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Pan MT, Zhang H, Li XJ, Guo XY. Genetically modified non-human primate models for research on neurodegenerative diseases. Zool Res 2024; 45:263-274. [PMID: 38287907 PMCID: PMC11017080 DOI: 10.24272/j.issn.2095-8137.2023.197] [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: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are a group of debilitating neurological disorders that primarily affect elderly populations and include Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Currently, there are no therapies available that can delay, stop, or reverse the pathological progression of NDs in clinical settings. As the population ages, NDs are imposing a huge burden on public health systems and affected families. Animal models are important tools for preclinical investigations to understand disease pathogenesis and test potential treatments. While numerous rodent models of NDs have been developed to enhance our understanding of disease mechanisms, the limited success of translating findings from animal models to clinical practice suggests that there is still a need to bridge this translation gap. Old World non-human primates (NHPs), such as rhesus, cynomolgus, and vervet monkeys, are phylogenetically, physiologically, biochemically, and behaviorally most relevant to humans. This is particularly evident in the similarity of the structure and function of their central nervous systems, rendering such species uniquely valuable for neuroscience research. Recently, the development of several genetically modified NHP models of NDs has successfully recapitulated key pathologies and revealed novel mechanisms. This review focuses on the efficacy of NHPs in modeling NDs and the novel pathological insights gained, as well as the challenges associated with the generation of such models and the complexities involved in their subsequent analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Tian Pan
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China
| | - Han Zhang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China
| | - Xiao-Jiang Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China
| | - Xiang-Yu Guo
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-human Primate Research, Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China. E-mail:
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2
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Cho IK, Clever F, Hong G, Chan AWS. CAG Repeat Instability in the Peripheral and Central Nervous System of Transgenic Huntington’s Disease Monkeys. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10081863. [PMID: 36009409 PMCID: PMC9405741 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10081863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington’s Disease (HD) is an autosomal dominant disease that results in severe neurodegeneration with no cure. HD is caused by the expanded CAG trinucleotide repeat (TNR) on the Huntingtin gene (HTT). Although the somatic and germline expansion of the CAG repeats has been well-documented, the underlying mechanisms had not been fully delineated. Increased CAG repeat length is associated with a more severe phenotype, greater TNR instability, and earlier age of onset. The direct relationship between CAG repeat length and molecular pathogenesis makes TNR instability a useful measure of symptom severity and tissue susceptibility. Thus, we examined the tissue-specific TNR instability of transgenic nonhuman primate models of Huntington’s disease. Our data show a similar profile of CAG repeat expansion in both rHD1 and rHD7, where high instability was observed in testis, liver, caudate, and putamen. CAG repeat expansion was observed in all tissue samples, and tissue- and CAG repeat size-dependent expansion was observed. Correlation analysis of CAG repeat expansion and the gene expression profile of four genes in different tissues, clusterin (CLU), transferrin (TF), ribosomal protein lateral stalk subunit P1 (RPLP1), and ribosomal protein L13a (RPL13A), showed a strong correlation with CAG repeat instability. Overall, our data, along with previously published studies, can be used for studying the biology of CAG repeat instability and identifying new therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- In K. Cho
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA;
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (F.C.); (G.H.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Faye Clever
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (F.C.); (G.H.)
| | - Gordon Hong
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (F.C.); (G.H.)
| | - Anthony W. S. Chan
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA;
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (F.C.); (G.H.)
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3
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Blount GS, Coursey L, Kocerha J. MicroRNA Networks in Cognition and Dementia. Cells 2022; 11:cells11121882. [PMID: 35741010 PMCID: PMC9221254 DOI: 10.3390/cells11121882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Revised: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The change from viewing noncoding RNA as “junk” in the genome to seeing it as a critical epigenetic regulator in almost every human condition or disease has forced a paradigm shift in biomedical and clinical research. Small and long noncoding RNA transcripts are now routinely evaluated as putative diagnostic or therapeutic agents. A prominent role for noncoding microRNAs in the central nervous system has uncovered promising new clinical candidates for dementia-related disorders, treatments for which currently remain elusive even as the percentage of diagnosed patients increases significantly. Cognitive decline is a core neurodegenerative process in Alzheimer’s Disease, Frontotemporal Dementia, Lewy body dementia, vascular dementia, Huntington’s Disease, Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease, and a significant portion of Parkinson’s Disease patients. This review will discuss the microRNA-associated networks which influence these pathologies, including inflammatory and viral-mediated pathways (such as the novel SARS-CoV-2 virus implicated in COVID-19), and their current status in clinical trials.
