1
|
Cao J, Chen H, Zhang Y, Kang Y, Zhou S, Liao Z, Gao L, Yin J, Jing Y. Androgen deprivation exacerbates AD pathology by promoting the loss of microglia in an age-dependent manner. Life Sci 2024; 355:122973. [PMID: 39142510 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
AIMS Microglial cells are integral to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The observed sex disparity in AD prevalence, with a notable predominance in women, implies a potential influence of sex hormones, such as androgens, on disease mechanisms. Despite this, the specific effects of androgens on microglia remain unclear. This study is designed to delineate the interplay between androgens and the survival and inflammatory profile of microglial cells, as well as to explore their contribution to the progression of AD. METHODS AND KEY FINDINGS To create a chronic androgen deficiency model, 3-month-old wild-type (WT) mice and APP/PS1 mice underwent bilateral orchiectomy (ORX), with age-matched sham-operated controls. Cognitive and memory were evaluated at 5 and 12 months, paralleled by assessments of amyloid-beta (Aβ) and microglial morphology in hippocampal and cortical areas. The ORX treatment in mice resulted in diminished microglial populations and morphological alterations, alongside an increase in Aβ plaques and a concomitant decline in cognitive performance that exacerbated over time. In vitro, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) was found to stimulate microglial proliferation and ameliorate Aβ1-42-induced apoptosis. SIGNIFICANCE These findings suggested that androgens may exert a protective role, maintaining the normal proliferation and functionality of microglial cells. This preservation could potentially slow the progression of AD. As a result, our study provided a conceptual framework for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxin Cao
- Institute of Anatomy and Histology & Embryology, Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Haichao Chen
- Institute of Anatomy and Histology & Embryology, Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yishu Zhang
- Institute of Anatomy and Histology & Embryology, Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiting Kang
- Institute of Anatomy and Histology & Embryology, Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Siwei Zhou
- Institute of Anatomy and Histology & Embryology, Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Zirui Liao
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Liping Gao
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Yin
- Institute of Anatomy and Histology & Embryology, Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuhong Jing
- Institute of Anatomy and Histology & Embryology, Neuroscience, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu province, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Risby-Jones G, Lee JD, Woodruff TM, Fung JN. Sex differences in Huntington's disease from a neuroinflammation perspective. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1384480. [PMID: 38915800 PMCID: PMC11194371 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1384480] [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: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is a debilitating neurodegenerative condition characterized by motor, cognitive and psychiatric abnormalities. Immune dysregulation, prominently featuring increased immune activity, plays a significant role in HD pathogenesis. In addition to the central nervous system (CNS), systemic innate immune activation and inflammation are observed in HD patients, exacerbating the effects of the Huntingtin (HTT) gene mutation. Recent attention to sex differences in HD symptom severity underscores the need to consider gender as a biological variable in neurodegenerative disease research. Understanding sex-specific immune responses holds promise for elucidating HD pathophysiology and informing targeted treatment strategies to mitigate cognitive and functional decline. This perspective will highlight the importance of investigating gender influence in HD, particularly focusing on sex-specific immune responses predisposing individuals to disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Grace Risby-Jones
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - John D. Lee
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Trent M. Woodruff
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Jenny N. Fung
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lin Y, Wang S, Zhang L, Yang Q. Elucidating the relationship between breast cancer and brain cortical structure: a Mendelian randomization study. Cereb Cortex 2024; 34:bhad498. [PMID: 38112592 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhad498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated cognitive impairment is a significant challenge for individuals who have survived breast cancer, affecting their quality of life. In this study, we conducted an inaugural comprehensive Mendelian randomization analysis discerning the causal relationship between breast cancer, including its two subtypes, and the cerebral cortical structure. Our analysis indicated that estrogen receptor-negative breast cancer significantly decreased surface area (β = -593.01 mm2, 95% CI: -1134.9 to -51.1 mm2, P = 0.032). At the regional level, estrogen receptor-negative breast cancer showed a significant association with surface area and thickness in 17 cortical regions. These regions included the insula, posterior cingulate, superior frontal, precuneus, fusiform, lateral occipital, and rostral middle frontal. Specifically, estrogen receptor-negative breast cancer had a significant impact on decreasing the surface area of the insula without considering global weight (β = -14.09 mm2, 95% CI: -22.91 to -5.27 mm2, P = 0.0017). The results from meta-analysis and LD Score Regression provide support for our findings. This investigation unveils the correlations between breast cancer, its various subcategories, and the cerebral cortical structure. Notably, breast cancer of the estrogen receptor-negative variety may elicit more widespread cerebral atrophy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yilong Lin
