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Sagredo GT, Tanglay O, Shahdadpuri S, Fu Y, Halliday GM. ⍺-Synuclein levels in Parkinson's disease - Cell types and forms that contribute to pathogenesis. Exp Neurol 2024; 379:114887. [PMID: 39009177 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2024.114887] [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: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) has two main pathological hallmarks, the loss of nigral dopamine neurons and the proteinaceous aggregations of ⍺-synuclein (⍺Syn) in neuronal Lewy pathology. These two co-existing features suggest a causative association between ⍺Syn aggregation and the underpinning mechanism of neuronal degeneration in PD. Both increased levels and post-translational modifications of ⍺Syn can contribute to the formation of pathological aggregations of ⍺Syn in neurons. Recent studies have shown that the protein is also expressed by multiple types of non-neuronal cells in the brain and peripheral tissues, suggesting additional roles of the protein and potential diversity in non-neuronal pathogenic triggers. It is important to determine (1) the threshold levels triggering ⍺Syn to convert from a biological to a pathologic form in different brain cells in PD; (2) the dominant form of pathologic ⍺Syn and the associated post-translational modification of the protein in each cell type involved in PD; and (3) the cell type associated biological processes impacted by pathologic ⍺Syn in PD. This review integrates these aspects and speculates on potential pathological mechanisms and their impact on neuronal and non-neuronal ⍺Syn in the brains of patients with PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giselle Tatiana Sagredo
- The University of Sydney, Brain and Mind Centre & Faculty of Medicine and Health School of Medical Sciences, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, United States of America
| | - Onur Tanglay
- The University of Sydney, Brain and Mind Centre & Faculty of Medicine and Health School of Medical Sciences, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Shrey Shahdadpuri
- The University of Sydney, Brain and Mind Centre & Faculty of Medicine and Health School of Medical Sciences, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - YuHong Fu
- The University of Sydney, Brain and Mind Centre & Faculty of Medicine and Health School of Medical Sciences, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, United States of America
| | - Glenda M Halliday
- The University of Sydney, Brain and Mind Centre & Faculty of Medicine and Health School of Medical Sciences, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, United States of America.
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2
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Weber TM, Özdüzenciler P, Tamgüney G, Pietruszka J. Utilization of a Branched Late-Stage Clickable Biotinylated Chassis on the Example of a Pittsburgh B Analogue. Org Lett 2024. [PMID: 39051841 DOI: 10.1021/acs.orglett.4c02527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Biotinylation is probably the most frequent and practically useful modification of molecules to facilitate selective and highly affine binding to (strept)avidin for immobilization, enrichment, and purification for further (bio)chemical or (bio)physical investigations. We present a protecting-group-free synthesis of a branched biotin bis-azide that enables dual-payload late-stage functionalization with arbitrary alkynes via click chemistry. Utility of the chassis is briefly showcased on the example of a valuable Pittsburgh B analogue, which binds pathological protein aggregates, commonly found in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Moritz Weber
- Mathematisch-Naturwissenschaftliche Fakultät, Institut für Bioorganische Chemie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf im Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52428 Jülich, Germany
| | - Pelin Özdüzenciler
- Institut für Biologische Informationsprozesse 7 (IBI-7: Strukturbiochemie), Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52428 Jülich, Germany
- Mathematisch-Naturwissenschaftliche Fakultät, Institut für Physikalische Biologie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Gültekin Tamgüney
- Institut für Biologische Informationsprozesse 7 (IBI-7: Strukturbiochemie), Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52428 Jülich, Germany
- Mathematisch-Naturwissenschaftliche Fakultät, Institut für Physikalische Biologie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Jörg Pietruszka
- Mathematisch-Naturwissenschaftliche Fakultät, Institut für Bioorganische Chemie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf im Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52428 Jülich, Germany
- Institut für Bio- und Geowissenschaften 1 (IBG-1: Biotechnologie), Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52428 Jülich, Germany
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3
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Palihati N, Tang Y, Yin Y, Yu D, Liu G, Quan Z, Ni J, Yan Y, Qing H. Clusterin is a Potential Therapeutic Target in Alzheimer's Disease. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:3836-3850. [PMID: 38017342 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03801-1] [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: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, Clusterin, a glycosylated protein with multiple biological functions, has attracted extensive research attention. It is closely associated with the physiological and pathological states within the organism. Particularly in Alzheimer's disease (AD) research, Clusterin plays a significant role in the disease's occurrence and progression. Numerous studies have demonstrated a close association between Clusterin and AD. Firstly, the expression level of Clusterin in the brain tissue of AD patients is closely related to pathological progression. Secondly, Clusterin is involved in the deposition and formation of β-amyloid, which is a crucial process in AD development. Furthermore, Clusterin may affect the pathogenesis of AD through mechanisms such as regulating inflammation, controlling cell apoptosis, and clearing pathological proteins. Therefore, further research on the relationship between Clusterin and AD will contribute to a deeper understanding of the etiology of this neurodegenerative disease and provide a theoretical basis for developing early diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for AD. This also makes Clusterin one of the research focuses as a potential biomarker for AD diagnosis and treatment monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazhakaiti Palihati
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Yuanhong Tang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Yajuan Yin
- Department of Cardiology, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, Hebei, China
| | - Ding Yu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, Hebei, China
| | - Gang Liu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, Hebei, China
| | - Zhenzhen Quan
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Junjun Ni
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Yan Yan
- Department of Cardiology, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, Hebei, China.
| | - Hong Qing
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China.
- Department of Biology, Shenzhen MSU-BIT University, Shenzhen, 518172, China.
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4
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Ghosal S, Bag S, Bhowmik S. Insights into the Binding Interactions between Microplastics and Human α-Synuclein Protein by Multispectroscopic Investigations and Amyloidogenic Oligomer Formation. J Phys Chem Lett 2024; 15:6560-6567. [PMID: 38885454 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.4c00731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Aggregation of human α-synuclein protein is regarded to be a key stage in the etiology of Parkinson's disease and numerous other neurodegenerative illnesses. Microplastics pollution can be a potential agent to promote various neurodegenerative disorders. In this study, we have employed various multispectroscopic analytical methods to investigate the binding interactions between polyethylene (PE-MPs), polyvinyl chloride (PVC-MPs), polystyrene (PS-MPs) microplastics, and human α-synuclein protein. Spectroscopic investigations using UV-vis absorption, circular dichroism, and Fourier transform infrared have indicated different alterations in α-synuclein protein's secondary structures induced by the formation of the α-synuclein protein-MP binding complex. This study suggests that PS-MPs are found to be the most effective microplastic that promote amyloidogenic oligomer emergence because of their tiny size (100 nm).
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Affiliation(s)
- Souvik Ghosal
- Mahatma Gandhi Medical Advanced Research Institute (MGMARI), Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pondy-Cuddalore Main Road, Pillaiyarkuppam, Pondicherry 607402, India
| | - Sagar Bag
- Department of Biophysics, Molecular Biology, and Bioinformatics, University of Calcutta, 92 A.P.C. Road, Kolkata 700009, India
| | - Sudipta Bhowmik
- Mahatma Gandhi Medical Advanced Research Institute (MGMARI), Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Pondy-Cuddalore Main Road, Pillaiyarkuppam, Pondicherry 607402, India
- Department of Biophysics, Molecular Biology, and Bioinformatics, University of Calcutta, 92 A.P.C. Road, Kolkata 700009, India
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5
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Han W, Wei M, Xu F, Niu Z. Aggregation and phase separation of α-synuclein in Parkinson's disease. Chem Commun (Camb) 2024; 60:6581-6590. [PMID: 38808534 DOI: 10.1039/d4cc01591f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
The deposition of α-synuclein (α-Syn) in Lewy bodies serves as a prominent pathological hallmark of Parkinson's disease (PD). Recent research has revealed that α-Syn can undergo liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) during its fibrillization. Over time, the maturation of the resulting condensates leads to a liquid-to-solid phase transition (LSPT) ultimately resulting in the amyloid deposition in cells which is linked to the pathogenesis and development of PD. Herein, we summarize the understanding of α-Syn aggregation which can be described by nucleation and elongation steps to obtain insights into the correlation of protein aggregation, structural polymorphism, and PD progression. Additionally, we discuss the LLPS phenomena of α-Syn and heterotypic cross-amyloid interactions with a focus on aberrant LSPT in the aggregation process. Exploring the underlying mechanisms and interplay between α-Syn aberrant aggregation, pathological phase transitions, and PD pathogenesis will shed light on potential therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanlu Han
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan 475004, China.
| | - Mengrui Wei
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan 475004, China.
| | - Fei Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan 475004, China.
| | - Zheng Niu
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan 475004, China.
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6
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Maltseva S, Kerr D, Turke M, Adams EJ, Lee KYC. Parkinson's disease-associated mutations in α-synuclein alters its lipid-bound state. Biophys J 2024; 123:1610-1619. [PMID: 38702883 PMCID: PMC11213968 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2024.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Lipid-binding properties of α-synuclein play a central role in protein aggregation and progression of Parkinson's disease (PD). α-Synuclein, an intrinsically disordered protein, binds to lipid membranes through the formation of two amphipathic helices that insert into the lipid bilayer. All disease-associated single point mutations have been identified to be within these helical regions of α-synuclein: V15A, A30P, E46K, H50Q, G51D, A53T, and A53V. However, the effects of these mutations on the bound states of the two α helices of the protein have yet to be fully characterized. In this report, we use a tryptophan fluorescence assay to measure the binding of the α helices of these PD-associated mutants to lipid membranes within the lipid-depletion regime. We characterize the binding behavior of each helix, revealing that, generally, the PD-associated mutants shift the equilibrium bound state away from the N-terminal helix of the protein toward helix 2 at lower lipid concentrations. Altogether, our results indicate that disruption to the equilibrium binding of the two α helices of α-synuclein could play a role in PD progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofiya Maltseva
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; James Franck Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Daniel Kerr
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; James Franck Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Miah Turke
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; James Franck Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Erin J Adams
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Ka Yee C Lee
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; James Franck Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois.