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Howland D, Ellederova Z, Aronin N, Fernau D, Gallagher J, Taylor A, Hennebold J, Weiss AR, Gray-Edwards H, McBride J. Large Animal Models of Huntington's Disease: What We Have Learned and Where We Need to Go Next. J Huntingtons Dis 2021; 9:201-216. [PMID: 32925082 PMCID: PMC7597371 DOI: 10.3233/jhd-200425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Genetically modified rodent models of Huntington’s disease (HD) have been especially valuable to our understanding of HD pathology and the mechanisms by which the mutant HTT gene alters physiology. However, due to inherent differences in genetics, neuroanatomy, neurocircuitry and neurophysiology, animal models do not always faithfully or fully recapitulate human disease features or adequately predict a clinical response to treatment. Therefore, conducting translational studies of candidate HD therapeutics only in a single species (i.e. mouse disease models) may not be sufficient. Large animal models of HD have been shown to be valuable to the HD research community and the expectation is that the need for translational studies that span rodent and large animal models will grow. Here, we review the large animal models of HD that have been created to date, with specific commentary on differences between the models, the strengths and disadvantages of each, and how we can advance useful models to study disease pathophysiology, biomarker development and evaluation of promising therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zdenka Ellederova
- Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Neil Aronin
- Horae Gene Therapy Center and RNA Therapeutics Institute at The University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Deborah Fernau
- Horae Gene Therapy Center and RNA Therapeutics Institute at The University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Jill Gallagher
- Horae Gene Therapy Center and RNA Therapeutics Institute at The University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Amanda Taylor
- Diplomate, MedVet, American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine - Neurology, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jon Hennebold
- Oregon National Primate Research Center at The Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Alison R Weiss
- Oregon National Primate Research Center at The Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Heather Gray-Edwards
- Horae Gene Therapy Center and RNA Therapeutics Institute at The University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Jodi McBride
- Oregon National Primate Research Center at The Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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5
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Tung CW, Huang PY, Chan SC, Cheng PH, Yang SH. The regulatory roles of microRNAs toward pathogenesis and treatments in Huntington's disease. J Biomed Sci 2021; 28:59. [PMID: 34412645 PMCID: PMC8375176 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-021-00755-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is one of neurodegenerative diseases, and is defined as a monogenetic disease due to the mutation of Huntingtin gene. This disease affects several cellular functions in neurons, and further influences motor and cognitive ability, leading to the suffering of devastating symptoms in HD patients. MicroRNA (miRNA) is a non-coding RNA, and is responsible for gene regulation at post-transcriptional levels in cells. Since one miRNA targets to several downstream genes, it may regulate different pathways simultaneously. As a result, it raises a potential therapy for different diseases using miRNAs, especially for inherited diseases. In this review, we will not only introduce the update information of HD and miRNA, but also discuss the development of potential miRNA-based therapy in HD. With the understanding toward the progression of miRNA studies in HD, we anticipate it may provide an insight to treat this devastating disease, even applying to other genetic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Wei Tung
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan
| | - Pin-Yu Huang
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan
| | - Siew Chin Chan
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Hsun Cheng
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan
| | - Shang-Hsun Yang
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan. .,Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan.