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361003, China
| | - Songsong Wang
- Department of Urology, Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated to Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361000, China
| | - Liyi Zhang
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361003, China
| | - Qingmo Yang
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361003, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yang SS, Simtchouk S, Gibon J, Klegeris A. Regulation of the phagocytic activity of astrocytes by neuroimmune mediators endogenous to the central nervous system. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0289169. [PMID: 37498903 PMCID: PMC10374099 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The phagocytic activity of glial cells is essential for maintaining normal brain activity, and its dysfunction may contribute to the central nervous system (CNS) pathologies, including neurodegenerative diseases. Phagocytic activity is one of the well-established neuroimmune functions of microglia. Although emerging evidence indicates that astrocytes can also function as CNS phagocytes in humans and rodents, limited information is available about the molecular mechanism regulating this function. To address this knowledge gap, we studied modulation of the phagocytic activity of human U118 MG astrocytic cells and murine primary astrocytes by four CNS inflammatory mediators and bacterial endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS). LPS and cytochrome c (CytC) upregulated, while interferon (IFN)-γ downregulated, phagocytosis of latex beads by human astrocytic cells and phagocytosis of synaptosomes by murine primary astrocytes. Interleukin (IL)-1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α had no effect on the phagocytic activity of human astrocytic cells but upregulated this function in murine astrocytes. Varying effects of combinations of the above inflammatory mediators were observed in these two cell types. LPS- and CytC-induced phagocytic activity of human astrocytic cells was partially mediated by activation of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). By monitoring other functions of astrocytes, we concluded there were no correlations between the effects of the mediators studied on astrocyte phagocytic activity and their secretion of cytokines, cytotoxins, or glutamate. Our study identified four candidate CNS regulators of astrocyte phagocytic activity. Future investigation of molecular mechanisms behind this regulation could identify novel therapeutic targets allowing modulation of this astrocyte-mediated clearance mechanism in CNS pathologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sijie Shirley Yang
- Department of Biology, University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus, University Way, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Svetlana Simtchouk
- Department of Biology, University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus, University Way, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Julien Gibon
- Department of Biology, University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus, University Way, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Andis Klegeris
- Department of Biology, University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus, University Way, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wang Z, Chen G. Immune regulation in neurovascular units after traumatic brain injury. Neurobiol Dis 2023; 179:106060. [PMID: 36871640 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of death and disability worldwide. Survivors may experience movement disorders, memory loss, and cognitive deficits. However, there is a lack of understanding of the pathophysiology of TBI-mediated neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. The immune regulation process of TBI involves changes in the peripheral and central nervous system (CNS) immunity, and intracranial blood vessels are essential communication centers. The neurovascular unit (NVU) is responsible for coupling blood flow with brain activity, and comprises endothelial cells, pericytes, astrocyte end-feet, and vast regulatory nerve terminals. A stable NVU is the basis for normal brain function. The concept of the NVU emphasizes that cell-cell interactions between different types of cells are essential for maintaining brain homeostasis. Previous studies have explored the effects of immune system changes after TBI. The NVU can help us further understand the immune regulation process. Herein, we enumerate the paradoxes of primary immune activation and chronic immunosuppression. We describe the changes in immune cells, cytokines/chemokines, and neuroinflammation after TBI. The post-immunomodulatory changes in NVU components are discussed, and research exploring immune changes in the NVU pattern is also described. Finally, we summarize immune regulation therapies and drugs after TBI. Therapies and drugs that focus on immune regulation have shown great potential for neuroprotection. These findings will help us further understand the pathological processes after TBI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zongqi Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Street, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province 215006, China; Institute of Stroke Research, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province 215006, China