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7
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Jaiswal A, Patel M, Naseer A, Kumari S, Revi N, Rengan A, Jain A, Nazir A, Gour N, Verma S. Amyloid Mimicking Assemblies Formed by Glutamine, Glutamic Acid, and Aspartic Acid. ACS Chem Neurosci 2024; 15:2253-2264. [PMID: 38768265 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.4c00082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The aggregation of amino acids into amyloid-like structures is a critical phenomenon for understanding the pathophysiology of various diseases, including inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs) associated with amino acid imbalances. Previous studies have primarily focused on self-assembly of aromatic amino acids, leading to a limited understanding of nonaromatic, polar amino acids in this context. To bridge this gap, our study investigates the self-assembly and aggregation behavior of specific nonaromatic charged and uncharged polar amino acids l-glutamine (Gln), l-aspartic acid (Asp), and l-glutamic acid (Glu), which have not been reported widely in the context of amyloid aggregation. Upon aging these amino acids under controlled conditions, we observed the formation of uniform, distinct aggregates, with Gln forming fibrillar gel-like structures and Glu exhibiting fibrous globular morphologies. Computational simulations validated these findings, identifying Gln as the most potent in forming stable aggregates, followed by Glu and Asp. These simulations elucidated the driving forces behind the distinct morphologies and stabilities of the aggregates. Thioflavin T assays were employed to confirm the amyloid-like nature of these aggregates, suggesting their potential cytotoxic impact. To assess toxicity, we performed in vitro studies on neural cell lines and in vivo experiments in Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans), which demonstrated measurable cytotoxic effects, corroborated by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide and heat shock survival assays. Importantly, this study fills a critical gap in our understanding on the role of nonaromatic amino acids in amyloidogenesis and its implications for IEMs. Our findings provide a foundation for future investigations into the mechanisms of diseases associated with amino acid accumulation and offer potential avenues for the development of targeted therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Jaiswal
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208016, India
| | - Monisha Patel
- School of Science, Indrashil University, Kadi, Mehsana, Gujarat 382740, India
| | - Anam Naseer
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
- Division of Toxicology & Experimental Medicine, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226031, India
| | - Simran Kumari
- Department of Bioengineering and Biotechnology, Birla Institute of Technology Mesra, Ranchi 835215, Jharkhand, India
| | - Neeraja Revi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Hyderabad, Telangana 502285, India
| | - Aravind Rengan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Hyderabad, Telangana 502285, India
| | - Alok Jain
- Department of Bioengineering and Biotechnology, Birla Institute of Technology Mesra, Ranchi 835215, Jharkhand, India
| | - Aamir Nazir
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
- Division of Toxicology & Experimental Medicine, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow 226031, India
| | - Nidhi Gour
- School of Science, Indrashil University, Kadi, Mehsana, Gujarat 382740, India
| | - Sandeep Verma
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208016, India
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8
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Arora T, Sharma G, Prashar V, Singh R, Sharma A, Changotra H, Parkash J. Mechanistic Evaluation of miRNAs and Their Targeted Genes in the Pathogenesis and Therapeutics of Parkinson's Disease. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04261-x. [PMID: 38823001 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04261-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
MicroRNA (miRNA) are usually 18-25 nucleotides long non-coding RNA targeting post-transcriptional regulation of genes involved in various biological processes. The function of miRNA is essential for maintaining a homeostatic cellular condition, regulating autophagy, cellular motility, and inflammation. Dysregulation of miRNA is responsible for multiple disorders, including neurodegeneration, which has emerged as a severe problem in recent times and has verified itself as a life-threatening condition that can be understood by the continuous destruction of neurons affecting various cognitive and motor functions. Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common, permanently debilitating neurodegenerative disorder after Alzheimer's, mainly characterized by uncontrolled tremor, stiffness, bradykinesia or akinesia (slowness in movement), and post-traumatic stress disorder. PD is mainly caused by the demolition of the primary dopamine neurotransmitter secretory cells and dopaminergic or dopamine secretory neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta of the midbrain, which are majorly responsible for motor functions. In this study, a systematic evaluation of research articles from year 2017 to 2022 was performed on multiple search engines, and lists of miRNA being dysregulated in PD in different body components were generated. This study highlighted miR-7, miR-124, miR-29 family, and miR-425, showing altered expression levels during PD's progression, further regulating the expression of multiple genes responsible for PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Arora
- Department of Zoology, School of Biological Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, 151401, Punjab, India
| | - Gaurav Sharma
- Department of Zoology, School of Biological Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, 151401, Punjab, India
| | - Vikash Prashar
- Department of Zoology, School of Biological Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, 151401, Punjab, India
| | - Randeep Singh
- Department of Zoology, School of Biological Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, 151401, Punjab, India
| | - Arti Sharma
- Department of Computational Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, 151401, Punjab, India
| | - Harish Changotra
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, 143101, Punjab, India
| | - Jyoti Parkash
- Department of Zoology, School of Biological Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, 151401, Punjab, India.
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Kakinen A, Jiang Y, Davis TP, Teesalu T, Saarma M. Brain Targeting Nanomedicines: Pitfalls and Promise. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:4857-4875. [PMID: 38828195 PMCID: PMC11143448 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s454553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Brain diseases are the most devastating problem among the world's increasingly aging population, and the number of patients with neurological diseases is expected to increase in the future. Although methods for delivering drugs to the brain have advanced significantly, none of these approaches provide satisfactory results for the treatment of brain diseases. This remains a challenge due to the unique anatomy and physiology of the brain, including tight regulation and limited access of substances across the blood-brain barrier. Nanoparticles are considered an ideal drug delivery system to hard-to-reach organs such as the brain. The development of new drugs and new nanomaterial-based brain treatments has opened various opportunities for scientists to develop brain-specific delivery systems that could improve treatment outcomes for patients with brain disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, stroke and brain tumors. In this review, we discuss noteworthy literature that examines recent developments in brain-targeted nanomedicines used in the treatment of neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandr Kakinen
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Yuhao Jiang
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Thomas Paul Davis
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Tambet Teesalu
- Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Materials Research Laboratory, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Mart Saarma
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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10
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Varenyk Y, Theodorakis PE, Pham DQH, Li MS, Krupa P. Exploring Structural Insights of Aβ42 and α-Synuclein Monomers and Heterodimer: A Comparative Study Using Implicit and Explicit Solvent Simulations. J Phys Chem B 2024; 128:4655-4669. [PMID: 38700150 PMCID: PMC11103699 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.4c00503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Protein misfolding, aggregation, and fibril formation play a central role in the development of severe neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. The structural stability of mature fibrils in these diseases is of great importance, as organisms struggle to effectively eliminate amyloid plaques. To address this issue, it is crucial to investigate the early stages of fibril formation when monomers aggregate into small, toxic, and soluble oligomers. However, these structures are inherently disordered, making them challenging to study through experimental approaches. Recently, it has been shown experimentally that amyloid-β 42 (Aβ42) and α-synuclein (α-Syn) can coassemble. This has motivated us to investigate the interaction between their monomers as a first step toward exploring the possibility of forming heterodimeric complexes. In particular, our study involves the utilization of various Amber and CHARMM force-fields, employing both implicit and explicit solvent models in replica exchange and conventional simulation modes. This comprehensive approach allowed us to assess the strengths and weaknesses of these solvent models and force fields in comparison to experimental and theoretical findings, ensuring the highest level of robustness. Our investigations revealed that Aβ42 and α-Syn monomers can indeed form stable heterodimers, and the resulting heterodimeric model exhibits stronger interactions compared to the Aβ42 dimer. The binding of α-Syn to Aβ42 reduces the propensity of Aβ42 to adopt fibril-prone conformations and induces significant changes in its conformational properties. Notably, in AMBER-FB15 and CHARMM36m force fields with the use of explicit solvent, the presence of Aβ42 significantly increases the β-content of α-Syn, consistent with the experiments showing that Aβ42 triggers α-Syn aggregation. Our analysis clearly shows that although the use of implicit solvent resulted in too large compactness of monomeric α-Syn, structural properties of monomeric Aβ42 and the heterodimer were preserved in explicit-solvent simulations. We anticipate that our study sheds light on the interaction between α-Syn and Aβ42 proteins, thus providing the atom-level model required to assess the initial stage of aggregation mechanisms related to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuliia Varenyk
- Institute
of Physics Polish Academy of Sciences, Al. Lotnikow 32/46, 02-668 Warsaw, Poland
- Department
of Theoretical Chemistry, University of
Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | | | - Dinh Q. H. Pham
- Institute
of Physics Polish Academy of Sciences, Al. Lotnikow 32/46, 02-668 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Mai Suan Li
- Institute
of Physics Polish Academy of Sciences, Al. Lotnikow 32/46, 02-668 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Paweł Krupa
- Institute
of Physics Polish Academy of Sciences, Al. Lotnikow 32/46, 02-668 Warsaw, Poland
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11
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Kula J, Kuter KZ. MUFA synthesis and stearoyl-CoA desaturase as a new pharmacological target for modulation of lipid and alpha-synuclein interaction against Parkinson's disease synucleinopathy. Neuropharmacology 2024; 249:109865. [PMID: 38342377 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2024.109865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
Protein pathology spreading within the nervous system, accompanies neurodegeneration and a spectrum of motor and cognitive dysfunctions. Currently available therapies against Parkinson's disease and other synucleinopathies are mostly symptomatic and fail to slow the disease progression in the long term. Modification of α-synuclein (αS) aggregation and toxicity of its pathogenic forms is one of the main goals in neuroprotective approach. Since the discovery of lipid component of Lewy bodies, fatty acids became a crucial, yet little explored target for research. MUFAs (monounsaturated fatty acids) are substrates for lipids, such as phospholipids, triglycerides and cholesteryl esters. They regulate membrane fluidity, take part in signal transduction, cellular differentiation and other fundamental processes. αS and MUFA interactions are essential for Lewy body pathology. αS increases levels of MUFAs, mainly oleic acid, which in turn can enhance αS toxicity and aggregation. Thus, reduction of MUFAs synthesis by inhibition of stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD) activity could be the new way to prevent aggravation of αS pathology. Due to the limited distribution in peripheral tissues, SCD5 is a potential target in novel therapies and therefore could be an important starting point in search for disease-modifying neuroprotective therapy. Here we summarize facts about physiology and pathology of αS, explain recently discovered lipid-αS interactions, review SCD function and involved mechanisms, present available SCD inhibitors and discuss their pharmacological potential in disease management. Modulation of MUFA synthesis, decreasing αS and lipid toxicity is clearly essential, but unexplored avenue in pharmacotherapy of Parkinson's disease and synucleinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Kula
- Department of Neuropsychopharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smetna St., 31-343 Krakow, Poland.
| | - Katarzyna Z Kuter
- Department of Neuropsychopharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smetna St., 31-343 Krakow, Poland.
