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Le Belle JE, Condro M, Cepeda C, Oikonomou KD, Tessema K, Dudley L, Schoenfield J, Kawaguchi R, Geschwind D, Silva AJ, Zhang Z, Shokat K, Harris NG, Kornblum HI. Acute rapamycin treatment reveals novel mechanisms of behavioral, physiological, and functional dysfunction in a maternal inflammation mouse model of autism and sensory over-responsivity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.08.602602. [PMID: 39026891 PMCID: PMC11257517 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.08.602602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Maternal inflammatory response (MIR) during early gestation in mice induces a cascade of physiological and behavioral changes that have been associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In a prior study and the current one, we find that mild MIR results in chronic systemic and neuro-inflammation, mTOR pathway activation, mild brain overgrowth followed by regionally specific volumetric changes, sensory processing dysregulation, and social and repetitive behavior abnormalities. Prior studies of rapamycin treatment in autism models have focused on chronic treatments that might be expected to alter or prevent physical brain changes. Here, we have focused on the acute effects of rapamycin to uncover novel mechanisms of dysfunction and related to mTOR pathway signaling. We find that within 2 hours, rapamycin treatment could rapidly rescue neuronal hyper-excitability, seizure susceptibility, functional network connectivity and brain community structure, and repetitive behaviors and sensory over-responsivity in adult offspring with persistent brain overgrowth. These CNS-mediated effects are also associated with alteration of the expression of several ASD-,ion channel-, and epilepsy-associated genes, in the same time frame. Our findings suggest that mTOR dysregulation in MIR offspring is a key contributor to various levels of brain dysfunction, including neuronal excitability, altered gene expression in multiple cell types, sensory functional network connectivity, and modulation of information flow. However, we demonstrate that the adult MIR brain is also amenable to rapid normalization of these functional changes which results in the rescue of both core and comorbid ASD behaviors in adult animals without requiring long-term physical alterations to the brain. Thus, restoring excitatory/inhibitory imbalance and sensory functional network modularity may be important targets for therapeutically addressing both primary sensory and social behavior phenotypes, and compensatory repetitive behavior phenotypes.
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Chouhan U, Sahu RK, Bhatt S, Kurmi S, Choudhari JK. Emerging Trends in Big Data Analysis in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics in Health Informatics: A Case Study on Epilepsy and Seizures. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2719:99-119. [PMID: 37803114 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3461-5_6] [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] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
Advanced technology innovations allow cost-effective, high-throughput profiling of biological systems. It enabled genome sequencing in days using advanced technologies (e.g., next-generation sequencing, microarrays, and mass spectrometry). Since technology has been developed, massive biological data (e.g., genomics, proteomics) has been produced cheaply, allowing the "big data" era to create new opportunities to solve medical and biological complications in many disciplines-preventive medicine, biology, Personalized Medicine, gene sequencing, healthcare, and industry. Computational biology and bioinformatics are interdisciplinary fields that develop and apply computational methods (e.g., analytical methods, mathematical modeling, and simulation) to analyze large collections of biological data, such as genetic sequences, cell populations, or protein samples, to make new predictions or discover new biology. Biological data storage, mining, and analysis have challenges because data is much more heterogeneous. In this study, the big data resources of genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics have been explored to solve biological problems using big data analysis approaches. The goal is to build a network of relationship-based gene-disease associations to prioritize phenotypes common to epilepsy and seizure disease. Through network analysis, The 10 seed genes, 22 associated genes, 132 microRNAs, and 38 transcription factors have been identified that have a direct effect on all forms of epilepsy and seizures. The majority of seed genes, according to the results of a functional analysis of seed genes, are involved in the acetylcholine-gated channel complex (10%) and the heterotrimeric G-protein complex (10%) pathways related to cellular components, followed by a role in the regulation of action potential (20%) and positive regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor production (20%) in Epilepsy and Seizures pathways related to biological processes. This study might provide insight into the workings of the disease and shows the importance of continued research into epilepsy and other conditions that can trigger seizure activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Usha Chouhan
- Department of Mathematics, Bioinformatics & Computer Applications, Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Rakesh Kumar Sahu
- Department of Biotechnology, Government V.Y.T. Post Graduate Autonomous College, Durg, Chhattisgarh, India
| | - Shaifali Bhatt
- Department of Mathematics, Bioinformatics & Computer Applications, Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Sonu Kurmi
- Department of Mathematics, Bioinformatics & Computer Applications, Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Jyoti Kant Choudhari
- Department of Mathematics, Bioinformatics & Computer Applications, Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
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Cullen ER, Tariq K, Shore AN, Luikart BW, Weston MC. mTORC2 Inhibition Improves Morphological Effects of PTEN Loss, But Does Not Correct Synaptic Dysfunction or Prevent Seizures. J Neurosci 2023; 43:827-845. [PMID: 36526374 PMCID: PMC9899090 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1354-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyperactivation of PI3K/PTEN-mTOR signaling during neural development is associated with focal cortical dysplasia (FCD), autism, and epilepsy. mTOR can signal through two major hubs, mTORC1 and mTORC2, both of which are hyperactive following PTEN loss of function (LOF). Here, we tested the hypothesis that genetic inactivation of the mTORC2 complex via deletion of Rictor is sufficient to rescue morphologic and electrophysiological abnormalities in the dentate gyrus caused by PTEN loss, as well as generalized seizures. An established, early postnatal mouse model of PTEN loss in male and female mice showed spontaneous seizures that were not prevented by mTORC2 inactivation. This lack of rescue occurred despite the normalization or amelioration of many morphologic and electrophysiological phenotypes. However, increased excitatory connectivity proximal to dentate gyrus granule neuron somas was not normalized by mTORC2 inactivation. Further studies demonstrated that, although mTORC2 inactivation largely rescued the dendritic arbor overgrowth caused by PTEN LOF, it increased synaptic strength and caused additional impairments of presynaptic function. These results suggest that a constrained increase in excitatory connectivity and co-occurring synaptic dysfunction is sufficient to generate seizures downstream of PTEN LOF, even in the absence of characteristic changes in morphologic properties.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Homozygous deletion of the Pten gene in neuronal subpopulations in the mouse serves as a valuable model of epilepsy caused by mTOR hyperactivation. To better understand the physiological mechanisms downstream of Pten loss that cause epilepsy, as well as the therapeutic potential of targeted gene therapies, we tested whether genetic inactivation of the mTORC2 complex could improve the cellular, synaptic, and in vivo effects of Pten loss in the dentate gyrus. We found that mTORC2 inhibition improved or rescued all morphologic effects of Pten loss in the dentate gyrus, but synaptic changes and seizures persisted. These data suggest that synaptic dysfunction can drive epilepsy caused by hyperactivation of PI3K/PTEN-mTOR, and that future therapies should focus on this mechanistic link.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin R Cullen
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont 05405
| | - Kamran Tariq
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire 03755
| | - Amy N Shore
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont 05405
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, Roanoke, Virginia 24016
| | - Bryan W Luikart
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire 03755
| | - Matthew C Weston
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont 05405
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, Roanoke, Virginia 24016
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061
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Xiao X, Li W, Xu Z, Sun Z, Ye H, Wu Y, Zhang Y, Xie L, Jiang D, Jia R, Wang X. Extracellular vesicles from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells reduce lipopolysaccharide-induced spinal cord injury neuronal apoptosis by mediating miR-29b-3p/PTEN. Connect Tissue Res 2022; 63:634-649. [PMID: 35603476 DOI: 10.1080/03008207.2022.2060826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study investigated the molecular mechanism of whether hUC-MSCs-EVs repressed PTEN expression and activated the PI3K/AKT pathway through miR-29b-3p, thus inhibiting LPS-induced neuronal injury. METHODS hUC-MSCs were cultured and then identified. Cell morphology was observed. Alizarin red, oil red O, and alcian blue staining were used for inducing osteogenesis, adipogenesis, and chondrogenesis. EVs were extracted from hUC-MSCs and identified by transmission electron microscope observation and Western blot. SCI neuron model was established by 24h lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induction. After the cells were cultured with EVs without any treatment, uptake of EVs by SCI neurons, miR-29b-3p expression, cell viability, apoptosis, caspase-3, cleaved caspase-3, caspase 9, Bcl-2, PTEN, PI3K, AKT, and p-Akt protein levels, caspase 3 and caspase 9 activities, and inflammatory factors IL-6 and IL-1β levels were detected by immunofluorescence labeling, RT-qPCR, MTT, flow cytometry, Western blot, caspase 3 and caspase 9 activity detection kits, and ELISA. The binding sites between PTEN and miR-29b-3p were predicted by the database and verified by dual-luciferase assay. RESULTS LPS-induced SCI cell model was successfully established, and hUC-MSCs-EVs inhibited LPS-induced apoptosis of injured spinal cord neurons. EVs transferred miR-29b-3p into LPS-induced injured neurons. miR-29b-3p silencing reversed EV effects on reducing LPS-induced neuronal apoptosis. miR-29b-3p reduced LPS-induced neuronal apoptosis by targeting PTEN. After EVs-miR-inhi and si-PTEN treatment, inhibition of the PI3K/AKT pathway reversed hUC-MSCs-EVs effects on reducing LPS-induced neuronal apoptosis. CONCLUSION hUC-MSCs-EVs activated the PI3K/AKT pathway by carrying miR-29b-3p into SCI neurons and silencing PTEN, thus reducing neuronal apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Xiao
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Xiangya Hospital of Central-South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Weiwei Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Xiangya Hospital of Central-South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Zhenchao Xu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Xiangya Hospital of Central-South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Zhicheng Sun
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Xiangya Hospital of Central-South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Hongru Ye
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Xiangya Hospital of Central-South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Yunqi Wu
- Hunan Engineering Laboratory of Advanced Artificial Osteo-materials, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Yilu Zhang
- Hunan Engineering Laboratory of Advanced Artificial Osteo-materials, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Liqiong Xie
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Xiangya Hospital of Central-South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Dingyu Jiang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Xiangya Hospital of Central-South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Runze Jia
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Xiangya Hospital of Central-South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Xiyang Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Xiangya Hospital of Central-South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China.,Hunan Engineering Laboratory of Advanced Artificial Osteo-materials, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
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Fortier AV, Meisner OC, Nair AR, Chang SWC. Prefrontal Circuits guiding Social Preference: Implications in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 141:104803. [PMID: 35908593 PMCID: PMC10122914 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Although Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is increasing in diagnostic prevalence, treatment options are inadequate largely due to limited understanding of ASD's underlying neural mechanisms. Contributing to difficulties in treatment development is the vast heterogeneity of ASD, from physiological causes to clinical presentations. Recent studies suggest that distinct genetic and neurological alterations may converge onto similar underlying neural circuits. Therefore, an improved understanding of neural circuit-level dysfunction in ASD may be a more productive path to developing broader treatments that are effective across a greater spectrum of ASD. Given the social preference behavioral deficits commonly seen in ASD, dysfunction in circuits mediating social preference may contribute to the atypical development of social cognition. We discuss some of the animal models used to study ASD and examine the function and effects of dysregulation of the social preference circuits, notably the medial prefrontal cortex-amygdala and the medial prefrontal cortex-nucleus accumbens circuits, in these animal models. Using the common circuits underlying similar behavioral disruptions of social preference behaviors as an example, we highlight the importance of identifying disruption in convergent circuits to improve the translational success of animal model research for ASD treatment development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail V Fortier
