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Wang X, Zhang Y, Luo S, Zhao K, Gao C, Mei D, Duan Y, Hu S. Restoration of nNOS Expression Rescues Autistic-Like Phenotypes Through Normalization of AMPA Receptor-Mediated Neurotransmission. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:6599-6612. [PMID: 38329681 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-03997-w] [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: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with a range of abnormalities characterized by deficits in socialization, communication, repetitive behaviors, and restricted interests. We have recently shown that neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) expression was decreased in the basolateral amygdala (BLA) of mice after postnatal valproic acid exposure. Neuronal activity-regulated pentraxin (Narp) could contribute to the regulation of the GluA4 2-amino-3-(5-methyl-3-oxo-1,2-oxazol-4-yl) propanoic acid (AMPA) subunits which are predominantly expressed in interneurons. However, the specific role of nNOS re-expression on excitatory neurotransmitter with relevance to ASD core symptoms in VPA-treated animals remains to be elucidated. Herein, nNOS overexpression using a lentiviral vector and L-arginine-activating PI3K-Akt-mTOR signaling can restore nNOS expression in the BLA induced by VPA. Restoration of nNOS expression in these mice was sufficient to reduce the severity of ASD-like behavioral patterns such that animals exhibited decreases in abnormal social interactions and communication, stereotyped/repetitive behaviors, and anxiety-like traits. Most strikingly, re-expression of nNOS upregulated surface expression of Narp and GluA4 in nNOS-positive interneuron as shown by immunoprecipitation and Western blotting. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings demonstrated that restoration of nNOS had a significant enhancing effect on AMPA receptor-mediated excitatory glutamatergic synaptic neurotransmission, which was inhibited by disturbing the interaction between Narp and GluA4 in acutely dissociated BLA slices. Overall, these data offer a scientific basis for the additional study of nNOS re-expression as a promising therapeutic target by correcting AMPA receptor-mediated synaptic function in ASD and related neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaona Wang
- Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Henan Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Henan Children's Neurodevelopment Engineering Research Center, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Yaodong Zhang
- Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Henan Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Henan Children's Neurodevelopment Engineering Research Center, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shuying Luo
- Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Henan Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Henan Children's Neurodevelopment Engineering Research Center, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ke Zhao
- Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Henan Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Henan Children's Neurodevelopment Engineering Research Center, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chao Gao
- Department of Rehabilitation, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Daoqi Mei
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yongtao Duan
- Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Henan Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Henan Children's Neurodevelopment Engineering Research Center, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shunan Hu
- Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Henan Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Henan Children's Neurodevelopment Engineering Research Center, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Deng X, Ren H, Wu S, Jie H, Gu C. Exploring the genetic and socioeconomic interplay between ADHD and anxiety disorders using Mendelian randomization. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1439474. [PMID: 39165506 PMCID: PMC11333326 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1439474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background ADHD and anxiety disorders often co-occur, sharing symptoms and dysfunctions, yet the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Methods To explore the shared and distinct genetic variations between ADHD and anxiety disorders, we applied Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to ADHD, anxiety disorders, and three socioeconomic factors: income, educational attainment (EA), and intelligence. MR analysis utilized genome-wide association study summary datasets (anxiety disorder: 7,016 cases and 14,745 controls; ADHD: 38,691 cases and 275,986 controls; EA: 766,345 participants; intelligence: 146,808 participants; household income: 392,422 participants), with inverse-variance weighting as the primary method. Results Our MR analysis revealed no discernible genetic-level causal effect between ADHD and anxiety disorders (p > 0.77). Additionally, the independent variables for ADHD (25 SNPs) and anxiety disorders (18 SNPs) did not overlap, highlighting the genetic distinction between the two conditions. Higher income (p < 0.002) and EA (p < 0.005) were found to serve as protective factors for both ADHD and anxiety disorders. Genetic predisposition to higher income (86 SNPs) and EA (457 SNPs) were identified as a potential common protective factors for both conditions. Lastly, genetic predisposition to higher intelligence was found to potentially guard against ADHD (p < 0.001) but not against anxiety disorders (p > 0.55). Conclusion Our findings indicate that the shared symptoms observed between ADHD and anxiety disorders are more likely influenced by genetic predispositions related to socioeconomic factors rather than by the genetic predispositions specific to the disorders themselves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojuan Deng
- Mental Health Center of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hongyan Ren
- Mental Health Center of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Shuang Wu
- Mental Health Center of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Huijin Jie
- Department of Psychiatry, The Fourth People’s Hospital Of Haining, Haining, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chengyu Gu
- Department of Psychiatry, The Fourth People’s Hospital Of Haining, Haining, Zhejiang, China
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3
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Lee K, Jung Y, Vyas Y, Mills Z, McNamara L, Montgomery JM. Differential effectiveness of dietary zinc supplementation with autism-related behaviours in Shank2 knockout mice. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2024; 379:20230230. [PMID: 38853567 PMCID: PMC11343228 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2023.0230] [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: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The family of SHANK proteins have been shown to be critical in regulating glutamatergic synaptic structure, function and plasticity. SHANK variants are also prevalent in autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), where glutamatergic synaptopathology has been shown to occur in multiple ASD mouse models. Our previous work has shown that dietary zinc in Shank3-/- and Tbr1+/- ASD mouse models can reverse or prevent ASD behavioural and synaptic deficits. Here, we have examined whether dietary zinc can influence behavioural and synaptic function in Shank2-/- mice. Our data show that dietary zinc supplementation can reverse hyperactivity and social preference behaviour in Shank2-/- mice, but it does not alter deficits in working memory. Consistent with this, at the synaptic level, deficits in NMDA/AMPA receptor-mediated transmission are also not rescued by dietary zinc. In contrast to other ASD models examined, we observed that SHANK3 protein was highly expressed at the synapses of Shank2-/- mice and that dietary zinc returned these to wild-type levels. Overall, our data show that dietary zinc has differential effectiveness in altering ASD behaviours and synaptic function across ASD mouse models even within the Shank family. This article is part of a discussion meeting issue 'Long-term potentiation: 50 years on'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Lee
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Yewon Jung
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Yukti Vyas
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Zoe Mills
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Laura McNamara
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Johanna M. Montgomery
