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Wu M, Mi J, Qu GX, Zhang S, Jian Y, Gao C, Cai Q, Liu J, Jiang J, Huang H. Role of Hedgehog Signaling Pathways in Multipotent Mesenchymal Stem Cells Differentiation. Cell Transplant 2024; 33:9636897241244943. [PMID: 38695366 PMCID: PMC11067683 DOI: 10.1177/09636897241244943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Multipotent mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have high self-renewal and multi-lineage differentiation potentials and low immunogenicity, so they have attracted much attention in the field of regenerative medicine and have a promising clinical application. MSCs originate from the mesoderm and can differentiate not only into osteoblasts, cartilage, adipocytes, and muscle cells but also into ectodermal and endodermal cell lineages across embryonic layers. To design cell therapy for replacement of damaged tissues, it is essential to understand the signaling pathways, which have a major impact on MSC differentiation, as this will help to integrate the signaling inputs to initiate a specific lineage. Hedgehog (Hh) signaling plays a vital role in the development of various tissues and organs in the embryo. As a morphogen, Hh not only regulates the survival and proliferation of tissue progenitor and stem populations but also is a critical moderator of MSC differentiation, involving tri-lineage and across embryonic layer differentiation of MSCs. This review summarizes the role of Hh signaling pathway in the differentiation of MSCs to mesodermal, endodermal, and ectodermal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyu Wu
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Junwei Mi
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guo-xin Qu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Shu Zhang
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yi Jian
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chu Gao
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qingli Cai
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jianxin Jiang
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hong Huang
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
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You J, Youssef MMM, Santos JR, Lee J, Park J. Microglia and Astrocytes in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Disease-Associated States, Pathological Roles, and Therapeutic Potential. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1307. [PMID: 37887017 PMCID: PMC10603852 DOI: 10.3390/biology12101307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Microglial and astrocytic reactivity is a prominent feature of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Microglia and astrocytes have been increasingly appreciated to play pivotal roles in disease pathogenesis. These cells can adopt distinct states characterized by a specific molecular profile or function depending on the different contexts of development, health, aging, and disease. Accumulating evidence from ALS rodent and cell models has demonstrated neuroprotective and neurotoxic functions from microglia and astrocytes. In this review, we focused on the recent advancements of knowledge in microglial and astrocytic states and nomenclature, the landmark discoveries demonstrating a clear contribution of microglia and astrocytes to ALS pathogenesis, and novel therapeutic candidates leveraging these cells that are currently undergoing clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin You
- Genetics and Genome Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; (J.Y.); (M.M.M.Y.); (J.R.S.); (J.L.)
| | - Mohieldin M. M. Youssef
- Genetics and Genome Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; (J.Y.); (M.M.M.Y.); (J.R.S.); (J.L.)
| | - Jhune Rizsan Santos
- Genetics and Genome Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; (J.Y.); (M.M.M.Y.); (J.R.S.); (J.L.)
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Jooyun Lee
- Genetics and Genome Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; (J.Y.); (M.M.M.Y.); (J.R.S.); (J.L.)
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Jeehye Park
- Genetics and Genome Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; (J.Y.); (M.M.M.Y.); (J.R.S.); (J.L.)