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Department of Molecular, Cellular, Developmental Biology, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Olivia C Meisner
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Amrita R Nair
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Steve W C Chang
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; Kavli Institute for Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; Wu Tsai Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
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Shu L, Xiao N, Qin J, Tian Q, Zhang Y, Li H, Liu J, Li Q, Gu W, Wang P, Wang H, Mao X. The Role of Microtubule Associated Serine/Threonine Kinase 3 Variants in Neurodevelopmental Diseases: Genotype-Phenotype Association. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 14:775479. [PMID: 35095415 PMCID: PMC8790505 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.775479] [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: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To prove microtubule associated serine/threonine kinase 3 (MAST3) gene is associated with neurodevelopmental diseases (NDD) and the genotype-phenotype correlation.Methods: Trio exome sequencing (trio ES) was performed on four NDD trios. Bioinformatic analysis was conducted based on large-scale genome sequencing data and human brain transcriptomic data. Further in vivo zebrafish studies were performed.Results: In our study, we identified four de novo MAST3 variants (NM_015016.1: c.302C > T:p.Ser101Phe; c.311C > T:p.Ser104Leu; c.1543G > A:p.Gly515Ser; and c.1547T > C:p.Leu516Pro) in four patients with developmental and epileptic encephalopathy (DEE) separately. Clinical heterogeneities were observed in patients carrying variants in domain of unknown function (DUF) and serine-threonine kinase (STK) domain separately. Using the published large-scale exome sequencing data, higher CADD scores of missense variants in DUF domain were found in NDD cohort compared with gnomAD database. In addition, we obtained an excess of missense variants in DUF domain when compared autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) cohort with gnomAD database, similarly an excess of missense variants in STK domain when compared DEE cohort with gnomAD database. Based on Brainspan datasets, we showed that MAST3 expression was significantly upregulated in ASD and DEE-related brain regions and was functionally linked with DEE genes. In zebrafish model, abnormal morphology of central nervous system was observed in mast3a/b crispants.Conclusion: Our results support the possibility that MAST3 is a novel gene associated with NDD which could expand the genetic spectrum for NDD. The genotype-phenotype correlation may contribute to future genetic counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Shu
- Department of Medical Genetics, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, China
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory for Birth Defect Research and Prevention, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, China
- Department of School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Neng Xiao
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Chenzhou First People’s Hospital, Chenzhou, China
| | - Jiong Qin
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Tian
- Department of Medical Genetics, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Yanghui Zhang
- Medical Genetics Center, Jiangmen Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Jiangmen, China
| | - Haoxian Li
- Medical Genetics Center, Jiangmen Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Jiangmen, China
| | | | - Qinrui Li
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Weiyue Gu
- Chigene (Beijing) Translational Medical Research Center Co., Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Pengchao Wang
- Chigene (Beijing) Translational Medical Research Center Co., Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, China
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory for Birth Defect Research and Prevention, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, China
- Hua Wang,
| | - Xiao Mao
- Department of Medical Genetics, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, China
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory for Birth Defect Research and Prevention, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Xiao Mao,
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Bhattacharya A, Choi WWY, Muffat J, Li Y. Modeling Developmental Brain Diseases Using Human Pluripotent Stem Cells-Derived Brain Organoids - Progress and Perspective. J Mol Biol 2021; 434:167386. [PMID: 34883115 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2021.167386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Developmental brain diseases encompass a group of conditions resulting from genetic or environmental perturbations during early development. Despite the increased research attention in recent years following recognition of the prevalence of these diseases, there is still a significant lack of knowledge of their etiology and treatment options. The genetic and clinical heterogeneity of these diseases, in addition to the limitations of experimental animal models, contribute to this difficulty. In this regard, the advent of brain organoid technology has provided a new means to study the cause and progression of developmental brain diseases in vitro. Derived from human pluripotent stem cells, brain organoids have been shown to recapitulate key developmental milestones of the early human brain. Combined with technological advancements in genome editing, tissue engineering, electrophysiology, and multi-omics analysis, brain organoids have expanded the frontiers of human neurobiology, providing valuable insight into the cellular and molecular mechanisms of normal and pathological brain development. This review will summarize the current progress of applying brain organoids to model human developmental brain diseases and discuss the challenges that need to be overcome to further advance their utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afrin Bhattacharya
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; The University of Toronto, Department of Molecular Genetics, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Wendy W Y Choi
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; The University of Toronto, Department of Molecular Genetics, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Julien Muffat
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; The University of Toronto, Department of Molecular Genetics, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Yun Li
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; The University of Toronto, Department of Molecular Genetics, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.
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8
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PTEN mutations in autism spectrum disorder and congenital hydrocephalus: developmental pleiotropy and therapeutic targets. Trends Neurosci 2021; 44:961-976. [PMID: 34625286 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2021.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The lack of effective treatments for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and congenital hydrocephalus (CH) reflects the limited understanding of the biology underlying these common neurodevelopmental disorders. Although ASD and CH have been extensively studied as independent entities, recent human genomic and preclinical animal studies have uncovered shared molecular pathophysiology. Here, we review and discuss phenotypic, genomic, and molecular similarities between ASD and CH, and identify the PTEN-PI3K-mTOR (phosphatase and tensin homolog-phosphoinositide 3-kinase-mammalian target of rapamycin) pathway as a common underlying mechanism that holds diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic promise for individuals with ASD and CH.
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Moura DMS, de Sales IRP, Brandão JA, Costa MR, Queiroz CM. Disentangling chemical and electrical effects of status epilepticus-induced dentate gyrus abnormalities. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 121:106575. [PMID: 31704249 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.106575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Revised: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 09/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
In rodents, status epilepticus (SE) triggered by chemoconvulsants can differently affect the proliferation and fate of adult-born dentate granule cells (DGCs). It is unknown whether abnormal neurogenesis results from intracellular signaling associated with drug-receptor interaction, paroxysmal activity, or both. To test the contribution of these factors, we systematically compared the effects of kainic acid (KA)- and pilocarpine (PL)-induced SE on the morphology and localization of DGCs generated before or after SE in the ipsi- and contralateral hippocampi of mice. Hippocampal insult was induced by unilateral intrahippocampal (ihpc) administration of KA or PL. We employed conditional doublecortin-dependent expression of the green fluorescent protein (GFP) to label adult-born cells committed to neuronal lineage either one month before (mature DGCs) or seven days after (immature DGCs) SE. Unilateral ihpc administration of KA and PL led to bilateral epileptiform discharges and focal and generalized behavioral seizures. However, drastic granule cell layer (GCL) dispersion occurred only in the ipsilateral side of KA injection, but not in PL-treated animals. Granule cell layer dispersion was accompanied by a significant reduction in neurogenesis after SE in the ipsilateral side of KA-treated animals, while neurogenesis increased in the contralateral side of KA-treated animals and both hippocampi of PL-treated animals. The ratio of ectopic neurons in the ipsilateral hippocampus was higher among immature as compared to mature neurons in the KA model (32.8% vs. 10.0%, respectively), while the occurrence of ectopic neurons in PL-treated animals was lower than 3% among both mature and immature DGCs. Collectively, our results suggest that KA- and PL-induced SE leads to distinct cellular alterations in mature and immature DGCs. We also show different local and secondary effects of KA or PL in the histological organization of the adult DG, suggesting that these unique epilepsy models may be complementary to our understanding of the disease. NEWroscience 2018.
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Hickmott RA, Bosakhar A, Quezada S, Barresi M, Walker DW, Ryan AL, Quigley A, Tolcos M. The One-Stop Gyrification Station - Challenges and New Technologies. Prog Neurobiol 2021; 204:102111. [PMID: 34166774 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2021.102111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The evolution of the folded cortical surface is an iconic feature of the human brain shared by a subset of mammals and considered pivotal for the emergence of higher-order cognitive functions. While our understanding of the neurodevelopmental processes involved in corticogenesis has greatly advanced over the past 70 years of brain research, the fundamental mechanisms that result in gyrification, along with its originating cytoarchitectural location, remain largely unknown. This review brings together numerous approaches to this basic neurodevelopmental problem, constructing a narrative of how various models, techniques and tools have been applied to the study of gyrification thus far. After a brief discussion of core concepts and challenges within the field, we provide an analysis of the significant discoveries derived from the parallel use of model organisms such as the mouse, ferret, sheep and non-human primates, particularly with regard to how they have shaped our understanding of cortical folding. We then focus on the latest developments in the field and the complementary application of newly emerging technologies, such as cerebral organoids, advanced neuroimaging techniques, and atomic force microscopy. Particular emphasis is placed upon the use of novel computational and physical models in regard to the interplay of biological and physical forces in cortical folding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan A Hickmott
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, 3083, Australia; BioFab3D@ACMD, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, 3065, Australia
| | - Abdulhameed Bosakhar
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, 3083, Australia
| | - Sebastian Quezada
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, 3083, Australia
| | - Mikaela Barresi
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, 3083, Australia
| | - David W Walker
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, 3083, Australia
| | - Amy L Ryan
- Hastings Centre for Pulmonary Research, Department of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, USC Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, CA, USA and Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Southern California, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Anita Quigley
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, 3083, Australia; BioFab3D@ACMD, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, 3065, Australia; School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy, VIC, 3065, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence in Electromaterials Science, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Mary Tolcos
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, 3083, Australia.