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Manning A, Bender PTR, Boyd-Pratt H, Mendelson BZ, Hruska M, Anderson CT. Trans-synaptic Association of Vesicular Zinc Transporter 3 and Shank3 Supports Synapse-Specific Dendritic Spine Structure and Function in the Mouse Auditory Cortex. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e0619242024. [PMID: 38830758 PMCID: PMC11236586 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0619-24.2024] [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: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Shank3 is a synaptic scaffolding protein that assists in tethering and organizing structural proteins and glutamatergic receptors in the postsynaptic density of excitatory synapses. The localization of Shank3 at excitatory synapses and the formation of stable Shank3 complexes is regulated by the binding of zinc to the C-terminal sterile-alpha-motif (SAM) domain of Shank3. Mutations in the SAM domain of Shank3 result in altered synaptic function and morphology, and disruption of zinc in synapses that express Shank3 leads to a reduction of postsynaptic proteins important for synaptic structure and function. This suggests that zinc supports the localization of postsynaptic proteins via Shank3. Many regions of the brain are highly enriched with free zinc inside glutamatergic vesicles at presynaptic terminals. At these synapses, zinc transporter 3 (ZnT3) moves zinc into vesicles where it is co-released with glutamate. Alterations in ZnT3 are implicated in multiple neurodevelopmental disorders, and ZnT3 knock-out (KO) mice-which lack synaptic zinc-show behavioral deficits associated with autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia. Here we show that male and female ZnT3 KO mice have smaller dendritic spines and miniature excitatory postsynaptic current amplitudes than wildtype (WT) mice in the auditory cortex. Additionally, spine size deficits in ZnT3 KO mice are restricted to synapses that express Shank3. In WT mice, synapses that express both Shank3 and ZnT3 have larger spines compared to synapses that express Shank3 but not ZnT3. Together these findings suggest a mechanism whereby presynaptic ZnT3-dependent zinc supports postsynaptic structure and function via Shank3 in a synapse-specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbey Manning
- Department of Neuroscience, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV 26506
- Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV 26506
| | - Philip T R Bender
- Department of Neuroscience, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV 26506
- Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV 26506
| | - Helen Boyd-Pratt
- Department of Neuroscience, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV 26506
- Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV 26506
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV 26506
| | - Benjamin Z Mendelson
- Department of Neuroscience, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV 26506
- Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV 26506
| | - Martin Hruska
- Department of Neuroscience, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV 26506
- Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV 26506
| | - Charles T Anderson
- Department of Neuroscience, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV 26506
- Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV 26506
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Santos Musachio EA, da Silva Andrade S, Meichtry LB, Fernandes EJ, de Almeida PP, Janner DE, Dahleh MMM, Guerra GP, Prigol M. Exposure to Bisphenol F and Bisphenol S during development induces autism-like endophenotypes in adult Drosophila melanogaster. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2024; 103:107348. [PMID: 38554851 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2024.107348] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Bisphenol F (BPF) and Bisphenol S (BPS) are being widely used by the industry with the claim of "safer substances", even with the scarcity of toxicological studies. Given the etiological gap of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the environment may be a causal factor, so we investigated whether exposure to BPF and BPS during the developmental period can induce ASD-like modeling in adult flies. Drosophila melanogaster flies were exposed during development (embryonic and larval period) to concentrations of 0.25, 0.5, and 1 mM of BPF and BPS, separately inserted into the food. When they transformed into pupae were transferred to a standard diet, ensuring that the flies (adult stage) did not have contact with bisphenols. Thus, after hatching, consolidated behavioral tests were carried out for studies with ASD-type models in flies. It was observed that 1 mM BPF and BPS caused hyperactivity (evidenced by open-field test, negative geotaxis, increased aggressiveness and reproduction of repetitive behaviors). The flies belonging to the 1 mM groups of BPF and BPS also showed reduced cognitive capacity, elucidated by the learning behavior through aversive stimulus. Within the population dynamics that flies exposed to 1 mM BPF and 0.5 and 1 mM BPS showed a change in social interaction, remaining more distant from each other. Exposure to 1 mM BPF, 0.5 and 1 mM BPS increased brain size and reduced Shank immunoreactivity of adult flies. These findings complement each other and show that exposure to BPF and BPS during the development period can elucidate a model with endophenotypes similar to ASD in adult flies. Furthermore, when analyzing comparatively, BPS demonstrated a greater potential for damage when compared to BPF. Therefore, in general these data sets contradict the idea that these substances can be used freely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elize A Santos Musachio
- Laboratory of Pharmacological and Toxicological Evaluations Applied to Bioactive Molecules, Federal University of Pampa, Itaqui, RS, Brazil
| | - Stefani da Silva Andrade
- Laboratory of Pharmacological and Toxicological Evaluations Applied to Bioactive Molecules, Federal University of Pampa, Itaqui, RS, Brazil
| | - Luana Barreto Meichtry
- Laboratory of Pharmacological and Toxicological Evaluations Applied to Bioactive Molecules, Federal University of Pampa, Itaqui, RS, Brazil
| | - Eliana Jardim Fernandes
- Laboratory of Pharmacological and Toxicological Evaluations Applied to Bioactive Molecules, Federal University of Pampa, Itaqui, RS, Brazil
| | - Pamela Piardi de Almeida
- Laboratory of Pharmacological and Toxicological Evaluations Applied to Bioactive Molecules, Federal University of Pampa, Itaqui, RS, Brazil
| | - Dieniffer Espinosa Janner
- Laboratory of Pharmacological and Toxicological Evaluations Applied to Bioactive Molecules, Federal University of Pampa, Itaqui, RS, Brazil
| | - Mustafa Munir Mustafa Dahleh
- Laboratory of Pharmacological and Toxicological Evaluations Applied to Bioactive Molecules, Federal University of Pampa, Itaqui, RS, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Petri Guerra
- Laboratory of Pharmacological and Toxicological Evaluations Applied to Bioactive Molecules, Federal University of Pampa, Itaqui, RS, Brazil; Department of Food Science and Technology, Federal University of Pampa, Itaqui, RS, Brazil
| | - Marina Prigol
- Laboratory of Pharmacological and Toxicological Evaluations Applied to Bioactive Molecules, Federal University of Pampa, Itaqui, RS, Brazil; Department of Nutrition, Federal University of Pampa, Itaqui, RS, Brazil.
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6
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Ashton JL, Prince B, Sands G, Argent L, Anderson M, Smith JEG, Tedoldi A, Ahmad A, Baddeley D, Pereira AG, Lever N, Ramanathan T, Smaill BH, Montgomery JM. Electrophysiology and 3D-imaging reveal properties of human intracardiac neurons and increased excitability with atrial fibrillation. J Physiol 2024. [PMID: 38687681 DOI: 10.1113/jp286278] [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: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Altered autonomic input to the heart plays a major role in atrial fibrillation (AF). Autonomic neurons termed ganglionated plexi (GP) are clustered on the heart surface to provide the last point of neural control of cardiac function. To date the properties of GP neurons in humans are unknown. Here we have addressed this knowledge gap in human GP neuron structure and physiology in patients with and without AF. Human right atrial GP neurons embedded in epicardial adipose tissue were excised during open heart surgery performed on both non-AF and AF patients and then characterised physiologically by whole cell patch clamp techniques. Structural analysis was also performed after fixation at both the single cell and at the entire GP levels via three-dimensional confocal imaging. Human GP neurons were found to exhibit unique properties and structural complexity with branched neurite outgrowth. Significant differences in excitability were revealed between AF and non-AF GP neurons as measured by lower current to induce action potential firing, a reduced occurrence of low action potential firing rates, decreased accommodation and increased synaptic density. Visualisation of entire GPs showed almost all neurons are cholinergic with a small proportion of noradrenergic and dual phenotype neurons. Phenotypic distribution differences occurred with AF including decreased cholinergic and dual phenotype neurons, and increased noradrenergic neurons. These data show both functional and structural differences occur between GP neurons from patients with and without AF, highlighting that cellular plasticity occurs in neural input to the heart that could alter autonomic influence on atrial function. KEY POINTS: The autonomic nervous system plays a critical role in regulating heart rhythm and the initiation of AF; however, the structural and functional properties of human autonomic neurons in the autonomic ganglionated plexi (GP) remain unknown. Here we perform the first whole cell patch clamp electrophysiological and large tissue confocal imaging analysis of these neurons from patients with and without AF. Our data show human GP neurons are functionally and structurally complex. Measurements of action potential kinetics show higher excitability in GP neurons from AF patients as measured by lower current to induce action potential firing, reduced low firing action potential rates, and decreased action potential accommodation. Confocal imaging shows increased synaptic density and noradrenergic phenotypes in patients with AF. Both functional and structural differences occur in GP neurons from patients with AF that could alter autonomic influence on atrial rhythm.
