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Davies MR, Greenberg Z, van Vuurden DG, Cross CB, Zannettino ACW, Bardy C, Wardill HR. More than a small adult brain: Lessons from chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment for modelling paediatric brain disorders. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 115:229-247. [PMID: 37858741 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2023.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Childhood is recognised as a period of immense physical and emotional development, and this, in part, is driven by underlying neurophysiological transformations. These neurodevelopmental processes are unique to the paediatric brain and are facilitated by augmented rates of neuroplasticity and expanded neural stem cell populations within neurogenic niches. However, given the immaturity of the developing central nervous system, innate protective mechanisms such as neuroimmune and antioxidant responses are functionally naïve which results in periods of heightened sensitivity to neurotoxic insult. This is highly relevant in the context of paediatric cancer, and in particular, the neurocognitive symptoms associated with treatment, such as surgery, radio- and chemotherapy. The vulnerability of the developing brain may increase susceptibility to damage and persistent symptomology, aligning with reports of more severe neurocognitive dysfunction in children compared to adults. It is therefore surprising, given this intensified neurocognitive burden, that most of the pre-clinical, mechanistic research focuses exclusively on adult populations and extrapolates findings to paediatric cohorts. Given this dearth of age-specific research, throughout this review we will draw comparisons with neurodevelopmental disorders which share comparable pathways to cancer treatment related side-effects. Furthermore, we will examine the unique nuances of the paediatric brain along with the somatic systems which influence neurological function. In doing so, we will highlight the importance of developing in vitro and in vivo paediatric disease models to produce age-specific discovery and clinically translatable research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya R Davies
- School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia; Supportive Oncology Research Group, Precision Cancer Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, Australia.
| | - Zarina Greenberg
- South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Laboratory of Human Neurophysiology and Genetics, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Dannis G van Vuurden
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, the weNetherlands
| | - Courtney B Cross
- Supportive Oncology Research Group, Precision Cancer Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Andrew C W Zannettino
- School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Cedric Bardy
- South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Laboratory of Human Neurophysiology and Genetics, Adelaide, SA, Australia; Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Hannah R Wardill
- School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia; Supportive Oncology Research Group, Precision Cancer Medicine Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Al-Ayadhi L, Abualnaja A, AlZarroug A, Alharbi T, Alhowikan AM, Halepoto DM, Al-Mazidi S. A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase Protein 8 (ADAM 8) in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Links to Neuroinflammation. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2023; 19:1771-1780. [PMID: 37601825 PMCID: PMC10438429 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s408554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Converging lines of evidence confirmed neuroinflammation's role in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) etiological pathway. A disintegrin and metalloproteinase 8 (ADAM8) play major roles in inflammatory and allergic processes in various diseases. Aim This study aimed to investigate ADAM8 plasma levels in autistic children compared to healthy controls. Also, to discover the association between ADAM8, disease severity, and neuroinflammation in ASD. Methodology This case-control study included children with ASD (n=40) and aged-matched healthy controls (n=40). The plasma levels of the ADAM 8 were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The assessment of ASD severity and social and sensory behaviors were categorized as mild, moderate and severe. Correlations among ADAM8 plasma levels and ASD severity scores [Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) and Short Sensory Profile (SSP)] were obtained by Spearman correlation coefficient (r). Results ASD children (n=40), including severe autism (n=21) and mild-to-moderate autism (n=19), showed significantly (p ≤ 0.05) lower plasma levels of ADAM8 [4683 (2885-5229); 4663 (4060-5000); 4632 (2885-5229)], respectively, than those of healthy controls [5000 (4047-5000)] [median (IQR) pg/mL]. However, there was no significant difference between the ADAM8 levels of children with severe and mild-to-moderate autism (p = 0.71). Moreover, ADAM8 plasma levels were not significantly correlated with the severity of ASD measured by behavioral scales [CARS (r= -0.11, p=0.55), SRS (r=0.11, p= 0.95), SSP (r=-0.23, p=0.23)]. Conclusion The low ADAM8 plasma levels in children with ASD possibly indicated that ADAM8 might be implicated in the pathogenesis of ASD but not in the severity of the disease. These results should be interpreted with caution until additional studies are carried out with larger populations to decide whether the reduction in plasma ADAM8 levels is a mere consequence of ASD or if it plays a pathogenic role in the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laila Al-Ayadhi
- Autism Research and Treatment Centre, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11461, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11461, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amani Abualnaja
- College of Medicine, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, 11432, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah AlZarroug
- College of Medicine, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, 11432, Saudi Arabia
| | - Turki Alharbi
- College of Medicine, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, 11432, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulrahman M Alhowikan
- Autism Research and Treatment Centre, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11461, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11461, Saudi Arabia
| | - Dost M Halepoto
- Autism Research and Treatment Centre, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11461, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sarah Al-Mazidi
- College of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, 11432, Saudi Arabia
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Theoharides TC, Kempuraj D. Potential Role of Moesin in Regulating Mast Cell Secretion. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12081. [PMID: 37569454 PMCID: PMC10418457 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Mast cells have existed for millions of years in species that never suffer from allergic reactions. Hence, in addition to allergies, mast cells can play a critical role in homeostasis and inflammation via secretion of numerous vasoactive, pro-inflammatory and neuro-sensitizing mediators. Secretion may utilize different modes that involve the cytoskeleton, but our understanding of the molecular mechanisms regulating secretion is still not well understood. The Ezrin/Radixin/Moesin (ERM) family of proteins is involved in linking cell surface-initiated signaling to the actin cytoskeleton. However, how ERMs may regulate secretion from mast cells is still poorly understood. ERMs contain two functional domains connected through a long α-helix region, the N-terminal FERM (band 4.1 protein-ERM) domain and the C-terminal ERM association domain (C-ERMAD). The FERM domain and the C-ERMAD can bind to each other in a head-to-tail manner, leading to a closed/inactive conformation. Typically, phosphorylation on the C-terminus Thr has been associated with the activation of ERMs, including secretion from macrophages and platelets. It has previously been shown that the ability of the so-called mast cell "stabilizer" disodium cromoglycate (cromolyn) to inhibit secretion from rat mast cells closely paralleled the phosphorylation of a 78 kDa protein, which was subsequently shown to be moesin, a member of ERMs. Interestingly, the phosphorylation of moesin during the inhibition of mast cell secretion was on the N-terminal Ser56/74 and Thr66 residues. This phosphorylation pattern could lock moesin in its inactive state and render it inaccessible to binding to the Soluble NSF attachment protein receptors (SNAREs) and synaptosomal-associated proteins (SNAPs) critical for exocytosis. Using confocal microscopic imaging, we showed moesin was found to colocalize with actin and cluster around secretory granules during inhibition of secretion. In conclusion, the phosphorylation pattern and localization of moesin may be important in the regulation of mast cell secretion and could be targeted for the development of effective inhibitors of secretion of allergic and inflammatory mediators from mast cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theoharis C. Theoharides
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA;
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Duraisamy Kempuraj
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA;
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Kaminski VDL, Michita RT, Ellwanger JH, Veit TD, Schuch JB, Riesgo RDS, Roman T, Chies JAB. Exploring potential impacts of pregnancy-related maternal immune activation and extracellular vesicles on immune alterations observed in autism spectrum disorder. Heliyon 2023; 9:e15593. [PMID: 37305482 PMCID: PMC10256833 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e15593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a set of neurodevelopmental disorders usually observed in early life, with impacts on behavioral and social skills. Incidence of ASD has been dramatically increasing worldwide, possibly due to increase in awareness/diagnosis as well as to genetic and environmental triggers. Currently, it is estimated that ∼1% of the world population presents ASD symptoms. In addition to its genetic background, environmental and immune-related factors also influence the ASD etiology. In this context, maternal immune activation (MIA) has recently been suggested as a component potentially involved in ASD development. In addition, extracellular vesicles (EVs) are abundant at the maternal-fetal interface and are actively involved in the immunoregulation required for a healthy pregnancy. Considering that alterations in concentration and content of EVs have also been associated with ASD, this article raises a debate about the potential roles of EVs in the processes surrounding MIA. This represents the major differential of the present review compared to other ASD studies. To support the suggested correlations and hypotheses, findings regarding the roles of EVs during pregnancy and potential influences on ASD are discussed, along with a review and update concerning the participation of infections, cytokine unbalances, overweight and obesity, maternal anti-fetal brain antibodies, maternal fever, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, labor type and microbiota unbalances in MIA and ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valéria de Lima Kaminski
- Laboratório de Imunobiologia e Imunogenética, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Genética e Biologia Molecular, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Laboratório de Imunologia Aplicada, Instituto de Ciência e Tecnologia - ICT, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - UNIFESP, São José dos Campos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rafael Tomoya Michita
- Laboratório de Genética Molecular Humana, Universidade Luterana do Brasil - ULBRA, Canoas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Joel Henrique Ellwanger
- Laboratório de Imunobiologia e Imunogenética, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Genética e Biologia Molecular, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Tiago Degani Veit
- Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Departmento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul - UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Jaqueline Bohrer Schuch
- Centro de Pesquisa em Álcool e Drogas, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul - UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Psiquiatria e Ciências do Comportamento, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Rudimar dos Santos Riesgo
- Child Neurology Unit, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul - UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Tatiana Roman
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Genética e Biologia Molecular, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - José Artur Bogo Chies
- Laboratório de Imunobiologia e Imunogenética, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Genética e Biologia Molecular, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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Trimarchi M, Lauritano D, Ronconi G, Caraffa A, Gallenga CE, Frydas I, Kritas SK, Calvisi V, Conti P. Mast Cell Cytokines in Acute and Chronic Gingival Tissue Inflammation: Role of IL-33 and IL-37. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232113242. [PMID: 36362030 PMCID: PMC9654575 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Much evidence suggests autoimmunity in the etiopathogenesis of periodontal disease. In fact, in periodontitis, there is antibody production against collagen, DNA, and IgG, as well as increased IgA expression, T cell dysfunction, high expression of class II MHC molecules on the surface of gingival epithelial cells in inflamed tissues, activation of NK cells, and the generation of antibodies against the azurophil granules of polymorphonuclear leukocytes. In general, direct activation of autoreactive immune cells and production of TNF can activate neutrophils to release pro-inflammatory enzymes with tissue damage in the gingiva. Gingival inflammation and, in the most serious cases, periodontitis, are mainly due to the dysbiosis of the commensal oral microbiota that triggers the immune system. This inflammatory pathological state can affect the periodontal ligament, bone, and the entire gingival tissue. Oral tolerance can be abrogated by some cytokines produced by epithelial cells and activated immune cells, including mast cells (MCs). Periodontal cells and inflammatory-immune cells, including mast cells (MCs), produce cytokines and chemokines, mediating local inflammation of the gingival, along with destruction of the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. Immune-cell activation and recruitment can be induced by inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1, TNF, IL-33, and bacterial products, including lipopolysaccharide (LPS). IL-1 and IL-33 are pleiotropic cytokines from members of the IL-1 family, which mediate inflammation of MCs and contribute to many key features of periodontitis and other inflammatory disorders. IL-33 activates several immune cells, including lymphocytes, Th2 cells, and MCs in both innate and acquired immunological diseases. The classic therapies for periodontitis include non-surgical periodontal treatment, surgery, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and surgery, which have been only partially effective. Recently, a natural cytokine, IL-37, a member of the IL-1 family and a suppressor of IL-1b, has received considerable attention for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. In this article, we report that IL-37 may be an important and effective therapeutic cytokine that may inhibit periodontal inflammation. The purpose of this paper is to study the relationship between MCs, IL-1, IL-33, and IL-37 inhibition in acute and chronic inflamed gingival tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Trimarchi
- Centre of Neuroscience of Milan, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan, 20122 Milano, Italy;
| | - Dorina Lauritano
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Gianpaolo Ronconi
- Clinica dei Pazienti del Territorio, Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | | | - Carla E. Gallenga
- Section of Ophthalmology, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Specialist Surgery, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Ilias Frydas
- Department of Parasitology, Aristotle University, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Spyros K. Kritas
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Macedonia, Greece;
| | - Vittorio Calvisi
- Orthopaedics Department, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy;
| | - Pio Conti
- Immunology Division, Postgraduate Medical School, University of Chieti, 65100 Pescara, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Saad AK, Akour A, Mahboob A, AbuRuz S, Sadek B. Role of Brain Modulators in Neurodevelopment: Focus on Autism Spectrum Disorder and Associated Comorbidities. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:612. [PMID: 35631438 PMCID: PMC9144645 DOI: 10.3390/ph15050612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and associated neurodevelopmental disorders share similar pathogenesis and clinical features. Pathophysiological changes in these diseases are rooted in early neuronal stem cells in the uterus. Several genetic and environmental factors potentially perturb neurogenesis and synaptogenesis processes causing incomplete or altered maturation of the brain that precedes the symptomology later in life. In this review, the impact of several endogenous neuromodulators and pharmacological agents on the foetus during pregnancy, manifested on numerous aspects of neurodevelopment is discussed. Within this context, some possible insults that may alter these modulators and therefore alter their role in neurodevelopment are high-lighted. Sometimes, a particular insult could influence several neuromodulator systems as is supported by recent research in the field of ASD and associated disorders. Dopaminergic hy-pothesis prevailed on the table for discussion of the pathogenesis of schizophrenia (SCH), atten-tion-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and ASD for a long time. However, recent cumulative evidence suggests otherwise. Indeed, the neuromodulators that are dysregulated in ASD and comorbid disorders are as diverse as the causes and symptoms of this disease. Additionally, these neuromodulators have roles in brain development, further complicating their involvement in comorbidity. This review will survey the current understanding of the neuromodulating systems to serve the pharmacological field during pregnancy and to minimize drug-related insults in pa-tients with ASD and associated comorbidity disorders, e.g., SCH or ADHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali K. Saad
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates; (A.K.S.); (A.A.); (S.A.)