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Sarn N, Thacker S, Lee H, Eng C. Germline nuclear-predominant Pten murine model exhibits impaired social and perseverative behavior, microglial activation, and increased oxytocinergic activity. Mol Autism 2021; 12:41. [PMID: 34088332 PMCID: PMC8176582 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-021-00448-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has a strong genetic etiology. Germline mutation in the tumor suppressor gene PTEN is one of the best described monogenic risk cases for ASD. Animal modeling of cell-specific Pten loss or mutation has provided insight into how disruptions to the function of PTEN affect neurodevelopment, neurobiology, and social behavior. As such, there is a growing need to understand more about how various aspects of PTEN activity and cell-compartment-specific functions, contribute to certain neurological or behavior phenotypes. METHODS To understand more about the relationship between Pten localization and downstream effects on neurophenotypes, we generated the nuclear-predominant PtenY68H/+ mouse, which is identical to the genotype of some PTEN-ASD individuals. We subjected the PtenY68H/+ mouse to morphological and behavioral phenotyping, including the three-chamber sociability, open field, rotarod, and marble burying tests. We subsequently performed in vivo and in vitro cellular phenotyping and concluded the work with a transcriptomic survey of the PtenY68H/+ cortex, which profiled gene expression. RESULTS We observe a significant increase in P-Akt downstream of canonical Pten signaling, macrocephaly, decreased sociability, decreased preference for novel social stimuli, increased repetitive behavior, and increased thigmotaxis in PtenY68H/+ six-week-old (P40) mice. In addition, we found significant microglial activation with increased expression of complement and neuroinflammatory proteins in vivo and in vitro accompanied by enhanced phagocytosis. These observations were subsequently validated with RNA-seq and qRT-PCR, which revealed overexpression of many genes involved in neuroinflammation and neuronal function, including oxytocin. Oxytocin transcript was fivefold overexpressed (P = 0.0018), and oxytocin protein was strongly overexpressed in the PtenY68H/+ hypothalamus. CONCLUSIONS The nuclear-predominant PtenY68H/+ model has clarified that Pten dysfunction links to microglial pathology and this associates with increased Akt signaling. We also demonstrate that Pten dysfunction associates with changes in the oxytocin system, an important connection between a prominent ASD risk gene and a potent neuroendocrine regulator of social behavior. These cellular and molecular pathologies may related to the observed changes in social behavior. Ultimately, the findings from this work may reveal important biomarkers and/or novel therapeutic modalities that could be explored in individuals with germline mutations in PTEN with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick Sarn
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106 USA
| | - Stetson Thacker
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA
| | - Hyunpil Lee
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA
| | - Charis Eng
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106 USA
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA
- Germline High Risk Focus Group, Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106 USA
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12
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Igarashi A, Kato T, Sesaki H, Iijima M. Nuclear PTEN deficiency and heterozygous PTEN loss have distinct impacts on brain and lymph node size. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2021; 555:81-88. [PMID: 33813280 PMCID: PMC8085137 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2021.03.081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Defects in PTEN, a critical tumor suppressor, are associated with tumorigenesis and aberrant organ sizes. It has been shown that heterozygous PTEN loss increases brains and neuron size, while the specific loss of nuclear PTEN has the opposite effect. Here, we investigate the impact of a combination of heterozygous PTEN loss and nuclear PTEN loss on the size of various organs, including the brain, liver, thymus, spleen, and inguinal lymph node. We found that the effect of the combination varies among organs. Notably, the combination of heterozygous PTEN loss and nuclear PTEN loss restored the normal size of brains and neurons. In contrast, the liver's size was unaffected by either single PTEN defects or their combination. Strikingly, the size of the inguinal lymph node was greatly increased due to lymphoma by the combination of the two PTEN defects. These data suggest that nuclear PTEN and non-nuclear PTEN function in an antagonistic manner in the brain while acting synergistically in the inguinal lymph node.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Igarashi
- Department of Cell Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Takashi Kato
- Department of Cell Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Hiromi Sesaki
- Department of Cell Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Miho Iijima
- Department of Cell Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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13
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Sidhaye J, Knoblich JA. Brain organoids: an ensemble of bioassays to investigate human neurodevelopment and disease. Cell Death Differ 2021; 28:52-67. [PMID: 32483384 PMCID: PMC7853143 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-020-0566-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding etiology of human neurological and psychiatric diseases is challenging. Genomic changes, protracted development, and histological features unique to human brain development limit the disease aspects that can be investigated using model organisms. Hence, in order to study phenotypes associated with human brain development, function, and disease, it is necessary to use alternative experimental systems that are accessible, ethically justified, and replicate human context. Human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-derived brain organoids offer such a system, which recapitulates features of early human neurodevelopment in vitro, including the generation, proliferation, and differentiation of neural progenitors into neurons and glial cells and the complex interactions among the diverse, emergent cell types of the developing brain in three-dimensions (3-D). In recent years, numerous brain organoid protocols and related techniques have been developed to recapitulate aspects of embryonic and fetal brain development in a reproducible and predictable manner. Altogether, these different organoid technologies provide distinct bioassays to unravel novel, disease-associated phenotypes and mechanisms. In this review, we summarize how the diverse brain organoid methods can be utilized to enhance our understanding of brain disorders. FACTS: Brain organoids offer an in vitro approach to study aspects of human brain development and disease. Diverse brain organoid techniques offer bioassays to investigate new phenotypes associated with human brain disorders that are difficult to study in monolayer cultures. Brain organoids have been particularly useful to study phenomena and diseases associated with neural progenitor morphology, survival, proliferation, and differentiation. OPEN QUESTION: Future brain organoid research needs to aim at later stages of neurodevelopment, linked with neuronal activity and connections, to unravel further disease-associated phenotypes. Continued improvement of existing organoid protocols is required to generate standardized methods that recapitulate in vivo-like spatial diversity and complexity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaydeep Sidhaye
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of Austrian academy of sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), Dr. Bohr-Gasse 3, 1030, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jürgen A Knoblich
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of Austrian academy of sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), Dr. Bohr-Gasse 3, 1030, Vienna, Austria.
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14
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Trovato F, Parra R, Pracucci E, Landi S, Cozzolino O, Nardi G, Cruciani F, Pillai V, Mosti L, Cwetsch AW, Cancedda L, Gritti L, Sala C, Verpelli C, Maset A, Lodovichi C, Ratto GM. Modelling genetic mosaicism of neurodevelopmental disorders in vivo by a Cre-amplifying fluorescent reporter. Nat Commun 2020; 11:6194. [PMID: 33273479 PMCID: PMC7713426 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-19864-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic mosaicism, a condition in which an organ includes cells with different genotypes, is frequently present in monogenic diseases of the central nervous system caused by the random inactivation of the X-chromosome, in the case of X-linked pathologies, or by somatic mutations affecting a subset of neurons. The comprehension of the mechanisms of these diseases and of the cell-autonomous effects of specific mutations requires the generation of sparse mosaic models, in which the genotype of each neuron is univocally identified by the expression of a fluorescent protein in vivo. Here, we show a dual-color reporter system that, when expressed in a floxed mouse line for a target gene, leads to the creation of mosaics with tunable degree. We demonstrate the generation of a knockout mosaic of the autism/epilepsy related gene PTEN in which the genotype of each neuron is reliably identified, and the neuronal phenotype is accurately characterized by two-photon microscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Trovato
- National Enterprise for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (NEST), Istituto Nanoscienze Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) and Scuola Normale Superiore Pisa, 56127, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Riccardo Parra
- National Enterprise for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (NEST), Istituto Nanoscienze Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) and Scuola Normale Superiore Pisa, 56127, Pisa, Italy
| | - Enrico Pracucci
- National Enterprise for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (NEST), Istituto Nanoscienze Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) and Scuola Normale Superiore Pisa, 56127, Pisa, Italy
| | - Silvia Landi
- National Enterprise for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (NEST), Istituto Nanoscienze Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) and Scuola Normale Superiore Pisa, 56127, Pisa, Italy
- Institute of Neuroscience CNR, Pisa, Italy
| | - Olga Cozzolino
- National Enterprise for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (NEST), Istituto Nanoscienze Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) and Scuola Normale Superiore Pisa, 56127, Pisa, Italy
| | - Gabriele Nardi
- National Enterprise for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (NEST), Istituto Nanoscienze Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) and Scuola Normale Superiore Pisa, 56127, Pisa, Italy
| | - Federica Cruciani
- National Enterprise for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (NEST), Istituto Nanoscienze Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) and Scuola Normale Superiore Pisa, 56127, Pisa, Italy
| | - Vinoshene Pillai
- National Enterprise for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (NEST), Istituto Nanoscienze Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) and Scuola Normale Superiore Pisa, 56127, Pisa, Italy
| | - Laura Mosti
- National Enterprise for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (NEST), Istituto Nanoscienze Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) and Scuola Normale Superiore Pisa, 56127, Pisa, Italy
| | - Andrzej W Cwetsch
- Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
- Università degli studi di Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Laura Cancedda
- Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
- Istituto Telethon Dulbecco, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Carlo Sala
- Institute of Neuroscience CNR, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Maset
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padua, Italy
- Padova Neuroscience Center, Padova Università di Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Claudia Lodovichi
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padua, Italy
- Padova Neuroscience Center, Padova Università di Padova, Padua, Italy
- Institute of Neuroscience CNR, Padua, Italy
| | - Gian Michele Ratto
- National Enterprise for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (NEST), Istituto Nanoscienze Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) and Scuola Normale Superiore Pisa, 56127, Pisa, Italy.