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Affiliation(s)
- J L Ashton
- Department of Physiology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Manaaki Manawa Centre for Heart Research, University of Auckland and Pūtahi Manawa Centre of Research Excellence, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - B Prince
- Department of Physiology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Manaaki Manawa Centre for Heart Research, University of Auckland and Pūtahi Manawa Centre of Research Excellence, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - G Sands
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - L Argent
- Department of Physiology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Manaaki Manawa Centre for Heart Research, University of Auckland and Pūtahi Manawa Centre of Research Excellence, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - M Anderson
- Cardiothoracic Surgical Unit, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - J E G Smith
- Department of Physiology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Manaaki Manawa Centre for Heart Research, University of Auckland and Pūtahi Manawa Centre of Research Excellence, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - A Tedoldi
- Department of Physiology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Manaaki Manawa Centre for Heart Research, University of Auckland and Pūtahi Manawa Centre of Research Excellence, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - A Ahmad
- Department of Physiology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Manaaki Manawa Centre for Heart Research, University of Auckland and Pūtahi Manawa Centre of Research Excellence, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - D Baddeley
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - A G Pereira
- Department of Physiology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - N Lever
- Manaaki Manawa Centre for Heart Research, University of Auckland and Pūtahi Manawa Centre of Research Excellence, Auckland, New Zealand
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Department of Cardiology, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - T Ramanathan
- Manaaki Manawa Centre for Heart Research, University of Auckland and Pūtahi Manawa Centre of Research Excellence, Auckland, New Zealand
- Cardiothoracic Surgical Unit, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - B H Smaill
- Manaaki Manawa Centre for Heart Research, University of Auckland and Pūtahi Manawa Centre of Research Excellence, Auckland, New Zealand
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Johanna M Montgomery
- Department of Physiology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Manaaki Manawa Centre for Heart Research, University of Auckland and Pūtahi Manawa Centre of Research Excellence, Auckland, New Zealand
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Ross MM, Hernandez-Espinosa DR, Aizenman E. Neurodevelopmental Consequences of Dietary Zinc Deficiency: A Status Report. Biol Trace Elem Res 2023; 201:5616-5639. [PMID: 36964812 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-023-03630-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023]
Abstract
Zinc is a tightly regulated trace mineral element playing critical roles in growth, immunity, neurodevelopment, and synaptic and hormonal signaling. Although severe dietary zinc deficiency is relatively uncommon in the United States, dietary zinc deficiency is a substantial public health concern in low- and middle-income countries. Zinc status may be a key determinant of neurodevelopmental processes. Indeed, limited cohort studies have shown that serum zinc is lower in people diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and depression. These observations have sparked multiple studies investigating the mechanisms underlying zinc status and neurodevelopmental outcomes. Animal models of perinatal and adult dietary zinc restriction yield distinct behavioral phenotypes reminiscent of features of ASD, ADHD, and depression, including increased anxiety and immobility, repetitive behaviors, and altered social behaviors. At the cellular and molecular level, zinc has demonstrated roles in neurogenesis, regulation of cellular redox status, transcription factor trafficking, synaptogenesis, and the regulation of synaptic architecture via the Shank family of scaffolding proteins. Although mechanistic questions remain, the current evidence suggests that zinc status is important for adequate neuronal development and may be a yet overlooked factor in the pathogenesis of several psychiatric conditions. This review aims to summarize current knowledge of the role of zinc in the neurophysiology of the perinatal period, the many cellular targets of zinc in the developing brain, and the potential consequences of alterations in zinc homeostasis in early life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeline M Ross
- Department of Neurobiology and Pittsburgh Institute for Neurodegenerative Disorders, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Diego R Hernandez-Espinosa
- Department of Neurobiology and Pittsburgh Institute for Neurodegenerative Disorders, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Elias Aizenman
- Department of Neurobiology and Pittsburgh Institute for Neurodegenerative Disorders, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA.
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8
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Zhang L, Xu X, Ma L, Wang X, Jin M, Li L, Ni H. Zinc Water Prevents Autism-Like Behaviors in the BTBR Mice. Biol Trace Elem Res 2023; 201:4779-4792. [PMID: 36602746 PMCID: PMC10415509 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-022-03548-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to explore the effects of zinc water on autism-like behavior, convulsion threshold, and neurogenesis in ASD model animals. This study used the young BTBR ASD mouse model to explore the effect of a 6-week zinc water supplementation on ASD-like behaviors such as repetitive behavior and social communication disorder, seizure threshold, and the correlation with excitability regulation. The mice were divided into four groups of normal controls (B6) and models (BTBR) who did and did not receive zinc supplementation in water (B6, B6 + zinc, BTBR, and BTBR + zinc). For morphological changes in the hippocampus, we selected two indicators: hippocampal mossy fiber sprouting and neurogenesis. ASD-like behavior testing, seizure threshold determination, Timm staining, and neurogenesis-related assays-represented by Ki67 and DCX-were performed after 6 weeks of zinc supplementation. Our results show that zinc water can prevent autism-like behavior, reduce susceptibility to convulsions, and increase the proliferation of hippocampal progenitor cells in BTBR mice but has less effect on mossy fiber sprouting and neural progenitor cell differentiation. Zinc water reduces autism-like behavior in a partially inherited autism model mice-BTBR-which may be associated with hippocampal neural precursor cell proliferation and reversed hyperexcitability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhang
- Division of Brain Science, Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xiaowen Xu
- Division of Brain Science, Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Liya Ma
- Division of Brain Science, Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xinxin Wang
- Division of Brain Science, Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Meifang Jin
- Division of Brain Science, Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Lili Li
- Division of Brain Science, Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Hong Ni
- Division of Brain Science, Institute of Pediatric Research, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
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Lyall K, Rando J, Wang S, Hamra GB, Chavarro J, Weisskopf MG, Croen LA, Fallin MD, Hertz-Picciotto I, Volk HE, Schmidt RJ, Newschaffer CJ. Examining Prenatal Dietary Factors in Association with Child Autism-Related Traits Using a Bayesian Mixture Approach: Results from 2 United States Cohorts. Curr Dev Nutr 2023; 7:101978. [PMID: 37600935 PMCID: PMC10432916 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdnut.2023.101978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Prior work has suggested relationships between prenatal intake of certain nutrients and autism. Objectives We examined a broad set of prenatal nutrients and foods using a Bayesian modeling approach. Methods Participants were drawn from the Early Autism Risks Longitudinal Investigation (n = 127), a cohort following women with a child with autism through a subsequent pregnancy. Participants were also drawn from the Nurses' Health Study II (NHSII, n = 713), a cohort of United States female nurses, for comparison analyses. In both studies, information on prospectively reported prenatal diet was drawn from food frequency questionnaires, and child autism-related traits were measured by the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS). Bayesian kernel machine regression was used to examine the combined effects of several nutrients with neurodevelopmental relevance, including polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), iron, zinc, vitamin D, folate, and other methyl donors, and separately, key food sources of these, in association with child SRS scores in crude and adjusted models. Results In adjusted analyses, the overall mixture effects of nutrients in Early Autism Risks Longitudinal Investigation and foods in both cohorts on SRS scores were not observed, though there was some suggestion of decreasing SRS scores with increasing overall nutrient mixture in NHSII. No associations were observed with folate within the context of this mixture, but holding other nutrients fixed, n-6 PUFAs were associated with lower SRS scores in NHSII. In both cohorts, lower SRS scores were observed with higher intake of some groupings of vegetables, though for differing types of vegetables across cohorts, and some vegetable groups were associated with higher SRS scores in NHSII. Conclusions Our work extends prior research and suggests the need to further consider prenatal dietary factors from a combined effects perspective. In addition, findings here point to potential differences in nutrient associations based on a family history of autism, which suggests the need to consider gene interactions in future work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Lyall