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Khampang S, Parnpai R, Mahikul W, Easley CA, Cho IK, Chan AWS. CAG repeat instability in embryonic stem cells and derivative spermatogenic cells of transgenic Huntington's disease monkey. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:1215-1229. [PMID: 33611676 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02106-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The expansion of CAG (glutamine; Q) trinucleotide repeats (TNRs) predominantly occurs through male lineage in Huntington's disease (HD). As a result, offspring will have larger CAG repeats compared to their fathers, which causes an earlier onset of the disease called genetic anticipation. This study aims to develop a novel in vitro model to replicate CAG repeat instability in early spermatogenesis and demonstrate the biological process of genetic anticipation by using the HD stem cell model for the first time. METHODS HD rhesus monkey embryonic stem cells (rESCs) were cultured in vitro for an extended period. Male rESCs were used to derive spermatogenic cells in vitro with a 10-day differentiation. The assessment of CAG repeat instability was performed by GeneScan and curve fit analysis. RESULTS Spermatogenic cells derived from rESCs exhibit progressive expansion of CAG repeats with high daily expansion rates compared to the extended culture of rESCs. The expansion of CAG repeats is cell type-specific and size-dependent. CONCLUSIONS Here, we report a novel stem cell model that replicates genome instability and CAG repeat expansion in in vitro derived HD monkey spermatogenic cells. The in vitro spermatogenic cell model opens a new opportunity for studying TNR instability and the underlying mechanism of genetic anticipation, not only in HD but also in other TNR diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujittra Khampang
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand
| | - Rangsun Parnpai
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand
| | - Wiriya Mahikul
- Faculty of Medicine and Public Health, HRH Princess Chulabhorn College of Medical Science, Chulabhorn Royal Academy, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Charles A Easley
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.,Regenerative Bioscience Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - In Ki Cho
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA, USA. .,Department of Human Genetics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| | - Anthony W S Chan
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA, USA. .,Department of Human Genetics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
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7
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Andrade-Navarro MA, Mühlenberg K, Spruth EJ, Mah N, González-López A, Andreani T, Russ J, Huska MR, Muro EM, Fontaine JF, Amstislavskiy V, Soldatov A, Nietfeld W, Wanker EE, Priller J. RNA Sequencing of Human Peripheral Blood Cells Indicates Upregulation of Immune-Related Genes in Huntington's Disease. Front Neurol 2020; 11:573560. [PMID: 33329316 PMCID: PMC7731869 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.573560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is an autosomal dominantly inherited neurodegenerative disorder caused by a trinucleotide repeat expansion in the Huntingtin gene. As disease-modifying therapies for HD are being developed, peripheral blood cells may be used to indicate disease progression and to monitor treatment response. In order to investigate whether gene expression changes can be found in the blood of individuals with HD that distinguish them from healthy controls, we performed transcriptome analysis by next-generation sequencing (RNA-seq). We detected a gene expression signature consistent with dysregulation of immune-related functions and inflammatory response in peripheral blood from HD cases vs. controls, including induction of the interferon response genes, IFITM3, IFI6 and IRF7. Our results suggest that it is possible to detect gene expression changes in blood samples from individuals with HD, which may reflect the immune pathology associated with the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel A Andrade-Navarro
- Faculty of Biology, Institute of Organismic and Molecular Evolution, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Katja Mühlenberg
- Neuroproteomics, Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Eike J Spruth
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nancy Mah
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Virchow-Klinikum, Berlin-Brandenburger Centrum für Regenerative Therapien, Berlin, Germany
| | - Adrián González-López
- Klinik f. Anästhesiologie m.S. operative Intensivmedizin, Virchow Klinikum, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Tommaso Andreani
- Faculty of Biology, Institute of Organismic and Molecular Evolution, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Jenny Russ
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Bonn, Germany
| | - Matthew R Huska
- Department for Computational Molecular Biology, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Enrique M Muro
- Faculty of Biology, Institute of Organismic and Molecular Evolution, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Jean-Fred Fontaine
- Faculty of Biology, Institute of Organismic and Molecular Evolution, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | | | - Alexei Soldatov
- Max-Planck-Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Erich E Wanker
- Neuroproteomics, Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany.,German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Josef Priller
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.,Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, UK Dementia Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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8
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Clever F, Cho IK, Yang J, Chan AWS. Progressive Polyglutamine Repeat Expansion in Peripheral Blood Cells and Sperm of Transgenic Huntington's Disease Monkeys. J Huntingtons Dis 2020; 8:443-448. [PMID: 31561381 PMCID: PMC6839466 DOI: 10.3233/jhd-190359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The expanded CAG repeat results in somatic mosaicism and genetic anticipation in Huntington’s disease (HD). Here we report a longitudinal study examining CAG repeat instability in lymphocytes and sperm of three HD monkeys throughout their whole life-span that encompass the prodromal to symptomatic stages of HD. We demonstrate a progressive increase in CAG repeat length in lymphocytes and sperm as the animals aged. We also examined the impact of CAG repeat length on expansion rate, which showed a clear linear correlation up to 62Q, and high instability after. Our findings stress the importance of further investigation in CAG instability in peripheral blood cells longitudinally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faye Clever
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - In Ki Cho
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jingjing Yang