| | - Gang Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery & Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Street, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province 215006, China; Institute of Stroke Research, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province 215006, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Estrada-Cruz NA, Manuel-Apolinar L, Segura-Uribe JJ, Almanza-Pérez JC, Fortis-Barrera Á, Orozco-Suárez S, Bautista-Poblet G, Coyoy-Salgado A, Guerra-Araiza C. Short-term administration of tibolone reduces inflammation and oxidative stress in the hippocampus of ovariectomized rats fed high-fat and high-fructose. Nutr Neurosci 2023; 26:275-289. [PMID: 35282801 DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2022.2046964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Inflammation and oxidative stress are critical events involved in neurodegeneration. In animal models, it has been shown that chronic consumption of a hypercaloric diet, which leads to inflammatory processes, affects the hippocampus, a brain region fundamental for learning and memory processes. In addition, advanced age and menopause are risk factors for neurodegeneration. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) ameliorates menopause symptoms. Tibolone (TB), a synthetic hormone, exerts estrogenic, progestogenic and androgenic effects on different tissues. We aimed to determine the effect of short-term TB administration on oxidative stress and inflammation markers in the hippocampus of ovariectomized rats fed a high-fat-and-fructose diet (HFFD). Adult female rats were ovariectomized (OVX) and fed standard diet or HFFD-consisting of 10% lard supplemented chow and 20% high-fructose syrup in the drinking water-and administered vehicle or TB (1 mg/kg for seven days). Finally, we administered hormone receptor antagonists (MPP, RU486 or FLU) to each of the OVX + HFFD + TB groups. Bodyweight, triglycerides and cholesterol, oxidative stress and inflammation markers, and the activity and expression of antioxidant enzymes were quantified in the hippocampus of each experimental group. We observed that short-term TB administration significantly reduced body weight, AGEs, MDA levels, increased SOD and GPx activity, improved GSH/GSSG ratio, and reduced IL-6 and TNF-α. Our findings suggest that short-term administration of TB decreases oxidative stress and reduces inflammation caused by HFFD and early estrogenic decline. These effects occurred via estrogen receptor alpha.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Norma A Estrada-Cruz
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Farmacología, Centro Médico Nacional (CMN) Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Leticia Manuel-Apolinar
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Enfermedades Endocrinas, CMN Siglo XXI, IMSS, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Julia J Segura-Uribe
- Subdirección de Gestión de la Investigación, Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Julio C Almanza-Pérez
- Laboratorio de Farmacología, Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, UAM-I, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ángeles Fortis-Barrera
- Laboratorio de Farmacología, Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, UAM-I, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Sandra Orozco-Suárez
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Enfermedades Neurológicas, CMN Siglo XXI, IMSS, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Guadalupe Bautista-Poblet
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Farmacología, Centro Médico Nacional (CMN) Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Angélica Coyoy-Salgado
- Cátedras CONACyT-Unidad de Investigación Médica en Enfermedades Neurológicas, IMSS, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Christian Guerra-Araiza
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Farmacología, Centro Médico Nacional (CMN) Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS), Mexico City, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Milner TA, Chen RX, Welington D, Rubin BR, Contoreggi NH, Johnson MA, Mazid S, Marques-Lopes J, Marongiu R, Glass MJ. Angiotensin II differentially affects hippocampal glial inflammatory markers in young adult male and female mice. Learn Mem 2022; 29:265-273. [PMID: 36206386 PMCID: PMC9488028 DOI: 10.1101/lm.053507.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Hypertension is a risk factor for neurodegenerative disorders involving inflammation and inflammatory cytokine-producing brain cells (microglia and astrocytes) in the hippocampus and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). Here we investigated the effect of slow-pressor angiotensin II (AngII) on gliosis in the hippocampus and mPFC of young adult (2-mo-old) male and female mice. In males, AngII induced hypertension, and this resulted in an increase in the density of the astrocyte marker glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in the subgranular hilus and a decrease in the density of the microglial marker ionized calcium binding adapter molecule (Iba-1) in the CA1 region. Females infused with AngII did not show hypertension but, significantly, showed alterations in hippocampal glial activation. Compared with vehicle, AngII-infused female mice had an increased density of Iba-1 in the dentate gyrus and CA2/3a region. Like males, females infused with AngII exhibited decreased Iba-1 in the CA1 region. Neither male nor female mice showed differences in GFAP or Iba-1 in the mPFC following AngII infusion. These results demonstrate that the hippocampus is particularly vulnerable to AngII in young adulthood. Differences in gonadal hormones or the sensitivity to AngII hypertension may account for divergences in GFAP and Iba-1 in males and females.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teresa A Milner
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York 10065, USA
- Harold and Milliken Hatch Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Ryan X Chen
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Diedreanna Welington
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Batsheva R Rubin
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Natalina H Contoreggi
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Megan A Johnson