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12
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Gathings A, Zaman V, Banik NL, Haque A. Insights into Calpain Activation and Rho-ROCK Signaling in Parkinson's Disease and Aging. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1074. [PMID: 38791036 PMCID: PMC11117523 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12051074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD), a progressive neurodegenerative disease, has no cure, and current therapies are not effective at halting disease progression. The disease affects mid-brain dopaminergic neurons and, subsequently, the spinal cord, contributing to many debilitating symptoms associated with PD. The GTP-binding protein, Rho, plays a significant role in the cellular pathology of PD. The downstream effector of Rho, Rho-associated kinase (ROCK), plays multiple functions, including microglial activation and induction of inflammatory responses. Activated microglia have been implicated in the pathology of many neurodegenerative diseases, including PD, that initiate inflammatory responses, leading to neuron death. Calpain expression and activity is increased following glial activation, which triggers the Rho-ROCK pathway and induces inflammatory T cell activation and migration as well as mediates toxic α-synuclein (α-syn) aggregation and neuron death, indicating a pivotal role for calpain in the inflammatory and degenerative processes in PD. Increased calpain activity and Rho-ROCK activation may represent a new mechanism for increased oxidative damage in aging. This review will summarize calpain activation and the role of the Rho-ROCK pathway in oxidative stress and α-syn aggregation, their influence on the neurodegenerative process in PD and aging, and possible strategies and research directions for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Gathings
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, 173 Ashley Avenue, Charleston, SC 29425, USA; (A.G.); (N.L.B.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas Street, Charleston, SC 29425, USA;
| | - Vandana Zaman
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas Street, Charleston, SC 29425, USA;
- Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Administration Medical Center, 109 Bee Street, Charleston, SC 29401, USA
| | - Narendra L. Banik
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, 173 Ashley Avenue, Charleston, SC 29425, USA; (A.G.); (N.L.B.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas Street, Charleston, SC 29425, USA;
- Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Administration Medical Center, 109 Bee Street, Charleston, SC 29401, USA
| | - Azizul Haque
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, 173 Ashley Avenue, Charleston, SC 29425, USA; (A.G.); (N.L.B.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas Street, Charleston, SC 29425, USA;
- Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Administration Medical Center, 109 Bee Street, Charleston, SC 29401, USA
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13
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Lu X, Lu J, Li S, Feng S, Wang Y, Cui L. The Role of Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation in the Accumulation of Pathological Proteins: New Perspectives on the Mechanism of Neurodegenerative Diseases. Aging Dis 2024:AD.2024.0209. [PMID: 38739933 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2024.0209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
It is widely accepted that living organisms form highly dynamic membrane-less organelles (MLOS) with various functions through phase separation, and the indispensable role that phase separation plays in the mechanisms of normal physiological functions and pathogenesis is gradually becoming clearer. Pathological aggregates, regarded as hallmarks of neurodegenerative diseases, have been revealed to be closely related to aberrant phase separation. Specific proteins are assembled into condensates and transform into insoluble inclusions through aberrant phase separation, contributing to the development of diseases. In this review, we present an overview of the progress of phase separation research, involving its biological mechanisms and the status of research in neurodegenerative diseases, focusing on five main disease-specific proteins, tau, TDP-43, FUS, α-Syn and HTT, and how exactly these proteins reside within dynamic liquid-like compartments and thus turn into solid deposits. Further studies will yield new perspectives for understanding the aggregation mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies, and future research directions are anticipated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingyu Lu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Jiongtong Lu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Shengnan Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Sifan Feng
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Lili Cui
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Age-Related Cardiac and Cerebral Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
- The Marine Biomedical Research Institute of Guangdong, School of Ocean and Tropical Medicine, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
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14
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Jomova K, Alomar SY, Alwasel SH, Nepovimova E, Kuca K, Valko M. Several lines of antioxidant defense against oxidative stress: antioxidant enzymes, nanomaterials with multiple enzyme-mimicking activities, and low-molecular-weight antioxidants. Arch Toxicol 2024; 98:1323-1367. [PMID: 38483584 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-024-03696-4] [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: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) are well recognized for playing a dual role, since they can be either deleterious or beneficial to biological systems. An imbalance between ROS production and elimination is termed oxidative stress, a critical factor and common denominator of many chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic diseases, neurological disorders (Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases), and other disorders. To counteract the harmful effects of ROS, organisms have evolved a complex, three-line antioxidant defense system. The first-line defense mechanism is the most efficient and involves antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). This line of defense plays an irreplaceable role in the dismutation of superoxide radicals (O2•-) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The removal of superoxide radicals by SOD prevents the formation of the much more damaging peroxynitrite ONOO- (O2•- + NO• → ONOO-) and maintains the physiologically relevant level of nitric oxide (NO•), an important molecule in neurotransmission, inflammation, and vasodilation. The second-line antioxidant defense pathway involves exogenous diet-derived small-molecule antioxidants. The third-line antioxidant defense is ensured by the repair or removal of oxidized proteins and other biomolecules by a variety of enzyme systems. This review briefly discusses the endogenous (mitochondria, NADPH, xanthine oxidase (XO), Fenton reaction) and exogenous (e.g., smoking, radiation, drugs, pollution) sources of ROS (superoxide radical, hydrogen peroxide, hydroxyl radical, peroxyl radical, hypochlorous acid, peroxynitrite). Attention has been given to the first-line antioxidant defense system provided by SOD, CAT, and GPx. The chemical and molecular mechanisms of antioxidant enzymes, enzyme-related diseases (cancer, cardiovascular, lung, metabolic, and neurological diseases), and the role of enzymes (e.g., GPx4) in cellular processes such as ferroptosis are discussed. Potential therapeutic applications of enzyme mimics and recent progress in metal-based (copper, iron, cobalt, molybdenum, cerium) and nonmetal (carbon)-based nanomaterials with enzyme-like activities (nanozymes) are also discussed. Moreover, attention has been given to the mechanisms of action of low-molecular-weight antioxidants (vitamin C (ascorbate), vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol), carotenoids (e.g., β-carotene, lycopene, lutein), flavonoids (e.g., quercetin, anthocyanins, epicatechin), and glutathione (GSH)), the activation of transcription factors such as Nrf2, and the protection against chronic diseases. Given that there is a discrepancy between preclinical and clinical studies, approaches that may result in greater pharmacological and clinical success of low-molecular-weight antioxidant therapies are also subject to discussion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaudia Jomova
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Constantine The Philosopher University in Nitra, Nitra, 949 74, Slovakia
| | - Suliman Y Alomar
- Doping Research Chair, Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, 11451, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh H Alwasel
- Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, 11451, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eugenie Nepovimova
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Hradec Kralove, 50005, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Kamil Kuca
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Hradec Kralove, 50005, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
- Biomedical Research Center, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Marian Valko
- Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, Slovak University of Technology, 812 37, Bratislava, Slovakia.
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15
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Litberg TJ, Horowitz S. Roles of Nucleic Acids in Protein Folding, Aggregation, and Disease. ACS Chem Biol 2024; 19:809-823. [PMID: 38477936 PMCID: PMC11149768 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.3c00695] [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] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
The role of nucleic acids in protein folding and aggregation is an area of continued research, with relevance to understanding both basic biological processes and disease. In this review, we provide an overview of the trajectory of research on both nucleic acids as chaperones and their roles in several protein misfolding diseases. We highlight key questions that remain on the biophysical and biochemical specifics of how nucleic acids have large effects on multiple proteins' folding and aggregation behavior and how this pertains to multiple protein misfolding diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodore J. Litberg
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry and The Knoebel Institute for Healthy Aging, University of Denver, Denver, CO, 80208, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Scott Horowitz
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry and The Knoebel Institute for Healthy Aging, University of Denver, Denver, CO, 80208, USA
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16
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Semenyuk PI. Alpha-synuclein phosphorylation induces amyloid conversion via enhanced electrostatic bridging: Insights from molecular modeling of the full-length protein. Biophys Chem 2024; 307:107196. [PMID: 38335809 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpc.2024.107196] [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: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Fibril formation from alpha-synuclein is a key point in Parkinson's disease, multiple system atrophy, and other synucleinopathies. The mechanism of the amyloid-like conversion followed by the formation of pre-fibrillar soluble oligomers and fibrils is not completely clear; furthermore, it is unclear how the Parkinson's disease-related point mutations located in the pre-NAC region enhance fibrillation. In the present paper, atomistic replica exchange molecular dynamics simulations of the full-length alpha-synuclein and its two mutants, A53T and E46K, elucidated amyloid conversion intermediates. Both mutants demonstrated an enhanced tendency for the conversion but in different manners; the main intermediate conformations populated in the WT alpha-synuclein conformational ensemble disappeared due to mutations, indicating a different conversion pathway. Analysis of the preferable beta-hairpin positions and intermediate conformations seems to reflect a tendency to form a particular amyloid fibril polymorph. A strong elevation of amyloid transformation level was shown also for Ser129-phosphorylated alpha-synuclein. Altered intermediate conformations, the most preferable beta-hairpin positions in the NAC region, and prevalent salt bridges propose the formation of so-called polymorph 2 or even a novel type of fibrils. A better understanding of the detailed mechanism of the amyloid conversion sheds light on the effect of Lewy body-related phosphorylation and might help in the development of new therapeutics for synucleinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavel I Semenyuk
- Belozersky Research Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Leninskie gory 1/40, Russia.
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17
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Rymbai E, Sugumar D, Chakkittukandiyil A, Kothandan R, Selvaraj D. Molecular insights into the potential effects of selective estrogen receptor β agonists in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Cell Biochem Funct 2024; 42:e4014. [PMID: 38616346 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.4014] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) are the most common neurodegenerative disorders. Pathologically, AD and PD are characterized by the accumulation of misfolded proteins. Hence, they are also called as proteinopathy diseases. Gender is considered as one of the risk factors in both diseases. Estrogens are widely accepted to be neuroprotective in several neurodegenerative disorders. Estrogens can be produced in the central nervous system, where they are called as neurosteroids. Estrogens mediate their neuroprotective action mainly through their actions on estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and estrogen receptor beta (ERβ). However, ERα is mainly involved in the growth and development of the primary and secondary sexual organs in females. Hence, the activation of ERα is associated with undesired side effects such as gynecomastia and increase in the risk of breast cancer, thromboembolism, and feminization. Therefore, selective activation of ERβ is often considered to be safer. In this review, we explore the role of ERβ in regulating the expression and functions of AD- and PD-associated genes. Additionally, we discuss the association of these genes with the amyloid-beta peptide (Aβ) and α-synuclein mediated toxicity. Ultimately, we established a correlation between the importance of ERβ activation and the process underlying ERβ's neuroprotective mechanisms in AD and PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emdormi Rymbai
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Deepa Sugumar
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Amritha Chakkittukandiyil
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ram Kothandan
- Department of Biotechnology, Kumaraguru College of Technology, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Divakar Selvaraj
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Tamil Nadu, India
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18
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Tripathi A, Pandey VK, Sharma G, Sharma AR, Taufeeq A, Jha AK, Kim JC. Genomic Insights into Dementia: Precision Medicine and the Impact of Gene-Environment Interaction. Aging Dis 2024:AD.2024.0322. [PMID: 38607741 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2024.0322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The diagnosis, treatment, and management of dementia provide significant challenges due to its chronic cognitive impairment. The complexity of this condition is further highlighted by the impact of gene-environment interactions. A recent strategy combines advanced genomics and precision medicine methods to explore the complex genetic foundations of dementia. Utilizing the most recent research in the field of neurogenetics, the importance of precise genetic data in explaining the variation seen in dementia patients can be investigated. Gene-environment interactions are important because they influence genetic susceptibilities and aid in the development and progression of dementia. Modified to each patient's genetic profile, precision medicine has the potential to detect groups at risk and make previously unheard-of predictions about the course of diseases. Precision medicine techniques have the potential to completely transform treatment and diagnosis methods. Targeted medications that target genetic abnormalities will probably appear, providing the possibility for more efficient and customized medical interventions. Investigating the relationship between genes and the environment may lead to preventive measures that would enable people to change their surroundings and minimize the risk of dementia, leading to the improved lifestyle of affected people. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the genomic insights into dementia, emphasizing the pivotal role of precision medicine, and gene-environment interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjali Tripathi
- Department of Biotechnology, Sharda School of Engineering and Technology, Sharda University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Vinay Kumar Pandey
- Division of Research & Innovation (DRI), School of Applied & Life Sciences, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Garima Sharma
- Department of Biomedical Science & Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Ashish Ranjan Sharma
- Institute for Skeletal Aging & Orthopedic Surgery, Hallym University-Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital, Chuncheon-si, 24252, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Anam Taufeeq
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Rama University, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Abhimanyu Kumar Jha
- Department of Biotechnology, Sharda School of Engineering and Technology, Sharda University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Jin-Chul Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science & Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea
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19
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Onishi N, Mazzaferro N, Kunstelj Š, Alvarado DA, Muller AM, Vázquez FX. Flanking Domains Modulate α-Synuclein Monomer Structure: A Molecular Dynamics Domain Deletion Study. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.23.586267. [PMID: 38586052 PMCID: PMC10996548 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.23.586267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Aggregates of misfolded α-synuclein proteins (asyn) are key markers of Parkinson's disease. Asyn proteins have three domains: an N-terminal domain, a hydrophobic NAC core implicated in aggregation, and a proline-rich C-terminal domain. Proteins with truncated C-terminal domains are known to be prone to aggregation and suggest that studying domain-domain interactions in asyn monomers could help elucidate the role of the flanking domains in modulating protein structure. To this end, we used Gaussian accelerated molecular dynamics (GAMD) to simulate wild-type (WT), N-terminal truncated (DN), C-terminal truncated (ΔC), and isolated NAC domain variants (isoNAC). Using clustering and contact analysis, we found that N- and C-terminal domains interact via electrostatic interactions, while the NAC and N-terminal domains interact through hydrophobic contacts. Our work also suggests that the C-terminal domain does not interact directly with the NAC domain but instead interacts with the N-terminal domain. Removal of the N-terminal domain led to increased contacts between NAC and C-terminal domains and the formation of interdomain β-sheets. Removal of either flanking domain also resulted in increased compactness of every domain. We also found that the contacts between flanking domains results in an electrostatic potential (ESP) that could possibly lead to favorable interactions with anionic lipid membranes. Removal of the C-terminal domain disrupts the ESP in a way that is likely to over-stabilize protein-membrane interactions. All of this suggests that one of the roles of the flanking domains may be to modulate the protein structure in a way that helps maintain elongation, hide hydrophobic residue from the solvent, and maintain an ESP that aids favorable interactions with the membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noriyo Onishi
- Department of Chemistry, St. John’s University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | | | - Špela Kunstelj
- Department of Chemistry, St. John’s University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Daisy A. Alvarado
- Department of Chemistry, St. John’s University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Anna M. Muller
- Department of Chemistry, St. John’s University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Frank X. Vázquez
- Department of Chemistry, St. John’s University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
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20
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Schwab K, Magbagbeolu M, Theuring F, Harrington CR, Wischik CM, Riedel G. Solubility of α-synuclein species in the L62 mouse model of synucleinopathy. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6239. [PMID: 38486089 PMCID: PMC10940722 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56735-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
The accumulation of α-synuclein (α-Syn) into Lewy bodies is a hallmark of synucleinopathies, a group of neurological disorders that include Parkinson's disease (PD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). Small oligomers as well as larger fibrils of α-Syn have been suggested to induce cell toxicity leading to a degenerative loss of neurones. A richer understanding of α-Syn aggregation in disease, however, requires the identification of the different α-Syn species and the characterisation of their biochemical properties. We here aimed at a more in-depth characterisation of the α-Syn transgenic mice, Line 62 (L62), and examined the deposition pattern and solubility of human and murine α-Syn in these mice using immunohistochemical and biochemical methods. Application of multiple antibodies confirmed mAb syn204 as the most discriminatory antibody for human α-Syn in L62. Syn204 revealed an intense and widespread immunohistochemical α-Syn labelling in parietal cortex and hippocampus, and to a lower level in basal forebrain and hindbrain regions. The labelled α-Syn represented somatic inclusions as well as processes and synaptic endings. Biochemical analysis revealed a Triton-resistant human α-Syn pool of large oligomers, a second pool of small oligomers that was not resistant to solubilization with urea/Triton. A third SDS-soluble pool of intermediate sized aggregates containing a mixture of both, human and mouse α-Syn was also present. These data suggest that several pools of α-Syn can exist in neurones, most likely in different cellular compartments. Information about these different pools is important for the development of novel disease modifying therapies aimed at α-Syn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karima Schwab
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Forester Hill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK.