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Anthony W S Chan
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Baxa M, Levinska B, Skrivankova M, Pokorny M, Juhasova J, Klima J, Klempir J, Motlı K J, Juhas S, Ellederova Z. Longitudinal study revealing motor, cognitive and behavioral decline in a transgenic minipig model of Huntington's disease. Dis Model Mech 2019; 13:dmm.041293. [PMID: 31704691 PMCID: PMC6918771 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.041293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is an inherited devastating neurodegenerative disease with no known cure to date. Several therapeutic treatments for HD are in development, but their safety, tolerability and efficacy need to be tested before translation to bedside. The monogenetic nature of this disorder has enabled the generation of transgenic animal models carrying a mutant huntingtin (mHTT) gene causing HD. A large animal model reflecting disease progression in humans would be beneficial for testing the potential therapeutic approaches. Progression of the motor, cognitive and behavioral phenotype was monitored in transgenic Huntington's disease minipigs (TgHD) expressing the N-terminal part of human mHTT. New tests were established to investigate physical activity by telemetry, and to explore the stress-induced behavioral and cognitive changes in minipigs. The longitudinal study revealed significant differences between 6- to 8-year-old TgHD animals and their wild-type (WT) controls in a majority of the tests. The telemetric study showed increased physical activity of 4.6- to 6.5-year-old TgHD boars compared to their WT counterparts during the lunch period as well as in the afternoon. Our phenotypic study indicates progression in adult TgHD minipigs and therefore this model could be suitable for longstanding preclinical studies of HD. This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper. Summary: The transgenic minipig model of Huntington's disease demonstrates a slow-progressing motor, cognitive and behavioral phenotype with later onset in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Baxa
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic.,Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, 128 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Bozena Levinska
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic.,Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, 128 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Monika Skrivankova
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic.,Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, 128 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Matous Pokorny
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic.,Department of Circuit Theory, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Czech Technical University in Prague, 166 27 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Juhasova
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Klima
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Klempir
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic.,Department of Neurology and Centre of Clinical Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and General University Hospital in Prague, 128 21 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Motlı K
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Stefan Juhas
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Zdenka Ellederova
- Laboratory of Cell Regeneration and Plasticity, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic
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Chansel‐Debordeaux L, Bezard E. Local transgene expression and whole-body transgenesis to model brain diseases in nonhuman primate. Animal Model Exp Med 2019; 2:9-17. [PMID: 31016282 PMCID: PMC6431118 DOI: 10.1002/ame2.12055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal model is an essential tool in the life sciences research, notably in understanding the pathogenesis of the diseases and for further therapeutic intervention success. Rodents have been the most frequently used animals to model human disease since the establishment of gene manipulation technique. However, they remain inadequate to fully mimic the pathophysiology of human brain disease, partially due to huge differences between rodents and humans in terms of anatomy, brain function, and social behaviors. Nonhuman primates are more suitable in translational perspective. Thus, genetically modified animals have been generated to investigate neurologic and psychiatric disorders. The classical transgenesis technique is not efficient in that model; so, viral vector-mediated transgene delivery and the new genome-editing technologies have been promoted. In this review, we summarize some of the technical progress in the generation of an ad hoc animal model of brain diseases by gene delivery and real transgenic nonhuman primate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Chansel‐Debordeaux
- Institut des Maladies NeurodégénérativesUniversity of BordeauxUMR 5293BordeauxFrance
- CNRSInstitut des Maladies NeurodégénérativesUMR 5293BordeauxFrance
- CHU BordeauxService de Biologie de la reproduction‐CECOSBordeauxFrance
| | - Erwan Bezard
- Institut des Maladies NeurodégénérativesUniversity of BordeauxUMR 5293BordeauxFrance
- CNRSInstitut des Maladies NeurodégénérativesUMR 5293BordeauxFrance
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11
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Hunter CE, Pongos AL, Chi TY, Payne C, Stroud FC, Chan AWS. Longitudinal Anthropometric Assessment of Rhesus Macaque ( Macaca mulatta) Model of Huntington Disease. Comp Med 2018; 68:163-167. [PMID: 29663942 PMCID: PMC5897973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Revised: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 09/18/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The neurodegeneration associated with Huntington disease (HD) leads to the onset of motor and cognitive impairment and their advancement with increased age in humans. In children at risk for HD, body measurement growth abnormalities include a reduction in BMI, weight, height, and head circumference. The transgenic HD NHP model was first reported in 2008, and progressive decline in cognitive behaviors and motor impairment have been reported. This study focuses on longitudinal body measurements in HD macaques from infancy through adulthood. The growth of HD macaques was assessed through head circumference, sagittal and transverse head, and crown-to-rump ('height') measurements and BMI. The animals were measured monthly from 0 to 72 mo of age and every 3 mo from 72 mo of age onward. A mixed-effect model was used to assess subject-specific effects in our nonlinear serial data. Compared with WT controls, HD macaques displayed different developmental trajectories characterized by increased BMI, head circumference, and sagittal head measurements beginning around 40 mo of age. The physiologic comparability between NHP and humans underscores the translational utility of our HD macaques to evaluate growth and developmental patterns associated with HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carissa E Hunter