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Sanoara Mazid
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Jose Marques-Lopes
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Roberta Marongiu
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York 10065, USA
- Neurological Surgery Department, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Michael J Glass
- Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York 10065, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Pinto-Benito D, Paradela-Leal C, Ganchala D, de Castro-Molina P, Arevalo MA. IGF-1 regulates astrocytic phagocytosis and inflammation through the p110α isoform of PI3K in a sex-specific manner. Glia 2022; 70:1153-1169. [PMID: 35175663 PMCID: PMC9305764 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) signaling plays a key role in neuroinflammation. Here we show that IGF-1 also regulates phagocytosis of reactive astrocytes through p110α isoform of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), differentially in both sexes. Systemic bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treatment increased the expression of GFAP, a reactive astrocyte marker, in the cortex of mice in both sexes and was blocked by IGF-1 only in males. In primary astrocytes, LPS enhanced the mRNA expression of Toll-like receptors (TLR2,4) and proinflammatory factors: inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), chemokine interferon-γ-inducible protein-10 (IP-10) and cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10) in male and female. Treatment with IGF-1 counteracted TLR4 but not TLR2, iNOS, and IP10 expression in both sexes and cytokines expression in males. Furthermore, reactive astrocyte phagocytosis was modulated by IGF-1 only in male astrocytes. IGF-1 was also able to increase AKT-phosphorylation only in male astrocytes. PI3K inhibitors, AG66, TGX-221, and CAL-101, with selectivity toward catalytic p110α, p110β, and p110δ isoforms respectively, reduced AKT-phosphorylation in males. All isoforms interact physically with IGF-1-receptor in both sexes. However, the expression of p110α is higher in males while the expression of IGF-1-receptor is similar in male and female. AG66 suppressed the IGF-1 effect on cytokine expression and counteracted the IGF-1-produced phagocytosis decrease in male reactive astrocytes. Results suggest that sex-differences in the effect of IGF-1 on the AKT-phosphorylation could be due to a lower expression of the p110α in female and that IGF-1-effects on the inflammatory response and phagocytosis of male reactive astrocytes are mediated by p110α/PI3K subunit.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Pinto-Benito
- Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Instituto Cajal, Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Paradela-Leal
- Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Instituto Cajal, Madrid, Spain
| | - Danny Ganchala
- Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Instituto Cajal, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Maria-Angeles Arevalo
- Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Instituto Cajal, Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Mancino DNJ, Lima A, Roig P, García Segura LM, De Nicola AF, Garay LI. Tibolone restrains neuroinflammation in mouse experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13078. [PMID: 34961984 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated and degenerating disease in which myelin sheaths are damaged as a result of chronic progressive inflammation of the central nervous system. Tibolone [(7α,17α)-17-hydroxy-7-methyl-19-norpregn-5(10)-en-20-in-3-one], a synthetic estrogenic compound with tissue-specific actions and used for menopausal hormone therapy, shows neuroprotective and antioxidant properties both in vivo and in vitro. In the present study, we analyzed whether tibolone plays a therapeutic role in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mice, a commonly used model of MS. Female C57BL/6 mice were induced with the myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein MOG35-55 and received s.c. tibolone (0.08 mg kg-1 ) injection every other day from the day of induction until death on the acute phase of the disease. Reactive gliosis, Toll like receptor 4 (TLR4), high mobility group box protein 1 (HMGB1), inflammasome parameters, activated Akt levels and myelin were assessed by a real-time polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, and western blot analysis. Our findings indicated that, in the EAE spinal cord, tibolone reversed the astrocytic and microglial reaction, and reduced the hyperexpression of TLR4 and HMGB1, as well as NLR family pyrin domain containing 3-caspase 1-interleukin-1β inflammasome activation. At the same time, tibolone attenuated the Akt/nuclear factor kappa B pathway and limited the white matter demyelination area. Estrogen receptor expression was unaltered with tibolone treatment. Clinically, tibolone improved neurological symptoms without uterine compromise. Overall, our data suggest that tibolone may serve as a promising agent for the attenuation of MS-related inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dalila N J Mancino
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrine Biochemistry, Instituto de Biologia y Medicina Experimental - CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Analia Lima
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrine Biochemistry, Instituto de Biologia y Medicina Experimental - CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Paulina Roig
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrine Biochemistry, Instituto de Biologia y Medicina Experimental - CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Alejandro F De Nicola
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrine Biochemistry, Instituto de Biologia y Medicina Experimental - CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Department of Human Biochemistry, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Laura I Garay