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
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Baranes K, Hastings N, Rahman S, Poulin N, Tavares JM, Kuan W, Syed N, Kunz M, Blighe K, Belgard TG, Kotter MRN. Transcription factor combinations that define human astrocyte identity encode significant variation of maturity and function. Glia 2023; 71:1870-1889. [PMID: 37029764 PMCID: PMC10952910 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
Increasing evidence indicates that cellular identity can be reduced to the distinct gene regulatory networks controlled by transcription factors (TFs). However, redundancy exists in these states as different combinations of TFs can induce broadly similar cell types. We previously demonstrated that by overcoming gene silencing, it is possible to deterministically reprogram human pluripotent stem cells directly into cell types of various lineages. In the present study we leverage the consistency and precision of our approach to explore four different TF combinations encoding astrocyte identity, based on previously published reports. Analysis of the resulting induced astrocytes (iAs) demonstrated that all four cassettes generate cells with the typical morphology of in vitro astrocytes, which expressed astrocyte-specific markers. The transcriptional profiles of all four iAs clustered tightly together and displayed similarities with mature human astrocytes, although maturity levels differed between cells. Importantly, we found that the TF cassettes induced iAs with distinct differences with regards to their cytokine response and calcium signaling. In vivo transplantation of selected iAs into immunocompromised rat brains demonstrated long term stability and integration. In conclusion, all four TF combinations were able to induce stable astrocyte-like cells that were morphologically similar but showed subtle differences with respect to their transcriptome. These subtle differences translated into distinct differences with regards to cell function, that could be related to maturation state and/or regional identity of the resulting cells. This insight opens an opportunity to precision-engineer cells to meet functional requirements, for example, in the context of therapeutic cell transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koby Baranes
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0QQUK
- Wellcome‐MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0AWUK
| | - Nataly Hastings
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0QQUK
- Wellcome‐MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0AWUK
| | - Saifur Rahman
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0QQUK
- Wellcome‐MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0AWUK
| | - Noah Poulin
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0QQUK
- Wellcome‐MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0AWUK
| | - Joana M. Tavares
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0QQUK
- Wellcome‐MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0AWUK
| | - Wei‐Li Kuan
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0QQUK
| | - Najeeb Syed
- The Bioinformatics CROSanfordFlorida32771USA
| | - Meik Kunz
- The Bioinformatics CROSanfordFlorida32771USA
| | | | | | - Mark R. N. Kotter
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0QQUK
- Wellcome‐MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0AWUK
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Valori CF, Sulmona C, Brambilla L, Rossi D. Astrocytes: Dissecting Their Diverse Roles in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Frontotemporal Dementia. Cells 2023; 12:1450. [PMID: 37296571 PMCID: PMC10252425 DOI: 10.3390/cells12111450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) are fatal neurodegenerative disorders often co-occurring in the same patient, a feature that suggests a common origin of the two diseases. Consistently, pathological inclusions of the same proteins as well as mutations in the same genes can be identified in both ALS/FTD. Although many studies have described several disrupted pathways within neurons, glial cells are also regarded as crucial pathogenetic contributors in ALS/FTD. Here, we focus our attention on astrocytes, a heterogenous population of glial cells that perform several functions for optimal central nervous system homeostasis. Firstly, we discuss how post-mortem material from ALS/FTD patients supports astrocyte dysfunction around three pillars: neuroinflammation, abnormal protein aggregation, and atrophy/degeneration. Furthermore, we summarize current attempts at monitoring astrocyte functions in living patients using either novel imaging strategies or soluble biomarkers. We then address how astrocyte pathology is recapitulated in animal and cellular models of ALS/FTD and how we used these models both to understand the molecular mechanisms driving glial dysfunction and as platforms for pre-clinical testing of therapeutics. Finally, we present the current clinical trials for ALS/FTD, restricting our discussion to treatments that modulate astrocyte functions, directly or indirectly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara F. Valori
- Molecular Neuropathology of Neurodegenerative Diseases, German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), 72072 Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Neuropathology, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Claudia Sulmona
- Laboratory for Research on Neurodegenerative Disorders, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Liliana Brambilla
- Laboratory for Research on Neurodegenerative Disorders, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Daniela Rossi
- Laboratory for Research on Neurodegenerative Disorders, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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Temple S. Advancing cell therapy for neurodegenerative diseases. Cell Stem Cell 2023; 30:512-529. [PMID: 37084729 PMCID: PMC10201979 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2023.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
Cell-based therapies are being developed for various neurodegenerative diseases that affect the central nervous system (CNS). Concomitantly, the roles of individual cell types in neurodegenerative pathology are being uncovered by genetic and single-cell studies. With a greater understanding of cellular contributions to health and disease and with the arrival of promising approaches to modulate them, effective therapeutic cell products are now emerging. This review examines how the ability to generate diverse CNS cell types from stem cells, along with a deeper understanding of cell-type-specific functions and pathology, is advancing preclinical development of cell products for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Temple
- Neural Stem Cell Institute, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA.