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Alvince L Pongos
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Tim Y Chi
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Christa Payne
- Marcus Autism Center, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Department of Pediatrics, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Fawn C Stroud
- Division of Animal Resources, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Anthony W S Chan
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,
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12
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Progress in developing transgenic monkey model for Huntington's disease. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2017; 125:401-417. [PMID: 29127484 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-017-1803-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder that has no cure. Although treatments can often be given to relieve symptoms, the neuropathology associated with HD cannot be stopped or reversed. HD is characterized by degeneration of the striatum and associated pathways that leads to impairment in motor and cognitive functions as well as psychiatric disturbances. Although cell and rodent models for HD exist, longitudinal study in a transgenic HD nonhuman primate (i.e., rhesus macaque; HD monkeys) shows high similarity in its progression with human patients. Progressive brain atrophy and changes in white matter integrity examined by magnetic resonance imaging are coherent with the decline in cognitive behaviors related to corticostriatal functions and neuropathology. HD monkeys also express higher anxiety and irritability/aggression similar to human HD patients that other model systems have not yet replicated. While a comparative model approach is critical for advancing our understanding of HD pathogenesis, HD monkeys could provide a unique platform for preclinical studies and long-term assessment of translatable outcome measures. This review summarizes the progress in the development of the transgenic HD monkey model and the opportunities for advancing HD preclinical research.
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Meng Y, Jiang J, Bachevalier J, Zhang X, Chan AWS. Developmental Whole Brain White Matter Alterations in Transgenic Huntington's Disease Monkey. Sci Rep 2017; 7:379. [PMID: 28336929 PMCID: PMC5428287 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-00381-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2016] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Transgenic Huntington’s disease monkey (HD monkey) model provides great opportunity for studying disease progression that could lead to new insight for developing biomarker, early intervention and novel therapeutics. Whole brain white matter integrity of HD-monkeys was examined longitudinally from 6 to 48 months using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS). Progressive developmental white matter alterations in HD monkeys were widespread and were observed not only in fiber bundles connecting cortical areas to the striatum (e.g. striatal bundle and external capsule), but also in long association fiber pathways, commissural fibers, and subcortical fiber bundle. In all fiber tracts, the data indicate an arrest in white matter development around 23 months followed by slight decline until adulthood in HD monkeys. The microstructural changes parallel the progressive motor, memory and cognitive decline previously reported as HD monkeys aged. The findings revealed the widespread progressive temporal-spatial microstructural changes in HD monkey brains from infancy to adulthood, suggesting differentiated degenerations across different brain areas during brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuguang Meng
- Yerkes Imaging Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jie Jiang
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jocelyne Bachevalier
- Department of Psychology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA. .,Division of Developmental and Cognitive Neuroscience, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
| | - Xiaodong Zhang
- Yerkes Imaging Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA. .,Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
| | - Anthony W S Chan
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA. .,Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
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Reddy PH, Tonk S, Kumar S, Vijayan M, Kandimalla R, Kuruva CS, Reddy AP. A critical evaluation of neuroprotective and neurodegenerative MicroRNAs in Alzheimer's disease. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2017; 483:1156-1165. [PMID: 27524239 PMCID: PMC5343756 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2016.08.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 08/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Currently, 5.4 million Americans suffer from AD, and these numbers are expected to increase up to 16 million by 2050. Despite tremendous research efforts, we still do not have drugs or agents that can delay, or prevent AD and its progression, and we still do not have early detectable biomarkers for AD. Multiple cellular changes have been implicated in AD, including synaptic damage, mitochondrial damage, production and accumulation of Aβ and phosphorylated tau, inflammatory response, deficits in neurotransmitters, deregulation of the cell cycle, and hormonal imbalance. Research into AD has revealed that miRNAs are involved in each of these cellular changes and interfere with gene regulation and translation. Recent discoveries in molecular biology have also revealed that microRNAs play a major role in post-translational regulation of gene expression. The purpose of this article is to review research that has assessed neuroprotective and neurodegenerative characteristics of microRNAs in brain samples from AD transgenic mouse models and patients with AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Hemachandra Reddy
- Garrison Institute on Aging Department, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th Street, MS 9424, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States; Cell Biology & Biochemistry Department, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th Street, MS 9424, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States; Neuroscience & Pharmacology Department, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th Street, MS 9424, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States; Neurology Department, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th Street, MS 9424, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States; Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences Department, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th Street, MS 9424, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States; Garrison Institute on Aging, South West Campus, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 6630 S. Quaker Suite E, MS 7495, Lubbock, TX 79413, United States.
