZ. Structural insights and characterization of human Npas4 protein. PeerJ 2018; 6:e4978. [PMID: 29915698 PMCID: PMC6004298 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.4978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Npas4 is an activity dependent transcription factor which is responsible for gearing the expression of target genes involved in neuro-transmission. Despite the importance of Npas4 in many neuronal diseases, the tertiary structure of Npas4 protein along with its physico-chemical properties is limited. In the current study, first we perfomed the phylogenetic analysis of Npas4 and determined the content of hydrophobic, flexible and order-disorder promoting amino acids. The protein binding regions, post-translational modifications and crystallization propensity of Npas4 were predicted through different in-silico methods. The three dimensional model of Npas4 was predicted through LOMET, SPARSKS-X, I-Tasser, RaptorX, MUSTER and Pyhre and the best model was selected on the basis of Ramachandran plot, PROSA, and Qmean scores. The best model was then subjected to further refinement though MODREFINER. Finally the interacting partners of Npas4 were identified through STRING database. The phylogenetic analysis showed the human Npas4 gene to be closely related to other primates such as chimpanzees, monkey, gibbon. The physiochemical properties of Npas4 showed that it is an intrinsically disordered protein with N-terminal ordered region. The post-translational modification analyses indicated absence of acetylation and mannosylation sites. Three potential phosphorylation sites (S108, T130 and T136) were found in PAS A domain whilst a single phosphorylation site (S273) was present in PAS B domain. The predicted tertiary structure of Npas4 showed that bHLH domain and PAS domain possess tertiary structures while the rest of the protein exhibited disorder property. Protein-protein interaction analysis revealed NPas4 interaction with various proteins which are mainly involved in nuclear trafficking of proteins to cytoplasm, activity regulated gene transcription and neurodevelopmental disorders. Moreover the analysis also highlighted the direct relation to proteins involved in promoting neuronal survival, plasticity and cAMP responsive element binding protein proteins. The current study helps in understanding the physicochemical properties and reveals the neuro-modulatory role of Npas4 in crucial pathways involved in neuronal survival and neural signalling hemostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ammad Fahim
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Zaira Rehman
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Faraz Bhatti
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Amjad Ali
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Nasar Virk
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Amir Rashid
- Army Medical College, National University of Medical Sciences, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Rehan Zafar Paracha
- Research Center for Modeling and Simulation (RCMS), National University of Sciences & Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
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Greb-Markiewicz B, Zarębski M, Ożyhar A. Multiple sequences orchestrate subcellular trafficking of neuronal PAS domain-containing protein 4 (NPAS4). J Biol Chem 2018; 293:11255-11270. [PMID: 29899116 PMCID: PMC6065191 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra118.001812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2018] [Revised: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuronal Per-Arnt-Sim (PAS) domain-containing protein 4 (NPAS4) is a basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH)-PAS transcription factor first discovered in neurons in the neuronal layer of the mammalian hippocampus and later discovered in pancreatic β-cells. NPAS4 has been proposed as a therapeutic target not only for depression and neurodegenerative diseases associated with synaptic dysfunction but also for type 2 diabetes and pancreas transplantation. The ability of bHLH-PAS proteins to fulfil their function depends on their intracellular trafficking, which is regulated by specific sequences, i.e. the nuclear localization signal (NLS) and the nuclear export signal (NES). However, until now, no study examining the subcellular localization signals of NPAS4 has been published. We show here that Rattus norvegicus NPAS4 was not uniformly localized in the nuclei of COS-7 and N2a cells 24 h after transfection. Additionally, cytoplasmic localization of NPAS4 was leptomycin B-sensitive. We demonstrate that NPAS4 possesses a unique arrangement of localization signals. Its bHLH domain contains an overlapping NLS and NES. We observed that its PAS-2 domain contains an NLS, an NES, and a second, proximally located, putative NLS. Moreover, the C terminus of NPAS4 contains two active NESs that overlap with a putative NLS. Our data indicate that glucose concentration could be one of the factors influencing NPAS4 localization. The presence of multiple localization signals and the differentiated localization of NPAS4 suggest a precise, multifactor-dependent regulation of NPAS4 trafficking, potentially crucial for its ability to act as a cellular stress sensor and transcription factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beata Greb-Markiewicz
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370 Wrocław, Poland.