- Institute of Pharmacology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Hessische Str. 3-4, 10115, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Mandy Magbagbeolu
- Institute of Pharmacology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Hessische Str. 3-4, 10115, Berlin, Germany
| | - Franz Theuring
- Institute of Pharmacology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Hessische Str. 3-4, 10115, Berlin, Germany
| | - Charles R Harrington
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Forester Hill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
- TauRx Therapeutics Ltd., 395 King Street, Aberdeen, AB24 5RP, UK
| | - Claude M Wischik
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Forester Hill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
- TauRx Therapeutics Ltd., 395 King Street, Aberdeen, AB24 5RP, UK
| | - Gernot Riedel
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Forester Hill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
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21
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Zheng X, Zhao Z, Zhao L. Investigating the Effect of an Anti-Inflammatory Drug in Determining NURR1 Expression and Thus Exploring the Progression of Parkinson's Disease. Physiol Res 2024; 73:139-155. [PMID: 38466012 PMCID: PMC11019624 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.935168] [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: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the most widely used drugs for Parkinson's disease (PD), of which ibuprofen shows positive effects in suppressing symptoms; however, the associated risk needs to be addressed in different pathological stages. Initially, we developed an initial and advanced stage of the Parkinson disease mouse model by intraperitoneal injection of MPTP (20 mg/kg; 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydro-pyridine) for 10 and 20 days, respectively. Subsequently, ibuprofen treatment was administered for 2 months, and a pole test, rotarod test, histology, immunohistochemistry, and western blotting were performed to determine neuronal motor function. Histological analysis for 10 days after mice were injected with MPTP showed the onset of neurodegeneration and cell aggregation, indicating the initial stages of Parkinson's disease. Advanced Parkinson's disease was marked by Lewy body formation after another 10 days of MPTP injection. Neurodegeneration reverted after ibuprofen therapy in initial Parkinson's disease but not in advanced Parkinson's disease. The pole and rotarod tests confirmed that motor activity in the initial Parkinson disease with ibuprofen treatment recovered (p<0.01). However, no improvement was observed in the ibuprofen-treated mice with advanced disease mice. Interestingly, ibuprofen treatment resulted in a significant improvement (p<0.01) in NURR1 (Nuclear receptor-related 1) expression in mice with early PD, but no substantial improvement was observed in its expression in mice with advanced PD. Our findings indicate that NURR1 exerts anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. Overall, NURR1 contributed to the effects of ibuprofen on PD at different pathological stages.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Mice
- Parkinson Disease/metabolism
- Ibuprofen/pharmacology
- Ibuprofen/therapeutic use
- Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology
- Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal/pharmacology
- Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal/therapeutic use
- Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal/metabolism
- Neuroprotective Agents/pharmacology
- Neuroprotective Agents/therapeutic use
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Disease Models, Animal
- 1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine/metabolism
- 1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine/pharmacology
- 1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine/therapeutic use
- Dopaminergic Neurons/metabolism
- Dopaminergic Neurons/pathology
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Affiliation(s)
- X Zheng
- Department of Divine Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
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22
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Andrés CMC, Pérez de la Lastra JM, Juan CA, Plou FJ, Pérez-Lebeña E. Antioxidant Metabolism Pathways in Vitamins, Polyphenols, and Selenium: Parallels and Divergences. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2600. [PMID: 38473850 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Free radicals (FRs) are unstable molecules that cause reactive stress (RS), an imbalance between reactive oxygen and nitrogen species in the body and its ability to neutralize them. These species are generated by both internal and external factors and can damage cellular lipids, proteins, and DNA. Antioxidants prevent or slow down the oxidation process by interrupting the transfer of electrons between substances and reactive agents. This is particularly important at the cellular level because oxidation reactions lead to the formation of FR and contribute to various diseases. As we age, RS accumulates and leads to organ dysfunction and age-related disorders. Polyphenols; vitamins A, C, and E; and selenoproteins possess antioxidant properties and may have a role in preventing and treating certain human diseases associated with RS. In this review, we explore the current evidence on the potential benefits of dietary supplementation and investigate the intricate connection between SIRT1, a crucial regulator of aging and longevity; the transcription factor NRF2; and polyphenols, vitamins, and selenium. Finally, we discuss the positive effects of antioxidant molecules, such as reducing RS, and their potential in slowing down several diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - José Manuel Pérez de la Lastra
- Institute of Natural Products and Agrobiology, CSIC-Spanish Research Council, Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, 3, 38206 La Laguna, Spain
| | - Celia Andrés Juan
- Cinquima Institute and Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Valladolid University, Paseo de Belén, 7, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
| | - Francisco J Plou
- Institute of Catalysis and Petrochemistry, CSIC-Spanish Research Council, 28049 Madrid, Spain
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Mahbub NU, Islam MM, Hong ST, Chung HJ. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota and its effect on α-synuclein and prion protein misfolding: consequences for neurodegeneration. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1348279. [PMID: 38435303 PMCID: PMC10904658 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1348279] [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: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Abnormal behavior of α-synuclein and prion proteins is the hallmark of Parkinson's disease (PD) and prion illnesses, respectively, being complex neurological disorders. A primary cause of protein aggregation, brain injury, and cognitive loss in prion illnesses is the misfolding of normal cellular prion proteins (PrPC) into an infectious form (PrPSc). Aggregation of α-synuclein causes disruptions in cellular processes in Parkinson's disease (PD), leading to loss of dopamine-producing neurons and motor symptoms. Alteration in the composition or activity of gut microbes may weaken the intestinal barrier and make it possible for prions to go from the gut to the brain. The gut-brain axis is linked to neuroinflammation; the metabolites produced by the gut microbiota affect the aggregation of α-synuclein, regulate inflammation and immunological responses, and may influence the course of the disease and neurotoxicity of proteins, even if their primary targets are distinct proteins. This thorough analysis explores the complex interactions that exist between the gut microbiota and neurodegenerative illnesses, particularly Parkinson's disease (PD) and prion disorders. The involvement of the gut microbiota, a complex collection of bacteria, archaea, fungi, viruses etc., in various neurological illnesses is becoming increasingly recognized. The gut microbiome influences neuroinflammation, neurotransmitter synthesis, mitochondrial function, and intestinal barrier integrity through the gut-brain axis, which contributes to the development and progression of disease. The review delves into the molecular mechanisms that underlie these relationships, emphasizing the effects of microbial metabolites such as bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPS), and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in regulating brain functioning. Additionally, it looks at how environmental influences and dietary decisions affect the gut microbiome and whether they could be risk factors for neurodegenerative illnesses. This study concludes by highlighting the critical role that the gut microbiota plays in the development of Parkinson's disease (PD) and prion disease. It also provides a promising direction for future research and possible treatment approaches. People afflicted by these difficult ailments may find hope in new preventive and therapeutic approaches if the role of the gut microbiota in these diseases is better understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasir Uddin Mahbub
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Institute for Medical Science, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Md Minarul Islam
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Institute for Medical Science, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Tshool Hong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Institute for Medical Science, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hea-Jong Chung
- Gwangju Center, Korea Basic Science Institute, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
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Massey RS, Appadurai RR, Prakash R. A Surface Imprinted Polymer EIS Sensor for Detecting Alpha-Synuclein, a Parkinson's Disease Biomarker. MICROMACHINES 2024; 15:273. [PMID: 38399001 PMCID: PMC10892569 DOI: 10.3390/mi15020273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's Disease (PD) is a debilitating neurodegenerative disease, causing loss of motor function and, in some instances, cognitive decline and dementia in those affected. The quality of life can be improved, and disease progression delayed through early interventions. However, current methods of confirming a PD diagnosis are extremely invasive. This prevents their use as a screening tool for the early onset stages of PD. We propose a surface imprinted polymer (SIP) electroimpedance spectroscopy (EIS) biosensor for detecting α-Synuclein (αSyn) and its aggregates, a biomarker that appears in saliva and blood during the early stages of PD as the blood-brain barrier degrades. The surface imprinted polymer stamp is fabricated by low-temperature melt stamping polycaprolactone (PCL) on interdigitated EIS electrodes. The result is a low-cost, small-footprint biosensor that is highly suitable for non-invasive monitoring of the disease biomarker. The sensors were tested with αSyn dilutions in deionized water and in constant ionic concentration matrix solutions with decreasing concentrations of αSyn to remove the background effects of concentration. The device response confirmed the specificity of these devices to the target protein of monomeric αSyn. The sensor limit of detection was measured to be 5 pg/L, and its linear detection range was 5 pg/L-5 µg/L. This covers the physiological range of αSyn in saliva and makes this a highly promising method of quantifying αSyn monomers for PD patients in the future. The SIP surface was regenerated, and the sensor was reused to demonstrate its capability for repeat sensing as a potential continuous monitoring tool for the disease biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ravi Prakash
- Department of Electronics Engineering, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada; (R.S.M.); (R.R.A.)