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15
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Thiffault I, Atherton A, Heese BA, T Abdelmoity A, Pawar K, Farrow E, Zellmer L, Miller N, Soden S, Saunders C. Pathogenic variants in KPTN gene identified by clinical whole-genome sequencing. Cold Spring Harb Mol Case Stud 2020; 6:mcs.a003970. [PMID: 32358097 PMCID: PMC7304362 DOI: 10.1101/mcs.a003970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Status epilepticus is not rare in critically ill intensive care unit patients, but its diagnosis is often delayed or missed. The mortality for convulsive status epilepticus is dependent on the underlying aetiologies and the age of the patients and thus varies from study to study. In this context, effective molecular diagnosis in a pediatric patient with a genetically heterogeneous phenotype is essential. Homozygous or compound heterozygous variants in KPTN have been recently associated with a syndrome typified by macrocephaly, neurodevelopmental delay, and seizures. We describe a comprehensive investigation of a 9-yr-old male patient who was admitted to the intensive care unit, with focal epilepsy, static encephalopathy, autism spectrum disorder, and macrocephaly of unknown etiology, who died of status epilepticus. Clinical whole-genome sequencing revealed compound heterozygous variants in the KPTN gene. The first variant is a previously characterized 18-bp in-frame duplication (c.714_731dup) in exon 8, resulting in the protein change p.Met241_Gln246dup. The second variant, c.394 + 1G > A, affects the splice junction of exon 3. These results are consistent with a diagnosis of autosomal recessive KPTN-related disease. This is the fourth clinical report for KPTN deficiency, providing further evidence of a wider range of severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Thiffault
- Center for Pediatric Genomic Medicine, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, Missouri 64108, USA.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Children's Mercy Hospitals, Kansas City, Missouri 64108, USA.,University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, Missouri 64108, USA
| | - Andrea Atherton
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Mercy Hospitals, Kansas City, Missouri 64108, USA
| | - Bryce A Heese
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Mercy Hospitals, Kansas City, Missouri 64108, USA
| | - Ahmed T Abdelmoity
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Mercy Hospitals, Kansas City, Missouri 64108, USA
| | - Kailash Pawar
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Mercy Hospitals, Kansas City, Missouri 64108, USA
| | - Emily Farrow
- Center for Pediatric Genomic Medicine, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, Missouri 64108, USA.,University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, Missouri 64108, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Children's Mercy Hospitals, Kansas City, Missouri 64108, USA
| | - Lee Zellmer
- Center for Pediatric Genomic Medicine, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, Missouri 64108, USA
| | - Neil Miller
- Center for Pediatric Genomic Medicine, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, Missouri 64108, USA
| | - Sarah Soden
- Center for Pediatric Genomic Medicine, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, Missouri 64108, USA.,University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, Missouri 64108, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Children's Mercy Hospitals, Kansas City, Missouri 64108, USA
| | - Carol Saunders
- Center for Pediatric Genomic Medicine, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, Missouri 64108, USA.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Children's Mercy Hospitals, Kansas City, Missouri 64108, USA.,University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, Missouri 64108, USA
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16
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Bertacchi M, Romano AL, Loubat A, Tran Mau-Them F, Willems M, Faivre L, Khau van Kien P, Perrin L, Devillard F, Sorlin A, Kuentz P, Philippe C, Garde A, Neri F, Di Giaimo R, Oliviero S, Cappello S, D'Incerti L, Frassoni C, Studer M. NR2F1 regulates regional progenitor dynamics in the mouse neocortex and cortical gyrification in BBSOAS patients. EMBO J 2020; 39:e104163. [PMID: 32484994 PMCID: PMC7327499 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2019104163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The relationships between impaired cortical development and consequent malformations in neurodevelopmental disorders, as well as the genes implicated in these processes, are not fully elucidated to date. In this study, we report six novel cases of patients affected by BBSOAS (Boonstra‐Bosch‐Schaff optic atrophy syndrome), a newly emerging rare neurodevelopmental disorder, caused by loss‐of‐function mutations of the transcriptional regulator NR2F1. Young patients with NR2F1 haploinsufficiency display mild to moderate intellectual disability and show reproducible polymicrogyria‐like brain malformations in the parietal and occipital cortex. Using a recently established BBSOAS mouse model, we found that Nr2f1 regionally controls long‐term self‐renewal of neural progenitor cells via modulation of cell cycle genes and key cortical development master genes, such as Pax6. In the human fetal cortex, distinct NR2F1 expression levels encompass gyri and sulci and correlate with local degrees of neurogenic activity. In addition, reduced NR2F1 levels in cerebral organoids affect neurogenesis and PAX6 expression. We propose NR2F1 as an area‐specific regulator of mouse and human brain morphology and a novel causative gene of abnormal gyrification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Bertacchi
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Inserm, iBV, Paris, France.,Clinical and Experimental Epileptology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Agnès Loubat
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Inserm, iBV, Paris, France
| | - Frederic Tran Mau-Them
- UMR1231 GAD, Inserm - Université Bourgogne-Franche Comté, Dijon, France.,Unité Fonctionnelle Innovation en Diagnostic Génomique des Maladies Rares, FHU-TRANSLAD, CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Marjolaine Willems
- Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, Service de Génétique Médicale, CHU de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Laurence Faivre
- UMR1231 GAD, Inserm - Université Bourgogne-Franche Comté, Dijon, France.,Unité Fonctionnelle Innovation en Diagnostic Génomique des Maladies Rares, FHU-TRANSLAD, CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Dijon, France.,Centre de Référence maladies rares « Anomalies du développement et syndromes malformatifs », Centre de Génétique, FHU-TRANSLAD, CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Philippe Khau van Kien
- Hôpital Carémeau, UF de Génétique Médicale et Cytogénétique, Centre de Compétences Anomalies du Développement et Syndromes Malformatifs, CHU de Nîmes, Nîmes, France
| | - Laurence Perrin
- Unité Fonctionnelle de Génétique Clinique, Hôpital Robert Debré, Paris, France
| | - Françoise Devillard
- Département de Génétique et Procréation, Hôpital Couple-Enfant, CHU de Grenoble, Grenoble, France
| | - Arthur Sorlin
- UMR1231 GAD, Inserm - Université Bourgogne-Franche Comté, Dijon, France.,Unité Fonctionnelle Innovation en Diagnostic Génomique des Maladies Rares, FHU-TRANSLAD, CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Dijon, France.,Centre de Référence maladies rares « Anomalies du développement et syndromes malformatifs », Centre de Génétique, FHU-TRANSLAD, CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Dijon, France.,Centre de référence maladies rares « Déficiences intellectuelles de causes rares », Centre de Génétique, FHU-TRANSLAD, CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Paul Kuentz
- UMR1231 GAD, Inserm - Université Bourgogne-Franche Comté, Dijon, France.,Génétique Biologique, PCBio, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Besançon, Besançon, France
| | - Christophe Philippe
- UMR1231 GAD, Inserm - Université Bourgogne-Franche Comté, Dijon, France.,Unité Fonctionnelle Innovation en Diagnostic Génomique des Maladies Rares, FHU-TRANSLAD, CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Aurore Garde
- Unité Fonctionnelle Innovation en Diagnostic Génomique des Maladies Rares, FHU-TRANSLAD, CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Dijon, France.,Centre de Référence maladies rares « Anomalies du développement et syndromes malformatifs », Centre de Génétique, FHU-TRANSLAD, CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Francesco Neri
- Epigenetics Unit, Italian Institute for Genomic Medicine, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Leibniz Institute on Aging, Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Jena, Germany
| | - Rossella Di Giaimo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy.,Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, München, Germany
| | - Salvatore Oliviero
- Epigenetics Unit, Italian Institute for Genomic Medicine, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Ludovico D'Incerti
- Neuroradiology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
| | - Carolina Frassoni
- Clinical and Experimental Epileptology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
| | - Michèle Studer
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Inserm, iBV, Paris, France
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17
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Tsaridou S, Skamnelou M, Iliadou M, Lokka G, Parlapani E, Mougkogianni M, Danalatos RI, Kanellou A, Chlorogiannis DD, Kyrousi C, Taraviras S. Three-Dimensional Models for Studying Neurodegenerative and Neurodevelopmental Diseases. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1195:35-41. [PMID: 32468456 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-32633-3_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Human brain possesses a unique anatomy and physiology. For centuries, methodological barriers and ethical challenges in accessing human brain tissues have restricted researchers into using 2-D cell culture systems and model organisms as a tool for investigating the mechanisms underlying neurological disorders in humans. However, our understanding regarding the human brain development and diseases has been recently extended due to the generation of 3D brain organoids, grown from human stem cells or induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). This system evolved into an attractive model of brain diseases as it recapitulates to a great extend the cellular organization and the microenvironment of a human brain. This chapter focuses on the application of brain organoids in modelling several neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavroula Tsaridou
- Biomedical Postgraduate Programme, Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Margarita Skamnelou
- Biomedical Postgraduate Programme, Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Marianna Iliadou
- Biomedical Postgraduate Programme, Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece.,Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Georgia Lokka
- Biomedical Postgraduate Programme, Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece.,Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Evangelia Parlapani
- Biomedical Postgraduate Programme, Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece.,Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Maria Mougkogianni
- Biomedical Postgraduate Programme, Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece.,Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Rodolfos-Iosif Danalatos
- Biomedical Postgraduate Programme, Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece.,Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Anastasia Kanellou
- Biomedical Postgraduate Programme, Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | | | - Christina Kyrousi
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece.,Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
| | - Stavros Taraviras
- Biomedical Postgraduate Programme, Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras, Greece. .,Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece.