| | - Mirosław Zarębski
- Department of Cell Biophysics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland
| | - Andrzej Ożyhar
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370 Wrocław, Poland
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28
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Transcriptional regulators of redox balance and other homeostatic processes with the potential to alter neurodegenerative disease trajectory. Biochem Soc Trans 2017; 45:1295-1303. [PMID: 29150527 PMCID: PMC5730942 DOI: 10.1042/bst20170013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2017] [Revised: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Diverse neurodegenerative diseases share some common aspects to their pathology, with many showing evidence of disruption to the brain's numerous homeostatic processes. As such, imbalanced inflammatory status, glutamate dyshomeostasis, hypometabolism and oxidative stress are implicated in many disorders. That these pathological processes can influence each other both up- and downstream makes for a complicated picture, but means that successfully targeting one area may have an effect on others. This targeting requires an understanding of the mechanisms by which homeostasis is maintained during health, in order to uncover strategies to boost homeostasis in disease. A case in point is redox homeostasis, maintained by antioxidant defences co-ordinately regulated by the transcription factor Nrf2, and capable of preventing not only oxidative stress but also inflammation and neuronal loss in neurodegenerative disease models. The emergence of other master regulators of homeostatic processes in the brain controlling inflammation, mitochondrial biogenesis, glutamate uptake and energy metabolism raises the question as to whether they too can be targeted to alter disease trajectory.
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29
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Button EL, Bersten DC, Whitelaw ML. HIF has Biff – Crosstalk between HIF1a and the family of bHLH/PAS proteins. Exp Cell Res 2017; 356:141-145. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2017.03.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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30
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Wang J, Lu Z, Fu X, Zhang D, Yu L, Li N, Gao Y, Liu X, Yin C, Ke J, Li L, Zhai M, Wu S, Fan J, Lv L, Liu J, Chen X, Yang Q, Wang J. Alpha-7 Nicotinic Receptor Signaling Pathway Participates in the Neurogenesis Induced by ChAT-Positive Neurons in the Subventricular Zone. Transl Stroke Res 2017; 8:10.1007/s12975-017-0541-7. [PMID: 28551702 PMCID: PMC5704989 DOI: 10.1007/s12975-017-0541-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2016] [Revised: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 05/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Choline acetyltransferase-positive (ChAT+) neurons within the subventricular zone (SVZ) have been shown to promote neurogenesis after stroke in mice by secreting acetylcholine (ACh); however, the mechanisms remain unclear. Receptors known to bind ACh include the nicotinic ACh receptors (nAChRs), which are present in the SVZ and have been shown to be important for cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival. In this study, we investigated the neurogenic role of the alpha-7 nAChR (α7 nAChR) in a mouse model of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) by using α7 nAChR inhibitor methyllycaconitine. Mice subjected to MCAO exhibited elevated expression of cytomembrane and nuclear fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1), as well as increased expression of PI3K, pAkt, doublecortin (DCX), polysialylated - neuronal cell adhesion molecule (PSA-NCAM), and mammalian achaete-scute homolog 1 (Mash1). MCAO mice also had more glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)/5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU)-positive cells and DCX-positive cells in the SVZ than did the sham-operated group. Methyllycaconitine treatment increased cytomembrane FGFR1 expression and GFAP/BrdU-positive cells, upregulated the levels of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) and phospho-Akt (pAkt), decreased nuclear FGFR1 expression, decreased the number of DCX-positive cells, and reduced the levels of DCX, PSA-NCAM, and Mash1 in the SVZ of MCAO mice compared with levels in vehicle-treated MCAO mice. MCAO mice treated with α7 nAChR agonist PNU-282987 exhibited the opposite effects. Our data show that α7 nAChR may decrease the proliferation of neural stem cells and promote differentiation of existing neural stem cells after stroke. These results identify a new mechanism of SVZ ChAT+ neuron-induced neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianping Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China.
| | - Zhengfang Lu
- Department of Neurology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Xiaojie Fu
- Department of Neurology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Di Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Lie Yu
- Department of Neurology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Nan Li
- Department of Neurology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Yufeng Gao
- Department of Neurology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Xianliang Liu
- Department of Neurology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Chunmao Yin
- Department of Neurology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Junji Ke
- Department of Neurology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Liyuan Li
- Department of Neurology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Mengmeng Zhai
- Department of Neurology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Shiwen Wu
- Department of Neurology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Jiahong Fan
- Department of Neurology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Liang Lv
- Department of Neurology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Junchao Liu
- Department of Neurology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Xuemei Chen
- Department of Human Anatomy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, China
| | - Qingwu Yang
- Department of Neurology, Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China.
- Department of Human Anatomy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450000, China.