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Rymbai E, Roy D, Jupudi S, Srinivasadesikan V. The identification of c-Abl inhibitors as potential agents for Parkinson's disease: a preliminary in silico approach. Mol Divers 2024:10.1007/s11030-023-10796-3. [PMID: 38273156 DOI: 10.1007/s11030-023-10796-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the most common movement disorder worldwide. PD is primarily associated with the mutation, overexpression, and phosphorylation of α-synuclein. At the molecular level, the upstream protein c-Abl, a tyrosine kinase, has been shown to regulate α-synuclein activation and expression patterns. This study aimed to identify potential c-Abl inhibitors through in silico approaches. Molecular docking was performed using PyRx software, followed by Prime MM-GBSA studies. BBB permeability and toxicity were predicted using CBligand and ProTox-II, respectively. ADME was assessed using QikProp. Molecular dynamics were carried out using Desmond (Academic version). DFT calculations were performed using the Gaussian 16 suite program. The binding scores of the top hits, norimatinib, DB07326, and entinostat were - 11.8 kcal/mol, - 11.8 kcal/mol, and - 10.8 kcal/mol, respectively. These hits displayed drug-likeness with acceptable ADME properties, except for the standard, nilotinib, which violated Lipinski's rule of five. Similarly, the molecular dynamics showed that the top hits remained stable during the 100 ns simulation. DFT results indicate DB04739 as a potent reactive hit. While based on toxicity prediction, entinostat may be a potential candidate for preclinical and clinical testing in PD. Further studies are warranted to confirm the activity and efficacy of these ligands for PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emdormi Rymbai
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Dhritiman Roy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Dibrugarh University, Dibrugarh, Assam, India
| | - Srikanth Jupudi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Ooty, Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Venkatesan Srinivasadesikan
- Department of Sciences and Humanities, Vignan's Foundation for Science, Technology and Research (Deemed to be University), Vadlamudi, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India
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Thakkar H, Chatterjee S, Saxena P, Eerla R, Wagh S, Khairnar A, Shah RP. Cell-Engineered Recombinant α-Synuclein: A Gage R&R Validated Protocol. J Proteome Res 2024; 23:16-24. [PMID: 37985371 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.3c00190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
α-Synuclein (α-Syn) misfolding and its presence in Lewy bodies are observed in almost all Parkinson's disease (PD) patients. Basic biomedical research would benefit from a quick, low-cost approach to purifying α-Syn and developing in vitro and in vivo models for PD. Several research groups utilize PFF-based models, yet the production of α-Syn PFFs is inconsistent, resulting in nonconclusive findings. Some research laboratories prepare recombinant α-Syn (r α-Syn) by molecular cloning to overexpress α-Syn with various purifying techniques. Laboratory-to-laboratory protocols cause considerable variability and sometimes contradictory findings. PD researchers spend more on protein than solving α-Syn's riddles. This article uncovered a novel method for expressing and purifying r α-Syn validated through gage reproducibility and repeatability (Gage R&R). For the production of r α-Syn, we have employed the ability of a high-cell-density-based expression system to overexpress protein in BL21(DE3). A simple, high-throughput, nonchromatographical purification protocol has been devised to facilitate research with higher reproducibility, which was validated through Gage R&R. A crossover experimental design was utilized, and the purified protein was characterized using orthogonal high-end analytical methods, which displayed higher similarity between the isolated r α-Syn. Batch-to-batch variability was the least for produced protein and hence can be utilized for exploring the iceberg of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harsh Thakkar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research─Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), Opposite Air force Station Palaj, Gandhinagar 382355, Gujarat India
| | - Sayan Chatterjee
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research─Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), Opposite Air force Station Palaj, Gandhinagar 382355, Gujarat India
| | - Purvi Saxena
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research─Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), Opposite Air force Station Palaj, Gandhinagar 382355, Gujarat India
| | - Rameswari Eerla
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research─Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), Opposite Air force Station Palaj, Gandhinagar 382355, Gujarat India
| | - Sachin Wagh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research─Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), Opposite Air force Station Palaj, Gandhinagar 382355, Gujarat India
| | - Amit Khairnar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research─Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), Opposite Air force Station Palaj, Gandhinagar 382355, Gujarat India
| | - Ravi P Shah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research─Ahmedabad (NIPER-A), Opposite Air force Station Palaj, Gandhinagar 382355, Gujarat India
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Ratan Y, Rajput A, Pareek A, Pareek A, Jain V, Sonia S, Farooqui Z, Kaur R, Singh G. Advancements in Genetic and Biochemical Insights: Unraveling the Etiopathogenesis of Neurodegeneration in Parkinson's Disease. Biomolecules 2024; 14:73. [PMID: 38254673 PMCID: PMC10813470 DOI: 10.3390/biom14010073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative movement disorder worldwide, which is primarily characterized by motor impairments. Even though multiple hypotheses have been proposed over the decades that explain the pathogenesis of PD, presently, there are no cures or promising preventive therapies for PD. This could be attributed to the intricate pathophysiology of PD and the poorly understood molecular mechanism. To address these challenges comprehensively, a thorough disease model is imperative for a nuanced understanding of PD's underlying pathogenic mechanisms. This review offers a detailed analysis of the current state of knowledge regarding the molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of PD, with a particular emphasis on the roles played by gene-based factors in the disease's development and progression. This study includes an extensive discussion of the proteins and mutations of primary genes that are linked to PD, including α-synuclein, GBA1, LRRK2, VPS35, PINK1, DJ-1, and Parkin. Further, this review explores plausible mechanisms for DAergic neural loss, non-motor and non-dopaminergic pathologies, and the risk factors associated with PD. The present study will encourage the related research fields to understand better and analyze the current status of the biochemical mechanisms of PD, which might contribute to the design and development of efficacious and safe treatment strategies for PD in future endeavors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yashumati Ratan
- Department of Pharmacy, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali 304022, Rajasthan, India; (A.R.); (A.P.); (A.P.)
| | - Aishwarya Rajput
- Department of Pharmacy, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali 304022, Rajasthan, India; (A.R.); (A.P.); (A.P.)
| | - Ashutosh Pareek
- Department of Pharmacy, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali 304022, Rajasthan, India; (A.R.); (A.P.); (A.P.)
| | - Aaushi Pareek
- Department of Pharmacy, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali 304022, Rajasthan, India; (A.R.); (A.P.); (A.P.)
| | - Vivek Jain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mohan Lal Sukhadia University, Udaipur 313001, Rajasthan, India;
| | - Sonia Sonia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar 143005, Punjab, India;
| | - Zeba Farooqui
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607, USA;
| | - Ranjeet Kaur
- Adesh Institute of Dental Sciences and Research, Bathinda 151101, Punjab, India;
| | - Gurjit Singh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607, USA;
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Khan R, Di Gesù CM, Lee J, McCullough LD. The contribution of age-related changes in the gut-brain axis to neurological disorders. Gut Microbes 2024; 16:2302801. [PMID: 38237031 PMCID: PMC10798364 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2024.2302801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Trillions of microbes live symbiotically in the host, specifically in mucosal tissues such as the gut. Recent advances in metagenomics and metabolomics have revealed that the gut microbiota plays a critical role in the regulation of host immunity and metabolism, communicating through bidirectional interactions in the microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA). The gut microbiota regulates both gut and systemic immunity and contributes to the neurodevelopment and behaviors of the host. With aging, the composition of the microbiota changes, and emerging studies have linked these shifts in microbial populations to age-related neurological diseases (NDs). Preclinical studies have demonstrated that gut microbiota-targeted therapies can improve behavioral outcomes in the host by modulating microbial, metabolomic, and immunological profiles. In this review, we discuss the pathways of brain-to-gut or gut-to-brain signaling and summarize the role of gut microbiota and microbial metabolites across the lifespan and in disease. We highlight recent studies investigating 1) microbial changes with aging; 2) how aging of the maternal microbiome can affect offspring health; and 3) the contribution of the microbiome to both chronic age-related diseases (e.g., Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and cerebral amyloidosis), and acute brain injury, including ischemic stroke and traumatic brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romeesa Khan
- Department of Neurology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Claudia M. Di Gesù
- Department of Neurology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Juneyoung Lee
- Department of Neurology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Louise D. McCullough
- Department of Neurology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, USA
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29
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Teppang KL, Zhao Q, Yang J. Development of fluorophores for the detection of oligomeric aggregates of amyloidogenic proteins found in neurodegenerative diseases. Front Chem 2023; 11:1343118. [PMID: 38188930 PMCID: PMC10766704 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2023.1343118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease are the two most common neurodegenerative diseases globally. These neurodegenerative diseases have characteristic late-stage symptoms allowing for differential diagnosis; however, they both share the presence of misfolded protein aggregates which appear years before clinical manifestation. Historically, research has focused on the detection of higher-ordered aggregates (or amyloids); however, recent evidence has shown that the oligomeric state of these protein aggregates plays a greater role in disease pathology, resulting in increased efforts to detect oligomers to aid in disease diagnosis. In this review, we summarize some of the exciting new developments towards the development of fluorescent probes that can detect oligomeric aggregates of amyloidogenic proteins present in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jerry Yang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
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30
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Zhao Z, Li Z, Du F, Wang Y, Wu Y, Lim KL, Li L, Yang N, Yu C, Zhang C. Linking Heat Shock Protein 70 and Parkin in Parkinson's Disease. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:7044-7059. [PMID: 37526897 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03481-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease that affects millions of elderly people worldwide and is characterized by the progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc). The precise mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of PD are still not fully understood, but it is well accepted that the misfolding, aggregation, and abnormal degradation of proteins are the key causative factors of PD. Heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) is a molecular chaperone that participates in the degradation of misfolded and aggregated proteins in living cells and organisms. Parkin, an E3 ubiquitin ligase, participates in the degradation of proteins via the proteasome pathway. Recent studies have indicated that both Hsp70 and Parkin play pivotal roles in PD pathogenesis. In this review, we focus on discussing how dysregulation of Hsp70 and Parkin leads to PD pathogenesis, the interaction between Hsp70 and Parkin in the context of PD and their therapeutic applications in PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongting Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics (KLoFE) & Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), School of Flexible Electronics (Future Technologies), Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211816, People's Republic of China
| | - Zheng Li
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117054, Singapore
| | - Fangning Du
- Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics (KLoFE) & Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), School of Flexible Electronics (Future Technologies), Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211816, People's Republic of China
| | - Yixin Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Wu
- Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics (KLoFE) & Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), School of Flexible Electronics (Future Technologies), Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211816, People's Republic of China
| | - Kah-Leong Lim
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, 11 Mandalay Road, Singapore, 308232, Singapore
| | - Lin Li
- Institute of Flexible Electronics (IFE, Future Technologies), Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, People's Republic of China
| | - Naidi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics (KLoFE) & Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), School of Flexible Electronics (Future Technologies), Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211816, People's Republic of China.
| | - Changmin Yu
- Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics (KLoFE) & Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), School of Flexible Electronics (Future Technologies), Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211816, People's Republic of China.
| | - Chengwu Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, People's Republic of China.
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Wang C, Cui Y, Xu T, Zhou Y, Yang R, Wang T. New insights into glycogen synthase kinase-3: A common target for neurodegenerative diseases. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 218:115923. [PMID: 37981175 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
Glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK-3) is a highly conserved protein serine/threonine kinase that plays a central role in a wide variety of cellular processes to coordinate catabolic and anabolic pathways and regulate cell growth and fate. There is increasing evidence showing that abnormal glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK-3) is associated with the pathogenesis and progression of many disorders, such as cancer, diabetes, psychiatric diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we summarize recent findings about the regulatory role of GSK-3 in the occurrence and development of multiple neurodegenerative diseases, mainly focusing on Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The aim of this study is to provide new insight into the shared working mechanism of GSK-3 as a therapeutic target of multiple neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengfeng Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China; Institute of Brain Sciences and Related Disorders, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, China
| | - Yu Cui
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
| | - Tong Xu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck, The Affiliated Qingdao Third People's Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266021, China
| | - Yu Zhou
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China; Institute of Brain Sciences and Related Disorders, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, China; Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck, The Affiliated Qingdao Third People's Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266021, China; Department of Health and Life Science, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong 266000, China.
| | - Rong Yang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck, The Affiliated Qingdao Third People's Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266021, China.
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China.