- AJ Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Juliette Rando
- AJ Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Siwen Wang
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Ghassan B. Hamra
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jorge Chavarro
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Marc G. Weisskopf
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Lisa A. Croen
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - M Daniele Fallin
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Irva Hertz-Picciotto
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Heather E. Volk
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Rebecca J. Schmidt
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Craig J. Newschaffer
- College of Health and Human Development, Penn State University, State College, PA, United States
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Zhang M, Yu J, Liu A, Liu QQ, Sun T, Li X, Du Y, Li J, Wang B, Yang Q. Luteolin in the Qi Bi Anshen decoction improves propionic acid-induced autism-like behavior in rats by inhibiting LRP1/MMP9. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 118:154965. [PMID: 37451152 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A neurodevelopmental illness with a high frequency and unidentified pathophysiology is known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A research hotspot in this field is the identification of disease-specific biomarkers and drug intervention targets. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) can eliminate the symptoms of autism by precisely regulating human physiology. The Qi Bi Anshen decoction (QAT) is a commonly used TCM clinical drug commonly-used to treat for treating ASD. However, the primary active ingredients and underlying mechanisms of action of this decoction remain unknown. PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate the active ingredients and pharmacodynamics of QAT in the treatment of ASD using a Sprague-Dawley rat model that resembled autism. METHODS Autism-like rat models were established through intracerebroventricular injections of propionic acid (PPA). Subsequently, the rats were treated with QAT, and their efficacy was evaluated using the three-chamber method to analyze social interactions and grooming behavior. Additionally, open-field tests, elevated cross-maze tests, hematoxylin and eosin staining, Nissl staining, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were performed; Western blot analysis was employed to determine the expression of synaptic plasticity-related proteins. Utilizing ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS), the effectiveness of active QAT components was assessed, and potential QAT targets were screened through molecular docking, surface plasmon resonance, and thermal migration experiments. To better understand the precise processes involved in treating ASD with active QAT components, in vivo and in vitro knockdown tests were also performed. RESULTS QATexhibited a significant improvement in autism-like behavior and a notable increase in the production of proteins associated with synaptic plasticity. Furthermore, luteolin (LUT), identified as a potentially important active ingredient in QAT for treating ASD, reduced matrix metallopeptidase-9 (MMP9) expression. However, this effect was attenuated by the knockdown of low-density lipoprotein receptor-associated protein 1 (LRP1), which is the target binding site for LUT. CONCLUSIONS LUT emerges as a potentially crucial active component of QAT in the treatment of ASD, with the ability to antagonize LRP1 and subsequently reduce MMP9 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengjia Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Mechanism and Material Basis of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shaanxi Provincial Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, China; Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jiaoyan Yu
- Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - An Liu
- Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Qing-Qing Liu
- Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ting Sun
- Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xi Li
- Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yaya Du
- Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jiamin Li
- Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Mechanism and Material Basis of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shaanxi Provincial Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, China; Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Mechanism and Material Basis of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shaanxi Provincial Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, China.
| | - Qi Yang
- Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, Department of Pharmacy, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China.
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11
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Cai H, Bao Y, Cheng H, Ge X, Zhang M, Feng X, Zheng Y, He J, Wei Y, Liu C, Li L, Huang L, Wang F, Chen X, Chen P, Yang X. Zinc homeostasis may reverse the synergistic neurotoxicity of heavy metal mixtures in Caenorhabditis elegans. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 868:161699. [PMID: 36682567 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.161699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Heavy metal mixtures can cause nerve damage. However, the combined effects of metal mixtures are extremely complex and rarely studied. Zinc (Zn) homeostasis plays an integral role in neural function, but the role of Zn homeostasis in the toxicity of metal mixtures is not well understood. Here, we investigated the combined effects of manganese (Mn), lead (Pb) and arsenic (As) on nerves and the effect of Zn homeostasis on metal toxicity. Caenorhabditis elegans (Maupas, 1900) were exposed to single and multiple metals for 8 days, their movement, behavior, neurons and metal concentration were detected to evaluate the combined effect of metal mixtures. After nematodes were co-treated with metal mixtures and Zn, the nerve function, Zn concentration and redox balance were detected to evaluate the effect of Zn homeostasis on metal toxicity. The results showed that Mn + Pb and Pb + As mixtures induced synergistic toxicity for nematode nerves, which damaged movement, behavior and neurons, and decreased Zn concentration. While Zn supplementation recovered Zn homeostasis and promoted redox balance on nematodes, and then improved the nerve function. Our study demonstrated the combined effects of metal mixtures and the neuroprotective effect of Zn homeostasis. Therefore, assessment of metal mixtures toxicity should consider their interaction and the impacts of essential metals homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiqing Cai
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yu Bao
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Hong Cheng
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Xiaoting Ge
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, Guangxi University of Science and Technology, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Research on Medical Engineering Integration and Innovation, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
| | - Mengdi Zhang
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Xiuming Feng
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yuan Zheng
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Junxiu He
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yue Wei
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Chaoqun Liu
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Longman Li
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Lulu Huang
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Xing Chen
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Pan Chen
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Xiaobo Yang
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China.
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12
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The Rationale for Vitamin, Mineral, and Cofactor Treatment in the Precision Medical Care of Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Pers Med 2023; 13:jpm13020252. [PMID: 36836486 PMCID: PMC9964499 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13020252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Children with autism spectrum disorder may exhibit nutritional deficiencies due to reduced intake, genetic variants, autoantibodies interfering with vitamin transport, and the accumulation of toxic compounds that consume vitamins. Importantly, vitamins and metal ions are essential for several metabolic pathways and for neurotransmitter functioning. The therapeutic benefits of supplementing vitamins, minerals (Zinc, Magnesium, Molybdenum, and Selenium), and other cofactors (coenzyme Q10, alpha-lipoic acid, and tetrahydrobiopterin) are mediated through their cofactor as well as non-cofactor functions. Interestingly, some vitamins can be safely administered at levels far above the dose typically used to correct the deficiency and exert effects beyond their functional role as enzyme cofactors. Moreover, the interrelationships between these nutrients can be leveraged to obtain synergistic effects using combinations. The present review discusses the current evidence for using vitamins, minerals, and cofactors in autism spectrum disorder, the rationale behind their use, and the prospects for future use.