- Department of Anesthesiology/Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Wang L, Kang S, Zou D, Zhan L, Li Z, Zhu W, Su H. Bone Fracture Pre-Ischemic Stroke Exacerbates Ischemic Cerebral Injury in Mice. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0153835. [PMID: 27089041 PMCID: PMC4835054 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0153835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Accepted: 04/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Ischemic stroke is a devastating complication of bone fracture. Bone fracture shortly after stroke enhances stroke injury by augmenting inflammation. We hypothesize that bone fracture shortly before ischemic stroke also exacerbates ischemic cerebral injury. Tibia fracture was performed 6 or 24 hours before permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (pMCAO) on C57BL/6J mice or Ccr2RFP/+Cx3cr1GFP/+ mice that have the RFP gene knocked into one allele of Ccr2 gene and GFP gene knocked into one allele of Cx3cr1 gene. Behavior was tested 3 days after pMCAO. Infarct volume, the number of CD68+ cells, apoptotic neurons, bone marrow-derived macrophages (RFP+), and microgila (GFP+) in the peri-infarct region were quantified. Compared to mice subjected to pMCAO only, bone fracture 6 or 24 hours before pMCAO increased behavioral deficits, the infarct volume, and the number of CD68+ cells and apoptotic neurons in the peri-infarct area. Both bone marrow-derived macrophages (CCR2+) and microglia (CX3CR1+) increased in the peri-infarct regions of mice subjected to bone fracture before pMCAO compared to stroke-only mice. The mice subjected to bone fracture 6 hours before pMCAO had more severe injury than mice that had bone fracture 24 hours before pMCAO. Our data showed that bone fracture shortly before stroke also increases neuroinflammation and exacerbates ischemic cerebral injury. Our findings suggest that inhibition of neuroinflammation or management of stroke risk factors before major bone surgery would be beneficial for patients who are likely to suffer from stroke.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Behavior, Animal
- Brain Injuries/etiology
- Brain Injuries/metabolism
- Brain Injuries/pathology
- Brain Ischemia/etiology
- Brain Ischemia/metabolism
- Brain Ischemia/pathology
- CX3C Chemokine Receptor 1
- Cytokines/metabolism
- Disease Models, Animal
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
- Fractures, Bone/complications
- Fractures, Bone/metabolism
- Fractures, Bone/pathology
- Immunoenzyme Techniques
- Infarction, Middle Cerebral Artery/physiopathology
- Inflammation/etiology
- Inflammation/metabolism
- Inflammation/pathology
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Mice, Transgenic
- Microglia/immunology
- Microglia/pathology
- Receptors, CCR2/physiology
- Receptors, Chemokine/physiology
- Stroke/etiology
- Stroke/metabolism
- Stroke/pathology
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Wang
- Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Care, Center for Cerebrovascular Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Fifth Center Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Shuai Kang
- Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Care, Center for Cerebrovascular Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Dingquan Zou
- Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Care, Center for Cerebrovascular Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Lei Zhan
- Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Care, Center for Cerebrovascular Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Zhengxi Li
- Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Care, Center for Cerebrovascular Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Department of Neurology, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Wan Zhu
- Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Care, Center for Cerebrovascular Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Hua Su
- Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Care, Center for Cerebrovascular Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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32
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The Role of the Neuroprotective Factor Npas4 in Cerebral Ischemia. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:29011-28. [PMID: 26690124 PMCID: PMC4691091 DOI: 10.3390/ijms161226144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2015] [Revised: 10/28/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and adult disability in the world. Although many molecules have been documented to have a neuroprotective effect, the majority of these molecules failed to improve the neurological outcomes for patients with brain ischemia. It has been proposed that neuroprotection alone may, in fact, not be adequate for improving the prognosis of ischemic stroke. Neuroprotectants that can regulate other processes which occur in the brain during ischemia could potentially be targets for the development of effective therapeutic interventions in stroke. Neuronal Per-Arnt-Sim domain protein 4 (Npas4) is an activity-dependent transcription factor whose expression is induced in various brain insults, including cerebral ischemia. It has been shown that Npas4 plays an important role in protecting neurons against many types of neurodegenerative insult. Recently, it was demonstrated that Npas4 indeed has a neuroprotective role in ischemic stroke and that Npas4 might be involved in modulating the cell death pathway and inflammatory response. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of the roles that Npas4 may play in neuroinflammation and ischemia. Understanding how ischemic lesion size in stroke may be reduced through modulation of Npas4-dependent apoptotic and inflammatory pathways could lead to the development of new stroke therapies.
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