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates
| | - Amal Akour
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates; (A.K.S.); (A.A.); (S.A.)
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman P.O. Box 11942, Jordan
| | - Abdulla Mahboob
- Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Salahdein AbuRuz
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates; (A.K.S.); (A.A.); (S.A.)
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman P.O. Box 11942, Jordan
| | - Bassem Sadek
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates; (A.K.S.); (A.A.); (S.A.)
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates
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Sandoval KC, Thackray SE, Wong A, Niewinski N, Chipak C, Rehal S, Dyck RH. Lack of Vesicular Zinc Does Not Affect the Behavioral Phenotype of Polyinosinic:Polycytidylic Acid-Induced Maternal Immune Activation Mice. Front Behav Neurosci 2022; 16:769322. [PMID: 35273483 PMCID: PMC8902171 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2022.769322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Zinc is important in neural and synaptic development and neuronal transmission. Within the brain, zinc transporter 3 (ZnT3) is essential for zinc uptake into vesicles. Loss of vesicular zinc has been shown to produce neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD)-like behavior, such as decreased social interaction and increased anxiety- and repetitive-like behavior. Maternal immune activation (MIA) has been identified as an environmental factor for NDDs, such as autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and schizophrenia (SZ), in offspring, which occurs during pregnancy when the mother’s immune system reacts to the exposure to viruses or infectious diseases. In this study, we investigated the interaction effect of a genetic factor [ZnT3 knockout (KO) mice] and an environmental factor (MIA). We induced MIA in pregnant female (dams) mice during mid-gestation, using polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (polyI:C), which mimics a viral infection. Male and female ZnT3 KO and wild-type (WT) offspring were tested in five behavioral paradigms: Ultrasonic Vocalizations (USVs) at postnatal day 9 (P9), Open Field Test, Marble Burying Test, three-Chamber Social Test, and Pre-pulse Inhibition (PPI) in adulthood (P60–75). Our results indicate that loss of vesicular zinc does not result in enhanced ASD- and SZ-like phenotype compared to WT, nor does it show a more pronounced phenotype in male ZnT3 KO compared to female ZnT3 KO. Finally, MIA offspring demonstrated an ASD- and SZ-like phenotype only in specific behavioral tests: increased calls emitted in USVs and fewer marbles buried. Our results suggest that there is no interaction between the loss of vesicular zinc and MIA induction in the susceptibility to developing an ASD- and SZ-like phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katy Celina Sandoval
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute (HBI), University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute (ACHRI), University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Sarah E. Thackray
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute (HBI), University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute (ACHRI), University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Alison Wong
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute (HBI), University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute (ACHRI), University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Nicole Niewinski
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute (HBI), University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute (ACHRI), University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Colten Chipak
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute (HBI), University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute (ACHRI), University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Suhkjinder Rehal
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute (HBI), University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute (ACHRI), University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Richard H. Dyck
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute (HBI), University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute (ACHRI), University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- *Correspondence: Richard H. Dyck,
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Panisi C, Marini M. Dynamic and Systemic Perspective in Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Change of Gaze in Research Opens to A New Landscape of Needs and Solutions. Brain Sci 2022; 12:250. [PMID: 35204013 PMCID: PMC8870276 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12020250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The first step for a harmonious bio-psycho-social framework in approaching autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is overcoming the conflict between the biological and the psychosocial perspective. Biological research can provide clues for a correct approach to clinical practice, assuming that it would lead to the conceptualization of a pathogenetic paradigm able to account for epidemiologic and clinical findings. The upward trajectory in ASD prevalence and the systemic involvement of other organs besides the brain suggest that the epigenetic paradigm is the most plausible one. The embryo-fetal period is the crucial window of opportunity for keeping neurodevelopment on the right tracks, suggesting that women's health in pregnancy should be a priority. Maladaptive molecular pathways beginning in utero, in particular, a vicious circle between the immune response, oxidative stress/mitochondrial dysfunction, and dysbiosis-impact neurodevelopment and brain functioning across the lifespan and are the basis for progressive multisystemic disorders that account for the substantial health loss and the increased mortality in ASD. Therefore, the biological complexity of ASD and its implications for health requires the enhancement of clinical skills on these topics, to achieve an effective multi-disciplinary healthcare model. Well-balanced training courses could be a promising starting point to make a change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Panisi
- Fondazione Istituto Sacra Famiglia ONLUS, Cesano Boscone, 20090 Milan, Italy
| | - Marina Marini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy;
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Alhakbany M, Al-Ayadhi L, El-Ansary A. CTRP3 as a novel biomarker in the plasma of Saudi children with autism. PeerJ 2022; 10:e12630. [PMID: 35047232 PMCID: PMC8759357 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND C1q/tumor necrosis factor-related protein-3 (CTRP3) has diverse functions: anti-inflammation, metabolic regulation, and protection against endothelial dysfunction. METHODS The plasma level of CTRP3 in autistic patients (n = 32) was compared to that in controls (n = 37) using ELISA. RESULTS CTRP3 was higher (24.7% with P < 0.05) in autistic patients than in controls. No association was observed between CTRP3 and the severity of the disorder using the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS). A positive correlation between CARs and the age of patients was reported. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis demonstrated a low area under the curve (AUC) for all patients (0.636). Low AUCs were also found in the case of severe patients (0.659) compared to controls, but both values were statistically significant (P ≤ 0.05). Despite the small sample size, we are the first to find an association between CTRP3 and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
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Affiliation(s)
- Manan Alhakbany
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Laila Al-Ayadhi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,Autism Research and Treatment Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Afaf El-Ansary
- Autism Research and Treatment Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,CONEM Saudi Autism Research Group, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,Central Laboratory, Female Center for Scientific and Medical Studies, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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10
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Hu C, Li H, Li J, Luo X, Hao Y. Microglia: Synaptic modulator in autism spectrum disorder. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:958661. [PMID: 36465285 PMCID: PMC9714329 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.958661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by variable impairment of social communication and repetitive behaviors, highly restricted interests, and/or sensory behaviors beginning early in life. Many individuals with ASD have dysfunction of microglia, which may be closely related to neuroinflammation, making microglia play an important role in the pathogenesis of ASD. Mounting evidence indicates that microglia, the resident immune cells of the brain, are required for proper brain function, especially in the maintenance of neuronal circuitry and control of behavior. Dysfunction of microglia will ultimately affect the neural function in a variety of ways, including the formation of synapses and alteration of excitatory-inhibitory balance. In this review, we provide an overview of how microglia actively interact with neurons in physiological conditions and modulate the fate and functions of synapses. We put a spotlight on the multi-dimensional neurodevelopmental roles of microglia, especially in the essential influence of synapses, and discuss how microglia are currently thought to influence ASD progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Hu
- Division of Child Healthcare, Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Heli Li
- Division of Child Healthcare, Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinhui Li
- Division of Child Healthcare, Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoping Luo
- Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Hao
- Division of Child Healthcare, Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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11
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Theoharides TC. Ways to Address Perinatal Mast Cell Activation and Focal Brain Inflammation, including Response to SARS-CoV-2, in Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Pers Med 2021; 11:860. [PMID: 34575637 PMCID: PMC8465360 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11090860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) continues to increase, but no distinct pathogenesis or effective treatment are known yet. The presence of many comorbidities further complicates matters, making a personalized approach necessary. An increasing number of reports indicate that inflammation of the brain leads to neurodegenerative changes, especially during perinatal life, "short-circuiting the electrical system" in the amygdala that is essential for our ability to feel emotions, but also regulates fear. Inflammation of the brain can result from the stimulation of mast cells-found in all tissues including the brain-by neuropeptides, stress, toxins, and viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, leading to the activation of microglia. These resident brain defenders then release even more inflammatory molecules and stop "pruning" nerve connections, disrupting neuronal connectivity, lowering the fear threshold, and derailing the expression of emotions, as seen in ASD. Many epidemiological studies have reported a strong association between ASD and atopic dermatitis (eczema), asthma, and food allergies/intolerance, all of which involve activated mast cells. Mast cells can be triggered by allergens, neuropeptides, stress, and toxins, leading to disruption of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and activation of microglia. Moreover, many epidemiological studies have reported a strong association between stress and atopic dermatitis (eczema) during gestation, which involves activated mast cells. Both mast cells and microglia can also be activated by SARS-CoV-2 in affected mothers during pregnancy. We showed increased expression of the proinflammatory cytokine IL-18 and its receptor, but decreased expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-38 and its receptor IL-36R, only in the amygdala of deceased children with ASD. We further showed that the natural flavonoid luteolin is a potent inhibitor of the activation of both mast cells and microglia, but also blocks SARS-CoV-2 binding to its receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). A treatment approach should be tailored to each individual patient and should address hyperactivity/stress, allergies, or food intolerance, with the introduction of natural molecules or drugs to inhibit mast cells and microglia, such as liposomal luteolin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theoharis C. Theoharides
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Avenue, Suite 304, Boston, MA 02111, USA; ; Tel.: +1-(617)-636-6866; Fax: +1-(617)-636-2456
- School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Tufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111, USA
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12
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Schmidt RJ, Liang D, Busgang SA, Curtin P, Giulivi C. Maternal Plasma Metabolic Profile Demarcates a Role for Neuroinflammation in Non-Typical Development of Children. Metabolites 2021; 11:metabo11080545. [PMID: 34436486 PMCID: PMC8400060 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11080545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal and cord plasma metabolomics were used to elucidate biological pathways associated with increased diagnosis risk for autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Metabolome-wide associations were assessed in both maternal and umbilical cord plasma in relation to diagnoses of ASD and other non-typical development (Non-TD) compared to typical development (TD) in the Markers of Autism risk in Babies: Learning Early Signs (MARBLES) cohort study of children born to mothers who already have at least one child with ASD. Analyses were stratified by sample matrix type, machine mode, and annotation confidence level. Dimensionality reduction techniques were used [i.e, principal component analysis (PCA) and random subset weighted quantile sum regression (WQSRS)] to minimize the high multiple comparison burden. With WQSRS, a metabolite mixture obtained from the negative mode of maternal plasma decreased the odds of Non-TD compared to TD. These metabolites, all related to the prostaglandin pathway, underscored the relevance of neuroinflammation status. No other significant findings were observed. Dimensionality reduction strategies provided confirming evidence that a set of maternal plasma metabolites are important in distinguishing Non-TD compared to TD diagnosis. A lower risk for Non-TD was linked to anti-inflammatory elements, thereby linking neuroinflammation to detrimental brain function consistent with studies ranging from neurodevelopment to neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J. Schmidt
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA;
- Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (MIND) Institute, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Donghai Liang
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA;
| | - Stefanie A. Busgang
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; (S.A.B.); (P.C.)