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Lima MMS, Targa ADS, Dos Santos Lima GZ, Cavarsan CF, Torterolo P. Macro and micro-sleep dysfunctions as translational biomarkers for Parkinson's disease. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 174:187-209. [PMID: 38341229 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2023.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Sleep disturbances are highly prevalent among patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) and often appear from the early-phase disease or prodromal stages. In this chapter, we will discuss the current evidence addressing the links between sleep dysfunctions in PD, focusing most closely on those data from animal and mathematical/computational models, as well as in human-based studies that explore the electrophysiological and molecular mechanisms by which PD and sleep may be intertwined, whether as predictors or consequences of the disease. It is possible to clearly state that leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 gene (LRRK2) is significantly related to alterations in sleep architecture, particularly affecting rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and non-REM sleep, thus impacting sleep quality. Also, decreases in gamma power, observed after dopaminergic lesions, correlates negatively with the degree of injury, which brings other levels of understanding the impacts of the disease. Besides, abnormal synchronized oscillations among basal ganglia nuclei can be detrimental for information processing considering both motor and sleep-related processes. Altogether, despite clear advances in the field, it is still difficult to definitely establish a comprehensive understanding of causality among all the sleep dysfunctions with the disease itself. Although, certainly, the search for biomarkers is helping in shortening this road towards a better and faster diagnosis, as well as looking for more efficient treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo M S Lima
- Neurophysiology Laboratory, Department of Physiology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil.
| | - Adriano D S Targa
- CIBER of Respiratory diseases (CIBERES), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Translational Research in Respiratory Medicine, Hospital Universitari Arnau de Vilanova-Santa Maria, Biomedical Research Institute of Lleida (IRBLleida), Lleida, Spain
| | - Gustavo Z Dos Santos Lima
- Science and Technology School, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | - Clarissa F Cavarsan
- College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, United States
| | - Pablo Torterolo
- Laboratory of Sleep Neurobiology, Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
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Tolea MI, Ezzeddine R, Camacho S, Galvin JE. Emerging drugs for dementia with Lewy Bodies: a review of Phase II & III trials. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2023; 28:167-180. [PMID: 37531299 DOI: 10.1080/14728214.2023.2244425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite faster cognitive decline and greater negative impact on patients and family caregivers, drug development efforts in Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB) fall behind those for Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Current off-label drug DLB treatment options are limited to symptomatic agents developed to address cognitive deficits in AD, motor deficits in Parkinson's Disease, or behavioral symptoms in psychiatric disease. Aided by recent improvements in DLB diagnosis, a new focus on the development of disease-modifying agents (DMA) is emerging. AREAS COVERED Driven by evidence supporting different pathological mechanisms in DLB and PDD, this review assesses the evidence on symptomatic drug treatments and describes current efforts in DMA development in DLB. Specifically, our goals were to: (1) review evidence supporting the use of symptomatic drug treatments in DLB; (2) review the current DMA pipeline in DLB with a focus on Phase II and III clinical trials; and (3) identify potential issues with the development of DMA in DLB. Included in this review were completed and ongoing drug clinical trials in DLB registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (no time limits set for the search) or disseminated at the 2023 international conference on Clinical Trials in AD. Drug clinical trials registered in non-US clinical trial registries were not included. EXPERT OPINION Adoption of current symptomatic drug treatments used off-label in DLB relied on efficacy of benefits in other disorders rather than evidence from randomized controlled clinical trials. Symptoms remain difficult to manage. Several DMA drugs are currently being evaluated as either repurposing candidates or novel small molecules. Continued improvement in methodological aspects including development of DLB-specific outcome measures and biomarkers is needed to move the field of DMA drug development forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena I Tolea
- Comprehensive Center for Brain Health, Lewy Body Dementia Research Center of Excellence, Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Reem Ezzeddine
- Comprehensive Center for Brain Health, Lewy Body Dementia Research Center of Excellence, Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Simone Camacho
- Comprehensive Center for Brain Health, Lewy Body Dementia Research Center of Excellence, Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - James E Galvin
- Comprehensive Center for Brain Health, Lewy Body Dementia Research Center of Excellence, Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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Allen SG, Meade RM, White Stenner LL, Mason JM. Peptide-based approaches to directly target alpha-synuclein in Parkinson's disease. Mol Neurodegener 2023; 18:80. [PMID: 37940962 PMCID: PMC10633918 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-023-00675-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Peptides and their mimetics are increasingly recognised as drug-like molecules, particularly for intracellular protein-protein interactions too large for inhibition by small molecules, and inaccessible to larger biologics. In the past two decades, evidence associating the misfolding and aggregation of alpha-synuclein strongly implicates this protein in disease onset and progression of Parkinson's disease and related synucleinopathies. The subsequent formation of toxic, intracellular, Lewy body deposits, in which alpha-synuclein is a major component, is a key diagnostic hallmark of the disease. To reach their therapeutic site of action, peptides must both cross the blood-brain barrier and enter dopaminergic neurons to prevent the formation of these intracellular inclusions. In this review, we describe and summarise the current efforts made in the development of peptides and their mimetics to directly engage with alpha-synuclein with the intention of modulating aggregation, and importantly, toxicity. This is a rapidly expanding field with great socioeconomic impact; these molecules harbour significant promise as therapeutics, or as early biomarkers during prodromal disease stages, or both. As these are age-dependent conditions, an increasing global life expectancy means disease prevalence is rising. No current treatments exist to either prevent or slow disease progression. It is therefore crucial that drugs are developed for these conditions before health care and social care capacities become overrun.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott G Allen
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Richard M Meade
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Lucy L White Stenner
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Jody M Mason
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK.
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Lisco G, De Tullio A, Iovino M, Disoteo O, Guastamacchia E, Giagulli VA, Triggiani V. Dopamine in the Regulation of Glucose Homeostasis, Pathogenesis of Type 2 Diabetes, and Chronic Conditions of Impaired Dopamine Activity/Metabolism: Implication for Pathophysiological and Therapeutic Purposes. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2993. [PMID: 38001993 PMCID: PMC10669051 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11112993] [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: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Dopamine regulates several functions, such as voluntary movements, spatial memory, motivation, sleep, arousal, feeding, immune function, maternal behaviors, and lactation. Less clear is the role of dopamine in the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) and chronic complications and conditions frequently associated with it. This review summarizes recent evidence on the role of dopamine in regulating insular metabolism and activity, the pathophysiology of traditional chronic complications associated with T2D, the pathophysiological interconnection between T2D and chronic neurological and psychiatric disorders characterized by impaired dopamine activity/metabolism, and therapeutic implications. Reinforcing dopamine signaling is therapeutic in T2D, especially in patients with dopamine-related disorders, such as Parkinson's and Huntington's diseases, addictions, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. On the other hand, although specific trials are probably needed, certain medications approved for T2D (e.g., metformin, pioglitazone, incretin-based therapy, and gliflozins) may have a therapeutic role in such dopamine-related disorders due to anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects, improvement in insulin signaling, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, autophagy, and apoptosis, restoration of striatal dopamine synthesis, and modulation of dopamine signaling associated with reward and hedonic eating. Last, targeting dopamine metabolism could have the potential for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in chronic diabetes-related complications, such as diabetic retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Lisco
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.L.); (A.D.T.); (M.I.); (E.G.); (V.A.G.)
| | - Anna De Tullio
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.L.); (A.D.T.); (M.I.); (E.G.); (V.A.G.)
| | - Michele Iovino
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.L.); (A.D.T.); (M.I.); (E.G.); (V.A.G.)
| | - Olga Disoteo
- Diabetology Unit, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, 20162 Milan, Italy;
| | - Edoardo Guastamacchia
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.L.); (A.D.T.); (M.I.); (E.G.); (V.A.G.)
| | - Vito Angelo Giagulli
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.L.); (A.D.T.); (M.I.); (E.G.); (V.A.G.)
| | - Vincenzo Triggiani
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.L.); (A.D.T.); (M.I.); (E.G.); (V.A.G.)
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Whitcomb K, Warncke K. Oligomeric and Fibrillar α-Synuclein Display Persistent Dynamics and Compressibility under Controlled Confinement. ACS Chem Neurosci 2023; 14:3905-3912. [PMID: 37861459 PMCID: PMC10623556 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00470] [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: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The roles of α-synuclein in neurotransmitter release in brain neurons and in the Parkinson's disease condition have challenged comprehensive description. To gain insight into molecular mechanistic properties that actuate α-synuclein function and dysfunction, the coupled protein and solvent dynamics of oligomer and fibril forms of human α-synuclein are examined in a low-temperature system that allows control of confinement and localization of a motionally sensitive electron paramagnetic resonance spin probe in the coupled solvent-protein regions. The rotational mobility of the spin probe resolves two distinct α-synuclein-associated solvent components for oligomers and fibrils, as for globular proteins, but with dramatically higher fluidities at each temperature, that are comparable to low-confinement, aqueous-cryosolvent mesophases. In contrast to the temperature-independent volumes of the solvent phases that surround globular and condensate-forming proteins, the higher-fluidity mesophase volume of α-synuclein oligomers and fibrils decreases with decreasing temperature, signaling a compression of this phase. This unique property and thermal hysteresis in the mobilities and component weights, together with previous high-resolution structural characterizations, suggest a model in which the dynamically disordered C-terminal domain of α-synuclein creates a compressible phase that maintains high fluidity under confinement. Robust dynamics and compressibility are fundamental molecular mechanical properties of α-synuclein oligomers and fibrils, which may contribute to dysfunction and inform about function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie
Lynn Whitcomb
- Department of Physics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Kurt Warncke
- Department of Physics, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
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Aguilera P, Berríos-Pastén C, Veloso M, Gálvez-Silva M, Turbant F, Lagos R, Wien F, Arluison V, Marcoleta AE. The Green Tea Polyphenol Epigallocatechin-Gallate (EGCG) Interferes with Microcin E492 Amyloid Formation. Molecules 2023; 28:7262. [PMID: 37959682 PMCID: PMC10648153 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28217262] [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: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Microcin E492 (MccE492) is an antimicrobial peptide and proposed virulence factor produced by some Klebsiella pneumoniae strains, which, under certain conditions, form amyloid fibers, leading to the loss of its antibacterial activity. Although this protein has been characterized as a model functional amyloid, the secondary structure transitions behind its formation, and the possible effect of molecules that inhibit this process, have not been investigated. In this study, we examined the ability of the green tea flavonoid epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) to interfere with MccE492 amyloid formation. Aggregation kinetics followed by thioflavin T binding were used to monitor amyloid formation in the presence or absence of EGCG. Additionally, synchrotron radiation circular dichroism (SRCD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to study the secondary structure, thermal stability, and morphology of microcin E492 fibers. Our results showed that EGCG significantly inhibited the formation of the MccE492 amyloid, resulting in mainly amorphous aggregates and small oligomers. However, these aggregates retained part of the β-sheet SRCD signal and a high resistance to heat denaturation, suggesting that the aggregation process is sequestered or deviated at some stage but not completely prevented. Thus, EGCG is an interesting inhibitor of the amyloid formation of MccE492 and other bacterial amyloids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Aguilera
- Grupo de Microbiología Integrativa, Laboratorio de Biología Estructural y Molecular BEM, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, Las Palmeras 3425 Ñuñoa, Santiago 7800003, Chile; (P.A.); (C.B.-P.); (M.V.); (M.G.-S.); (R.L.)
| | - Camilo Berríos-Pastén
- Grupo de Microbiología Integrativa, Laboratorio de Biología Estructural y Molecular BEM, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, Las Palmeras 3425 Ñuñoa, Santiago 7800003, Chile; (P.A.); (C.B.-P.); (M.V.); (M.G.-S.); (R.L.)
| | - Marcelo Veloso
- Grupo de Microbiología Integrativa, Laboratorio de Biología Estructural y Molecular BEM, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, Las Palmeras 3425 Ñuñoa, Santiago 7800003, Chile; (P.A.); (C.B.-P.); (M.V.); (M.G.-S.); (R.L.)
| | - Matías Gálvez-Silva
- Grupo de Microbiología Integrativa, Laboratorio de Biología Estructural y Molecular BEM, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, Las Palmeras 3425 Ñuñoa, Santiago 7800003, Chile; (P.A.); (C.B.-P.); (M.V.); (M.G.-S.); (R.L.)
| | - Florian Turbant
- Synchrotron SOLEIL, L’Orme des Merisiers, Saint Aubin BP48, 91192 Gif-sur-Yvette, France; (F.T.); (F.W.)
- Laboratoire Léon Brillouin LLB, CEA, CNRS UMR12, Université Paris-Saclay, CEA Saclay, 91191 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Rosalba Lagos
- Grupo de Microbiología Integrativa, Laboratorio de Biología Estructural y Molecular BEM, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, Las Palmeras 3425 Ñuñoa, Santiago 7800003, Chile; (P.A.); (C.B.-P.); (M.V.); (M.G.-S.); (R.L.)
| | - Frank Wien
- Synchrotron SOLEIL, L’Orme des Merisiers, Saint Aubin BP48, 91192 Gif-sur-Yvette, France; (F.T.); (F.W.)
| | - Veronique Arluison
- Laboratoire Léon Brillouin LLB, CEA, CNRS UMR12, Université Paris-Saclay, CEA Saclay, 91191 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
- UFR Sciences du Vivant, Université Paris Cité, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Andrés E. Marcoleta
- Grupo de Microbiología Integrativa, Laboratorio de Biología Estructural y Molecular BEM, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, Las Palmeras 3425 Ñuñoa, Santiago 7800003, Chile; (P.A.); (C.B.-P.); (M.V.); (M.G.-S.); (R.L.)