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18
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Skelton PD, Poquerusse J, Salinaro JR, Li M, Luikart BW. Activity-dependent dendritic elaboration requires Pten. Neurobiol Dis 2019; 134:104703. [PMID: 31838155 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2019.104703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pten, a gene associated with autism spectrum disorder, is an upstream regulator of receptor tyrosine kinase intracellular signaling pathways that mediate extracellular cues to inform cellular development and activity-dependent plasticity. We therefore hypothesized that Pten loss would interfere with activity dependent dendritic growth. We investigated the effects of this interaction on the maturation of retrovirally labeled postnatally generated wild-type and Pten knockout granule neurons in male and female mouse dentate gyrus while using chemogenetics to manipulate the activity of the perforant path afferents. We find that enhancing network activity accelerates the dendritic outgrowth of wild-type, but not Pten knockout, neurons. This was specific to immature neurons during an early developmental window. We also examined synaptic connectivity and physiological measures of neuron maturation. The input resistance, membrane capacitance, dendritic spine morphology, and frequency of spontaneous synaptic events were not differentially altered by activity in wild-type versus Pten knockout neurons. Therefore, Pten and its downstream signaling pathways regulate the activity-dependent sculpting of the dendritic arbor during neuronal maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick D Skelton
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Hanover, NH 03755, United States
| | - Jessie Poquerusse
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Hanover, NH 03755, United States
| | - Julia R Salinaro
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Hanover, NH 03755, United States
| | - Meijie Li
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Hanover, NH 03755, United States
| | - Bryan W Luikart
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Hanover, NH 03755, United States.
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19
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Pten loss results in inappropriate excitatory connectivity. Mol Psychiatry 2019; 24:1627-1640. [PMID: 30967683 PMCID: PMC6785382 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-019-0412-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Revised: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Pten mutations are associated with autism spectrum disorder. Pten loss of function in neurons increases excitatory synaptic connectivity, contributing to an imbalance between excitation and inhibition. We aimed to determine whether Pten loss results in aberrant connectivity in neural circuits. We compared postnatally generated wild-type and Pten knockout granule neurons integrating into the dentate gyrus using a variety of methods to examine their connectivity. We found that postsynaptic Pten loss provides an advantage to dendritic spines in competition over a limited pool of presynaptic boutons. Retrograde monosynaptic tracing with rabies virus reveals that this results in synaptic contact with more presynaptic partners. Using independently excitable opsins to interrogate multiple inputs onto a single neuron, we found that excess connectivity is established indiscriminately from among glutamatergic afferents. Therefore, Pten loss results in inappropriate connectivity whereby neurons are coupled to a greater number of synaptic partners.
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20
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Macken WL, Tischkowitz M, Lachlan KL. PTEN Hamartoma tumor syndrome in childhood: A review of the clinical literature. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS PART C-SEMINARS IN MEDICAL GENETICS 2019; 181:591-610. [PMID: 31609537 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.c.31743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome (PHTS) is a highly variable autosomal dominant condition associated with intellectual disability, overgrowth, and tumor predisposition phenotypes, which often overlap. PHTS incorporates a number of historical clinical presentations including Bannayan-Riley-Ruvalcaba syndrome, Cowden syndrome, and a macrocephaly-autism/developmental delay syndrome. Many reviews in the literature focus on PHTS as an adult hamartoma and malignancy predisposition condition. Here, we review the current literature with a focus on pediatric presentations. The review starts with a summary of the main conditions encompassed within PHTS. We then discuss PHTS diagnostic criteria, and clinical features. We briefly address rarer PTEN associations, and the possible role of mTOR inhibitors in treatment. We acknowledge the limited understanding of the natural history of childhood-onset PHTS as a cancer predisposition syndrome and present a summary of important management considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- William L Macken
- Wessex Clinical Genetics Service, University Hospitals Southampton NHS Trust, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Marc Tischkowitz
- Department of Clinical Genetics, East Anglian Medical Genetics Service, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Department of Medical Genetics, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Katherine L Lachlan
- Wessex Clinical Genetics Service, University Hospitals Southampton NHS Trust, Southampton, United Kingdom.,Human Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
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21
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Niu W, Parent JM. Modeling genetic epilepsies in a dish. Dev Dyn 2019; 249:56-75. [DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.79] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Niu
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Graduate ProgramUniversity of Michigan Medical Center and VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System Ann Arbor Michigan
| | - Jack M. Parent
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Graduate ProgramUniversity of Michigan Medical Center and VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System Ann Arbor Michigan
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22
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Zahedi Abghari F, Moradi Y, Akouchekian M. PTEN gene mutations in patients with macrocephaly and classic autism: A systematic review. Med J Islam Repub Iran 2019; 33:10. [PMID: 31086789 PMCID: PMC6504940 DOI: 10.34171/mjiri.33.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological disorder characterized by massive damage in various fields of development. Impaired social interaction and communication skills, unusual behavior or interests, and repetitive activities are considerably disabling in these patients. There are several challenges in diagnosis of ASD patients such as co-existing epilepsy, difference in clinician attitudes and possibly multifactorial etiology of autistic behavior among children and adults. Research in recent years has emphasized a possible connection between mutations in PTEN and macrocephaly (head circumference > 97th centile). Methods: Articles in English Language were searched from international databases including Medline (PubMed), Google Scholar, Scopus, and CINHAL from January 1998 to January 2016. Results: The results showed that among 2940 patients with behavioral disorders, 2755 individuals had ASD, and 35 cases with macrocephaly had mutations in PTEN. About 77% of the articles (7/9) analyzed mutations in PTEN in patients with head circumference more than 2SD away from the mean, but did not check mutations in this gene in other ASD patients without macrocephaly. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first systematic review on human PTEN mutations and classical autistic behavior. Conclusion: We conclude that the presence of macrocephaly may not be sufficient to examine the PTEN mutation in this group; however, surveying this gene in all cases of macrocephaly seems to be necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fateme Zahedi Abghari
- Department of Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yousef Moradi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Mansoureh Akouchekian
- Department of Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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23
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Kim JK, Lee JH. Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin Pathway in Epileptic Disorders. J Korean Neurosurg Soc 2019; 62:272-287. [PMID: 31085953 PMCID: PMC6514310 DOI: 10.3340/jkns.2019.0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway coordinates the metabolic activity of eukaryotic cells through environmental signals, including nutrients, energy, growth factors, and oxygen. In the nervous system, the mTOR pathway regulates fundamental biological processes associated with neural development and neurodegeneration. Intriguingly, genes that constitute the mTOR pathway have been found to be germline and somatic mutation from patients with various epileptic disorders. Hyperactivation of the mTOR pathway due to said mutations has garnered increasing attention as culprits of these conditions : somatic mutations, in particular, in epileptic foci have recently been identified as a major genetic cause of intractable focal epilepsy, such as focal cortical dysplasia. Meanwhile, epilepsy models with aberrant activation of the mTOR pathway have helped elucidate the role of the mTOR pathway in epileptogenesis, and evidence from epilepsy models of human mutations recapitulating the features of epileptic patients has indicated that mTOR inhibitors may be of use in treating epilepsy associated with mutations in mTOR pathway genes. Here, we review recent advances in the molecular and genetic understanding of mTOR signaling in epileptic disorders. In particular, we focus on the development of and limitations to therapies targeting the mTOR pathway to treat epileptic seizures. We also discuss future perspectives on mTOR inhibition therapies and special diagnostic methods for intractable epilepsies caused by brain somatic mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jang Keun Kim
- Biomedical Science and Engineering Interdisciplinary Program, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Korea
| | - Jeong Ho Lee
- Biomedical Science and Engineering Interdisciplinary Program, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Korea.,Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Korea
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24
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Guelfi S, Botia JA, Thom M, Ramasamy A, Perona M, Stanyer L, Martinian L, Trabzuni D, Smith C, Walker R, Ryten M, Reimers M, Weale ME, Hardy J, Matarin M. Transcriptomic and genetic analyses reveal potential causal drivers for intractable partial epilepsy. Brain 2019; 142:1616-1630. [DOI: 10.1093/brain/awz074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Revised: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Guelfi
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, UCL, Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
| | - Juan A. Botia
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, UCL, Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
- Departamento de Ingeniería de la Información y las Comunicaciones, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Maria Thom
- Division of Neuropathology, UCL Institute of Neurology, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK
| | | | - Marina Perona
- Department of Radiobiology (CAC), National Atomic Energy Commission (CNEA), National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Argentina
| | - Lee Stanyer
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, UCL, Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
| | - Lillian Martinian
- Departamento de Ingeniería de la Información y las Comunicaciones, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Daniah Trabzuni
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, UCL, Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
- Department of Genetics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Colin Smith
- Academic Department of Neuropathology, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Robert Walker
- Academic Department of Neuropathology, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Mina Ryten
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, UCL, Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
| | - Mark Reimers
- Neuroscience Program and Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Michael E. Weale
- Department Medical and Molecular Genetics, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - John Hardy
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, UCL, Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
| | - Mar Matarin
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, UCL, Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, WC1N 3, UK
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25
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The role of Pax6 in brain development and its impact on pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorder. Brain Res 2019; 1705:95-103. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2018.02.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Revised: 02/23/2018] [Accepted: 02/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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26
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Karzbrun E, Reiner O. Brain Organoids-A Bottom-Up Approach for Studying Human Neurodevelopment. Bioengineering (Basel) 2019; 6:E9. [PMID: 30669275 PMCID: PMC6466401 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering6010009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Revised: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain organoids have recently emerged as a three-dimensional tissue culture platform to study the principles of neurodevelopment and morphogenesis. Importantly, brain organoids can be derived from human stem cells, and thus offer a model system for early human brain development and human specific disorders. However, there are still major differences between the in vitro systems and in vivo development. This is in part due to the challenge of engineering a suitable culture platform that will support proper development. In this review, we discuss the similarities and differences of human brain organoid systems in comparison to embryonic development. We then describe how organoids are used to model neurodevelopmental diseases. Finally, we describe challenges in organoid systems and how to approach these challenges using complementary bioengineering techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eyal Karzbrun
- Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics and Department of Physics, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA.
| | - Orly Reiner
- Department of Molecular Genetics, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel.