| | - Paul Curtin
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; (S.A.B.); (P.C.)
| | - Cecilia Giulivi
- Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (MIND) Institute, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
- Correspondence:
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13
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Panisi C, Guerini FR, Abruzzo PM, Balzola F, Biava PM, Bolotta A, Brunero M, Burgio E, Chiara A, Clerici M, Croce L, Ferreri C, Giovannini N, Ghezzo A, Grossi E, Keller R, Manzotti A, Marini M, Migliore L, Moderato L, Moscone D, Mussap M, Parmeggiani A, Pasin V, Perotti M, Piras C, Saresella M, Stoccoro A, Toso T, Vacca RA, Vagni D, Vendemmia S, Villa L, Politi P, Fanos V. Autism Spectrum Disorder from the Womb to Adulthood: Suggestions for a Paradigm Shift. J Pers Med 2021; 11:70. [PMID: 33504019 PMCID: PMC7912683 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11020070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Revised: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The wide spectrum of unique needs and strengths of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is a challenge for the worldwide healthcare system. With the plethora of information from research, a common thread is required to conceptualize an exhaustive pathogenetic paradigm. The epidemiological and clinical findings in ASD cannot be explained by the traditional linear genetic model, hence the need to move towards a more fluid conception, integrating genetics, environment, and epigenetics as a whole. The embryo-fetal period and the first two years of life (the so-called 'First 1000 Days') are the crucial time window for neurodevelopment. In particular, the interplay and the vicious loop between immune activation, gut dysbiosis, and mitochondrial impairment/oxidative stress significantly affects neurodevelopment during pregnancy and undermines the health of ASD people throughout life. Consequently, the most effective intervention in ASD is expected by primary prevention aimed at pregnancy and at early control of the main effector molecular pathways. We will reason here on a comprehensive and exhaustive pathogenetic paradigm in ASD, viewed not just as a theoretical issue, but as a tool to provide suggestions for effective preventive strategies and personalized, dynamic (from womb to adulthood), systemic, and interdisciplinary healthcare approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Panisi
- Fondazione Istituto Sacra Famiglia ONLUS, Cesano Boscone, 20090 Milan, Italy;
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Franca Rosa Guerini
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, ONLUS, 20148 Milan, Italy; (M.C.); (M.S.)
| | | | - Federico Balzola
- Division of Gastroenterology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Pier Mario Biava
- Scientific Institute of Research and Care Multimedica, 20138 Milan, Italy;
| | - Alessandra Bolotta
- DIMES, School of Medicine, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (P.M.A.); (A.B.); (A.G.)
| | - Marco Brunero
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Ernesto Burgio
- ECERI—European Cancer and Environment Research Institute, Square de Meeus 38-40, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium;
| | - Alberto Chiara
- Dipartimento Materno Infantile ASST, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Mario Clerici
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, ONLUS, 20148 Milan, Italy; (M.C.); (M.S.)
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Luigi Croce
- Centro Domino per l’Autismo, Universita’ Cattolica Brescia, 20139 Milan, Italy;
| | - Carla Ferreri
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity (ISOF), 40129 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Niccolò Giovannini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Ghezzo
- DIMES, School of Medicine, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (P.M.A.); (A.B.); (A.G.)
| | - Enzo Grossi
- Autism Research Unit, Villa Santa Maria Foundation, 22038 Tavernerio, Italy;
| | - Roberto Keller
- Adult Autism Centre DSM ASL Città di Torino, 10138 Turin, Italy;
| | - Andrea Manzotti
- RAISE Lab, Foundation COME Collaboration, 65121 Pescara, Italy;
| | - Marina Marini
- DIMES, School of Medicine, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (P.M.A.); (A.B.); (A.G.)
| | - Lucia Migliore
- Medical Genetics Laboratories, Department of Translational Research and of New Surgical and Medical Technologies, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (L.M.); (A.S.)
| | - Lucio Moderato
- Fondazione Istituto Sacra Famiglia ONLUS, Cesano Boscone, 20090 Milan, Italy;
| | - Davide Moscone
- Associazione Spazio Asperger ONLUS, Centro Clinico CuoreMenteLab, 00141 Rome, Italy;
| | - Michele Mussap
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Puericulture Institute and Neonatal Section, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, 09100 Cagliari, Italy; (M.M.); (V.F.)
| | - Antonia Parmeggiani
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, IRCCS ISNB, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Valentina Pasin
- Milan Institute for health Care and Advanced Learning, 20124 Milano, Italy;
| | | | - Cristina Piras
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Marina Saresella
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, ONLUS, 20148 Milan, Italy; (M.C.); (M.S.)
| | - Andrea Stoccoro
- Medical Genetics Laboratories, Department of Translational Research and of New Surgical and Medical Technologies, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (L.M.); (A.S.)
| | - Tiziana Toso
- Unione Italiana Lotta alla Distrofia Muscolare UILDM, 35100 Padova, Italy;
| | - Rosa Anna Vacca
- Institute of Biomembranes, Bioenergetics and Molecular Biotechnologies (IBIOM), National Research Council of Italy, 70126 Bari, Italy;
| | - David Vagni
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), National Research Council of Italy, 98164 Messina, Italy;
| | | | - Laura Villa
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS Eugenio Medea, Via Don Luigi Monza 20, 23842 Bosisio Parini, Italy;
| | - Pierluigi Politi
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Vassilios Fanos
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Puericulture Institute and Neonatal Section, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, 09100 Cagliari, Italy; (M.M.); (V.F.)
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, 09042 Cagliari, Italy
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Yao F, Zhang K, Feng C, Gao Y, Shen L, Liu X, Ni J. Protein Biomarkers of Autism Spectrum Disorder Identified by Computational and Experimental Methods. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:554621. [PMID: 33716802 PMCID: PMC7947305 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.554621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. However, there are currently no reliable biomarkers for ASD diagnosis. Materials and Methods: The strategy of computational prediction combined with experimental verification was used to identify blood protein biomarkers for ASD. First, brain tissue-based transcriptome data of ASD were collected from Gene Expression Omnibus database and analyzed to find ASD-related genes by bioinformatics method of significance analysis of microarrays. Then, a prediction program of blood-secretory proteins was applied on these genes to predict ASD-related proteins in blood. Furthermore, ELISA was used to verify these proteins in plasma samples of ASD patients. Results: A total of 364 genes were identified differentially expressed in brain tissue of ASD, among which 59 genes were predicted to encode ASD-related blood-secretory proteins. After functional analysis and literature survey, six proteins were chosen for experimental verification and five were successfully validated. Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses showed that the area under the curve of SLC25A12, LIMK1, and RARS was larger than 0.85, indicating that they are more powerful in discriminating ASD cases from controls. Conclusion: SLC25A12, LIMK1, and RARS might serve as new potential blood protein biomarkers for ASD. Our findings provide new insights into the pathogenesis and diagnosis of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Yao
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Kaoyuan Zhang
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Dermatology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chengyun Feng
- Department of Child Healthcare, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Baoan, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yan Gao
- Department of Child Healthcare, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Baoan, Shenzhen, China
| | - Liming Shen
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xukun Liu
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jiazuan Ni
- College of Life Science and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
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15
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Sharma AK, Gokulchandran N, Kulkarni PP, Sane HM, Sharma R, Jose A, Badhe PB. Cell transplantation as a novel therapeutic strategy for autism spectrum disorders: a clinical study. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF STEM CELLS 2020; 9:89-100. [PMID: 33489466 PMCID: PMC7811933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorders [ASD] is a lifelong disability mainly affecting the development, communication, social interaction and behavior of an individual. Cell transplantation is emerging as a potential therapeutic strategy for ASD. Our previously published proof of concept study showed beneficial effects of cell transplantation in ASD. This study shows effect of cell transplantation in a larger sample size of ASD patients. METHODS 254 patients diagnosed with ASD on DSM V criteria were enrolled in this open label non-randomized study. The intervention included intrathecal transplantation of autologous bone marrow mononuclear cells and neurorehabilitation. On mean follow up of 7.50 months, percentage analysis was performed on all symptomatic changes. Changes in outcome measures, Indian Scale for Assessment of Autism [ISAA] and Childhood Autism Rating Scale [CARS], were analyzed statistically using Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test. Comparative analysis of Positron Emission Tomography [PET CT] scan brain, performed before and 6 months after intervention, was done in 86 patients to monitor the outcome at cellular level. Change in the standardized uptake values was statistically evaluated using T-Test [P≤0.05]. RESULTS Improvements were observed in eye contact, attention and concentration, hyperactivity, sitting tolerance, social interaction, stereotypical behavior, aggressiveness, communication, speech, command following and self-stimulatory behavior. Statistically significant improvement was observed in scores of ISAA and CARS after intervention. A significantly better outcome of the intervention was found in patients at younger age and with shorter duration of disease [<5 years from time of diagnosis]. 86 patients who underwent a repeat PET CT scan showed improved brain metabolism after intervention in areas which correlated to the symptomatic changes. No major procedure related adverse events were recorded. However, 5 patients, with history of seizure and abnormal EEG, had an episode of seizure which was managed using medications. Outcome of intervention in these patients was not affected by seizures as improvements were observed in them. CONCLUSION The results of this study indicate that autologous bone marrow mononuclear cells in combination with neurorehabilitation are a safe and effective treatment modality for ASD. It improves the quality of life of patients and helps them to integrate in mainstream lifestyle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alok K Sharma
- Department of Medical Services and Clinical Research, NeuroGen Brain & Spine InstituteMumbai, India
| | - Nandini Gokulchandran
- Department of Medical Services and Clinical Research, NeuroGen Brain & Spine InstituteMumbai, India
| | - Pooja P Kulkarni
- Department of Research & Development, NeuroGen Brain & Spine InstituteMumbai, India
| | - Hemangi M Sane
- Department of Research & Development, NeuroGen Brain & Spine InstituteMumbai, India
| | - Ridhima Sharma
- Department of Neurorehabilitation, NeuroGen Brain & Spine InstituteMumbai, India
| | - Alitta Jose
- Department of Research & Development, NeuroGen Brain & Spine InstituteMumbai, India
| | - Prerna B Badhe
- Department of Regenerative Laboratory Services, NeuroGen Brain & Spine InstituteMumbai, India
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16
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Microglia mediated neuroinflammation in autism spectrum disorder. J Psychiatr Res 2020; 130:167-176. [PMID: 32823050 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2020.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the precise pathophysiologies underlying autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has not yet been fully clarified, growing evidence supports the involvement of neuroinflammation in the pathogenesis of this disorder, with microglia being particular relevance in the pathophysiologic processes. OBJECTIVE The present review aimed to systematically characterize existing literature regarding the role of microglia mediated neuroinflammation in the etiology of ASD. METHODS A systematic search was conducted for records indexed within Pubmed, EMBASE, or Web of Science to identify potentially eligible publications. Study selection and data extraction were performed by two authors, and the discrepancies in each step were settled through discussions. RESULTS A total of 14 studies comprising 1007 subjects met the eligibility criteria for this review, including 8 immunohistochemistry (IHC) studies, 5 genetic analysis studies, and 1 positron emission tomography (PET) studies. Although small in quantity, the included studies collectively pointed to a role of microglia mediated neuroinflammation in the pathogenesis of ASD. CONCLUSION Findings generated from this review consistently supported the involvement of neuroinflammation in the development of ASD, confirmed by the activation of microglia in different brain regions, involving increased cell number or cell density, morphological alterations, and phenotypic shifts.