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Skidmore S, Barker RA. Challenges in the clinical advancement of cell therapies for Parkinson's disease. Nat Biomed Eng 2023; 7:370-386. [PMID: 36635420 PMCID: PMC7615223 DOI: 10.1038/s41551-022-00987-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Cell therapies as potential treatments for Parkinson's disease first gained traction in the 1980s, owing to the clinical success of trials that used transplants of foetal midbrain dopaminergic tissue. However, the poor standardization of the tissue for grafting, and constraints on its availability and ethical use, have hindered this treatment strategy. Recent advances in stem-cell technologies and in the understanding of the development of dopaminergic neurons have enabled preclinical advancements of promising stem-cell therapies. To move these therapies to the clinic, appropriate levels of safety screening, as well as optimization of the cell products and the scalability of their manufacturing, will be required. In this Review, we discuss how challenges pertaining to cell sources, functional and safety testing, manufacturing and storage, and clinical-trial design are being addressed to advance the translational and clinical development of cell therapies for Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Skidmore
- Wellcome and MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Roger A Barker
- Wellcome and MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK.
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, For vie Site, Cambridge, UK.
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Gotkine M, Caraco Y, Lerner Y, Blotnick S, Wanounou M, Slutsky SG, Chebath J, Kuperstein G, Estrin E, Ben-Hur T, Hasson A, Molakandov K, Sonnenfeld T, Stark Y, Revel A, Revel M, Izrael M. Safety and efficacy of first-in-man intrathecal injection of human astrocytes (AstroRx®) in ALS patients: phase I/IIa clinical trial results. J Transl Med 2023; 21:122. [PMID: 36788520 PMCID: PMC9927047 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-03903-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malfunction of astrocytes is implicated as one of the pathological factors of ALS. Thus, intrathecal injection of healthy astrocytes in ALS can potentially compensate for the diseased astrocytes. AstroRx® is an allogeneic cell-based product, composed of healthy and functional human astrocytes derived from embryonic stem cells. AstroRx® was shown to clear excessive glutamate, reduce oxidative stress, secrete various neuroprotective factors, and act as an immunomodulator. Intrathecal injection of AstroRx® to animal models of ALS slowed disease progression and extended survival. Here we report the result of a first-in-human clinical study evaluating intrathecal injection of AstroRx® in ALS patients. METHODS We conducted a phase I/IIa, open-label, dose-escalating clinical trial to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and therapeutic effects of intrathecal injection of AstroRx® in patients with ALS. Five patients were injected intrathecally with a single dose of 100 × 106 AstroRx® cells and 5 patients with 250 × 106 cells (low and high dose, respectively). Safety and efficacy assessments were recorded for 3 months pre-treatment (run-in period) and 12 months post-treatment (follow-up period). RESULTS A single administration of AstroRx® at either low or high doses was safe and well tolerated. No adverse events (AEs) related to AstroRx® itself were reported. Transient AEs related to the Intrathecal (IT) procedure were all mild to moderate. The study demonstrated a clinically meaningful effect that was maintained over the first 3 months after treatment, as measured by the pre-post slope change in ALSFRS-R. In the 100 × 106 AstroRx® arm, the ALSFRS-R rate of deterioration was attenuated from - 0.88/month pre-treatment to - 0.30/month in the first 3 months post-treatment (p = 0.039). In the 250 × 106 AstroRx® arm, the ALSFRS-R slope decreased from - 1.43/month to - 0.78/month (p = 0.0023). The effect was even more profound in a rapid progressor subgroup of 5 patients. No statistically significant change was measured in muscle strength using hand-held dynamometry and slow vital capacity continued to deteriorate during the study. CONCLUSIONS Overall, these findings suggest that a single IT administration of AstroRx® to ALS patients at a dose of 100 × 106 or 250 × 106 cells is safe. A signal of beneficial clinical effect was observed for the first 3 months following cell injection. These results support further investigation of repeated intrathecal administrations of AstroRx®, e.g., every 3 months. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT03482050.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Gotkine