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrine Biochemistry, Instituto de Biologia y Medicina Experimental - CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Department of Human Biochemistry, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Based Models for Studying Sex-Specific Differences in Neurodegenerative Diseases. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1387:57-88. [PMID: 34921676 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2021_683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases is steadily increasing worldwide, and epidemiological studies strongly suggest that many of the diseases are sex-biased. It has long been suggested that biological sex differences are crucial for neurodegenerative diseases; however, how biological sex affects disease initiation, progression, and severity is not well-understood. Sex is a critical biological variable that should be taken into account in basic research, and this review aims to highlight the utility of human-induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC)-derived models for studying sex-specific differences in neurodegenerative diseases, with advantages and limitations. In vitro systems utilizing species-specific, renewable, and physiologically relevant cell sources can provide powerful platforms for mechanistic studies, toxicity testings, and drug discovery. Matched healthy, patient-derived, and gene-corrected human iPSCs, from both sexes, can be utilized to generate neuronal and glial cell types affected by specific neurodegenerative diseases to study sex-specific differences in two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) human culture systems. Such relatively simple and well-controlled systems can significantly contribute to the elucidation of molecular mechanisms underlying sex-specific differences, which can yield effective, and potentially sex-based strategies, against neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
|
11
|
Blank N, Mayer M, Mass E. The development and physiological and pathophysiological functions of resident macrophages and glial cells. Adv Immunol 2021; 151:1-47. [PMID: 34656287 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ai.2021.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
In the past, brain function and the onset and progression of neurological diseases have been studied in a neuron-centric manner. However, in recent years the focus of many neuroscientists has shifted to other cell types that promote neurodevelopment and contribute to the functionality of neuronal networks in health and disease. Particularly microglia and astrocytes have been implicated in actively contributing to and controlling neuronal development, neuroinflammation, and neurodegeneration. Here, we summarize the development of brain-resident macrophages and astrocytes and their core functions in the developing brain. We discuss their contribution and intercellular crosstalk during tissue homeostasis and pathophysiology. We argue that in-depth knowledge of non-neuronal cells in the brain could provide novel therapeutic targets to reverse or contain neurological diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nelli Blank
- Developmental Biology of the Immune System, Life & Medical Sciences (LIMES) Institute, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Marina Mayer
- Developmental Biology of the Immune System, Life & Medical Sciences (LIMES) Institute, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Elvira Mass
- Developmental Biology of the Immune System, Life & Medical Sciences (LIMES) Institute, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Valori CF, Possenti A, Brambilla L, Rossi D. Challenges and Opportunities of Targeting Astrocytes to Halt Neurodegenerative Disorders. Cells 2021; 10:cells10082019. [PMID: 34440788 PMCID: PMC8395029 DOI: 10.3390/cells10082019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are a heterogeneous group of disorders whose incidence is likely to duplicate in the next 30 years along with the progressive aging of the western population. Non-cell-specific therapeutics or therapeutics designed to tackle aberrant pathways within neurons failed to slow down or halt neurodegeneration. Yet, in the last few years, our knowledge of the importance of glial cells to maintain the central nervous system homeostasis in health conditions has increased exponentially, along with our awareness of their fundamental and multifaced role in pathological conditions. Among glial cells, astrocytes emerge as promising therapeutic targets in various neurodegenerative disorders. In this review, we present the latest evidence showing the astonishing level of specialization that astrocytes display to fulfill the demands of their neuronal partners as well as their plasticity upon injury. Then, we discuss the controversies that fuel the current debate on these cells. We tackle evidence of a potential beneficial effect of cell therapy, achieved by transplanting astrocytes or their precursors. Afterwards, we introduce the different strategies proposed to modulate astrocyte functions in neurodegeneration, ranging from lifestyle changes to environmental cues. Finally, we discuss the challenges and the recent advancements to develop astrocyte-specific delivery systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara F. Valori
- Molecular Neuropathology of Neurodegenerative Diseases, German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Correspondence: (C.F.V.); (D.R.); Tel.: +49-7071-9254-122 (C.F.V.); +39-0382-592064 (D.R.)
| | - Agostino Possenti
- Laboratory for Research on Neurodegenerative Disorders, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.P.); (L.B.)
| | - Liliana Brambilla
- Laboratory for Research on Neurodegenerative Disorders, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.P.); (L.B.)
| | - Daniela Rossi
- Laboratory for Research on Neurodegenerative Disorders, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.P.); (L.B.)