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17
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Che X, Fang Y, You M, Xu Y, Wang Y. Exposure to nonylphenol in early life increases pro-inflammatory cytokines in the prefrontal cortex: Involvement of gut-brain communication. Chem Biol Interact 2020; 323:109076. [PMID: 32240654 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2020.109076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
A growing body of evidence indicates that exposure to nonylphenol (NP), a typical persistent organic pollutant (POP), in early life results in the impairment of the central nervous system (CNS), but the underlying mechanism still remains to be elucidated. High levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the brain have been implicated in the CNS damages. The animal model of exposure to NP in early life was established by maternal gavage during the pregnancy and lactation in the present study. We found that exposure to NP in early life increased the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the rat prefrontal cortex. Interestingly, the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the intestine as well as in the serum were also increased by NP exposure. Furthermore, the increased permeability of intestinal barrier and blood-brain barrier (BBB), two critical barriers in the gut to brain communication, was observed in the rats exposed to NP in early lives. The decreased expression of zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) and claudin-1 (CLDN-1), tight junction proteins (TJs) that responsible for maintaining the permeability of intestinal barrier and BBB, was found, which may underlie these increases in permeability. Taken together, these results suggested that the disturbed gut-brain communication may contribute to the increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the prefrontal cortex caused by NP exposure in early life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Che
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Yawen Fang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingdan You
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanyuan Xu
- Program of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
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Seizure Induced by Defecation in a 15-Year Old Autistic Patient: A Case Report and Literature Review. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF CHILD NEUROLOGY 2020; 14:83-88. [PMID: 32952585 PMCID: PMC7468083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2017] [Revised: 09/28/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy in autism is a relatively common phenomenon. However, reflex seizures provoked by multifactorial stimuli are rare in these patients. We here reported the first case of defecation-induced seizure in a 15-year old autistic girl. The patient had been diagnosed with epilepsy within the first year after birth; however, seizures induced by bowel movements were observed at the age of 15. Reflex seizures showed a myoclonic pattern represented with one-sided neck deflection. EEG showed an abnormal polyspike and wave pattern during defecation while the patterns were normal between the attacks. The patient was partially responsive to adrenocorticotropic hormone therapy with a reduced frequency of both reflexes and generalized seizures. Phenobarbital therapy was effective to manage recurrent seizure attacks. Although seizure is commonly encountered in autism, reflex seizures induced by defecation have not been previously reported in this condition.
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Niemeyer C, Matosin N, Kaul D, Philipsen A, Gassen NC. The Role of Cathepsins in Memory Functions and the Pathophysiology of Psychiatric Disorders. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:718. [PMID: 32793006 PMCID: PMC7393989 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Cathepsins are proteases with functions in cellular homeostasis, lysosomal degradation and autophagy. Their role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases has been extensively studied. It is well established that impairment of proper cathepsin function plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, and in recent years a role for cathepsins in mental disorders has emerged given the involvement of cathepsins in memory function, hyperactivity, and in depression- and anxiety-like behavior. Here we review putative cathepsin functions with a special focus on their role in the pathophysiology of psychiatric diseases. Specifically, cathepsins are crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis, particularly as part of the autophagy machinery of neural strategies underlying acute stress response. Disruption of cathepsin functions can lead to psychiatric diseases such as major depressive disease (MDD), bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Specifically, cathepsins can be excreted via a process called secretory autophagy. Thereby, they are able to regulate extracellular factors such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor and perlecan c-terminal fragment LG3 providing maintenance of neuronal homeostasis and mediating neuronal plasticity in response to acute stress or trauma. In addition, impairment of proper cathepsin function can result in impaired synaptic transmission by compromised recycling and biogenesis of synaptic vesicles. Taken together, further investigations on cathepsin functions and stress response, neuroplasticity, and synaptic transmission will be of great interest in understanding the pathophysiology of psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Niemeyer
- Neurohomeostasis Research Group, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Natalie Matosin
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Molecular Horizons, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Department of Translational Research in Psychiatry, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
| | - Dominic Kaul
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Molecular Horizons, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Alexandra Philipsen
- Neurohomeostasis Research Group, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Nils C Gassen
- Neurohomeostasis Research Group, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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20
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Tarazona S, Bernabeu E, Carmona H, Gómez-Giménez B, García-Planells J, Leonards PEG, Jung S, Conesa A, Felipo V, Llansola M. A Multiomics Study To Unravel the Effects of Developmental Exposure to Endosulfan in Rats: Molecular Explanation for Sex-Dependent Effects. ACS Chem Neurosci 2019; 10:4264-4279. [PMID: 31464424 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.9b00304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure to low levels of environmental contaminants, including pesticides, induces neurodevelopmental toxicity. Environmental and food contaminants can reach the brain of the fetus, affecting brain development and leading to neurological dysfunction. The pesticide endosulfan is a persistent pollutant, and significant levels still remain detectable in the environment although its use is banned in some countries. In rats, endosulfan exposure during brain development alters motor activity, coordination, learning, and memory, even several months after uptake, and does so in a sex-dependent way. However, the molecular mechanisms driving these effects have not been studied in detail. In this work, we performed a multiomics study in cerebellum from rats exposed to endosulfan during embryonic development. Pregnant rats were orally exposed to a low dose (0.5 mg/kg) of endosulfan, daily, from gestational day 7 to postnatal day 21. The progeny was evaluated for cognitive and motor functions at adulthood. Expression of messenger RNA and microRNA genes, as well as protein and metabolite levels, were measured on cerebellar samples from males and females. An integrative analysis was conducted to identify altered processes under endosulfan effect. Effects between males and females were compared. Pathways significantly altered by endosulfan exposure included the phosphatidylinositol signaling system, calcium signaling, the cGMP-PKG pathway, the inflammatory and immune system, protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum, and GABA and taurine metabolism. Sex-dependent effects of endosulfan in the omics results that matched sex differences in cognitive and motor tests were found. These results shed light on the molecular basis of impaired neurodevelopment and contribute to the identification of new biomarkers of neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Tarazona
- Department of Genomics of Gene Expression, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, 46012 Valencia, Spain
- Department of Applied Statistics, Operations Research and Quality, Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - Elena Bernabeu
- Department of Genomics of Gene Expression, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, 46012 Valencia, Spain
| | - Héctor Carmona
- Department of Genomics of Gene Expression, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, 46012 Valencia, Spain
| | - Belén Gómez-Giménez
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, 46012 Valencia, Spain
| | - Javier García-Planells
- IMEGEN, Instituto de Medicina Genómica, S.L. Parc Científic de la Universitat de València, 46980 Paterna, Spain
| | - Pim E. G. Leonards
- Department of Environment & Health, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Stephan Jung
- Proteome Sciences R&D GmbH & Co. KG, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Ana Conesa
- Microbiology and Cell Science Department, Institute for Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32603, United States
- Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32603, United States
| | - Vicente Felipo
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, 46012 Valencia, Spain
| | - Marta Llansola
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, 46012 Valencia, Spain
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21
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Abruzzo PM, Matté A, Bolotta A, Federti E, Ghezzo A, Guarnieri T, Marini M, Posar A, Siciliano A, De Franceschi L, Visconti P. Plasma peroxiredoxin changes and inflammatory cytokines support the involvement of neuro-inflammation and oxidative stress in Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Transl Med 2019; 17:332. [PMID: 31578139 PMCID: PMC6775664 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-019-2076-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 09/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been established that children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are affected by oxidative stress, the origin of which is still under investigation. In the present work, we evaluated inflammatory and pro-oxidant soluble signature in non-syndromic ASD and age-matched typically developing (TD) control children. METHODS We analyzed leukocyte gene expression of inflammatory cytokines and inflammation/oxidative-stress related molecules in 21 ASD and 20 TD children. Moreover, in another-comparable-group of non-syndromic ASD (N = 22) and TD (N = 21) children, we analyzed for the first time the protein expression of the four members of the antioxidant enzyme family of peroxiredoxins (Prx) in both erythrocyte membranes and in plasma. RESULTS The gene expression of IL6 and of HSP70i, a stress protein, was increased in ASD children. Moreover, gene expression of many inflammatory cytokines and inflammation/oxidative stress-related proteins correlated with clinical features, and appeared to be linked by a complex network of inter-correlations involving the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor signaling pathway. In addition, when the study of inter-correlations within the expression pattern of these molecules was extended to include the healthy subjects, the intrinsic physiological relationships of the inflammatory/oxidative stress network emerged. Plasma levels of Prx2 and Prx5 were remarkably increased in ASD compared to healthy controls, while no significant differences were found in red cell Prx levels. CONCLUSIONS Previous findings reported elevated inflammatory cytokines in the plasma of ASD children, without clearly pointing to the presence of neuro-inflammation. On the other hand, the finding of microglia activation in autoptic specimens was clearly suggesting the presence of neuro-inflammation in ASD. Given the role of peroxiredoxins in the protection of brain cells against oxidative stress, the whole of our results, using peripheral data collected in living patients, support the involvement of neuro-inflammation in ASD, and generate a rational for neuro-inflammation as a possible therapeutic target and for plasma Prx5 as a novel indicator of ASD severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- P M Abruzzo
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy.,IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, Via A. Capecelatro, 66, 20148, Milan, Italy
| | - A Matté
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona Medical School, Verona, Italy
| | - A Bolotta
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy.,IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, Via A. Capecelatro, 66, 20148, Milan, Italy
| | - E Federti
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona Medical School, Verona, Italy
| | - A Ghezzo
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - T Guarnieri
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Marini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy. .,IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, Via A. Capecelatro, 66, 20148, Milan, Italy.