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13
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Błażewicz A, Grabrucker AM. Metal Profiles in Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Crosstalk between Toxic and Essential Metals. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010308. [PMID: 36613749 PMCID: PMC9820494 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Since hundreds of years ago, metals have been recognized as impacting our body's physiology. As a result, they have been studied as a potential cure for many ailments as well as a cause of acute or chronic poisoning. However, the link between aberrant metal levels and neuropsychiatric illnesses such as schizophrenia and neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), is a relatively new finding, despite some evident ASD-related consequences of shortage or excess of specific metals. In this review, we will summarize past and current results explaining the pathomechanisms of toxic metals at the cellular and molecular levels that are still not fully understood. While toxic metals may interfere with dozens of physiological processes concurrently, we will focus on ASD-relevant activity such as inflammation/immune activation, mitochondrial malfunction, increased oxidative stress, impairment of axonal myelination, and synapse formation and function. In particular, we will highlight the competition with essential metals that may explain why both the presence of certain toxic metals and the absence of certain essential metals have emerged as risk factors for ASD. Although often investigated separately, through the agonistic and antagonistic effects of metals, a common metal imbalance may result in relation to ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Błażewicz
- Department of Pathobiochemistry and Interdisciplinary Applications of Ion Chromatography, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Andreas M. Grabrucker
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland
- Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland
- Health Research Institute (HRI), University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +353-61-237756
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14
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Lee K, Mills Z, Cheung P, Cheyne JE, Montgomery JM. The Role of Zinc and NMDA Receptors in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 16:ph16010001. [PMID: 36678498 PMCID: PMC9866730 DOI: 10.3390/ph16010001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
NMDA-type glutamate receptors are critical for synaptic plasticity in the central nervous system. Their unique properties and age-dependent arrangement of subunit types underpin their role as a coincidence detector of pre- and postsynaptic activity during brain development and maturation. NMDAR function is highly modulated by zinc, which is co-released with glutamate and concentrates in postsynaptic spines. Both NMDARs and zinc have been strongly linked to autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), suggesting that NMDARs are an important player in the beneficial effects observed with zinc in both animal models and children with ASDs. Significant evidence is emerging that these beneficial effects occur via zinc-dependent regulation of SHANK proteins, which form the backbone of the postsynaptic density. For example, dietary zinc supplementation enhances SHANK2 or SHANK3 synaptic recruitment and rescues NMDAR deficits and hypofunction in Shank3ex13-16-/- and Tbr1+/- ASD mice. Across multiple studies, synaptic changes occur in parallel with a reversal of ASD-associated behaviours, highlighting the zinc-dependent regulation of NMDARs and glutamatergic synapses as therapeutic targets for severe forms of ASDs, either pre- or postnatally. The data from rodent models set a strong foundation for future translational studies in human cells and people affected by ASDs.
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15
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Fortier AV, Meisner OC, Nair AR, Chang SWC. Prefrontal Circuits guiding Social Preference: Implications in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 141:104803. [PMID: 35908593 PMCID: PMC10122914 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Although Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is increasing in diagnostic prevalence, treatment options are inadequate largely due to limited understanding of ASD's underlying neural mechanisms. Contributing to difficulties in treatment development is the vast heterogeneity of ASD, from physiological causes to clinical presentations. Recent studies suggest that distinct genetic and neurological alterations may converge onto similar underlying neural circuits. Therefore, an improved understanding of neural circuit-level dysfunction in ASD may be a more productive path to developing broader treatments that are effective across a greater spectrum of ASD. Given the social preference behavioral deficits commonly seen in ASD, dysfunction in circuits mediating social preference may contribute to the atypical development of social cognition. We discuss some of the animal models used to study ASD and examine the function and effects of dysregulation of the social preference circuits, notably the medial prefrontal cortex-amygdala and the medial prefrontal cortex-nucleus accumbens circuits, in these animal models. Using the common circuits underlying similar behavioral disruptions of social preference behaviors as an example, we highlight the importance of identifying disruption in convergent circuits to improve the translational success of animal model research for ASD treatment development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail V Fortier
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Department of Molecular, Cellular, Developmental Biology, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Olivia C Meisner
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Amrita R Nair
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Steve W C Chang
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; Kavli Institute for Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; Wu Tsai Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
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16
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Sauer AK, Hagmeyer S, Grabrucker AM. Prenatal Zinc Deficient Mice as a Model for Autism Spectrum Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116082. [PMID: 35682762 PMCID: PMC9181257 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological studies have shown a clear association between early life zinc deficiency and Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). In line with this, mouse models have revealed prenatal zinc deficiency as a profound risk factor for neurobiological and behavioral abnormalities in the offspring reminiscent of ASD behavior. From these studies, a complex pathology emerges, with alterations in the gastrointestinal and immune system and synaptic signaling in the brain, as a major consequence of prenatal zinc deficiency. The features represent a critical link in a causal chain that leads to various neuronal dysfunctions and behavioral phenotypes observed in prenatal zinc deficient (PZD) mice and probably other mouse models for ASD. Given that the complete phenotype of PZD mice may be key to understanding how non-genetic factors can modify the clinical features and severity of autistic patients and explain the observed heterogeneity, here, we summarize published data on PZD mice. We critically review the emerging evidence that prenatal zinc deficiency is at the core of several environmental risk factors associated with ASD, being mechanistically linked to ASD-associated genetic factors. In addition, we highlight future directions and outstanding questions, including potential symptomatic, disease-modifying, and preventive treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Katrin Sauer
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland; (A.K.S.); (S.H.)
- Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland
- Health Research Institute (HRI), University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland
| | - Simone Hagmeyer
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland; (A.K.S.); (S.H.)
| | - Andreas M. Grabrucker
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland; (A.K.S.); (S.H.)
- Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland
- Health Research Institute (HRI), University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +353-61-237756
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17
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Lee K, Jung Y, Vyas Y, Skelton I, Abraham WC, Hsueh YP, Montgomery JM. Dietary zinc supplementation rescues fear-based learning and synaptic function in the Tbr1 +/- mouse model of autism spectrum disorders. Mol Autism 2022; 13:13. [PMID: 35303947 PMCID: PMC8932001 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-022-00494-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by a dyad of behavioural symptoms-social and communication deficits and repetitive behaviours. Multiple aetiological genetic and environmental factors have been identified as causing or increasing the likelihood of ASD, including serum zinc deficiency. Our previous studies revealed that dietary zinc supplementation can normalise impaired social behaviours, excessive grooming, and heightened anxiety in a Shank3 mouse model of ASD, as well as the amelioration of synapse dysfunction. Here, we have examined the efficacy and breadth of dietary zinc supplementation as an effective therapeutic strategy utilising a non-Shank-related mouse model of ASD-mice with Tbr1 haploinsufficiency. METHODS We performed behavioural assays, amygdalar slice whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology, and immunohistochemistry to characterise the synaptic mechanisms underlying the ASD-associated behavioural deficits observed in Tbr1+/- mice and the therapeutic potential of dietary zinc supplementation. Two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Šídák's post hoc test and one-way ANOVA with Tukey's post hoc multiple comparisons were performed for statistical analysis. RESULTS Our data show that dietary zinc supplementation prevents impairments in auditory fear memory and social interaction, but not social novelty, in the Tbr1+/- mice. Tbr1 haploinsufficiency did not induce excessive grooming nor elevate anxiety in mice. At the synaptic level, dietary zinc supplementation reversed α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor (AMPAR) and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) hypofunction and normalised presynaptic function at thalamic-lateral amygdala (LA) synapses that are crucial for auditory fear memory. In addition, the zinc supplemented diet significantly restored the synaptic puncta density of the GluN1 subunit essential for functional NMDARs as well as SHANK3 expression in both the basal and lateral amygdala (BLA) of Tbr1+/- mice. LIMITATIONS The therapeutic effect of dietary zinc supplementation observed in rodent models may not reproduce the same effects in human patients. The effect of dietary zinc supplementation on synaptic function in other brain structures affected by Tbr1 haploinsufficiency including olfactory bulb and anterior commissure will also need to be examined. CONCLUSIONS Our data further the understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the effect of dietary zinc supplementation and verify the efficacy and breadth of its application as a potential treatment strategy for ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Lee
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand
| | - Yewon Jung
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand
| | - Yukti Vyas
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand
- INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, U1215, Bordeaux, France
| | - Imogen Skelton
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand
| | - Wickliffe C Abraham
- Department of Psychology and Brain Health Research Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Yi-Ping Hsueh
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, 128, Section 2, Academia Rd., Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Johanna M Montgomery
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Brain Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand.