- Department of Neurology, The Agnes Ginges Center for Human Neurogenetics, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yoseph Caraco
- Hadassah Clinical Research Center (HCRC), Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yossef Lerner
- Department of Neurology, The Agnes Ginges Center for Human Neurogenetics, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Simcha Blotnick
- Hadassah Clinical Research Center (HCRC), Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Maor Wanounou
- Hadassah Clinical Research Center (HCRC), Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Shalom Guy Slutsky
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Department, Kadimastem Ltd, Pinchas Sapir 7, Weizmann Science Park, Ness-Ziona, Israel
| | - Judith Chebath
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Department, Kadimastem Ltd, Pinchas Sapir 7, Weizmann Science Park, Ness-Ziona, Israel
| | - Graciela Kuperstein
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Department, Kadimastem Ltd, Pinchas Sapir 7, Weizmann Science Park, Ness-Ziona, Israel
| | - Elena Estrin
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Department, Kadimastem Ltd, Pinchas Sapir 7, Weizmann Science Park, Ness-Ziona, Israel
| | - Tamir Ben-Hur
- Department of Neurology, The Agnes Ginges Center for Human Neurogenetics, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Arik Hasson
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Department, Kadimastem Ltd, Pinchas Sapir 7, Weizmann Science Park, Ness-Ziona, Israel
| | - Kfir Molakandov
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Department, Kadimastem Ltd, Pinchas Sapir 7, Weizmann Science Park, Ness-Ziona, Israel
| | - Tehila Sonnenfeld
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Department, Kadimastem Ltd, Pinchas Sapir 7, Weizmann Science Park, Ness-Ziona, Israel
| | - Yafit Stark
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Department, Kadimastem Ltd, Pinchas Sapir 7, Weizmann Science Park, Ness-Ziona, Israel
| | - Ariel Revel
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Department, Kadimastem Ltd, Pinchas Sapir 7, Weizmann Science Park, Ness-Ziona, Israel
| | - Michel Revel
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Department, Kadimastem Ltd, Pinchas Sapir 7, Weizmann Science Park, Ness-Ziona, Israel
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, 76100, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Michal Izrael
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Department, Kadimastem Ltd, Pinchas Sapir 7, Weizmann Science Park, Ness-Ziona, Israel.
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Unnisa A, Greig NH, Kamal MA. Modelling the Interplay Between Neuron-Glia Cell Dysfunction and Glial Therapy in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:547-559. [PMID: 36545725 PMCID: PMC10207919 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666221221142743] [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: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complicated, interpersonally defined, static condition of the underdeveloped brain. Although the aetiology of autism remains unclear, disturbance of neuronglia interactions has lately been proposed as a significant event in the pathophysiology of ASD. In recent years, the contribution of glial cells to autism has been overlooked. In addition to neurons, glial cells play an essential role in mental activities, and a new strategy that emphasises neuron-glia interactions should be applied. Disturbance of neuron-glia connections has lately been proposed as a significant event in the pathophysiology of ASD because aberrant neuronal network formation and dysfunctional neurotransmission are fundamental to the pathology of the condition. In ASD, neuron and glial cell number changes cause brain circuits to malfunction and impact behaviour. A study revealed that reactive glial cells result in the loss of synaptic functioning and induce autism under inflammatory conditions. Recent discoveries also suggest that dysfunction or changes in the ability of microglia to carry out physiological and defensive functions (such as failure in synaptic elimination or aberrant microglial activation) may be crucial for developing brain diseases, especially autism. The cerebellum, white matter, and cortical regions of autistic patients showed significant microglial activation. Reactive glial cells result in the loss of synaptic functioning and induce autism under inflammatory conditions. Replacement of defective glial cells (Cell-replacement treatment), glial progenitor cell-based therapy, and medication therapy (inhibition of microglia activation) are all utilised to treat glial dysfunction. This review discusses the role of glial cells in ASD and the various potential approaches to treating glial cell dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aziz Unnisa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Hail, Hail, KSA;