| | - A Posar
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Ugo Foscolo 7, 40123, Bologna, Italy.,Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Via Altura, 3, 40139, Bologna, Italy
| | - A Siciliano
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona Medical School, Verona, Italy
| | - L De Franceschi
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona Medical School, Verona, Italy
| | - P Visconti
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Via Altura, 3, 40139, Bologna, Italy
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22
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Wang H, Yin Y, Gong D, Hong L, Wu G, Jiang Q, Wang C, Blinder P, Long S, Han F, Lu Y. Cathepsin B inhibition ameliorates leukocyte-endothelial adhesion in the BTBR mouse model of autism. CNS Neurosci Ther 2019; 25:476-485. [PMID: 30328295 PMCID: PMC6488924 DOI: 10.1111/cns.13074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Revised: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a wide range of neurodevelopmental disorders involving deficits in social interaction and communication. Unfortunately, autism remains a scientific and clinical challenge owing to the lack of understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying it. This study aimed to investigate the pathophysiological mechanism underlying leukocyte-endothelial adhesion in autism-related neurovascular inflammation. METHODS Male BTBR T+tf/J mice were used as an autism model. The dynamic pattern of leukocyte-endothelial adhesion in mouse cerebral vessels was detected by two-photon laser scanning microscopy (TPLSM). Using FACS, RT-PCR, and Western blotting, we explored the expression of cell adhesion molecules, the mRNA expression of endothelial chemokine, the protein levels of cathepsin B, and inflammatory mediators. RESULTS We found a significant increase in leukocyte-endothelial adhesion in BTBR mice, accompanied by elevated expression of the adhesion molecule neutrophils CD11b and endothelial ICAM-1. Our data further indicate that elevated neutrophil cathepsin B levels contribute to elevated endothelial chemokine CXCL7 levels in BTBR mice. The pharmacological inhibition of cathepsin B reverses the enhanced leukocyte-endothelial adhesion in the cerebral vessels of autistic mice. CONCLUSION Our results revealed the prominent role of cathepsin B in modulating leukocyte-endothelial adhesion during autism-related neurovascular inflammation and identified a promising novel approach for autism treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate and Lipid Metabolism Research, College of Life Science and TechnologyDalian UniversityDalianChina
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Yi‐Xuan Yin
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang University City CollegeHangzhouChina
| | - Dong‐Mei Gong
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- School of MedicineZhejiang University City CollegeHangzhouChina
| | - Ling‐Juan Hong
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Gang Wu
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Quan Jiang
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Cheng‐Kun Wang
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Pablo Blinder
- Department of Neurobiology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Sagol School for NeuroscienceTel‐Aviv UniversityTel AvivIsrael
| | - Sen Long
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Department of Pharmacy, Hangzhou No.7 People's HospitalMental Health Center Zhejiang University school of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Feng Han
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular & Cerebrovascular Medicine, School of PharmacyNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Ying‐Mei Lu
- School of MedicineZhejiang University City CollegeHangzhouChina
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23
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McCaulley ME. Autism spectrum disorder and mercury toxicity: use of genomic and epigenetic methods to solve the etiologic puzzle. Acta Neurobiol Exp (Wars) 2019. [DOI: 10.21307/ane-2019-010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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24
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Neonatal Lipopolysaccharide Challenge Induces Long-lasting Spatial Cognitive Impairment and Dysregulation of Hippocampal Histone Acetylation in Mice. Neuroscience 2018; 398:76-87. [PMID: 30543856 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2018.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2018] [Revised: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 12/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Neonatal inflammation induces long-term effects on brain function. We investigated the effects of systematic neonatal inflammation using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection at postnatal day 3 (P3) and P5 in a mouse model of spatial memory capacity measured using a Morris water maze (MWM) task in adulthood. Subsequently, we assessed histone acetylation and immediate-early response gene expression (c-Fos and brain-derived neurotrophic factor) in the hippocampus in response to MWM acquisition training. The LPS-treated mice exhibited a significant spatial cognitive impairment, which was accompanied by insufficient histone acetylation of the H4K12-specific lysine residue and repressed c-Fos gene expression immediately after acquisition training. Moreover, the enrichment of acetyl-H4K12 on the c-Fos promoter following acquisition training was decreased in LPS-treated mice. Administration of trichostatin A (TSA), a histone deacetylase inhibitor, 2 h before each MWM acquisition training session effectively enhanced hippocampal histone acetylation levels and enrichment of acetyl-H4K12 on the c-Fos promoter following acquisition training in LPS-treated mice. TSA also increased c-Fos gene expression underlying synaptic plasticity and memory formation, and consequently rescued impaired spatial cognitive function. These results indicate that the dysregulation of H4K12 acetylation during the ongoing process of memory formation plays a key role in the spatial cognitive impairment associated with a neonatal LPS challenge. The histone deacetylase inhibitor TSA exhibits therapeutic potential for treating cognitive impairment induced by neonatal inflammation, by means of improving hippocampal histone acetylation and downstream c-Fos gene expression in response to a learning task.
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25
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Huo J, Cui Q, Yang W, Guo W. LPS induces dopamine depletion and iron accumulation in substantia nigra in rat models of Parkinson's disease. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL PATHOLOGY 2018; 11:4942-4949. [PMID: 31949570 PMCID: PMC6962913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Intrapallidal inflammation may lead to the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease. Pathological changes caused by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in Parkinson's disease rat models were largely unknown. METHODS Male Sprague-Dawley rat models were intra-globuspallidus injected with saline and lipopolysaccharide and divided into two groups, the control group and the LPS-stimulation group. The locomotor activity of the rat models was recorded for 4 consecutive weeks by trajectory analysis software for animal behavior. For the evaluation of pathological profiles, the expression levels of tyrosine hydroxylase and OX-42 in the substantia nigra tissues were detected by immunohistochemical staining. Also, the concentrations of dopamine at specific sites were detected through high-performance liquid chromatography. Perl's iron staining was used to evaluate iron accumulation in substantia nigra tissues. RESULTS LPS-stimulation reduced the locomotor capacity of the rat models compared with the control group. The density of tyrosine hydroxylase-positive cells was reduced and the secretion of striatal dopamine in the substantia nigra pars compacts was lower in the LPS group than it was in the control group. OX-42 positive microglia and ferritin levels were enhanced in the LPS group. CONCLUSION Intrapallidal inflammation by LPS induced dopamine depletion and iron accumulation in the substantia nigra of Parkinson's disease rat models. The management of cerebral inflammation might be pivotal for PD pathogenesis and prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Huo
- Department of Emergency, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical UniversityBeijing, China
| | - Qu Cui
- Department of Emergency, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical UniversityBeijing, China
- Department of Hematology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical UniversityBeijing, China
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Norman Bethune Health Science Center, Jilin UniversityJilin, China
| | - Wei Yang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Norman Bethune Health Science Center, Jilin UniversityJilin, China
| | - Wei Guo
- Department of Emergency, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical UniversityBeijing, China
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26
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Drepper C, Geißler J, Pastura G, Yilmaz R, Berg D, Romanos M, Gerlach M. Transcranial sonography in psychiatry as a potential tool in diagnosis and research. World J Biol Psychiatry 2018; 19:484-496. [PMID: 28971725 DOI: 10.1080/15622975.2017.1386325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES During the last two decades transcranial sonography (TCS) of the brain parenchyma evolved from a pure research tool to a clinical relevant neuroimaging method especially in Parkinson's disease and related movement disorders. The aim of this systematic review is to update and summarise the published TCS findings in psychiatric disorders and critically address the question whether TCS may be a valuable tool for the diagnosis or differential diagnosis of psychiatric disorders similarly to the field of movement disorders. METHODS This paper provides detailed information about the perspectives and limitations of TCS, including guidelines for the scanning procedures, assessment of midbrain structures and discusses the potential causes of the ultrasound abnormalities in psychiatric disorders. RESULTS Changes in the echogenicity of subcortical brain structures were detected in different disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia, panic disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity (ADHD), bipolar disorder and depressive disorder. Although the physical properties of brain tissue underlying the echogenic features in TCS are largely unknown, no alternative technique provides the same insight into the specific central nervous structural characteristics. CONCLUSIONS Urgent research questions to further clarify the underlying pathophysiological and structural alterations are further outlined to bring this promising technique to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carsten Drepper
- a Center of Mental Health, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy , University Hospital of Würzburg , Würzburg , Germany
| | - Julia Geißler
- a Center of Mental Health, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy , University Hospital of Würzburg , Würzburg , Germany
| | - Giuseppe Pastura
- b Department of Pediatrics , The Federal University of Rio de Janeiro , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil
| | - Rezzak Yilmaz
- c Department of Neurology , Christian-Albrecht-University , Kiel , Germany
| | - Daniela Berg
- c Department of Neurology , Christian-Albrecht-University , Kiel , Germany.,d Department of Neurodegeneration , University of Tübingen , Tübingen , Germany
| | - Marcel Romanos
- a Center of Mental Health, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy , University Hospital of Würzburg , Würzburg , Germany
| | - Manfred Gerlach
- a Center of Mental Health, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy , University Hospital of Würzburg , Würzburg , Germany
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Saili KS, Zurlinden TJ, Schwab AJ, Silvin A, Baker NC, Hunter ES, Ginhoux F, Knudsen TB. Blood-brain barrier development: Systems modeling and predictive toxicology. Birth Defects Res 2018; 109:1680-1710. [PMID: 29251840 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.1180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) serves as a gateway for passage of drugs, chemicals, nutrients, metabolites, and hormones between vascular and neural compartments in the brain. Here, we review BBB development with regard to the microphysiology of the neurovascular unit (NVU) and the impact of BBB disruption on brain development. Our focus is on modeling these complex systems. Extant in silico models are available as tools to predict the probability of drug/chemical passage across the BBB; in vitro platforms for high-throughput screening and high-content imaging provide novel data streams for profiling chemical-biological interactions; and engineered human cell-based microphysiological systems provide empirical models with which to investigate the dynamics of NVU function. Computational models are needed that bring together kinetic and dynamic aspects of NVU function across gestation and under various physiological and toxicological scenarios. This integration will inform adverse outcome pathways to reduce uncertainty in translating in vitro data and in silico models for use in risk assessments that aim to protect neurodevelopmental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerine S Saili
- National Center for Computational Toxicology (NCCT); U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
| | - Todd J Zurlinden
- National Center for Computational Toxicology (NCCT); U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
| | - Andrew J Schwab
- National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory (NHEERL), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
| | - Aymeric Silvin
- Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 138648, Singapore
| | - Nancy C Baker
- Leidos, contractor to NCCT, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
| | - E Sidney Hunter
- National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory (NHEERL), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
| | - Florent Ginhoux
- Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 138648, Singapore
| | - Thomas B Knudsen
- National Center for Computational Toxicology (NCCT); U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
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28
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Blood-brain barrier regulation in psychiatric disorders. Neurosci Lett 2018; 726:133664. [PMID: 29966749 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2018.06.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a dynamic interface between the peripheral blood supply and the cerebral parenchyma, controlling the transport of material to and from the brain. Tight junctions between the endothelial cells of the cerebral microvasculature limit the passage of large, negatively charged molecules via paracellular diffusion whereas transcellular transportation across the endothelial cell is controlled by a number of mechanisms including transporter proteins, endocytosis, and diffusion. Here, we review the evidence that perturbation of these processes may underlie the development of psychiatric disorders including schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and affective disorders. Increased permeability of the BBB appears to be a common factor in these disorders, leading to increased infiltration of peripheral material into the brain culminating in neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. However, although there is no common mechanism underpinning BBB dysfunction even within each particular disorder, the tight junction protein claudin-5 may be a clinically relevant target given that both clinical and pre-clinical research has linked it to schizophrenia, ASD, and depression. Additionally, we discuss the clinical significance of the BBB in diagnosis (genetic markers, dynamic contrast-enhanced-magnetic resonance imaging, and blood biomarkers) and in treatment (drug delivery).
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29
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Yang HW, Liu XY, Shen ZF, Yao W, Gong XB, Huang HX, Ding GH. An investigation of the distribution and location of mast cells affected by the stiffness of substrates as a mechanical niche. Int J Biol Sci 2018; 14:1142-1152. [PMID: 29989093 PMCID: PMC6036734 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.26738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The distribution and location of mast cells are closely related to their physiological and pathological functions, such as allergic responses, immunity, and fibrosis, and are used in acupuncture. In this study, the distribution of mast cells in vivo was observed, and mechanical clues for understanding their distribution based on mechanical niches were explored. By toluidine blue staining and immunohistochemical staining, we examined the distribution and location of mast cells in rat skin and found that mast cells are distributed in a spatially nonuniform manner, preferring to locate at regions in the tissue and extracellular matrix with stiffness changes. In vitro experiments for studying the distribution of rat basophilic leukemia (RBL-2H3) mast cell line on poly-di-methyl-siloxane (PDMS) substrates with stiffness variations were performed. It was found that RBL-2H3 cells migrate and tend to remain in the areas with stiffness variations. The present research suggests that changing the stiffness of local tissues may stimulate mast cell recruitment, which may be the method by which some traditional Chinese medicine treatments, such as acupuncture. On the basis of the origin of mast cells and our experimental results, we predict that mast cells exist in tissues that contain permeable capillaries and prefer regions with stiffness changes. We discussed this prediction using examples of specific tissues from some cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Wei Yang
- Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Xin-Yue Liu
- Key Laboratory of Hydrodynamics (Ministry of Education), Department of Engineering Mechanics, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Zhou-Feng Shen
- Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Wei Yao
- Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Xiao-Bo Gong
- Key Laboratory of Hydrodynamics (Ministry of Education), Department of Engineering Mechanics, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Hua-Xiong Huang
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M3J 1P3
| | - Guang-Hong Ding
- Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
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30
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Autistic traits in epilepsy models: Why, when and how? Epilepsy Res 2018; 144:62-70. [PMID: 29783181 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2018.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Revised: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a common comorbidity of epilepsy and seizures and/or epileptiform activity are observed in a significant proportion of ASD patients. Current research also implies that autistic traits can be observed to a various degree in mice and rats with seizures. This suggests that there are shared mechanisms in both ASD and epilepsy syndromes. Here, we first review the standard, validated methods used to assess autistic traits in animal models as well as their limitations with regards to epilepsy models. We then discuss two of the potential pathological processes that could be shared between ASD and epilepsy. We first focus on functional implications of neuroinflammation including changes to excitable networks mediated by inflammatory regulators. Finally we examine mechanisms at the cellular and network level involved in neuronal excitability, timing and network coordination that may directly lead to behavioral disturbances present in both epilepsy and ASD. This mini-review summarizes the work first presented at an Investigators Workshop at the 2016 American Epilepsy Society meeting.