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18
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Shayganfard M. Are Essential Trace Elements Effective in Modulation of Mental Disorders? Update and Perspectives. Biol Trace Elem Res 2022; 200:1032-1059. [PMID: 33904124 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-021-02733-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The emergence of mental disorders is associated with several risk factors including genetic and environmental susceptibility. A group of nutrients serves an especially important role in a number of essential neurodevelopmental processes through brain areas promoting the high degree of brain metabolism during early life, although almost all nutrients are needed. These include macronutrients and micronutrients (e.g., iron, magnesium, zinc, copper, selenium). Numerous nutritional psychiatry trials have been performed to examine the correlation of many individual nutrients with mental health, such as essential trace elements. The increased accumulation or lack of such components will facilitate an alternative metabolic pathway that can lead to many diseases and conditions of neurodevelopment. Mental functions have biochemical bases, so the impairment of such neurochemical mechanisms due to lack of trace elements can have mental effects. In psychological conditions such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and autism, scientific studies demonstrate the putative role of trace element deficiency. Therefore, given the critical roles played by essential trace elements in the neurodevelopment and mental health, the effect of these elements' intake on the modulation of psychological functioning is reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehran Shayganfard
- Department of Psychiatry, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran.
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19
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Garí M, Grzesiak M, Krekora M, Kaczmarek P, Jankowska A, Król A, Kaleta D, Jerzyńska J, Janasik B, Kuraś R, Tartaglione AM, Calamandrei G, Hanke W, Polańska K. Prenatal exposure to neurotoxic metals and micronutrients and neurodevelopmental outcomes in early school age children from Poland. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 204:112049. [PMID: 34520749 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.112049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to environmental factors, such as neurotoxic metals and micronutrients, during critical periods of development can contribute to long-term consequences in offspring's health, including neurodevelopmental outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between simultaneous prenatal exposure to metals [lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg)] and micronutrients [selenium (Se), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu)] and neurodevelopmental outcomes in school-age children from the Polish Mother and Child Cohort (REPRO_PL). Metals and micronutrients concentrations were measured in cord blood (Pb, Cd, Se, Zn, Cu) and in maternal hair (Hg) collected during the 3rd trimester of pregnancy. Behavioral and emotional problems, as well as children's cognitive and psychomotor development, were assessed in 436 school-age children using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ, filled in by the mothers) and the Polish adaptation of the Intelligence and Development Scales (IDS, administered by trained psychologists). Multivariate regression models were applied after imputation of missing values, using two approaches: (i) a joint analysis taking into account all metals and micronutrients simultaneously, and (ii) an ExWAS study (single-exposure model). In the SDQ, Hyperactivity/Inattention problems and Total difficulties were associated with higher Hg concentrations in maternal hair (0.18, 95% CI: 0.05; 0.3; and 0.14, 95% CI: 0.01; 0.3, respectively), whereas Emotional symptoms were inversely associated with Se and Zn levels in cord blood (-0.13, 95% CI: -0.3; 0.004; and -0.10, 95% CI: -0.2; 0.02, respectively). In the IDS, cord blood Pb levels were found to be negatively associated with Fluid and Crystallized IQ (-0.12, 95% CI: -0.3; 0.02; and -0.14, 95% CI: -0.3; 0.007, respectively) as well as Mathematical skills (-0.15, 95% CI: -0.3; 0.01). The current research has been able to simultaneously assess the exposure to various interacting chemicals during the prenatal period. We demonstrate that prenatal co-exposures to Pb, Hg, Zn and Se have long-term influences on the neuropsychological outcome of school-age children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercè Garí
- Institute of Computational Biology, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany.
| | - Mariusz Grzesiak
- Department of Perinatology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital" Research Institute, Lodz, Poland; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, IInd Chair of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical University of Lodz, Poland.
| | - Michał Krekora
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, IInd Chair of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical University of Lodz, Poland; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital" Research Institute, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Piotr Kaczmarek
- Department of Perinatology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital" Research Institute, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Agnieszka Jankowska
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Hazards, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Anna Król
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Hazards, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Dorota Kaleta
- Department of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Medical University of Lodz, Poland.
| | - Joanna Jerzyńska
- Department of Paediatrics and Allergy, Copernicus Memorial Hospital, Medical University of Lodz, Poland.
| | - Beata Janasik
- Department of Biological and Environmental Monitoring, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Renata Kuraś
- Department of Biological and Environmental Monitoring, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Anna Maria Tartaglione
- Centre for Behavioural Sciences and Mental Health, National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy.
| | - Gemma Calamandrei
- Centre for Behavioural Sciences and Mental Health, National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy.
| | - Wojciech Hanke
- Department of Environmental Epidemiology, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Kinga Polańska
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Hazards, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland; Department of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Medical University of Lodz, Poland.