| | - Sahil Tonk
- Garrison Institute on Aging Department, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th Street, MS 9424, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States
| | - Subodh Kumar
- Garrison Institute on Aging Department, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th Street, MS 9424, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States
| | - Murali Vijayan
- Garrison Institute on Aging Department, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th Street, MS 9424, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States
| | - Ramesh Kandimalla
- Garrison Institute on Aging Department, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th Street, MS 9424, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States
| | - Chandra Sekhar Kuruva
- Garrison Institute on Aging Department, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th Street, MS 9424, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States
| | - Arubala P Reddy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 3601 Fourth Street, MS 9424, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States.
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Kunkanjanawan T, Carter RL, Prucha MS, Yang J, Parnpai R, Chan AWS. miR-196a Ameliorates Cytotoxicity and Cellular Phenotype in Transgenic Huntington's Disease Monkey Neural Cells. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0162788. [PMID: 27631085 PMCID: PMC5025087 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0162788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2015] [Accepted: 08/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is an inherited neurodegenerative disorder caused by the expansion of polyglutamine (polyQ) tract that leads to motor, cognitive and psychiatric impairment. Currently there is no cure for HD. A transgenic HD nonhuman primate (HD-NHP) model was developed with progressive development of clinical and pathological features similar to human HD, which suggested the potential preclinical application of the HD-NHP model. Elevated expression of miR-196a was observed in both HD-NHP and human HD brains. Cytotoxicity and apoptosis were ameliorated by the overexpression of miR-196a in HD-NHP neural progenitor cells (HD-NPCs) and differentiated neural cells (HD-NCs). The expression of apoptosis related gene was also down regulated. Mitochondrial morphology and activity were improved as indicated by mitotracker staining and the upregulation of CBP and PGC-1α in HD-NPCs overexpressing miR-196a. Here we demonstrated the amelioration of HD cellular phenotypes in HD-NPCs and HD-NCs overexpressing miR-196a. Our results also suggested the regulatory role of miR-196a in HD pathogenesis that may hold the key for understanding molecular regulation in HD and developing novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanut Kunkanjanawan
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, 954 Gatewood Rd. N.E., Atlanta, GA, 39329, United States of America
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, 615 Michael St., Atlanta, GA 30322, United States of America
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
| | - Richard L. Carter
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, 954 Gatewood Rd. N.E., Atlanta, GA, 39329, United States of America
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, 615 Michael St., Atlanta, GA 30322, United States of America
| | - Melinda S. Prucha
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, 954 Gatewood Rd. N.E., Atlanta, GA, 39329, United States of America
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, 615 Michael St., Atlanta, GA 30322, United States of America
| | - Jinjing Yang
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, 954 Gatewood Rd. N.E., Atlanta, GA, 39329, United States of America
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, 615 Michael St., Atlanta, GA 30322, United States of America
| | - Rangsun Parnpai
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
| | - Anthony W. S. Chan
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, 954 Gatewood Rd. N.E., Atlanta, GA, 39329, United States of America
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, 615 Michael St., Atlanta, GA 30322, United States of America
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Chan AWS, Jiang J, Chen Y, Li C, Prucha MS, Hu Y, Chi T, Moran S, Rahim T, Li S, Li X, Zola SM, Testa CM, Mao H, Villalba R, Smith Y, Zhang X, Bachevalier J. Progressive cognitive deficit, motor impairment and striatal pathology in a transgenic Huntington disease monkey model from infancy to adulthood. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0122335. [PMID: 25966278 PMCID: PMC4428630 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0122335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2014] [Accepted: 02/10/2015] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the roadblocks to developing effective therapeutics for Huntington disease (HD) is the lack of animal models that develop progressive clinical traits comparable to those seen in patients. Here we report a longitudinal study that encompasses cognitive and motor assessment, and neuroimaging of a group of transgenic HD and control monkeys from infancy to adulthood. Along with progressive cognitive and motor impairment, neuroimaging revealed a progressive reduction in striatal volume. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy at 48 months of age revealed a decrease of N-acetylaspartate (NAA), further suggesting neuronal damage/loss in the striatum. Postmortem neuropathological analyses revealed significant neuronal loss in the striatum. Our results indicate that HD monkeys share similar disease patterns with HD patients, making them potentially suitable as a preclinical HD animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony W. S. Chan