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Afsordeh K, Sadeghi Y, Amini A, Namvarpour Z, Abdollahifar MA, Abbaszadeh HA, Aliaghaei A. Alterations of neuroimmune cell density and pro-inflammatory cytokines in response to thimerosal in prefrontal lobe of male rats. Drug Chem Toxicol 2018; 42:176-186. [DOI: 10.1080/01480545.2018.1465949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kobra Afsordeh
- Department of Biology and Anatomy, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yousef Sadeghi
- Department of Biology and Anatomy, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abdollah Amini
- Department of Biology and Anatomy, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad-Amin Abdollahifar
- Department of Biology and Anatomy, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hojjat-Allah Abbaszadeh
- Department of Biology and Anatomy, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Hearing Disorders Research Center, Loghman Hakim Medical Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abass Aliaghaei
- Department of Biology and Anatomy, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Several cross-sectional studies have reported a relationship between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and epilepsy. However, the temporal association between PTSD and epilepsy has rarely been investigated. We hypothesized that the risk of developing epilepsy later in life would be higher in patients with PTSD than in those without PTSD. METHODS Using the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database, 6425 individuals with PTSD and 24,980 age-/sex-matched controls were enrolled between 2002 and 2009 in our study and followed up to the end of 2011. Those who developed epilepsy during the follow-up period were identified. RESULTS Individuals with PTSD had a higher incidence of developing epilepsy (2.65 versus 0.33 per 1000 person-years, p < .001), with an earlier onset of epilepsy (37.53 years [15.80 years] versus 48.11 years [23.97 years], p = .002) than did the controls. Individuals with PTSD had an elevated risk of developing epilepsy (hazard ratio [HR] = 3.72, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.27-6.11) during the follow-up after adjustment for demographic data and medical and psychiatric comorbidities. Sensitivity analyses after excluding the observation in the first year (HR = 2.53, 95% CI = 1.44-4.47) and the first 3 years (HR = 2.14, 95% CI = 1.15-4.01) revealed consistent results. CONCLUSIONS These results supported a temporal association between PTSD and the development of epilepsy. Further studies are warranted to investigate the underlying pathophysiological pathways that explain the longitudinal association of PTSD with subsequent epilepsy.
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Chong KW, Ling S, Loh W. An unusual case of infant seizures with anaphylaxis to wheat. Asia Pac Allergy 2018; 8:e13. [PMID: 29732289 PMCID: PMC5931920 DOI: 10.5415/apallergy.2018.8.e13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Accepted: 02/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Wheat allergy is one of the commonest food allergies in childhood and it typically presents with IgE mediated reactions, including anaphylaxis. Seizures are not typically reported to be a direct manifestation of anaphylaxis, though it can occur secondary to hypoxia following significant haemodynamic compromise. We describe a case of a previously well infant, who presented with anaphylactic shock to wheat and responded well to the initial management, but subsequently developed a cluster of brief generalised tonic clonic seizures without any ongoing haemodynamic instability. The tryptase level that was performed at 4-5 hours post reaction was raised at 49.1 µg/L. Skin prick test to wheat, wheat specific IgE, the omega-5 gliadin IgE were positive. Extensive work-up was performed to look for an underlying cause of seizures and all returned negative. To our knowledge, this is the first case report describing an unusual presentation of multiple seizures in a young infant, in association with an anaphylactic episode. In the absence of any other seizure provoking factor and underlying cause, we believe the association is more likely causative than coincidental.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kok Wee Chong
- Allergy Service, Department of Paediatric Medicine, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore 229899
| | - Simon Ling
- Neurology Service, Department of Paediatric Medicine, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore 229899
| | - Wenyin Loh
- Allergy Service, Department of Paediatric Medicine, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore 229899
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Gillet V, Hunting DJ, Takser L. Turing Revisited: Decoding the microRNA Messages in Brain Extracellular Vesicles for Early Detection of Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Curr Environ Health Rep 2018; 3:188-201. [PMID: 27301443 DOI: 10.1007/s40572-016-0093-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The prevention of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD) of prenatal origin suffers from the lack of objective tools for early detection of susceptible individuals and the long time lag, usually in years, between the neurotoxic exposure and the diagnosis of mental dysfunction. Human data on the effects of alcohol, lead, and mercury and experimental data from animals on developmental neurotoxins and their long-term behavioral effects have achieved a critical mass, leading to the concept of the Developmental Origin of Health and Disease (DOHaD). However, there is currently no way to evaluate the degree of brain damage early after birth. We propose that extracellular vesicles (EVs) and particularly exosomes, released by brain cells into the fetal blood, may offer us a non-invasive means of assessing brain damage by neurotoxins. We are inspired by the strategy applied by Alan Turing (a cryptanalyst working for the British government), who created a first computer to decrypt German intelligence communications during World War II. Given the growing evidence that microRNAs (miRNAs), which are among the molecules carried by EVs, are involved in cell-cell communication, we propose that decrypting messages from EVs can allow us to detect damage thus offering an opportunity to cure, reverse, or prevent the development of NDD. This review summarizes recent findings on miRNAs associated with selected environmental toxicants known to be involved in the pathophysiology of NDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginie Gillet
- Département Pédiatrie, Faculté de Médecine et Sciences de la Santé de l'Université de Sherbrooke, 3001, 12ème avenue Nord, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada, J1H 5N4
| | - Darel John Hunting
- Département Radiobiologie, Faculté de Médecine et Sciences de la Santé de l'Université de Sherbrooke, 3001, 12ème avenue Nord, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada, J1H 5N4
| | - Larissa Takser
- Département Pédiatrie, Faculté de Médecine et Sciences de la Santé de l'Université de Sherbrooke, 3001, 12ème avenue Nord, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada, J1H 5N4.
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Stamou M, Grodzki AC, van Oostrum M, Wollscheid B, Lein PJ. Fc gamma receptors are expressed in the developing rat brain and activate downstream signaling molecules upon cross-linking with immune complex. J Neuroinflammation 2018; 15:7. [PMID: 29306331 PMCID: PMC5756609 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-017-1050-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Exposure of the developing brain to immune mediators, including antibodies, is postulated to increase risk for neurodevelopmental disorders and neurodegenerative disease. It has been suggested that immunoglobulin G-immune complexes (IgG-IC) activate Fc gamma receptors (FcγR) expressed on neurons to modify signaling events in these cells. However, testing this hypothesis is hindered by a paucity of data regarding neuronal FcγR expression and function. Methods FcγR transcript expression in the hippocampus, cortex, and cerebellum of neonatal male and female rats was investigated ex vivo and in mixed cultures of primary hippocampal and cortical neurons and astrocytes using quantitative PCR analyses. Expression at the protein level in mixed cultures of primary hippocampal and cortical neurons and astrocytes was determined by immunocytochemistry, western blotting, proteotype analysis, and flow cytometry. The functionality of these receptors was assessed by measuring changes in intracellular calcium levels, Erk phosphorylation, and IgG internalization following stimulation with IgG-immune complexes. Results FcgrIa, FcgrIIa, FcgrIIb, FcgrIIIa, and Fcgrt transcripts were detectable in the cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum at postnatal days 1 and 7. These transcripts were also present in primary hippocampal and cortical cell cultures, where their expression was modulated by IFNγ. Expression of FcγRIa, FcγRIIb, and FcγRIIIa, but not FcγRIIa or FcRn proteins, was confirmed in cultured hippocampal and cortical neurons and astrocytes at the single cell level. A subpopulation of these cells co-expressed the activating FcγRIa and the inhibitory FcγRIIb. Functional analyses demonstrated that exposure of hippocampal and cortical cell cultures to IgG-IC increases intracellular calcium and Erk phosphorylation and triggers FcγR-mediated internalization of IgG. Conclusions Our data demonstrate that developing neurons and astrocytes in the hippocampus and the cortex express signaling competent FcγR. These findings suggest that IgG antibodies may influence normal neurodevelopment or function via direct interactions with FcγR on non-immune cells in the brain. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12974-017-1050-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Stamou
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, 1089 Veterinary Medicine Drive, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Ana Cristina Grodzki
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, 1089 Veterinary Medicine Drive, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Marc van Oostrum
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute of Molecular Systems Biology, ETH Zurich, 8093, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Bernd Wollscheid
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Institute of Molecular Systems Biology, ETH Zurich, 8093, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Pamela J Lein
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, 1089 Veterinary Medicine Drive, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
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Kaur C, Rathnasamy G, Ling EA. Biology of Microglia in the Developing Brain. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol 2017; 76:736-753. [PMID: 28859332 DOI: 10.1093/jnen/nlx056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Microglia exist in different morphological forms in the developing brain. They show a small cell body with scanty cytoplasm with many branching processes in the grey matter of the developing brain. However, in the white matter such as the corpus callosum where the unmyelinated axons are loosely organized, they appear in an amoeboid form having a round cell body endowed with copious cytoplasm rich in organelles. The amoeboid cells eventually transform into ramified microglia in the second postnatal week when the tissue becomes more compact with the onset of myelination. Microglia serve as immunocompetent macrophages that act as neuropathology sensors to detect and respond swiftly to subtle changes in the brain tissues in pathological conditions. Microglial functions are broadly considered as protective in the normal brain development as they phagocytose dead cells and sculpt neuronal connections by pruning excess axons and synapses. They also secrete a number of trophic factors such as insulin-like growth factor-1 and transforming growth factor-β among many others that are involved in neuronal and oligodendrocyte survival. On the other hand, microglial cells when activated produce a plethora of molecules such as proinflammatory cytokines, chemokines, reactive oxygen species, and nitric oxide that are implicated in the pathogenesis of many pathological conditions such as epilepsy, cerebral palsy, autism, and perinatal hypoxic-ischemic brain injury. Although many studies have investigated the origin and functions of the microglia in the developing brain, in-depth in vivo studies along with analysis of their transcriptome and epigenetic changes need to be undertaken to elucidate their full potential be it protective or neurotoxic. This would lead to a better understanding of their roles in the healthy and diseased developing brain and advancement of therapeutic strategies to target microglia-mediated neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charanjit Kaur
- Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Gurugirijha Rathnasamy
- Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Eng-Ang Ling
- Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; and Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
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Li D, Tomljenovic L, Li Y, Shaw CA. RETRACTED: Subcutaneous injections of aluminum at vaccine adjuvant levels activate innate immune genes in mouse brain that are homologous with biomarkers of autism. J Inorg Biochem 2017; 177:39-54. [PMID: 28923356 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2017.08.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2017] [Revised: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Dan Li
- Dept. of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lucija Tomljenovic
- Dept. of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Yongling Li
- Dept. of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Christopher A Shaw
- Dept. of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Program in Experimental Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Program in Neuroscience, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
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Fluegge K. Environmental contributors to modulation of brain estrogen signaling and male gender bias in autism: A reply to the oral contraceptive use hypothesis by Strifert (2015). Med Hypotheses 2017; 104:178-181. [PMID: 28673581 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2017.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Revised: 04/29/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Strifert has recently put forward an interesting hypothesis regarding the role of oral contraceptive (OC) use in mothers and risk of offspring autism spectrum disorder (ASD). First, the author reports that combined oral contraceptives (COCs), containing both estrogen and progesterone, were developed in the late 1950s and early 60s, which is a time-frame distinct from Leo Kanner's documentation of infantile ASD in 1943 that Strifert just briefly mentions. While this important temporal inconsistency of ASD origin does not invalidate the potential role of OC use in contributing to the rise of ASD, it does support the likely possibility of other environmental exposures at play. Second, the epigenetic basis of the hypothesis is that the endocrine-disrupting components (i.e., ethinylestradiol) of OC perturb estrogenic signaling in the fetal brain by triggering aberrant DNA methylation of the estrogen receptor β (ERβ) gene, and such methylation patterns may be imprinted to future generations and could theoretically increase subsequent ASD offspring risk. The premise of the hypothesis is challenged, however, with the recognition that MeCP2, a "reader" of DNA methylation sites, is not only associated with age-dependent alteration in ERβ in females but is also significantly reduced in ASD brain. Furthermore, Strifert does not clearly address how the OC hypothesis accounts for the male bias in ASD. Therefore, the purpose of this correspondence is to address these inconsistencies by proposing a hypothesis that challenges these points. That is, gestational exposure to the agricultural and combustion air pollutant, nitrous oxide (N2O), may be a leading contributor to the development of an ASD phenotype. The mechanism undergirding this hypothesis suggests that compensatory estrogenic activity may mitigate the effects of fetal N2O exposure and thereby confer a protective effect against ASD development in a sex-dependent manner (i.e., male bias in ASD).