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20
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Alsufiani HM, Alkhanbashi AS, Laswad NAB, Bakhadher KK, Alghamdi SA, Tayeb HO, Tarazi FI. Zinc deficiency and supplementation in autism spectrum disorder and Phelan-McDermid syndrome. J Neurosci Res 2022; 100:970-978. [PMID: 35114017 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.25019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Approximately 1 in 36 children are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The disorder is four times more common in males than in females. Zinc deficiency and mutations in SHANK2 and SHANK3 (members of a family of excitatory postsynaptic scaffolding proteins) are all risk factors that may contribute to the pathophysiology of the disease. The presence of shankopathies (loss of one copy of the SHANK3 gene) can lead to the development of Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMDS)-a rare genetic disorder characterized by developmental delay, intellectual disability, poor motor tone, and ASD-like symptoms. We reviewed the relationship between zinc, ASD, and PMDS as well as the effect of zinc supplementation in improving symptoms of ASD and PMDS based on 22 studies published within 6 years (2015-2020). Zinc deficiency (assessed by either dietary intake, blood, hair, or tooth matrix) was shown to be highly prevalent in ASD and PMDS patients as well as in preclinical models of ASD and PMDS. Zinc supplements improved the behavioral deficits in animal models of ASD and PMDS. Clinical trials are still needed to validate the beneficial therapeutic effects of zinc supplements in ASD and PMDS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadeil M Alsufiani
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Experimental Biochemistry Unit, King Fahad Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alaa S Alkhanbashi
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Norah A Bin Laswad
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khulood K Bakhadher
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shareefa A Alghamdi
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Haythum O Tayeb
- Division of Neurology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Neuroscience Research Unit, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Frank I Tarazi
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School and McLean Hospital, Belmont, Massachusetts, USA
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21
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Vyas Y, Cheyne JE, Lee K, Jung Y, Cheung PY, Montgomery JM. Shankopathies in the Developing Brain in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Front Neurosci 2022; 15:775431. [PMID: 35002604 PMCID: PMC8727517 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.775431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The SHANK family of proteins play critical structural and functional roles in the postsynaptic density (PSD) at excitatory glutamatergic synapses. Through their multidomain structure they form a structural platform across the PSD for protein–protein interactions, as well as recruiting protein complexes to strengthen excitatory synaptic transmission. Mutations in SHANKs reflect their importance to synapse development and plasticity. This is evident in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental disorder resulting in behavioural changes including repetitive behaviours, lack of sociability, sensory issues, learning, and language impairments. Human genetic studies have revealed ASD mutations commonly occur in SHANKs. Rodent models expressing these mutations display ASD behavioural impairments, and a subset of these deficits are rescued by reintroduction of Shank in adult animals, suggesting that lack of SHANK during key developmental periods can lead to permanent changes in the brain’s wiring. Here we explore the differences in synaptic function and plasticity from development onward in rodent Shank ASD models. To date the most explored brain regions, relate to the behavioural changes observed, e.g., the striatum, hippocampus, sensory, and prefrontal cortex. In addition, less-studied regions including the hypothalamus, cerebellum, and peripheral nervous system are also affected. Synaptic phenotypes include weakened but also strengthened synaptic function, with NMDA receptors commonly affected, as well as changes in the balance of excitation and inhibition especially in cortical brain circuits. The effects of shankopathies in activity-dependent brain wiring is an important target for therapeutic intervention. We therefore highlight areas of research consensus and identify remaining questions and challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukti Vyas
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Juliette E Cheyne
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Kevin Lee
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Yewon Jung
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Pang Ying Cheung
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Johanna M Montgomery
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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22
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Cusick SE, Barks A, Georgieff MK. Nutrition and Brain Development. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2022; 53:131-165. [PMID: 34622395 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2021_244] [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: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
All nutrients are essential for brain development, but pre-clinical and clinical studies have revealed sensitive periods of brain development during which key nutrients are critical. An understanding of these nutrient-specific sensitive periods and the accompanying brain regions or processes that are developing can guide effective nutrition interventions as well as the choice of meaningful circuit-specific neurobehavioral tests to best determine outcome. For several nutrients including protein, iron, iodine, and choline, pre-clinical and clinical studies align to identify the same sensitive periods, while for other nutrients, such as long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, zinc, and vitamin D, pre-clinical models demonstrate benefit which is not consistently shown in clinical studies. This discordance of pre-clinical and clinical results is potentially due to key differences in the timing, dose, and/or duration of the nutritional intervention as well as the pre-existing nutritional status of the target population. In general, however, the optimal window of success for nutritional intervention to best support brain development is in late fetal and early postnatal life. Lack of essential nutrients during these times can lead to long-lasting dysfunction and significant loss of developmental potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Cusick
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota School of Medicine, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
| | - Amanda Barks
- University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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23
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Delling JP, Boeckers TM. Comparison of SHANK3 deficiency in animal models: phenotypes, treatment strategies, and translational implications. J Neurodev Disord 2021; 13:55. [PMID: 34784886 PMCID: PMC8594088 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-021-09397-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition, which is characterized by clinical heterogeneity and high heritability. Core symptoms of ASD include deficits in social communication and interaction, as well as restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. Many genes have been identified that are associated with an increased risk for ASD. Proteins encoded by these ASD risk genes are often involved in processes related to fetal brain development, chromatin modification and regulation of gene expression in general, as well as the structural and functional integrity of synapses. Genes of the SH3 and multiple ankyrin repeat domains (SHANK) family encode crucial scaffolding proteins (SHANK1-3) of excitatory synapses and other macromolecular complexes. SHANK gene mutations are highly associated with ASD and more specifically the Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMDS), which is caused by heterozygous 22q13.3-deletion resulting in SHANK3-haploinsufficiency, or by SHANK3 missense variants. SHANK3 deficiency and potential treatment options have been extensively studied in animal models, especially in mice, but also in rats and non-human primates. However, few of the proposed therapeutic strategies have translated into clinical practice yet. MAIN TEXT This review summarizes the literature concerning SHANK3-deficient animal models. In particular, the structural, behavioral, and neurological abnormalities are described and compared, providing a broad and comprehensive overview. Additionally, the underlying pathophysiologies and possible treatments that have been investigated in these models are discussed and evaluated with respect to their effect on ASD- or PMDS-associated phenotypes. CONCLUSIONS Animal models of SHANK3 deficiency generated by various genetic strategies, which determine the composition of the residual SHANK3-isoforms and affected cell types, show phenotypes resembling ASD and PMDS. The phenotypic heterogeneity across multiple models and studies resembles the variation of clinical severity in human ASD and PMDS patients. Multiple therapeutic strategies have been proposed and tested in animal models, which might lead to translational implications for human patients with ASD and/or PMDS. Future studies should explore the effects of new therapeutic approaches that target genetic haploinsufficiency, like CRISPR-mediated activation of promotors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Philipp Delling
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, Ulm, 89081, Germany.
| | - Tobias M Boeckers
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, Ulm, 89081, Germany. .,Ulm Site, DZNE, Ulm, Germany.