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Ramirez J, Pancoe SX, Rhoades E, Petersson EJ. The Effects of Lipids on α-Synuclein Aggregation In Vitro. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1476. [PMID: 37892158 PMCID: PMC10604467 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101476] [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: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The small neuronal protein α-synuclein (αS) is found in pre-synaptic terminals and plays a role in vesicle recycling and neurotransmission. Fibrillar aggregates of αS are the hallmark of Parkinson's disease and related neurodegenerative disorders. In both health and disease, interactions with lipids influence αS's structure and function, prompting much study of the effects of lipids on αS aggregation. A comprehensive collection (126 examples) of aggregation rate data for various αS/lipid combinations was presented, including combinations of lipid variations and mutations or post-translational modifications of αS. These data were interpreted in terms of lipid structure to identify general trends. These tabulated data serve as a resource for the community to help in the interpretation of aggregation experiments with lipids and to be potentially used as inputs for computational models of lipid effects on aggregation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Ramirez
- Graduate Group in Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 421 Curie Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
| | - Samantha X. Pancoe
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pennsylvania, 231 South 34th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Elizabeth Rhoades
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pennsylvania, 231 South 34th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 421 Curie Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - E. James Petersson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pennsylvania, 231 South 34th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 421 Curie Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Tu W, Zheng C, Zheng Y, Feng Z, Lin H, Jiang Y, Chen W, Chen Y, Lee Y, Su J, Zheng W. The investigation of interaction and chaperon-like activity of α-synuclein as a protein in pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease upon direct interaction with tectorigenin. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 249:125702. [PMID: 37414324 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.125702] [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: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Analyzing the therapeutic potential of a therapeutic biomolecule requires an understanding of how it may interact with proteins and modify their corresponding functions. α-Synuclein is a protein which is widely involved in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD) and shows chaperon-like activity. We have selected tectorigenin, a most common methoxyisoflavone extracted from plants, among therapeutic bioactive molecules that are documented to have different therapeutic effects. Herein, we aimed to explore how tectorigenin interacts with α-synuclein in vitro by mimicking the physiological environment. Spectroscopic as well as theoretical studies including molecular docking simulation, were used to examine the effects of tectorigenin on the conformation and dynamics of α-synuclein. It was shown that tectorigenin is able to quench the protein emission spectra relied on a mixed static-dynamic quenching mechanism. Furthermore, it was displayed that tectorigenin binding to α-synuclein leads to microenvironmental changes in the tertiary structure of protein, however the protein's secondary structure was almost unchanged. It was also deduced that tectorigenin results in thermal stability of α-synuclein structure, evidenced by less perturbation of α-synuclein secondary structure following elevation of temperature in the presence of tectorigenin relative to that of free form. Molecular docking simulation demonstrated that non-covalent reactions, mainly hydrogen bonds, had a key role in the interaction and stabilization of α-synuclein in the presence of tectorigenin. Moreover, chaperon-like activity of α-synuclein was improved in the presence of tectorigenin against two model proteins, βL-crystallin and catalase. The findings showed that tectorigenin can lead to stabilization of α-synuclein, which may be used as a therapeutic agent in prevention of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenzhan Tu
- Rehabilitation Medicine Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Integrative & Optimized Medicine Research Center, China-USA Institute for Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Cheng Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Yuyin Zheng
- Rehabilitation Medicine Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Integrative & Optimized Medicine Research Center, China-USA Institute for Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Zhenhua Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Haiyan Lin
- Rehabilitation Medicine Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Integrative & Optimized Medicine Research Center, China-USA Institute for Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Yiwei Jiang
- Alberta Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - WangChao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Yuhan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Yang Lee
- Second affiliation of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jianzhong Su
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China.
| | - Wu Zheng
- Rehabilitation Medicine Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China; Integrative & Optimized Medicine Research Center, China-USA Institute for Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China.
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Lahoda Brodska H, Klempir J, Zavora J, Kohout P. The Role of Micronutrients in Neurological Disorders. Nutrients 2023; 15:4129. [PMID: 37836413 PMCID: PMC10574090 DOI: 10.3390/nu15194129] [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: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Trace elements and vitamins, collectively known as micronutrients, are essential for basic metabolic reactions in the human body. Their deficiency or, on the contrary, an increased amount can lead to serious disorders. Research in recent years has shown that long-term abnormal levels of micronutrients may be involved in the etiopathogenesis of some neurological diseases. Acute and chronic alterations in micronutrient levels may cause other serious complications in neurological diseases. Our aim was to summarize the knowledge about micronutrients in relation to selected neurological diseases and comment on their importance and the possibilities of therapeutic intervention in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Lahoda Brodska
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, U Nemocnice 499/2, 128 08 Prague, Czech Republic; (H.L.B.); (J.Z.)
| | - Jiri Klempir
- Department of Neurology and Centre of Clinical Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Katerinska 30, 120 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Zavora
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, U Nemocnice 499/2, 128 08 Prague, Czech Republic; (H.L.B.); (J.Z.)
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Hnevotinska 3, 775 15 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Kohout
- Clinic of Internal Medicine, 3rd Faculty Medicine, Charles University and Thomayer University Hospital, Videnska 800, 140 59 Prague, Czech Republic;
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Elnageeb ME, Elfaki I, Adam KM, Ahmed EM, Elkhalifa EM, Abuagla HA, Ahmed AAEM, Ali EW, Eltieb EI, Edris AM. In Silico Evaluation of the Potential Association of the Pathogenic Mutations of Alpha Synuclein Protein with Induction of Synucleinopathies. Diseases 2023; 11:115. [PMID: 37754311 PMCID: PMC10529770 DOI: 10.3390/diseases11030115] [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: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Alpha synuclein (α-Syn) is a neuronal protein encoded by the SNCA gene and is involved in the development of Parkinson's disease (PD). The objective of this study was to examine in silico the functional implications of non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs) in the SNCA gene. We used a range of computational algorithms such as sequence conservation, structural analysis, physicochemical properties, and machine learning. The sequence of the SNCA gene was analyzed, resulting in the mapping of 42,272 SNPs that are classified into different functional categories. A total of 177 nsSNPs were identified within the coding region; there were 20 variants that may influence the α-Syn protein structure and function. This identification was made by employing different analytical tools including SIFT, PolyPhen2, Mut-pred, SNAP2, PANTHER, PhD-SNP, SNP&Go, MUpro, Cosurf, I-Mut, and HOPE. Three mutations, V82A, K80E, and E46K, were selected for further examinations due to their spatial positioning within the α-Syn as determined by PyMol. Results indicated that these mutations may affect the stability and function of α-Syn. Then, a molecular dynamics simulation was conducted for the SNCA wildtype and the four mutant variants (p.A18G, p.V82A, p.K80E, and p.E46K). The simulation examined temperature, pressure, density, root-mean-square deviation (RMSD), root-mean-square fluctuation (RMSF), solvent-accessible surface area (SASA), and radius of gyration (Rg). The data indicate that the mutations p.V82A, p.K80E, and p.E46K reduce the stability and functionality of α-Syn. These findings highlight the importance of understanding the impact of nsSNPs on α-syn structure and function. Our results required verifications in further protein functional and case-control studies. After being verified these findings can be used in genetic testing for the early diagnosis of PD, the evaluation of the risk factors, and therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed E. Elnageeb
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Bisha, P.O. Box 551, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Imadeldin Elfaki
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Tabuk, P.O. Box 741, Tabuk 71491, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid M. Adam
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Bisha, P.O. Box 551, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Elsadig Mohamed Ahmed
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Bisha, P.O. Box 551, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of El Imam El Mahdi, Kosti 27711, Sudan
| | - Elkhalifa M. Elkhalifa
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Nile Valley University, Atbara 46611, Sudan
| | - Hytham A. Abuagla
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Bisha, P.O. Box 551, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abubakr Ali Elamin Mohamed Ahmed
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Bisha, P.O. Box 551, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Elshazali Widaa Ali
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Bisha, P.O. Box 551, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Elmoiz Idris Eltieb
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Bisha, P.O. Box 551, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali M. Edris
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Bisha, P.O. Box 551, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
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Eker F, Bolat E, Pekdemir B, Duman H, Karav S. Lactoferrin: neuroprotection against Parkinson's disease and secondary molecule for potential treatment. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1204149. [PMID: 37731953 PMCID: PMC10508234 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1204149] [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: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second-most common neurodegenerative disease and is largely caused by the death of dopaminergic (DA) cells. Dopamine loss occurs in the substantia nigra pars compacta and leads to dysfunctions in motor functions. Death of DA cells can occur with oxidative stress and dysfunction of glial cells caused by Parkinson-related gene mutations. Lactoferrin (Lf) is a multifunctional glycoprotein that is usually known for its presence in milk, but recent research shows that Lf is also found in the brain regions. 1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) is a known mitochondrial toxin that disturbs the mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) system and increases the rate of reactive oxygen species. Lf's high affinity for metals decreases the required iron for the Fenton reaction, reduces the oxidative damage to DA cells caused by MPTP, and increases their surveillance rate. Several studies also investigated Lf's effect on neurons that are treated with MPTP. The results pointed out that Lf's protective effect can also be observed without the presence of oxidative stress; thus, several potential mechanisms are currently being researched, starting with a potential HSPG-Lf interaction in the cellular membrane of DA cells. The presence of Lf activity in the brain region also showed that lactoferrin initiates receptor-mediated transcytosis in the blood-brain barrier (BBB) with the existence of lactoferrin receptors in the endothelial cells. The existence of Lf receptors both in endothelial cells and DA cells created the idea of using Lf as a secondary molecule in the transport of therapeutic agents across the BBB, especially in nanoparticle development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Sercan Karav
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çanakkale, Türkiye
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Massey RS, McConnell EM, Chan D, Holahan MR, DeRosa MC, Prakash R. Non-invasive Monitoring of α-Synuclein in Saliva for Parkinson's Disease Using Organic Electrolyte-Gated FET Aptasensor. ACS Sens 2023; 8:3116-3126. [PMID: 37506391 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.3c00757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) currently affects more than 1 million people in the US alone, with nearly 8.5 million suffering from the disease worldwide, as per the World Health Organization. However, there remains no fast, pain-free, and effective method of screening for the disease in the ageing population, which also happens to be the most susceptible to this neurodegenerative disease. αSynuclein (αSyn) is a promising PD biomarker, demonstrating clear delineations between levels of the αSyn monomer and the extent of αSyn aggregation in the saliva of PD patients and healthy controls. In this work, we have demonstrated a laboratory prototype of a soft fluidics integrated organic electrolyte-gated field-effect transistor (OEGFET) aptasensor platform capable of quantifying levels of αSyn aggregation in saliva. The aptasensor relies on a recently reported synthetic aptamer which selectively binds to αSyn monomer as the bio-recognition molecule within the integrated fluidic channel of the biosensor. The produced saliva sensor is label-free, fast, and reusable, demonstrating good selectivity only to the target molecule in its monomer form. The novelty of these devices is the fully isolated organic semiconductor, which extends the shelf life, and the novel fully integrated soft microfluidic channels, which simplify saliva loading and testing. The OEGFET aptasensor has a limit of detection of 10 fg/L for the αSyn monomer in spiked saliva supernatant solutions, with a linear range of 100 fg/L to 10 μg/L. The linear range covers the physiological range of the αSyn monomer in the saliva of PD patients. Our biosensors demonstrate a desirably low limit of detection, an extended linear range, and fully integrated microchannels for saliva sample handling, making them a promising platform for non-invasive point-of-care testing of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roslyn S Massey
- Department of Electronics Engineering, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, Ontario K1S5B6, Canada
| | - Erin M McConnell
- Department of Chemistry and Institute of Biochemistry, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, Ontario K1T2S2, Canada
| | - Dennis Chan
- Dept of Neuroscience, Health Sciences Building, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, Ontario K1T2S2, Canada
| | - Matthew R Holahan
- Dept of Neuroscience, Health Sciences Building, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, Ontario K1T2S2, Canada
| | - Maria C DeRosa
- Department of Chemistry and Institute of Biochemistry, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, Ontario K1T2S2, Canada
| | - Ravi Prakash