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith Fluegge
- Institute of Health and Environmental Research, Cleveland, OH 44118, USA.
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Sivanesan S, Tan A, Jeyaraj R, Lam J, Gole M, Hardan A, Ashkan K, Rajadas J. Pharmaceuticals and Stem Cells in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Wishful Thinking? World Neurosurg 2017; 98:659-672. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2016.09.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2016] [Revised: 09/24/2016] [Accepted: 09/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Mora P, Ruffini L, Ghetti C, Ghirardini S, Scarlattei M, Baldari G, Cidda C, Rubino P, Gandolfi SA, Orsoni JG. Altered Brain Glucose Consumption in Cogan's Syndrome. J Ophthalmol 2016; 2016:3207150. [PMID: 28050276 PMCID: PMC5168485 DOI: 10.1155/2016/3207150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2016] [Accepted: 11/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose. Prospective, controlled cohort study to investigate possible alterations in brain glucose metabolism (CMRglc) in patients with Cogan's syndrome (CS). Patients and Methods. Functional mapping of the CMRglc was obtained by quantitative molecular imaging positron emission tomography, combined with computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT). The patients were divided into three clinical groups: typical CS; atypical CS (ACS); autoimmune inner ear disease (AIED). The unmatched control group (CG) consisted of subjects requiring FDG-PET/CT for an extracranial pathology. Statistical mapping searched areas of significant glucose hypometabolism in all the affected patients (DG) and in each clinical subgroup. The results were compared with those of the CG. Results. 44 patients were enrolled (DG) and assigned to the three study groups: 8 patients to the CS group; 21 patients to the ACS group; and 15 to the AIED group. Sixteen subjects formed the CG group. Areas of significant brain glucose hypometabolism were identified in all the study groups, with the largest number and extension in the DG and CS. Conclusions. This study revealed areas of significantly altered CMRglc in patients with CS (any subform) without neurologic complains and normal conventional neuroimaging. Our results suggest that FDG-PET/CT may represent a very useful tool for the global assessment of patients with Cogan's syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Mora
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Livia Ruffini
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Caterina Ghetti
- Medical Physic Department, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Stella Ghirardini
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Maura Scarlattei
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Giorgio Baldari
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Carla Cidda
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Pierangela Rubino
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Jelka G. Orsoni
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
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Walker SJ, Beavers DP, Fortunato J, Krigsman A. A Putative Blood-Based Biomarker for Autism Spectrum Disorder-Associated Ileocolitis. Sci Rep 2016; 6:35820. [PMID: 27767057 PMCID: PMC5073317 DOI: 10.1038/srep35820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Accepted: 10/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal symptoms are common in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A significant proportion of children with ASD and gastrointestinal symptoms have histologic evidence of ileocolitis (inflammation of the terminal ileum and/or colon). We previously reported the molecular characterization of gastrointestinal biopsy tissue from ASD children with ileocolitis (ASDIC+) compared to anatomically similar inflamed tissue from typically developing children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD; i.e. Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis) and typically developing children with gastrointestinal symptoms but no evidence of gastrointestinal mucosal inflammation (TDIC−). ASDIC+ children had a gene expression profile that, while primarily overlapping with known IBD, had distinctive differences. The present study confirms these findings and replicates this molecular characterization in a second cohort of cases (ASDIC+) and controls (TDIC−). In these two separate case/control mucosal-based cohorts, we have demonstrated overlap of 59 differentially expressed transcripts (DETs) unique to inflamed ileocolonic tissue from symptomatic ASDIC+ children. We now report that 9 of these 59 transcripts are also differentially expressed in the peripheral blood of the second cohort of ASDIC+ children. This set of transcripts represents a putative blood-based biomarker for ASD-associated ileocolonic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen J Walker
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston Salem, NC, USA
| | - Daniel P Beavers
- Department of Biostatistical Sciences, Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston Salem, NC, USA
| | - John Fortunato
- Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Ann &Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Arthur Krigsman
- Pediatric Gastroenterology Resources, 148 Beach 9th Street, Suite 2B, Far Rockaway, NY, USA
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Pathophysiological Role of Neuroinflammation in Neurodegenerative Diseases and Psychiatric Disorders. Int Neurourol J 2016; 20:S2-7. [PMID: 27230456 PMCID: PMC4895907 DOI: 10.5213/inj.1632604.302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain diseases and disorders such as Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease, depression, schizophrenia, autism, and addiction lead to reduced quality of daily life through abnormal thoughts, perceptions, emotional states, and behavior. While the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood, human and animal studies have supported a role of neuroinflammation in the etiology of these diseases. In the central nervous system, an increased inflammatory response is capable of activating microglial cells, leading to the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α. In turn, the pro-inflammatory cytokines aggravate and propagate neuroinflammation, degenerating healthy neurons and impairing brain functions. Therefore, activated microglia may play a key role in neuroinflammatory processes contributing to the pathogenesis of psychiatric disorders and neurodegeneration.
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Firouzabadi N, Ghazanfari N, Alavi Shoushtari A, Erfani N, Fathi F, Bazrafkan M, Bahramali E. Genetic Variants of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Are Linked to Autism: A Case-Control Study. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0153667. [PMID: 27082637 PMCID: PMC4833406 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0153667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Autism is a disease of complex nature with a significant genetic component. The importance of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) elements in cognition and behavior besides the interaction of angiotensin II (Ang II), the main product of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), with neurotransmitters in CNS, especially dopamine, proposes the involvement of RAS in autism. Since the genetic architecture of autism has remained elusive, here we postulated that genetic variations in RAS are associated with autism. Methods Considering the relation between the three polymorphisms of ACE (I/D, rs4343 and rs4291) with the level of ACE activity, we have investigated this association with autism, in a case-control study. Genotype and allele frequencies of polymorphisms were determined in DNAs extracted from venous blood of 120 autistic patients and their age and sex-matched healthy controls, using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and PCR–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR–RFLP) methods. Results There were strong associations between both DD genotype of ACE I/D and the D allele, with autism (P = 0.006, OR = 2.9, 95% CI = 1.64–5.13 and P = 0.006, OR = 2.18, 95% CI = 1.37–3.48 respectively). Furthermore, a significant association between the G allele of rs4343 and autism was observed (P = 0.006, OR = 1.84, 95%CI = 1.26–2.67). Moreover, haplotype analysis revealed an association between DTG haplotype and autism (P = 0.008). Conclusion Our data suggests the involvement of RAS genetic diversity in increasing the risk of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Negar Firouzabadi
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
- * E-mail: ;
| | - Nima Ghazanfari
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, International Branch, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ali Alavi Shoushtari
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Hafez Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Nasrallah Erfani
- Cancer Immunology Group, Shiraz Institute for Cancer Research, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Farshid Fathi
- Cancer Immunology Group, Shiraz Institute for Cancer Research, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mozhdeh Bazrafkan
- Department of Speech Therapy, School of Rehabilitation, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ehsan Bahramali
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
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Chan PM, Tan YS, Chua KH, Sabaratnam V, Kuppusamy UR. Attenuation of Inflammatory Mediators (TNF-α and Nitric Oxide) and Up-Regulation of IL-10 by Wild and Domesticated Basidiocarps of Amauroderma rugosum (Blume & T. Nees) Torrend in LPS-Stimulated RAW264.7 Cells. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0139593. [PMID: 26427053 PMCID: PMC4591274 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0139593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2015] [Accepted: 09/14/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Amauroderma rugosum, commonly known as “Jiǎzī” in China, is a wild mushroom traditionally used by the Chinese to reduce inflammation, to treat diuretic and upset stomach, and to prevent cancer. It is also used by the indigenous communities in Malaysia to prevent epileptic episodes and incessant crying by babies. The aim of this study was to compare the wild and domesticated basidiocarps of A. rugosum for antioxidant and in vitro anti-inflammatory effects in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. The wild basidiocarps of A. rugosum were collected from the Belum Forest, Perak, Malaysia and the domesticated basidiocarps of A. rugosum were cultivated in the mushroom house located in the University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Both the wild and domesticated basidiocarps were subjected to ethanolic extraction and the extracts were tested for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. In this study, the crude ethanolic extract of wild (WB) and domesticated (DB) basidiocarps of A. rugosum had comparable total phenolic content and DPPH scavenging activity. However, WB (EC50 = 222.90 μg/mL) displayed a better ABTS cation radical scavenging activity than DB (EC50 = 469.60 μg/mL). Both WB and DB were able to scavenge nitric oxide (NO) radical and suppress the NO production in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells and this effect was mediated through the down-regulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) gene. In addition, both WB and DB caused down-regulation of the inflammatory gene TNF-α and the up-regulation of the anti-inflammatory gene IL-10. There was no inhibitory effect of WB and DB on nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65. In conclusion, the wild and domesticated basidiocarps of A. rugosum possessed antioxidant and in vitro anti-inflammatory properties. WB and DB inhibited downstream inflammatory mediators (TNF-α and NO) and induced anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 production. No inhibitory effects shown on upstream nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65. WB and DB exhibited antioxidant activity and attenuation of proinflammatory mediators and therefore, A. rugosum may serve as a potential therapeutic agent in the management of inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pui-Mun Chan
- Mushroom Research Centre, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yee-Shin Tan
- Mushroom Research Centre, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kek-Heng Chua
- Mushroom Research Centre, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Vikineswary Sabaratnam
- Mushroom Research Centre, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Umah Rani Kuppusamy
- Mushroom Research Centre, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- * E-mail:
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45
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Tsilioni I, Taliou A, Francis K, Theoharides TC. Children with autism spectrum disorders, who improved with a luteolin-containing dietary formulation, show reduced serum levels of TNF and IL-6. Transl Psychiatry 2015; 5:e647. [PMID: 26418275 PMCID: PMC5545641 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2015.142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Revised: 07/10/2015] [Accepted: 08/05/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) have been associated with brain inflammation as indicated by microglia activation, as well as brain expression and increased plasma levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF). Here we report that serum levels of IL-6 and TNF were elevated (61.95 ± 94.76 pg ml(-1) and 313.8 ± 444.3 pg ml(-1), respectively) in the same cohort of patients with elevated serum levels of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and neurotensin (NT), while IL-9, IL-31 and IL-33 were not different from controls. The elevated CRH and NT levels did not change after treatment with a luteolin-containing dietary formulation. However, the mean serum IL-6 and TNF levels decreased significantly (P=0.036 and P=0.015, respectively) at the end of the treatment period (26 weeks) as compared with levels at the beginning; these decreases were strongly associated with children whose behavior improved the most after luteolin formulation treatment. Our results indicate that there are distinct subgroups of children within the ASDs that may be identifiable through serum levels of IL-6 and TNF and that these cytokines may constitute distinct prognostic markers for at least the beneficial effect of luteolin formulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Tsilioni
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Integrative Physiology and Pathobiology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - A Taliou
- Department of Pediatrics, Athens University School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - K Francis
- Second Department of Psychiatry, Attikon General Hospital, Athens University School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - T C Theoharides