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24
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Specchio N, Di Micco V, Trivisano M, Ferretti A, Curatolo P. The epilepsy-autism spectrum disorder phenotype in the era of molecular genetics and precision therapy. Epilepsia 2021; 63:6-21. [PMID: 34741464 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is frequently associated with infants with epileptic encephalopathy, and early interventions targeting social and cognitive deficits can have positive effects on developmental outcome. However, early diagnosis of ASD among infants with epilepsy is complicated by variability in clinical phenotypes. Commonality in both biological and molecular mechanisms have been suggested between ASD and epilepsy, such as occurs with tuberous sclerosis complex. This review summarizes the current understanding of causal mechanisms between epilepsy and ASD, with a particularly genetic focus. Hypothetical explanations to support the conjugation of the two conditions include abnormalities in synaptic growth, imbalance in neuronal excitation/inhibition, and abnormal synaptic plasticity. Investigation of the probable genetic basis has implemented many genes, although the main risk supports existing hypotheses in that these cluster to abnormalities in ion channels, synaptic function and structure, and transcription regulators, with the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway and "mTORpathies" having been a notable research focus. Experimental models not only have a crucial role in determining gene functions but are also useful instruments for tracing disease trajectory. Precision medicine from gene therapy remains a theoretical possibility, but more contemporary developments continue in molecular tests to aid earlier diagnoses and better therapeutic targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Specchio
- Rare and Complex Epilepsy Unit, Division of Neurology, Department of Neurosciences, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Full Member of European Reference Network EpiCARE, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Di Micco
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Systems Medicine Department, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Marina Trivisano
- Rare and Complex Epilepsy Unit, Division of Neurology, Department of Neurosciences, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Full Member of European Reference Network EpiCARE, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Ferretti
- Rare and Complex Epilepsy Unit, Division of Neurology, Department of Neurosciences, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Full Member of European Reference Network EpiCARE, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Curatolo
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Systems Medicine Department, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
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25
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Anashkina AA, Erlykina EI. Molecular Mechanisms of Aberrant Neuroplasticity in Autism Spectrum Disorders (Review). Sovrem Tekhnologii Med 2021; 13:78-91. [PMID: 34513070 PMCID: PMC8353687 DOI: 10.17691/stm2021.13.1.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
This review presents the analysis and systematization of modern data on the molecular mechanisms of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) development. Polyetiology and the multifactorial nature of ASD have been proved. The attempt has been made to jointly review and systematize current hypotheses of ASD pathogenesis at the molecular level from the standpoint of aberrant brain plasticity. The mechanism of glutamate excitotoxicity formation, the effect of imbalance of neuroactive amino acids and their derivatives, neurotransmitters, and hormones on the ASD formation have been considered in detail. The strengths and weaknesses of the proposed hypotheses have been analyzed from the standpoint of evidence-based medicine. The conclusion has been drawn on the leading role of glutamate excitotoxicity as a biochemical mechanism of aberrant neuroplasticity accompanied by oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. The mechanism of aberrant neuroplasticity has also been traced at the critical moments of the nervous system development taking into account the influence of various factors of the internal and external environment. New approaches to searching for ASD molecular markers have been considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A Anashkina
- Senior Teacher, Department of Biochemistry named after G.Y. Gorodisskaya; Senior Researcher, Central Scientific Research Laboratory, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Square, Nizhny Novgorod, 603005, Russia
| | - E I Erlykina
- Professor, Head of the Department of Biochemistry named after G.Y. Gorodisskaya, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Square, Nizhny Novgorod, 603005, Russia
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26
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Abstract
Since the discovery of manifest Zn deficiency in 1961, the increasing number of studies demonstrated the association between altered Zn status and multiple diseases. In this chapter, we provide a review of the most recent advances on the role of Zn in health and disease (2010-20), with a special focus on the role of Zn in neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders, diabetes and obesity, male and female reproduction, as well as COVID-19. In parallel with the revealed tight association between ASD risk and severity and Zn status, the particular mechanisms linking Zn2+ and ASD pathogenesis like modulation of synaptic plasticity through ProSAP/Shank scaffold, neurotransmitter metabolism, and gut microbiota, have been elucidated. The increasing body of data indicate the potential involvement of Zn2+ metabolism in neurodegeneration. Systemic Zn levels in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease were found to be reduced, whereas its sequestration in brain may result in modulation of amyloid β and α-synuclein processing with subsequent toxic effects. Zn2+ was shown to possess adipotropic effects through the role of zinc transporters, zinc finger proteins, and Zn-α2-glycoprotein in adipose tissue physiology, underlying its particular role in pathogenesis of obesity and diabetes mellitus type 2. Recent findings also contribute to further understanding of the role of Zn2+ in spermatogenesis and sperm functioning, as well as oocyte development and fertilization. Finally, Zn2+ was shown to be the potential adjuvant therapy in management of novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), underlining the perspectives of zinc in management of old and new threats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anatoly V Skalny
- IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia; Yaroslavl State University, Yaroslavl, Russia
| | - Michael Aschner
- IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia; Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Alexey A Tinkov
- IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia; Yaroslavl State University, Yaroslavl, Russia.
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27
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Phasuk S, Pairojana T, Suresh P, Yang CH, Roytrakul S, Huang SP, Chen CC, Pakaprot N, Chompoopong S, Nudmamud-Thanoi S, Liu IY. Enhanced contextual fear memory in peroxiredoxin 6 knockout mice is associated with hyperactivation of MAPK signaling pathway. Mol Brain 2021; 14:42. [PMID: 33632301 PMCID: PMC7908735 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-021-00754-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Fear dysregulation is one of the symptoms found in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) patients. The functional abnormality of the hippocampus is known to be implicated in the development of such pathology. Peroxiredoxin 6 (PRDX6) belongs to the peroxiredoxin family. This antioxidant enzyme is expressed throughout the brain, including the hippocampus. Recent evidence reveals that PRDX6 plays an important role in redox regulation and the modulation of several signaling molecules involved in fear regulation. Thus, we hypothesized that PRDX6 plays a role in the regulation of fear memory. We subjected a systemic Prdx6 knockout (Prdx6-/-) mice to trace fear conditioning and observed enhanced fear response after training. Intraventricular injection of lentivirus-carried mouse Prdx6 into the 3rd ventricle reduced the enhanced fear response in these knockout mice. Proteomic analysis followed by validation of western blot analysis revealed that several proteins in the MAPK pathway, such as NTRK2, AKT, and phospho-ERK1/2, cPLA2 were significantly upregulated in the hippocampus of Prdx6-/- mice during the retrieval stage of contextual fear memory. The distribution of PRDX6 found in the astrocytes was also observed throughout the hippocampus. This study identifies PRDX6 as a participant in the regulation of fear response. It suggests that PRDX6 and related molecules may have important implications for understanding fear-dysregulation associated disorders like PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarayut Phasuk
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Tanita Pairojana
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Pavithra Suresh
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Chee-Hing Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Sittiruk Roytrakul
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, National Science and Technology Development Agency, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Shun-Ping Huang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Chang Chen
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Narawut Pakaprot
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Supin Chompoopong
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sutisa Nudmamud-Thanoi
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, Thailand
- Centre of Excellence in Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, Thailand
| | - Ingrid Y. Liu
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
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28
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Masini E, Loi E, Vega-Benedetti AF, Carta M, Doneddu G, Fadda R, Zavattari P. An Overview of the Main Genetic, Epigenetic and Environmental Factors Involved in Autism Spectrum Disorder Focusing on Synaptic Activity. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218290. [PMID: 33167418 PMCID: PMC7663950 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects social interaction and communication, with restricted interests, activity and behaviors. ASD is highly familial, indicating that genetic background strongly contributes to the development of this condition. However, only a fraction of the total number of genes thought to be associated with the condition have been discovered. Moreover, other factors may play an important role in ASD onset. In fact, it has been shown that parental conditions and in utero and perinatal factors may contribute to ASD etiology. More recently, epigenetic changes, including DNA methylation and micro RNA alterations, have been associated with ASD and proposed as potential biomarkers. This review aims to provide a summary of the literature regarding ASD candidate genes, mainly focusing on synapse formation and functionality and relevant epigenetic and environmental aspects acting in concert to determine ASD onset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Masini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Biology and Genetics, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.M.); (E.L.); (A.F.V.-B.)
| | - Eleonora Loi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Biology and Genetics, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.M.); (E.L.); (A.F.V.-B.)
| | - Ana Florencia Vega-Benedetti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Biology and Genetics, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.M.); (E.L.); (A.F.V.-B.)
| | - Marinella Carta
- Center for Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Azienda Ospedaliera Brotzu, 09121 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Doneddu
- Centro per l’Autismo e Disturbi correlati (CADc), Nuovo Centro Fisioterapico Sardo, 09131 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Roberta Fadda
- Department of Pedagogy, Psychology, Philosophy, University of Cagliari, 09123 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Patrizia Zavattari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Biology and Genetics, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.M.); (E.L.); (A.F.V.-B.)
- Correspondence:
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