- Correspondence: (C.F.V.); (D.R.); Tel.: +49-7071-9254-122 (C.F.V.); +39-0382-592064 (D.R.)
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Role of Neuroglobin in the Neuroprotective Actions of Estradiol and Estrogenic Compounds. Cells 2021; 10:cells10081907. [PMID: 34440676 PMCID: PMC8391807 DOI: 10.3390/cells10081907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 07/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Estradiol exerts neuroprotective actions that are mediated by the regulation of a variety of signaling pathways and homeostatic molecules. Among these is neuroglobin, which is upregulated by estradiol and translocated to the mitochondria to sustain neuronal and glial cell adaptation to injury. In this paper, we will discuss the role of neuroglobin in the neuroprotective mechanisms elicited by estradiol acting on neurons, astrocytes and microglia. We will also consider the role of neuroglobin in the neuroprotective actions of clinically relevant synthetic steroids, such as tibolone. Finally, the possible contribution of the estrogenic regulation of neuroglobin to the generation of sex differences in brain pathology and the potential application of neuroglobin as therapy against neurological diseases will be examined.
Collapse
|
14
|
Network pharmacology identifies IL6 as an important hub and target of tibolone for drug repurposing in traumatic brain injury. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 140:111769. [PMID: 34058440 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is characterized by a complex network of signals mediating inflammatory, proliferative and apoptotic processes during its acute and chronic phases. Current therapies mitigate damage and are mainly for palliative care and there are currently no effective therapies for secondary damage. This suggests a need to discover a compound with a greater spectrum of action that can control various pathological aspects of TBI. Here we used a network pharmacology approach to explore the benefits of tibolone, an estrogen and androgen receptor agonist with broader actions in cells, as a possible repurposing drug for TBI therapy. Using different databases we retrieved the targets significantly associated to TBI and tibolone, obtaining 2700 and 652, respectively. The top 10 GO enriched terms were mostly related to cell proliferation, apoptosis and inflammation. Following protein-protein functional analysis, the top connected proteins were related to kinase activity (MAPK1/14/3, AKT1 PIK3R1), apoptosis (TP53, CASP3), growth factors (EGFR), estrogen signalling (ESR1) and inflammation (IL6, TNF), with IL6 as an important signalling hub belonging to the top GO categories. Thus, we identified IL6 as a cellular node which we then validated using molecular mechanics-generalized born surface area (MMGBSA) and docking to explore which tibolone metabolite might interact with this protein. Both 3α and 3β-OH tibolone seemed to bind better to IL6 at important sites responsible for its binding to IL6R. In conclusion, our study demonstrates key hubs involved in TBI pathology which indicates IL6 as a target molecule of tibolone as drug repurposing for TBI therapy.
Collapse
|
15
|
Chowen JA, Garcia-Segura LM. Role of glial cells in the generation of sex differences in neurodegenerative diseases and brain aging. Mech Ageing Dev 2021; 196:111473. [PMID: 33766745 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2021.111473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Diseases and aging-associated alterations of the nervous system often show sex-specific characteristics. Glial cells play a major role in the endogenous homeostatic response of neural tissue, and sex differences in the glial transcriptome and function have been described. Therefore, the possible role of these cells in the generation of sex differences in pathological alterations of the nervous system is reviewed here. Studies have shown that glia react to pathological insults with sex-specific neuroprotective and regenerative effects. At least three factors determine this sex-specific response of glia: sex chromosome genes, gonadal hormones and neuroactive steroid hormone metabolites. The sex chromosome complement determines differences in the transcriptional responses in glia after brain injury, while gonadal hormones and their metabolites activate sex-specific neuroprotective mechanisms in these cells. Since the sex-specific neuroprotective and regenerative activity of glial cells causes sex differences in the pathological alterations of the nervous system, glia may represent a relevant target for sex-specific therapeutic interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julie A Chowen
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Instituto de Investigación la Princesa, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutriciόn (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, and IMDEA Food Institute, CEIUAM+CSIC, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Luis M Garcia-Segura