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27
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Arafa SR, LaSarge CL, Pun RYK, Khademi S, Danzer SC. Self-reinforcing effects of mTOR hyperactive neurons on dendritic growth. Exp Neurol 2019; 311:125-134. [PMID: 30268766 PMCID: PMC6263818 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2018.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Revised: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Loss of the mTOR pathway negative regulator PTEN from hippocampal dentate granule cells leads to neuronal hypertrophy, increased dendritic branching and aberrant basal dendrite formation in animal models. Similar changes are evident in humans with mTOR pathway mutations. These genetic conditions are associated with autism, cognitive dysfunction and epilepsy. Interestingly, humans with mTOR pathway mutations often present with mosaic disruptions of gene function, producing lesions that range from focal cortical dysplasia to hemimegalanecephaly. Whether mTOR-mediated neuronal dysmorphogenesis is impacted by the number of affected cells, however, is not known. mTOR mutations can produce secondary comorbidities, including brain hypertrophy and seizures, which could exacerbate dysmorphogenesis among mutant cells. To determine whether the percentage or "load" of PTEN knockout granule cells impacts the morphological development of these same cells, we generated two groups of PTEN knockout mice. In the first, PTEN deletion rates were held constant, at about 5%, and knockout cell growth over time was assessed. Knockout cells exhibited significant dendritic growth between 7 and 18 weeks, demonstrating that aberrant dendritic growth continues even after the cells reach maturity. In the second group of mice, PTEN was deleted from 2 to 37% of granule cells to determine whether deletion rate was a factor in driving this continued growth. Multivariate analysis revealed that both age and knockout cell load contributed to knockout cell dendritic growth. Although the mechanism remains to be determined, these findings demonstrate that large numbers of mutant neurons can produce self-reinforcing effects on their own growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salwa R Arafa
- Department of Anesthesia, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, United States; Department of Drug Development, James L Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, OH 45267, United States
| | - Candi L LaSarge
- Department of Anesthesia, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, United States
| | - Raymund Y K Pun
- Department of Anesthesia, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, United States
| | - Shadi Khademi
- Department of Anesthesia, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, United States
| | - Steve C Danzer
- Department of Anesthesia, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, United States; Departments of Anesthesia and Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, United States.
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28
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Murphy E, Benítez-Burraco A. Toward the Language Oscillogenome. Front Psychol 2018; 9:1999. [PMID: 30405489 PMCID: PMC6206218 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.01999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Language has been argued to arise, both ontogenetically and phylogenetically, from specific patterns of brain wiring. We argue that it can further be shown that core features of language processing emerge from particular phasal and cross-frequency coupling properties of neural oscillations; what has been referred to as the language ‘oscillome.’ It is expected that basic aspects of the language oscillome result from genetic guidance, what we will here call the language ‘oscillogenome,’ for which we will put forward a list of candidate genes. We have considered genes for altered brain rhythmicity in conditions involving language deficits: autism spectrum disorders, schizophrenia, specific language impairment and dyslexia. These selected genes map on to aspects of brain function, particularly on to neurotransmitter function. We stress that caution should be adopted in the construction of any oscillogenome, given the range of potential roles particular localized frequency bands have in cognition. Our aim is to propose a set of genome-to-language linking hypotheses that, given testing, would grant explanatory power to brain rhythms with respect to language processing and evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliot Murphy
- Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Psychology, University of Westminster, London, United Kingdom
| | - Antonio Benítez-Burraco
- Department of Spanish Language, Linguistics and Literary Theory, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
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29
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Wang X, Kery R, Xiong Q. Synaptopathology in autism spectrum disorders: Complex effects of synaptic genes on neural circuits. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2018; 84:398-415. [PMID: 28986278 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2017.09.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2017] [Revised: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Xinxing Wang
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Rachel Kery
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA; Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP), Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Qiaojie Xiong
- Department of Neurobiology & Behavior, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA.
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30
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Wang H. Modeling Neurological Diseases With Human Brain Organoids. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2018; 10:15. [PMID: 29937727 PMCID: PMC6002496 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2018.00015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2017] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The complexity and delicacy of human brain make it challenging to recapitulate its development, function and disorders. Brain organoids derived from human pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) provide a new tool to model both normal and pathological human brain, and greatly enhance our ability to study brain biology and diseases. Currently, human brain organoids are increasingly used in modeling neurological disorders and relative therapeutic discovery. This review article focuses on recent advances in human brain organoid system and its application in disease modeling. It also discusses the limitations and future perspective of human brain organoids in modeling neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hansen Wang
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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31
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Shnaider TA. Cerebral organoids: a promising model in cellular technologies. Vavilovskii Zhurnal Genet Selektsii 2018. [DOI: 10.18699/vj18.344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of the human brain is a complex multi-stage process including the formation of various types of neural cells and their interactions. Many fundamental mechanisms of neurogenesis have been established due to the studying of model animals. However, significant differences in the brain structure compared to other animals do not allow considering all aspects of the human brain formation, which could play the main role in the development of unique cognitive abilities for human. Four years ago, Lancaster’s group elaborated human pluripotent stem cell-derived three-dimensional cerebral organoid technology, which opened a unique opportunity for researchers to model early stages of human neurogenesis in vitro. Cerebral organoids closely remodel many endogenous brain regions with specific cell composition like ventricular zone with radial glia, choroid plexus, and cortical plate with upper and deeper-layer neurons. Moreover, human brain development includes interactions between different brain regions. Generation of hybrid three-dimensional cerebral organoids with different brain region identity allows remodeling some of them, including long-distance neuronal migration or formation of major axonal tracts. In this review, we consider the technology of obtaining human pluripotent stem cell-derived three-dimensional cerebral organoids with different modifications and with different brain region identity. In addition, we discuss successful implementation of this technology in fundamental and applied research like modeling of different neurodevelopmental disorders and drug screening. Finally, we regard existing problems and prospects for development of human pluripotent stem cell-derived threedimensional cerebral organoid technology.
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32
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PTEN expression in astrocytic processes after spinal cord injury. Mol Cell Neurosci 2018; 88:231-239. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2018.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2017] [Revised: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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33
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Sharma P, Wright DK, Johnston LA, Powell KL, Wlodek ME, Shultz SR, O'Brien TJ, Gilby KL. Differences in white matter structure between seizure prone (FAST) and seizure resistant (SLOW) rat strains. Neurobiol Dis 2017; 104:33-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2017.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2016] [Revised: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 04/27/2017] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
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34
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Akhtar AA, Sances S, Barrett R, Breunig JJ. Organoid and Organ-On-A-Chip Systems: New Paradigms for Modeling Neurological and Gastrointestinal Disease. CURRENT STEM CELL REPORTS 2017; 3:98-111. [PMID: 28983454 PMCID: PMC5624725 DOI: 10.1007/s40778-017-0080-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The modeling of biological processes in vitro provides an important tool to better understand mechanisms of development and disease, allowing for the rapid testing of therapeutics. However, a critical constraint in traditional monolayer culture systems is the absence of the multicellularity, spatial organization, and overall microenvironment present in vivo. This limitation has resulted in numerous therapeutics showing efficacy in vitro, but failing in patient trials. In this review, we discuss several organoid and "organ-on-a-chip" systems with particular regard to the modeling of neurological diseases and gastrointestinal disorders. RECENT FINDINGS Recently, the in vitro generation of multicellular organ-like structures, coined organoids, has allowed the modeling of human development, tissue architecture, and disease with human-specific pathophysiology. Additionally, microfluidic "organ-on-a-chip" technologies add another level of physiological mimicry by allowing biological mediums to be shuttled through 3D cultures. SUMMARY Organoids and organ-chips are rapidly evolving in vitro platforms which hold great promise for the modeling of development and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aslam Abbasi Akhtar
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048
| | - Samuel Sances
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048
| | - Robert Barrett
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048
- F. Widjaja Foundation Inflammatory Bowel and Immunobiology Research Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048
| | - Joshua J. Breunig
- Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
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35
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Autism, epilepsy, and synaptopathies: a not rare association. Neurol Sci 2017; 38:1353-1361. [DOI: 10.1007/s10072-017-2974-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2017] [Accepted: 04/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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36
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Magdalon J, Sánchez-Sánchez SM, Griesi-Oliveira K, Sertié AL. Dysfunctional mTORC1 Signaling: A Convergent Mechanism between Syndromic and Nonsyndromic Forms of Autism Spectrum Disorder? Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18030659. [PMID: 28335463 PMCID: PMC5372671 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18030659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Revised: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Whereas autism spectrum disorder (ASD) exhibits striking heterogeneity in genetics and clinical presentation, dysfunction of mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling pathway has been identified as a molecular feature common to several well-characterized syndromes with high prevalence of ASD. Additionally, recent findings have also implicated mTORC1 signaling abnormalities in a subset of nonsyndromic ASD, suggesting that defective mTORC1 pathway may be a potential converging mechanism in ASD pathology across different etiologies. However, the mechanistic evidence for a causal link between aberrant mTORC1 pathway activity and ASD neurobehavioral features varies depending on the ASD form involved. In this review, we first discuss six monogenic ASD-related syndromes, including both classical and potentially novel mTORopathies, highlighting their contribution to our understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms underlying ASD, and then we discuss existing evidence suggesting that aberrant mTORC1 signaling may also play a role in nonsyndromic ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Magdalon
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Centro de Pesquisa Experimental, São Paulo 05652-900, Brazil.
| | - Sandra M Sánchez-Sánchez
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Centro de Pesquisa Experimental, São Paulo 05652-900, Brazil.
- Departamento de Genética e Biologia Evolutiva, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-090, Brazil.
| | - Karina Griesi-Oliveira
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Centro de Pesquisa Experimental, São Paulo 05652-900, Brazil.
| | - Andréa L Sertié
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Centro de Pesquisa Experimental, São Paulo 05652-900, Brazil.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disease characterised with seizures. The aetiology of the most generalised epilepsies cannot be explicitly determined and the seizures are pronounced to be genetically determined by disturbances of receptors in central nervous system. Besides, neurotransmitter distributions or other metabolic problems are supposed to involve in epileptogenesis. Lack of adequate data about pharmacological agents that have antiepileptogenic effects point to need of research on this field. Thus, in this review, inflammatory aspects of epileptogenesis has been focussed via considering several concepts like role of immune system, blood-brain barrier and antibody involvement in epileptogenesis. METHODS We conducted an evidence-based review of the literatures in order to evaluate the possible participation of inflammatory processes to epileptogenesis and also, promising agents which are effective to these processes. We searched PubMed database up to November 2015 with no date restrictions. RESULTS In the present review, 163 appropriate articles were included. Obtained data suggests that inflammatory processes participate to epileptogenesis in several ways like affecting fibroblast growth factor-2 and tropomyosin receptor kinase B signalling pathways, detrimental proinflammatory pathways [such as the interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β)-interleukin-1 receptor type 1 (IL-1R1) system], mammalian target of rapamycin pathway, microglial activities, release of glial inflammatory proteins (such as macrophage inflammatory protein, interleukin 6, C-C motif ligand 2 and IL-1β), adhesion molecules that are suggested to function in signalling pathways between neurons and microglia and also linkage between these molecules and proinflammatory cytokines. CONCLUSION The literature research indicated that inflammation is a part of epileptogenesis. For this reason, further studies are necessary for assessing agents that will be effective in clinical use for therapeutic treatment of epileptogenesis.