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Jie Jiang
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Yiju Chen
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Chunxia Li
- Yerkes Imaging Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Melinda S. Prucha
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Yijuan Hu
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Emory University School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Tim Chi
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Sean Moran
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Tayeb Rahim
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Shihua Li
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Xiaojiang Li
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Stuart M. Zola
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Claudia M. Testa
- Department of Neurology and Parkinson’s and Movement Disorders Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Hui Mao
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Rosa Villalba
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Yoland Smith
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Xiaodong Zhang
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- Yerkes Imaging Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Jocelyne Bachevalier
- Department of Psychology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- Division of Developmental and Cognitive Neuroscience, Yerkes National Primate Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
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Moran S, Chi T, Prucha MS, Ahn KS, Connor-Stroud F, Jean S, Gould K, Chan AWS. Germline transmission in transgenic Huntington's disease monkeys. Theriogenology 2015; 84:277-85. [PMID: 25917881 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2014] [Revised: 01/15/2015] [Accepted: 03/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Transgenic nonhuman primate models are an increasingly popular model for neurologic and neurodegenerative disease because their brain functions and neural anatomies closely resemble those of humans. Transgenic Huntington's disease monkeys (HD monkeys) developed clinical features similar to those seen in HD patients, making the monkeys suitable for a preclinical study of HD. However, until HD monkey colonies can be readily expanded, their use in preclinical studies will be limited. In the present study, we confirmed germline transmission of the mutant huntingtin (mHTT) transgene in both embryonic stem cells generated from three male HD monkey founders (F0) and in second-generation offspring (F1) produced via artificial insemination by using intrauterine insemination technique. A total of five offspring were produced from 15 females that were inseminated by intrauterine insemination using semen collected from the three HD founders (5 of 15, 33%). Thus far, sperm collected from the HD founder (rHD8) has led to two F1 transgenic HD monkeys with germline transmission rate at 100% (2 of 2). mHTT expression was confirmed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction using skin fibroblasts from the F1 HD monkeys and induced pluripotent stem cells established from one of the F1 HD monkeys (rHD8-2). Here, we report the stable germline transmission and expression of the mHTT transgene in HD monkeys, which suggest possible expansion of HD monkey colonies for preclinical and biomedical research studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean Moran
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Tim Chi
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Melinda S Prucha
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Kwang Sung Ahn
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Fawn Connor-Stroud
- Division of Animal Resources, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Sherrie Jean
- Division of Animal Resources, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Kenneth Gould
- Division of Animal Resources, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Anthony W S Chan
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
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Carter RL, Chen Y, Kunkanjanawan T, Xu Y, Moran SP, Putkhao K, Yang J, Huang AHC, Parnpai R, Chan AWS. Reversal of cellular phenotypes in neural cells derived from Huntington's disease monkey-induced pluripotent stem cells. Stem Cell Reports 2014; 3:585-93. [PMID: 25358787 PMCID: PMC4223707 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2014.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2014] [Revised: 07/22/2014] [Accepted: 07/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is a dominant neurodegenerative disorder caused by the expansion of glutamine residues in the N-terminal region of the huntingtin (HTT) protein. The disease results in progressive neuronal loss, leading to motor, cognitive, and psychiatric impairment. Here, we report the establishment of neural progenitor cell (NPC) lines derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) of transgenic HD monkeys. Upon differentiation to neurons, HD neural cells develop cellular features of HD, including the formation of nuclear inclusions and oligomeric mutant HTT (mHTT) aggregates, as well as increased apoptosis. These phenotypes are rescued by genetic suppression of HTT and pharmacological treatment, demonstrating the ability of our HD cell model to respond to therapeutic treatment. The development and reversal of HD-associated phenotypes in neural cells from HD monkeys provides a unique nonhuman primate (NHP) model for exploring HD pathogenesis and evaluating therapeutics that could be assessed further in HD monkeys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard L Carter