- Department of Electronics Engineering, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, Ontario K1S5B6, Canada
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44
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Halicki MJ, Hind K, Chazot PL. Blood-Based Biomarkers in the Diagnosis of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy: Research to Date and Future Directions. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12556. [PMID: 37628736 PMCID: PMC10454393 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612556] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) is a neurodegenerative disease consistently associated with repetitive traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which makes multiple professions, such as contact sports athletes and the military, especially susceptible to its onset. There are currently no approved biomarkers to diagnose CTE, thus it can only be confirmed through a post-mortem brain autopsy. Several imaging and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers have shown promise in the diagnosis. However, blood-based biomarkers can be more easily obtained and quantified, increasing their clinical feasibility and potential for prophylactic use. This article aimed to comprehensively review the studies into potential blood-based biomarkers of CTE, discussing common themes and limitations, as well as suggesting future research directions. While the interest in blood-based biomarkers of CTE has recently increased, the research is still in its early stages. The main issue for many proposed biomarkers is their lack of selectivity for CTE. However, several molecules, such as different phosphorylated tau isoforms, were able to discern CTE from different neurodegenerative diseases. Further, the results from studies on exosomal biomarkers suggest that exosomes are a promising source of biomarkers, reflective of the internal environment of the brain. Nonetheless, more longitudinal studies combining imaging, neurobehavioral, and biochemical approaches are warranted to establish robust biomarkers for CTE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Karen Hind
- Durham Wolfson Research Institute for Health and Wellbeing, Stockton-on-Tees TS17 6BH, UK;
| | - Paul L. Chazot
- Department of Biosciences, Wolfson Research Institute for Health and Wellbeing, Durham University, Durham DH1 3LE, UK
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45
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Titze-de-Almeida SS, Titze-de-Almeida R. Progress in circRNA-Targeted Therapy in Experimental Parkinson's Disease. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2035. [PMID: 37631249 PMCID: PMC10459713 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15082035] [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: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are single-stranded RNA molecules often circularized by backsplicing. Growing evidence implicates circRNAs in the underlying mechanisms of various diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease (PD)-the first and second most prevalent neurodegenerative disorders. In this sense, circSNCA, circHIPK2, circHIPK3, and circSLC8A1 are circRNAs that have been related to the neurodegenerative process of PD. Gain-of-function and loss-of-function studies on circRNAs have shed light on their roles in the pathobiology of various diseases. Gain-of-function approaches typically employ viral or non-viral vectors that hyperexpress RNA sequences capable of circularizing to form the specific circRNA under investigation. In contrast, loss-of-function studies utilize CRISPR/Cas systems, antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), or RNAi techniques to knock down the target circRNA. The role of aberrantly expressed circRNAs in brain pathology has raised a critical question: could circRNAs serve as viable targets for neuroprotective treatments? Translating any oligonucleotide-based therapy, including those targeting circRNAs, involves developing adequate brain delivery systems, minimizing off-target effects, and addressing the high costs of treatment. Nonetheless, RNAi-based FDA-approved drugs have entered the market, and circRNAs have attracted significant attention and investment from major pharmaceutical companies. Spanning from bench to bedside, circRNAs present a vast opportunity in biotechnology for oligonucleotide-based therapies designed to slow or even halt the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simoneide Souza Titze-de-Almeida
- Technology for Gene Therapy Laboratory, Central Institute of Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil
- Research Center for Major Themes, Central Institute of Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Titze-de-Almeida
- Technology for Gene Therapy Laboratory, Central Institute of Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil
- Research Center for Major Themes, Central Institute of Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil
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46
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Watt KJC, Meade RM, James TD, Mason JM. Development of a hydroxyflavone-labelled 4554W peptide probe for monitoring αS aggregation. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10968. [PMID: 37414785 PMCID: PMC10326036 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37655-3] [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: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's is the second most common neurodegenerative disease, with the number of individuals susceptible due to increase as a result of increasing life expectancy and a growing worldwide population. However, despite the number of individuals affected, all current treatments for PD are symptomatic-they alleviate symptoms, but do not slow disease progression. A major reason for the lack of disease-modifying treatments is that there are currently no methods to diagnose individuals during the earliest stages of the disease, nor are there any methods to monitor disease progression at a biochemical level. Herein, we have designed and evaluated a peptide-based probe to monitor αS aggregation, with a particular focus on the earliest stages of the aggregation process and the formation of oligomers. We have identified the peptide-probe K1 as being suitable for further development to be applied to number of applications including: inhibition of αS aggregation; as a probe to monitor αS aggregation, particularly at the earliest stages before Thioflavin-T is active; and a method to detect early-oligomers. With further development and in vivo validation, we anticipate this probe could be used for the early diagnosis of PD, a method to evaluate the effectiveness of potential therapeutics, and as a tool to help in the understanding of the onset and development of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn J C Watt
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Richard M Meade
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Tony D James
- Department of Chemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Jody M Mason
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK.
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Salaramoli S, Joshaghani HR, Hashemy SI. Salivary Biomarkers: Noninvasive Ways for Diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease. Neurol Res Int 2023; 2023:3555418. [PMID: 37434876 PMCID: PMC10332915 DOI: 10.1155/2023/3555418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Finding reliable biomarkers has a crucial role in Parkinson's disease (PD) assessments. Saliva is a bodily fluid, which might be used as a source of biomarkers for PD. Our article has reviewed several publications on salivary proteins in PD patients and their potential as biomarkers. We find out that α-Syn's proportion in oligomeric form is higher in PD patients' saliva, which is potent to use as a biomarker for PD. The salivary concentration of DJ-1 and alpha-amylase is lower in PD patients. Also, substance P level is more moderate in PD patients. Although salivary flow rate is decreased in PD patients, high levels of heme oxygenase and acetylcholinesterase might be used as noninvasive biomarkers. Salivary miRNAs (miR-153, miR-223, miR-874, and miR-145-3p) are novel diagnostic biomarkers that should be given more attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanaz Salaramoli
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Joshaghani
- Laboratory Sciences Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Seyed Isaac Hashemy
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Del Vecchio M, Amado L, Cogan AP, Meert E, Rosseels J, Franssens V, Govers SK, Winderickx J, Montoro AG. Multiple tethers of organelle contact sites are involved in α-synuclein toxicity in yeast. Mol Biol Cell 2023; 34:ar84. [PMID: 37074954 PMCID: PMC10398879 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e23-01-0029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The protein α-synuclein (α-syn) is one of the major factors linked to Parkinson's disease, yet how its misfolding and deposition contribute to the pathology remains largely elusive. Recently, contact sites among organelles were implicated in the development of this disease. Here, we used the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, in which organelle contact sites have been characterized extensively, as a model to investigate their role in α-syn cytotoxicity. We observed that lack of specific tethers that anchor the endoplasmic reticulum to the plasma membrane resulted in cells with increased resistance to α-syn expression. Additionally, we found that strains lacking two dual-function proteins involved in contact sites, Mdm10 and Vps39, were resistant to the expression of α-syn. In the case of Mdm10, we found that this is related to its function in mitochondrial protein biogenesis and not to its role as a contact site tether. In contrast, both functions of Vps39, in vesicular transport and as a tether of the vacuole-mitochondria contact site, were required to support α-syn toxicity. Overall, our findings support that interorganelle communication through membrane contact sites is highly relevant for α-syn-mediated toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Del Vecchio
- Department of Biology, Functional Biology Laboratory, KU Leuven, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium
- Department of Biology, Microbial Systems Cell Biology Laboratory, KU Leuven, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Lucia Amado
- Department of Biology/Chemistry, Cellular Communication Laboratory, Osnabrück University, 49076 Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Alexandra P. Cogan
- Department of Biology/Chemistry, Cellular Communication Laboratory, Osnabrück University, 49076 Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Els Meert
- Department of Biology, Functional Biology Laboratory, KU Leuven, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Joelle Rosseels
- Department of Biology, Functional Biology Laboratory, KU Leuven, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Vanessa Franssens
- Department of Biology, Functional Biology Laboratory, KU Leuven, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Sander K. Govers
- Department of Biology, Microbial Systems Cell Biology Laboratory, KU Leuven, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Joris Winderickx
- Department of Biology, Functional Biology Laboratory, KU Leuven, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Ayelén González Montoro
- Department of Biology/Chemistry, Cellular Communication Laboratory, Osnabrück University, 49076 Osnabrück, Germany
- Center of Cellular Nanoanalytics Osnabrück, 49076 Osnabrück, Germany
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49
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Mirzac D, Kreis SL, Luhmann HJ, Gonzalez-Escamilla G, Groppa S. Translating Pathological Brain Activity Primers in Parkinson's Disease Research. RESEARCH (WASHINGTON, D.C.) 2023; 6:0183. [PMID: 37383218 PMCID: PMC10298229 DOI: 10.34133/research.0183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Translational experimental approaches that help us better trace Parkinson's disease (PD) pathophysiological mechanisms leading to new therapeutic targets are urgently needed. In this article, we review recent experimental and clinical studies addressing abnormal neuronal activity and pathological network oscillations, as well as their underlying mechanisms and modulation. Our aim is to enhance our knowledge about the progression of Parkinson's disease pathology and the timing of its symptom's manifestation. Here, we present mechanistic insights relevant for the generation of aberrant oscillatory activity within the cortico-basal ganglia circuits. We summarize recent achievements extrapolated from available PD animal models, discuss their advantages and limitations, debate on their differential applicability, and suggest approaches for transferring knowledge on disease pathology into future research and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Mirzac
- Movement Disorders and Neurostimulation, Department of Neurology, Focus Program Translational Neuroscience, Rhine Main Neuroscience Network, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Svenja L. Kreis
- Institute of Physiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Heiko J. Luhmann
- Institute of Physiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Gabriel Gonzalez-Escamilla
- Movement Disorders and Neurostimulation, Department of Neurology, Focus Program Translational Neuroscience, Rhine Main Neuroscience Network, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Sergiu Groppa
- Movement Disorders and Neurostimulation, Department of Neurology, Focus Program Translational Neuroscience, Rhine Main Neuroscience Network, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany
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50
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Cabrera Ranaldi EDLRM, Nuytemans K, Martinez A, Luca CC, Keane RW, de Rivero Vaccari JP. Proof-of-Principle Study of Inflammasome Signaling Proteins as Diagnostic Biomarkers of the Inflammatory Response in Parkinson's Disease. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:883. [PMID: 37375830 DOI: 10.3390/ph16060883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder marked by the death of dopaminergic neurons in the midbrain, the accumulation of α-synuclein aggregates, and motor deficits. A major contributor to dopaminergic neuronal loss is neuroinflammation. The inflammasome is a multiprotein complex that perpetuates neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative disorders including PD. Increases in inflammasome proteins are associated with worsened pathology. Thus, the inhibition of inflammatory mediators has the potential to aid in PD treatment. Here, we investigated inflammasome signaling proteins as potential biomarkers of the inflammatory response in PD. Plasma from PD subjects and healthy age-matched controls were evaluated for levels of the inflammasome protein apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (ASC), caspase-1, and interleukin (IL)-18. This was carried out using Simple Plex technology to identify changes in inflammasome proteins in the blood of PD subjects. The area under the curve (AUC) was obtained through calculation of the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) to obtain information on biomarker reliability and traits. Additionally, we completed a stepwise regression selected from the lowest Akaike information criterion (AIC) to assess how the inflammasome proteins caspase-1 and ASC contribute to IL-18 levels in people with PD. PD subjects demonstrated elevated caspase-1, ASC, and IL-18 levels when compared to controls; each of these proteins were found to be promising biomarkers of inflammation in PD. Furthermore, inflammasome proteins were determined to significantly contribute to and predict IL-18 levels in subjects with PD. Thus, we demonstrated that inflammasome proteins serve as reliable biomarkers of inflammation in PD and that inflammasome proteins provide significant contributions to IL-18 levels in PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika D L R M Cabrera Ranaldi
- Department of Neurological Surgery and The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Karen Nuytemans
- The Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation, Department of Human Genetics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Anisley Martinez
- John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Corneliu C Luca
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Robert W Keane
- Department of Neurological Surgery and The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Juan Pablo de Rivero Vaccari
- Department of Neurological Surgery and The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
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