| | - Nigel H. Greig
- Drug Design & Development Section, Translational Gerontology Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland, MD 21224, USA
| | - Mohammad Amjad Kamal
- Institutes for Systems Genetics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, China
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka, 1207, Bangladesh
- Enzymoics, Novel Global Community Educational Foundation, Peterlee place, Hebersham, NSW 2770, Australia
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Ng W, Ng SY. Remodeling of astrocyte secretome in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: uncovering novel targets to combat astrocyte-mediated toxicity. Transl Neurodegener 2022; 11:54. [PMID: 36567359 PMCID: PMC9791755 DOI: 10.1186/s40035-022-00332-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an adult-onset paralytic disease characterized by progressive degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons in the motor cortex, brainstem and spinal cord. Motor neuron degeneration is typically caused by a combination of intrinsic neuronal (cell autonomous) defects as well as extrinsic (non-cell autonomous) factors such as astrocyte-mediated toxicity. Astrocytes are highly plastic cells that react to their microenvironment to mediate relevant responses. In neurodegeneration, astrocytes often turn reactive and in turn secrete a slew of factors to exert pro-inflammatory and neurotoxic effects. Various efforts have been carried out to characterize the diseased astrocyte secretome over the years, revealing that pro-inflammatory chemokines, cytokines and microRNAs are the main players in mediating neuronal death. As metabolomic technologies mature, these studies begin to shed light on neurotoxic metabolites such as secreted lipids. In this focused review, we will discuss changes in the astrocyte secretome during ALS. In particular, we will discuss the components of the reactive astrocyte secretome that contribute to neuronal death in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winanto Ng
- grid.418812.60000 0004 0620 9243Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, A*STAR Research Entities, Singapore, 138673 Singapore
| | - Shi-Yan Ng
- grid.418812.60000 0004 0620 9243Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, A*STAR Research Entities, Singapore, 138673 Singapore
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10
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Voronkov DN, Stavrovskaya AV, Guschina AS, Olshansky AS, Lebedeva OS, Eremeev AV, Lagarkova MA. Morphological Characterization of Astrocytes in a Xenograft of Human iPSC-Derived Neural Precursor Cells. Acta Naturae 2022; 14:100-108. [DOI: 10.32607/actanaturae.11710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Transplantation of a mixed astrocyte and neuron culture is of interest in the development of cell therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. In this case, an assessment of engraftment requires a detailed morphological characterization, in particular an analysis of the neuronal and glial populations. In the experiment performed, human iPSC-derived neural progenitors transplanted into a rat striatum produced a mixed neuron and astrocyte population in vivo by the sixth month after transplantation. The morphological characteristics and neurochemical profile of the xenografted astrocytes were similar to those of mature human astroglia. Unlike neurons, astrocytes migrated to the surrounding structures and the density and pattern of their distribution in the striatum and cerebral cortex differed, which indicates that the microenvironment affects human glia integration. The graft was characterized by the zonal features of glial cell morphology, which was a reflection of cell maturation in the central area, glial shaft formation around the transplanted neurons, and migration to the surrounding structures.