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Knafo S, Esteban JA. PTEN: Local and Global Modulation of Neuronal Function in Health and Disease. Trends Neurosci 2017; 40:83-91. [PMID: 28081942 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2016.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2016] [Revised: 11/23/2016] [Accepted: 11/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome ten (PTEN) was recently revealed to be a synaptic player during plasticity events in addition to its well-established role as a general controlling factor in cell proliferation and neuronal growth during development. Alterations of these direct actions of PTEN at synapses may lead to synaptic dysfunction with behavioral and cognitive consequences. A recent paradigmatic example of this situation, Alzheimer's disease (AD), is associated with excessive recruitment of PTEN into synapses leading to pathological synaptic depression. By contrast, some forms of autism are characterized by failure to weaken synaptic connections, which may be related to insufficient PTEN signaling. Understanding the modulation of synaptic function by PTEN in these pathologies may contribute to the development of new therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shira Knafo
- Biophysics Institute, CSIC-UPV/EHU, Campus Universidad del País Vasco, Barrio Sarriena s/n, 48940 Leioa, Spain; Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Basque Country, Spain.
| | - José A Esteban
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Centro de Biología Molecular 'Severo Ochoa', Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)/Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain.
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Li Y, Muffat J, Omer A, Bosch I, Lancaster MA, Sur M, Gehrke L, Knoblich JA, Jaenisch R. Induction of Expansion and Folding in Human Cerebral Organoids. Cell Stem Cell 2016; 20:385-396.e3. [PMID: 28041895 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2016.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 293] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2016] [Revised: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 11/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
An expansion of the cerebral neocortex is thought to be the foundation for the unique intellectual abilities of humans. It has been suggested that an increase in the proliferative potential of neural progenitors (NPs) underlies the expansion of the cortex and its convoluted appearance. Here we show that increasing NP proliferation induces expansion and folding in an in vitro model of human corticogenesis. Deletion of PTEN stimulates proliferation and generates significantly larger and substantially folded cerebral organoids. This genetic modification allows sustained cell cycle re-entry, expansion of the progenitor population, and delayed neuronal differentiation, all key features of the developing human cortex. In contrast, Pten deletion in mouse organoids does not lead to folding. Finally, we utilized the expanded cerebral organoids to show that infection with Zika virus impairs cortical growth and folding. Our study provides new insights into the mechanisms regulating the structure and organization of the human cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Li
- The Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, 9 Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Julien Muffat
- The Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, 9 Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Attya Omer
- The Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, 9 Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Irene Bosch
- Institute for Medical Engineering and Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Madeline A Lancaster
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Mriganka Sur
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Lee Gehrke
- Institute for Medical Engineering and Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard-MIT Program in Health Sciences and Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Juergen A Knoblich
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Rudolf Jaenisch
- The Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, 9 Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 31 Ames Street, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
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Lin YC, Frei JA, Kilander MBC, Shen W, Blatt GJ. A Subset of Autism-Associated Genes Regulate the Structural Stability of Neurons. Front Cell Neurosci 2016; 10:263. [PMID: 27909399 PMCID: PMC5112273 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2016.00263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2016] [Accepted: 10/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) comprises a range of neurological conditions that affect individuals’ ability to communicate and interact with others. People with ASD often exhibit marked qualitative difficulties in social interaction, communication, and behavior. Alterations in neurite arborization and dendritic spine morphology, including size, shape, and number, are hallmarks of almost all neurological conditions, including ASD. As experimental evidence emerges in recent years, it becomes clear that although there is broad heterogeneity of identified autism risk genes, many of them converge into similar cellular pathways, including those regulating neurite outgrowth, synapse formation and spine stability, and synaptic plasticity. These mechanisms together regulate the structural stability of neurons and are vulnerable targets in ASD. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of those autism risk genes that affect the structural connectivity of neurons. We sub-categorize them into (1) cytoskeletal regulators, e.g., motors and small RhoGTPase regulators; (2) adhesion molecules, e.g., cadherins, NCAM, and neurexin superfamily; (3) cell surface receptors, e.g., glutamatergic receptors and receptor tyrosine kinases; (4) signaling molecules, e.g., protein kinases and phosphatases; and (5) synaptic proteins, e.g., vesicle and scaffolding proteins. Although the roles of some of these genes in maintaining neuronal structural stability are well studied, how mutations contribute to the autism phenotype is still largely unknown. Investigating whether and how the neuronal structure and function are affected when these genes are mutated will provide insights toward developing effective interventions aimed at improving the lives of people with autism and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Chih Lin
- Laboratory of Neuronal Connectivity, Program in Neuroscience, Hussman Institute for Autism, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Jeannine A Frei
- Laboratory of Neuronal Connectivity, Program in Neuroscience, Hussman Institute for Autism, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Michaela B C Kilander
- Laboratory of Neuronal Connectivity, Program in Neuroscience, Hussman Institute for Autism, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Wenjuan Shen
- Laboratory of Neuronal Connectivity, Program in Neuroscience, Hussman Institute for Autism, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Gene J Blatt
- Laboratory of Autism Neurocircuitry, Program in Neuroscience, Hussman Institute for Autism, Baltimore MD, USA
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Diaz-Beltran L, Esteban FJ, Wall DP. A common molecular signature in ASD gene expression: following Root 66 to autism. Transl Psychiatry 2016; 6:e705. [PMID: 26731442 PMCID: PMC5068868 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2015.112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2015] [Revised: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 06/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Several gene expression experiments on autism spectrum disorders have been conducted using both blood and brain tissue. Individually, these studies have advanced our understanding of the molecular systems involved in the molecular pathology of autism and have formed the bases of ongoing work to build autism biomarkers. In this study, we conducted an integrated systems biology analysis of 9 independent gene expression experiments covering 657 autism, 9 mental retardation and developmental delay and 566 control samples to determine if a common signature exists and to test whether regulatory patterns in the brain relevant to autism can also be detected in blood. We constructed a matrix of differentially expressed genes from these experiments and used a Jaccard coefficient to create a gene-based phylogeny, validated by bootstrap. As expected, experiments and tissue types clustered together with high statistical confidence. However, we discovered a statistically significant subgrouping of 3 blood and 2 brain data sets from 3 different experiments rooted by a highly correlated regulatory pattern of 66 genes. This Root 66 appeared to be non-random and of potential etiologic relevance to autism, given their enriched roles in neurological processes key for normal brain growth and function, learning and memory, neurodegeneration, social behavior and cognition. Our results suggest that there is a detectable autism signature in the blood that may be a molecular echo of autism-related dysregulation in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Diaz-Beltran
- Division of Systems Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Division of Systems Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Experimental Biology, Experimental Sciences Faculty, University of Jaen, Jaen, Spain
| | - F J Esteban
- Department of Experimental Biology, Experimental Sciences Faculty, University of Jaen, Jaen, Spain
| | - D P Wall
- Division of Systems Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Division of Systems Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
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He X, Thacker S, Romigh T, Yu Q, Frazier TW, Eng C. Cytoplasm-predominant Pten associates with increased region-specific brain tyrosine hydroxylase and dopamine D2 receptors in mouse model with autistic traits. Mol Autism 2015; 6:63. [PMID: 26579216 PMCID: PMC4647625 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-015-0056-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2015] [Accepted: 11/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by impairment in social communication/interaction and inflexible/repetitive behavior. Several lines of evidence support genetic factors as a predominant cause of ASD. Among those autism susceptibility genes that have been identified, the PTEN tumor suppressor gene, initially identified as predisposing to Cowden heritable cancer syndrome, was found to be mutated in a subset of ASD patients with extreme macrocephaly. However, the ASD-relevant molecular mechanism mediating the effect of PTEN mutations remains elusive. Methods We developed a Pten knock-in murine model to study the effects of Pten germline mutations, specifically altering subcellular localization, in ASD. Proteins were isolated from the hemispheres of the male littermates, and Western blots were performed to determine protein expression levels of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH). Immunohistochemical stains were carried out to validate the localization of TH and dopamine D2 receptors (D2R). PC12 cells ectopically expressing either wild-type or missense mutant PTEN were then compared for the differences in TH expression. Results Mice carrying Pten mutations have high TH and D2R in the striatum and prefrontal cortex. They also have increased phosphorylation of cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) and TH. Mechanistically, PTEN downregulates TH production in PC12 cells via inhibiting the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/CREB signaling pathway, while PTEN reduces TH phosphorylation via suppressing MAPK pathway. Unlike wild-type PTEN but similar to the mouse knock-in mutant Pten, three naturally occurring missense mutations of PTEN that we previously identified in ASD patients, H93R, F241S, and D252G, were not able to suppress TH when overexpressed in PC12 cells. In addition, two other PTEN missense mutations, C124S (pan phosphatase dead) and G129E (lipid phosphatase dead), failed to suppress TH when ectopically expressed in PC12 cells. Conclusions Our data reveal a non-canonical PTEN-TH pathway in the brain that may work as a core regulator of dopamine signaling, which when dysfunctional is pathogenic in ASD. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13229-015-0056-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin He
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Mailstop NE-50, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA ; Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Stetson Thacker
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Mailstop NE-50, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA ; Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH USA ; HHMI Graduate Program, Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Todd Romigh
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Mailstop NE-50, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA ; Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Qi Yu
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Mailstop NE-50, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA ; Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Thomas W Frazier
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Mailstop NE-50, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA ; Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH USA ; HHMI Graduate Program, Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH USA ; Center for Autism, Pediatrics Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH USA ; Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Charis Eng