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Integrative Physiology and Pathobiology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Tufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Integrative Physiology and Pathobiology, Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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Wasilewska J, Klukowski M. Gastrointestinal symptoms and autism spectrum disorder: links and risks - a possible new overlap syndrome. Pediatric Health Med Ther 2015; 6:153-166. [PMID: 29388597 PMCID: PMC5683266 DOI: 10.2147/phmt.s85717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a genetically determined neurodevelopmental brain disorder presenting with restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviors, interests, and activities, or persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction. ASD is characterized by many different clinical endophenotypes and is potentially linked with certain comorbidities. According to current recommendations, children with ASD are at risk of having alimentary tract disorders - mainly, they are at a greater risk of general gastrointestinal (GI) concerns, constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. GI symptoms may overlap with ASD core symptoms through different mechanisms. These mechanisms include multilevel pathways in the gut-brain axis contributing to alterations in behavior and cognition. Shared pathogenetic factors and pathophysiological mechanisms possibly linking ASD and GI disturbances, as shown by most recent studies, include intestinal inflammation with or without autoimmunity, immunoglobulin E-mediated and/or cell-mediated GI food allergies as well as gluten-related disorders (celiac disease, wheat allergy, non-celiac gluten sensitivity), visceral hypersensitivity linked with functional abdominal pain, and dysautonomia linked with GI dysmotility and gastroesophageal reflux. Dysregulation of the gut microbiome has also been shown to be involved in modulating GI functions with the ability to affect intestinal permeability, mucosal immune function, and intestinal motility and sensitivity. Metabolic activity of the microbiome and dietary components are currently suspected to be associated with alterations in behavior and cognition also in patients with other neurodegenerative diseases. All the above-listed GI factors may contribute to brain dysfunction and neuroinflammation depending upon an individual patient's genetic vulnerability. Due to a possible clinical endophenotype presenting as comorbidity of ASD and GI disorders, we propose treating this situation as an "overlap syndrome". Practical use of the concept of an overlap syndrome of ASD and GI disorders may help in identifying those children with ASD who suffer from an alimentary tract disease. Unexplained worsening of nonverbal behaviors (agitation, anxiety, aggression, self-injury, sleep deprivation) should alert professionals about this possibility. This may shorten the time to diagnosis and treatment commencement, and thereby alleviate both GI and ASD symptoms through reducing pain, stress, or discomfort. Furthermore, this may also protect children against unnecessary dietary experiments and restrictions that have no medical indications. A personalized approach to each patient is necessary. Our understanding of ASDs has come a long way, but further studies and more systematic research are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolanta Wasilewska
- Department of Pediatrics, Gastroenterology and Allergology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Mark Klukowski
- Department of Pediatrics, Gastroenterology and Allergology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
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Polyzoidis S, Koletsa T, Panagiotidou S, Ashkan K, Theoharides TC. Mast cells in meningiomas and brain inflammation. J Neuroinflammation 2015; 12:170. [PMID: 26377554 PMCID: PMC4573939 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-015-0388-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2015] [Accepted: 09/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Research focus in neuro-oncology has shifted in the last decades towards the exploration of tumor infiltration by a variety of immune cells and their products. T cells, macrophages, B cells, and mast cells (MCs) have been identified. Methods A systematic review of the literature was conducted by searching PubMed, EMBASE, Google Scholar, and Turning Research into Practice (TRIP) for the presence of MCs in meningiomas using the terms meningioma, inflammation and mast cells. Results MCs have been detected in various tumors of the central nervous system (CNS), such as gliomas, including glioblastoma multiforme, hemangioblastomas, and meningiomas as well as metastatic brain tumors. MCs were present in as many as 90 % of all high-grade meningiomas mainly found in the perivascular areas of the tumor. A correlation between peritumoral edema and MCs was found. Interpretation Accumulation of MCs in meningiomas could contribute to the aggressiveness of tumors and to brain inflammation that may be involved in the pathogenesis of additional disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Smaro Panagiotidou
- Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Integrative Physiology and Pathobiology, Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Avenue, Suite J304, Boston, MA, 02111, USA. .,Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.
| | | | - Theoharis C Theoharides
- Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Integrative Physiology and Pathobiology, Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Avenue, Suite J304, Boston, MA, 02111, USA. .,Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA. .,Department of Internal Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA. .,Department of Psychiatry, Tufts University School of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA. .,Department of Integrative Physiology and Pathobiology, Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Avenue, Suite J304, Boston, MA, 02111, USA.
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48
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Theoharides TC, Petra AI, Taracanova A, Panagiotidou S, Conti P. Targeting IL-33 in autoimmunity and inflammation. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2015; 354:24-31. [PMID: 25906776 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.114.222505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2014] [Accepted: 04/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-33 (IL-33) belongs to the IL-1 family of cytokines. Whereas IL-1 is processed and released by live immune cells in response to infection or other triggers, IL-33 is mostly released as a danger signal ("alarmin") from damaged cells. IL-33 may also be processed and released from activated mast cells (MCs) with subsequent autocrine and paracrine actions. IL-33 augments the stimulatory effects of IgE and substance P on MCs but can also trigger release of cytokines from MCs on its own. Blood IL-33 levels are increased in asthma, atopic dermatitis, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjögren's syndrome. However, prolonged elevation of IL-33 downregulates FcεRI and may be protective in atherosclerosis, suggesting different roles in immune-regulated diseases. Even though neutralizing IL-33, knocking-down its receptor, or using its soluble "decoy" receptor has resulted in anti-inflammatory effects, there appear to be different outcomes in different tissues. Hence, selective regulation of IL-33 synthesis, release, and signaling may be required to provide effective treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theoharis C Theoharides
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Integrative Physiology and Pathobiology (T.C.T., A.I.P., A.T., S.P.), Graduate Program in Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences (T.C.T., A.T.), Department of Internal Medicine (T.C.T.), Tufts University School of Medicine, and Tufts Medical Center (T.C.T.), Boston, Massachusetts; and Immunology Division, Graduate Medical School, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy (P.C.)
| | - Anastasia I Petra
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Integrative Physiology and Pathobiology (T.C.T., A.I.P., A.T., S.P.), Graduate Program in Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences (T.C.T., A.T.), Department of Internal Medicine (T.C.T.), Tufts University School of Medicine, and Tufts Medical Center (T.C.T.), Boston, Massachusetts; and Immunology Division, Graduate Medical School, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy (P.C.)
| | - Alexandra Taracanova
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Integrative Physiology and Pathobiology (T.C.T., A.I.P., A.T., S.P.), Graduate Program in Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences (T.C.T., A.T.), Department of Internal Medicine (T.C.T.), Tufts University School of Medicine, and Tufts Medical Center (T.C.T.), Boston, Massachusetts; and Immunology Division, Graduate Medical School, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy (P.C.)
| | - Smaro Panagiotidou
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Integrative Physiology and Pathobiology (T.C.T., A.I.P., A.T., S.P.), Graduate Program in Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences (T.C.T., A.T.), Department of Internal Medicine (T.C.T.), Tufts University School of Medicine, and Tufts Medical Center (T.C.T.), Boston, Massachusetts; and Immunology Division, Graduate Medical School, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy (P.C.)
| | - Pio Conti
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Integrative Physiology and Pathobiology (T.C.T., A.I.P., A.T., S.P.), Graduate Program in Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences (T.C.T., A.T.), Department of Internal Medicine (T.C.T.), Tufts University School of Medicine, and Tufts Medical Center (T.C.T.), Boston, Massachusetts; and Immunology Division, Graduate Medical School, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy (P.C.)
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49
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Faber S, Zinn GM, Boggess A, Fahrenholz T, Kern JC, Kingston HMS. A cleanroom sleeping environment's impact on markers of oxidative stress, immune dysregulation, and behavior in children with autism spectrum disorders. BMC COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2015; 15:71. [PMID: 25887094 PMCID: PMC4374395 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-015-0564-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2014] [Accepted: 02/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An emerging paradigm suggests children with autism display a unique pattern of environmental, genetic, and epigenetic triggers that make them susceptible to developing dysfunctional heavy metal and chemical detoxification systems. These abnormalities could be caused by alterations in the methylation, sulfation, and metalloprotein pathways. This study sought to evaluate the physiological and behavioral effects of children with autism sleeping in an International Organization for Standardization Class 5 cleanroom. METHODS Ten children with autism, ages 3-12, slept in a cleanroom for two weeks to evaluate changes in toxin levels, oxidative stress, immune dysregulation, and behavior. Before and after the children slept in the cleanroom, samples of blood and hair and rating scale scores were obtained to assess these changes. RESULTS Five children significantly lowered their concentration of oxidized glutathione, a biomarker of oxidative stress. The younger cohort, age 5 and under, showed significantly greater mean decreases in two markers of immune dysregulation, CD3% and CD4%, than the older cohort. Changes in serum magnesium, influencing neuronal regulation, correlated negatively while changes in serum iron, affecting oxygenation of tissues, correlated positively with age. Changes in serum benzene and PCB 28 concentrations showed significant negative correlations with age. The younger children demonstrated significant improvements on behavioral rating scales compared to the older children. In a younger pair of identical twins, one twin showed significantly greater improvements in 4 out of 5 markers of oxidative stress, which corresponded with better overall behavioral rating scale scores than the other twin. CONCLUSIONS Younger children who slept in the cleanroom altered elemental levels, decreased immune dysregulation, and improved behavioral rating scales, suggesting that their detoxification metabolism was briefly enhanced. The older children displayed a worsening in behavioral rating scale performance, which may have been caused by the mobilization of toxins from their tissues. The interpretation of this exploratory study is limited by lack of a control group and small sample size. The changes in physiology and behavior noted suggest that performance of larger, prospective controlled studies of exposure to nighttime or 24 hour cleanroom conditions for longer time periods may be useful for understanding detoxification in children with autism. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinical Trial Registration Number NCT02195401 (Obtained July 18, 2014).
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Faber
- Medicine, The Children's Institute, 1405 Shady Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15217, USA.
| | - Gregory M Zinn
- Chemistry and Biochemistry, Duquesne University, 600 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15282, USA.
| | - Andrew Boggess
- Chemistry and Biochemistry, Duquesne University, 600 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15282, USA.
| | - Timothy Fahrenholz
- Chemistry and Biochemistry, Duquesne University, 600 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15282, USA.
| | - John C Kern
- Mathematics and Computer Science, Duquesne University, 600 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15282, USA.
| | - H M Skip Kingston
- Chemistry and Biochemistry, Duquesne University, 600 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15282, USA.
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50
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The role of flavonoids on oxidative stress in epilepsy. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2015; 2015:171756. [PMID: 25653736 PMCID: PMC4306219 DOI: 10.1155/2015/171756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2014] [Accepted: 12/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Backgrounds. Oxidative stress can result from excessive free-radical production and it is likely implicated as a possible mechanism involved in the initiation and progression of epileptogenesis. Flavonoids can protect the brain from oxidative stress. In the central nervous system (CNS) several flavonoids bind to the benzodiazepine site on the GABAA-receptor resulting in anticonvulsive effects. Objective. This review provides an overview about the role of flavonoids in oxidative stress in epilepsy. The mechanism of action of flavonoids and its relation to the chemical structure is also discussed. Results/Conclusions. There is evidence that suggests that flavonoids have potential for neuroprotection in epilepsy.
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