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA 39329, USA; Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Genetics and Molecular Biology Program, Emory Laney Graduate School, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Yiju Chen
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA 39329, USA; Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Tanut Kunkanjanawan
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA 39329, USA; Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
| | - Yan Xu
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA 39329, USA; Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Sean P Moran
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA 39329, USA; Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Kittiphong Putkhao
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA 39329, USA; Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
| | - Jinjing Yang
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA 39329, USA; Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Anderson H C Huang
- Department of Oral Pathology, School of Dentistry, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Rangsun Parnpai
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
| | - Anthony W S Chan
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Atlanta, GA 39329, USA; Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; Genetics and Molecular Biology Program, Emory Laney Graduate School, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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Kocerha J, Xu Y, Prucha MS, Zhao D, Chan AWS. microRNA-128a dysregulation in transgenic Huntington's disease monkeys. Mol Brain 2014; 7:46. [PMID: 24929669 PMCID: PMC4065582 DOI: 10.1186/1756-6606-7-46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2014] [Accepted: 06/03/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Huntington's Disease (HD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder with a single causal mutation in the Huntingtin (HTT) gene. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have recently been implicated as epigenetic regulators of neurological disorders, however, their role in HD pathogenesis is not well defined. Here we study transgenic HD monkeys (HD monkeys) to examine miRNA dysregulation in a primate model of the disease. RESULTS In this report, 11 miRNAs were found to be significantly associated (P value < 0.05) with HD in the frontal cortex of the HD monkeys. We further focused on one of those candidates, miR-128a, due to the corresponding disruption in humans and mice with HD as well as its intriguing lists of gene targets. miR-128a was downregulated in our HD monkey model by the time of birth. We then confirmed that miR-128a was also downregulated in the brains of pre-symptomatic and post-symptomatic HD patients. Additionally, our studies confirmed a panel of canonical HD signaling genes regulated by miR-128a, including HTT and Huntingtin Interaction Protein 1 (HIP1). CONCLUSION Our studies found that miR-128a may play a critical role in HD and could be a viable candidate as a therapeutic or biomarker of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Anthony W S Chan
- Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Disease, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, 954 Gatewood Rd,, N,E Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
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Valor LM. Transcription, epigenetics and ameliorative strategies in Huntington's Disease: a genome-wide perspective. Mol Neurobiol 2014; 51:406-23. [PMID: 24788684 PMCID: PMC4309905 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-014-8715-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2014] [Accepted: 04/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Transcriptional dysregulation in Huntington’s disease (HD) is an early event that shapes the brain transcriptome by both the depletion and ectopic activation of gene products that eventually affect survival and neuronal functions. Disruption in the activity of gene expression regulators, such as transcription factors, chromatin-remodeling proteins, and noncoding RNAs, accounts for the expression changes observed in multiple animal and cellular models of HD and in samples from patients. Here, I review the recent advances in the study of HD transcriptional dysregulation and its causes to finally discuss the possible implications in ameliorative strategies from a genome-wide perspective. To date, the use of genome-wide approaches, predominantly based on microarray platforms, has been successful in providing an extensive catalog of differentially regulated genes, including biomarkers aimed at monitoring the progress of the pathology. Although still incipient, the introduction of combined next-generation sequencing techniques is enhancing our comprehension of the mechanisms underlying altered transcriptional dysregulation in HD by providing the first genomic landscapes associated with epigenetics and the occupancy of transcription factors. In addition, the use of genome-wide approaches is becoming more and more necessary to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ameliorative strategies and to identify novel mechanisms of amelioration that may help in the improvement of current preclinical therapeutics. Finally, the major conclusions obtained from HD transcriptomics studies have the potential to be extrapolated to other neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis M Valor
- Instituto de Neurociencias de Alicante, Universidad Miguel Hernández-Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Av. Santiago Ramón y Cajal s/n, Sant Joan d'Alacant, 03550, Alicante, Spain,
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