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Mailstop NE-50, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA ; Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH USA ; HHMI Graduate Program, Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH USA ; Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH USA ; Stanley Shalom Zielony Institute of Nursing Excellence, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH USA ; Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH USA ; CASE Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH USA
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Targeted Gene Resequencing (Astrochip) to Explore the Tripartite Synapse in Autism-Epilepsy Phenotype with Macrocephaly. Neuromolecular Med 2015; 18:69-80. [PMID: 26537360 DOI: 10.1007/s12017-015-8378-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2015] [Accepted: 10/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The frequent co-occurrence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and epilepsy, or paroxysmal EEG abnormalities, defines a condition termed autism-epilepsy phenotype (AEP). This condition results, in some cases , from dysfunctions of glial inwardly rectifying potassium channels (Kir), which are mainly expressed in astrocytes where they mediate neuron-glia communication. Macrocephaly is also often comorbid with autism-epilepsy (autism-epilepsy phenotype with macrocephaly, MAEP), and it is tempting to hypothesize that shared pathogenic mechanisms might explain concurrence of these conditions. In the present study, we assessed whether protein pathways involved, along with Kir channels, in astrocyte-neuron interaction at the tripartite synapse play a role in the etiopathogenesis of MAEP. Using a targeted resequencing methodology, we investigated the coding regions of 35 genes in 61 patients and correlated genetic results with clinical features. Variants were subdivided into 12 classes and clustered into four groups. We detected rare or previously unknown predicted deleterious missense changes in GJA1, SLC12A2, SNTA1, EFNA3, CNTNAP2, EPHA4, and STXBP1 in seven patients and two high-frequency variants in DLG1 in six individuals. We also found that a group of variants (predicted deleterious and non-coding), segregating with the comorbid MAEP/AEP subgroups, belong to proteins specifically involved in glutamate transport and metabolism (namely, SLC17A6, GRM8, and GLUL), as well as in potassium conductance (KCNN3). This "endophenotype-oriented" study, performed using a targeted strategy, helped to further delineate part of the complex genetic background of ASD, particularly in the presence of coexisting macrocephaly and/or epilepsy/paroxysmal EEG, and suggests that use of stringent clinical clustering might be an approach worth adopting in order to unravel the complex genomic data in neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Tilot AK, Frazier TW, Eng C. Balancing Proliferation and Connectivity in PTEN-associated Autism Spectrum Disorder. Neurotherapeutics 2015; 12:609-19. [PMID: 25916396 PMCID: PMC4489960 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-015-0356-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Germline mutations in PTEN, which encodes a widely expressed phosphatase, was mapped to 10q23 and identified as the susceptibility gene for Cowden syndrome, characterized by macrocephaly and high risks of breast, thyroid, and other cancers. The phenotypic spectrum of PTEN mutations expanded to include autism with macrocephaly only 10 years ago. Neurological studies of patients with PTEN-associated autism spectrum disorder (ASD) show increases in cortical white matter and a distinctive cognitive profile, including delayed language development with poor working memory and processing speed. Once a germline PTEN mutation is found, and a diagnosis of phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) hamartoma tumor syndrome made, the clinical outlook broadens to include higher lifetime risks for multiple cancers, beginning in childhood with thyroid cancer. First described as a tumor suppressor, PTEN is a major negative regulator of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway-controlling growth, protein synthesis, and proliferation. This canonical function combines with less well-understood mechanisms to influence synaptic plasticity and neuronal cytoarchitecture. Several excellent mouse models of Pten loss or dysfunction link these neural functions to autism-like behavioral abnormalities, such as altered sociability, repetitive behaviors, and phenotypes like anxiety that are often associated with ASD in humans. These models also show the promise of mTOR inhibitors as therapeutic agents capable of reversing phenotypes ranging from overgrowth to low social behavior. Based on these findings, therapeutic options for patients with PTEN hamartoma tumor syndrome and ASD are coming into view, even as new discoveries in PTEN biology add complexity to our understanding of this master regulator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda K. Tilot
- />Genomic Medicine Institute, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA
- />Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA
| | - Thomas W. Frazier
- />Genomic Medicine Institute, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA
- />Center for Autism, Pediatric Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA
- />Department of Pediatrics, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA
| | - Charis Eng
- />Genomic Medicine Institute, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA
- />Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA
- />Stanley Shalom Zielony Institute of Nursing Excellence, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA
- />Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA
- />Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106 USA
- />Germline High Risk Focus Group, CASE Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106 USA
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Lee BH, Smith T, Paciorkowski AR. Autism spectrum disorder and epilepsy: Disorders with a shared biology. Epilepsy Behav 2015; 47:191-201. [PMID: 25900226 PMCID: PMC4475437 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2015.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2014] [Revised: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 03/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
There is an increasing recognition of clinical overlap in patients presenting with epilepsy and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and a great deal of new information regarding the genetic causes of both disorders is available. Several biological pathways appear to be involved in both disease processes, including gene transcription regulation, cellular growth, synaptic channel function, and maintenance of synaptic structure. We review several genetic disorders where ASD and epilepsy frequently co-occur, and we discuss the screening tools available for practicing neurologists and epileptologists to help determine which patients should be referred for formal ASD diagnostic evaluation. Finally, we make recommendations regarding the workflow of genetic diagnostic testing available for children with both ASD and epilepsy. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Autism and Epilepsy".
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Hoon Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Tristram Smith
- Division of Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Alex R Paciorkowski
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA; Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA; Center for Neural Development and Disease, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
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Hyperactivity of newborn Pten knock-out neurons results from increased excitatory synaptic drive. J Neurosci 2015; 35:943-59. [PMID: 25609613 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3144-14.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Developing neurons must regulate morphology, intrinsic excitability, and synaptogenesis to form neural circuits. When these processes go awry, disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or epilepsy, may result. The phosphatase Pten is mutated in some patients having ASD and seizures, suggesting that its mutation disrupts neurological function in part through increasing neuronal activity. Supporting this idea, neuronal knock-out of Pten in mice can cause macrocephaly, behavioral changes similar to ASD, and seizures. However, the mechanisms through which excitability is enhanced following Pten depletion are unclear. Previous studies have separately shown that Pten-depleted neurons can drive seizures, receive elevated excitatory synaptic input, and have abnormal dendrites. We therefore tested the hypothesis that developing Pten-depleted neurons are hyperactive due to increased excitatory synaptogenesis using electrophysiology, calcium imaging, morphological analyses, and modeling. This was accomplished by coinjecting retroviruses to either "birthdate" or birthdate and knock-out Pten in granule neurons of the murine neonatal dentate gyrus. We found that Pten knock-out neurons, despite a rapid onset of hypertrophy, were more active in vivo. Pten knock-out neurons fired at more hyperpolarized membrane potentials, displayed greater peak spike rates, and were more sensitive to depolarizing synaptic input. The increased sensitivity of Pten knock-out neurons was due, in part, to a higher density of synapses located more proximal to the soma. We determined that increased synaptic drive was sufficient to drive hypertrophic Pten knock-out neurons beyond their altered action potential threshold. Thus, our work contributes a developmental mechanism for the increased activity of Pten-depleted neurons.
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Santini E, Klann E. Reciprocal signaling between translational control pathways and synaptic proteins in autism spectrum disorders. Sci Signal 2014; 7:re10. [PMID: 25351249 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.2005832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous group of heritable neurodevelopmental disorders. Symptoms of ASD, which include deficits in social interaction skills, impaired communication ability, and ritualistic-like repetitive behaviors, appear in early childhood and continue throughout life. Genetic studies have revealed at least two clusters of genes frequently associated with ASD and intellectual disability: those encoding proteins involved in translational control and those encoding proteins involved in synaptic function. We hypothesize that mutations occurring in these two clusters of genes interfere with interconnected downstream signaling pathways in neuronal cells to cause ASD symptomatology. In this review, we discuss the monogenic forms of ASD caused by mutations in genes encoding for proteins that regulate translation and synaptic function. Specifically, we describe the function of these proteins, the intracellular signaling pathways that they regulate, and the current mouse models used to characterize the synaptic and behavioral features associated with their mutation. Finally, we summarize recent studies that have established a connection between mRNA translation and synaptic function in models of ASD and propose that dysregulation of one has a detrimental impact on the other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuela Santini
- Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Eric Klann
- Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, NY 10003, USA.
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48
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Samsam M, Ahangari R, Naser SA. Pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorders: Revisiting gastrointestinal involvement and immune imbalance. World J Gastroenterol 2014; 20:9942-9951. [PMID: 25110424 PMCID: PMC4123375 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i29.9942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2014] [Revised: 05/22/2014] [Accepted: 06/13/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) comprise a group of neurodevelopmental abnormalities that begin in early childhood and are characterized by impairment of social communication and behavioral problems including restricted interests and repetitive behaviors. Several genes have been implicated in the pathogenesis of ASD, most of them are involved in neuronal synaptogenesis. A number of environmental factors and associated conditions such as gastrointestinal (GI) abnormalities and immune imbalance have been linked to the pathophysiology of ASD. According to the March 2012 report released by United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the prevalence of ASD has sharply increased during the recent years and one out of 88 children suffers now from ASD symptoms. Although there is a strong genetic base for the disease, several associated factors could have a direct link to the pathogenesis of ASD or act as modifiers of the genes thus aggravating the initial problem. Many children suffering from ASD have GI problems such as abdominal pain, chronic diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, gastroesophageal reflux, and intestinal infections. A number of studies focusing on the intestinal mucosa, its permeability, abnormal gut development, leaky gut, and other GI problem raised many questions but studies were somehow inconclusive and an expert panel of American Academy of Pediatrics has strongly recommended further investigation in these areas. GI tract has a direct connection with the immune system and an imbalanced immune response is usually seen in ASD children. Maternal infection or autoimmune diseases have been suspected. Activation of the immune system during early development may have deleterious effect on various organs including the nervous system. In this review we revisited briefly the GI and immune system abnormalities and neuropeptide imbalance and their role in the pathophysiology of ASD and discussed some future research directions.
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