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC) and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Morini R, Bizzotto M, Perrucci F, Filipello F, Matteoli M. Strategies and Tools for Studying Microglial-Mediated Synapse Elimination and Refinement. Front Immunol 2021; 12:640937. [PMID: 33708226 PMCID: PMC7940197 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.640937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of microglia in controlling synapse homeostasis is becoming increasingly recognized by the scientific community. In particular, the microglia-mediated elimination of supernumerary synapses during development lays the basis for the correct formation of neuronal circuits in adulthood, while the possible reactivation of this process in pathological conditions, such as schizophrenia or Alzheimer's Disease, provides a promising target for future therapeutic strategies. The methodological approaches to investigate microglial synaptic engulfment include different in vitro and in vivo settings. Basic in vitro assays, employing isolated microglia and microbeads, apoptotic membranes, liposomes or synaptosomes allow the quantification of the microglia phagocytic abilities, while co-cultures of microglia and neurons, deriving from either WT or genetically modified mice models, provide a relatively manageable setting to investigate the involvement of specific molecular pathways. Further detailed analysis in mice brain is then mandatory to validate the in vitro assays as representative for the in vivo situation. The present review aims to dissect the main technical approaches to investigate microglia-mediated phagocytosis of neuronal and synaptic substrates in critical developmental time windows.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Morini
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Pathology, Neurocenter, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Matteo Bizzotto
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Pathology, Neurocenter, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy
| | - Fabio Perrucci
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Pathology, Neurocenter, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy
| | - Fabia Filipello
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Pathology, Neurocenter, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Italy.,Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Michela Matteoli
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Brain Pathology, Neurocenter, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center - IRCCS, Rozzano, Italy.,Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche (CNR), Institute of Neuroscience - URT Humanitas, Rozzano, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Fossati G, Matteoli M, Menna E. Astrocytic Factors Controlling Synaptogenesis: A Team Play. Cells 2020; 9:E2173. [PMID: 32993090 PMCID: PMC7600026 DOI: 10.3390/cells9102173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are essential players in brain circuit development and homeostasis, controlling many aspects of synapse formation, function, plasticity and elimination both during development and adulthood. Accordingly, alterations in astrocyte morphogenesis and physiology may severely affect proper brain development, causing neurological or neuropsychiatric conditions. Recent findings revealed a huge astrocyte heterogeneity among different brain areas, which is likely at the foundation of the different synaptogenic potential of these cells in selected brain regions. This review highlights recent findings on novel mechanisms that regulate astrocyte-mediated synaptogenesis during development, and the control of synapse number in the critical period or upon synaptic plasticity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giuliana Fossati
- Humanitas Clinical and Research Center—IRCCS—NeuroCenter, via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy; (G.F.); (M.M.)
| | - Michela Matteoli
- Humanitas Clinical and Research Center—IRCCS—NeuroCenter, via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy; (G.F.); (M.M.)
- CNR, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Neuroscience—URT Humanitas, via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Menna
- Humanitas Clinical and Research Center—IRCCS—NeuroCenter, via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy; (G.F.); (M.M.)
- CNR, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Neuroscience—URT Humanitas, via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Tibolone Ameliorates the Lipotoxic Effect of Palmitic Acid in Normal Human Astrocytes. Neurotox Res 2020; 38:585-595. [DOI: 10.1007/s12640-020-00247-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
19
|
Microglial and Astrocytic Function in Physiological and Pathological Conditions: Estrogenic Modulation. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21093219. [PMID: 32370112 PMCID: PMC7247358 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21093219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
There are sexual differences in the onset, prevalence, and outcome of numerous neurological diseases. Thus, in Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and major depression disorder, the incidence in women is higher than in men. In contrast, men are more likely to present other pathologies, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and autism spectrum. Although the neurological contribution to these diseases has classically always been studied, the truth is that neurons are not the only cells to be affected, and there are other cells, such as glial cells, that are also involved and could be key to understanding the development of these pathologies. Sexual differences exist not only in pathology but also in physiological processes, which shows how cells are differentially regulated in males and females. One of the reasons these sexual differences may occur could be due to the different action of sex hormones. Many studies have shown an increase in aromatase levels in the brain, which could indicate the main role of estrogens in modulating proinflammatory processes. This review will highlight data about sex differences in glial physiology and how estrogenic compounds, such as estradiol and tibolone, could be used as treatment in neurological diseases due to their anti-inflammatory effects and the ability to modulate glial cell functions.
Collapse
|