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Torres P, Anerillas C, Ramírez-Núñez O, Fernàndez A, Encinas M, Povedano M, Andrés-Benito P, Ferrer I, Ayala V, Pamplona R, Portero-Otín M. The motor neuron disease mouse model hSOD1-G93A shows a non-canonical profile of senescence biomarkers. Dis Model Mech 2022; 15:276182. [PMID: 35916061 PMCID: PMC9459393 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.049059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
To evaluate senescence mechanisms, including senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), in the motor-neuron disease model hSOD1-G93A, we quantified the expression of p16 and p21 and the senescence-associated β galactosidase (SA-β-gal) in nervous tissue. As SASP markers, we measured the mRNA levels of Il1a, Il6, Ifna, and Ifnb. Furthermore, we explored if an alteration of alternative splicing is associated with senescence by measuring the Adipor2 cryptic exon inclusion levels, a specific splicing variant repressed by TAR-DNA binding of 43 kDa (Tdp-43). Transgenic mice show an atypical senescence profile with high p16 and p21 mRNA and protein in glia, without the canonical increase in SA-β-gal activity. Consistent with SASP, there is an increase in Il1a and Il6 expression, associated with increased TNFR and M-CSF protein levels, with females being partially protected. TDP-43 splicing activity is compromised in this model. Senolytic drug Navitoclax does not alter the present 'model's disease progression. This lack of effect is reproduced in vitro, in contrast with Dasatinib and quercetin, which diminish p16 and p21. Our findings show a non-canonical profile of senescence biomarkers in the model hSOD1-G93A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascual Torres
- Metabolic Pathophysiology Research Group, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Lleida-IRBLleida, Lleida, Spain
| | - Carlos Anerillas
- Oncogenic Signalling and Development, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Lleida-IRBLleida, Lleida, Spain
| | - Omar Ramírez-Núñez
- Metabolic Pathophysiology Research Group, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Lleida-IRBLleida, Lleida, Spain
| | - Anna Fernàndez
- Metabolic Pathophysiology Research Group, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Lleida-IRBLleida, Lleida, Spain
| | - Mario Encinas
- Oncogenic Signalling and Development, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Lleida-IRBLleida, Lleida, Spain
| | - Mònica Povedano
- Functional Unit of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (UFELA), Service of Neurology, Bellvitge University Hospital, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Pol Andrés-Benito
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Barcelona, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Isidre Ferrer
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Barcelona, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain.,Biomedical Network Research Center on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Institute Carlos III, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Victòria Ayala
- Metabolic Pathophysiology Research Group, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Lleida-IRBLleida, Lleida, Spain
| | - Reinald Pamplona
- Metabolic Pathophysiology Research Group, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Lleida-IRBLleida, Lleida, Spain
| | - Manuel Portero-Otín
- Metabolic Pathophysiology Research Group, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Lleida-IRBLleida, Lleida, Spain
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12
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Wilson H, de Natale ER, Politis M. Concise Review: Recent advances in neuroimaging techniques to assist clinical trials on cell-based therapies in neurodegenerative diseases. Stem Cells 2022; 40:724-735. [PMID: 35671344 DOI: 10.1093/stmcls/sxac039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD), are progressive disorders for which a curative therapy is still lacking. Cell-based therapy aims at replacing dysfunctional cellular populations by repairing damaged tissue and by enriching the microenvironment of selective brain areas, and thus constitutes a promising disease-modifying treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Scientific research has engineered a wide range of human-derived cellular populations to help overcome some of the logistical, safety, and ethical issues associated with this approach. Open-label studies and clinical trials in human participants have employed neuroimaging techniques, such as positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to assess the success of the transplantation, to evaluate the functional integration of the implanted tissue into the host environment and to understand the pathophysiological changes associated with the therapy. Neuroimaging has constituted an outcome measure of large, randomized clinical trials, and has given answers to clarify the pathophysiology underlying some of the complications linked with this therapy. Novel PET radiotracers and MRI sequences for the staging of neurodegenerative diseases and to study alterations at molecular level significantly expands the translational potential of neuroimaging to assist pre-clinical and clinical research on cell-based therapy in these disorders. This concise review summarizes the current use of neuroimaging in human studies of cell-based replacement therapy and focuses on future application of PET and MRI techniques to evaluate the pathophysiology and treatment efficacy, as well as to aid patient selection and as an outcome measure to improve treatment success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Wilson
- Neurodegeneration Imaging Group, University of Exeter Medical School, London, UK
| | | | - Marios Politis
- Neurodegeneration Imaging Group, University of Exeter Medical School, London, UK
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13
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Lazic A, Balint V, Stanisavljevic Ninkovic D, Peric M, Stevanovic M. Reactive and Senescent Astroglial Phenotypes as Hallmarks of Brain Pathologies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094995. [PMID: 35563385 PMCID: PMC9100382 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes, as the most abundant glial cells in the central nervous system, are tightly integrated into neural networks and participate in numerous aspects of brain physiology and pathology. They are the main homeostatic cells in the central nervous system, and the loss of astrocyte physiological functions and/or gain of pro-inflammatory functions, due to their reactivation or cellular senescence, can have profound impacts on the surrounding microenvironment with pathological outcomes. Although the importance of astrocytes is generally recognized, and both senescence and reactive astrogliosis have been extensively reviewed independently, there are only a few comparative overviews of these complex processes. In this review, we summarize the latest data regarding astrocyte reactivation and senescence, and outline similarities and differences between these phenotypes from morphological, functional, and molecular points of view. A special focus has been given to neurodegenerative diseases, where these phenotypic alternations of astrocytes are significantly implicated. We also summarize current perspectives regarding new advances in model systems based on astrocytes as well as data pointing to these glial cells as potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrijana Lazic
- Laboratory for Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.B.); (D.S.N.); (M.P.); (M.S.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Vanda Balint
- Laboratory for Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.B.); (D.S.N.); (M.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Danijela Stanisavljevic Ninkovic
- Laboratory for Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.B.); (D.S.N.); (M.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Mina Peric
- Laboratory for Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.B.); (D.S.N.); (M.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Milena Stevanovic
- Laboratory for Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.B.); (D.S.N.); (M.P.); (M.S.)
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Kneza Mihaila 35, 11001 Belgrade, Serbia
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14
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Kobashi S, Terashima T, Katagi M, Urushitani M, Kojima H. Bone marrow-derived inducible microglia-like cells ameliorate motor function and survival in a mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Cytotherapy 2022; 24:789-801. [PMID: 35393241 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2022.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AIMS Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an incurable neurodegenerative disease. Neuroinflammation in the spinal cord plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of ALS, and microglia are involved in neuroinflammation. Microglia mainly have two opposite phenotypes involving cytotoxic and neuroprotective properties, and neuroprotective microglia are expected to be a novel application for the treatment of ALS. Therefore, to establish a clinically applicable therapeutic method using neuroprotective microglia, the authors investigated the effect of inducing neuroprotective microglia-like cells from bone marrow for transplantation into ALS model mice. METHODS Bone marrow-derived mononuclear cells were isolated from green fluorescent protein mice and cultured using different protocols of cytokine treatment with granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and IL-4. Cells with a high potency of proliferation and differentiation into microglia were evaluated by gene analysis, flow cytometry and direct neuroprotective effects in vitro. These cells were named bone marrow-derived inducible microglia-like (BM-iMG) cells and transplanted into the spinal cords of ALS model mice, and behavioral tests, immunohistochemistry and gene expression profiling were performed. RESULTS Three-day GM-CSF and 4-day GM-CSF + IL-4 stimulations were most effective in inducing BM-iMG cells from the bone marrow. Transplantation of BM-iMG cells improved motor function, prolonged survival and suppressed neuronal cell death, astrogliosis and microgliosis in the spinal cords of ALS mice. Moreover, neuroprotective genes such as Arg1 and Mrc1 were upregulated, whereas pro-inflammatory genes such as Nos2 and Il6 were downregulated. CONCLUSIONS Intraspinal transplantation of BM-iMG cells demonstrated therapeutic effects in a mouse model of ALS. Further studies and clinical applications in patients with ALS are expected in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuhei Kobashi
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan; Department of Neurology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Tomoya Terashima
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan.
| | - Miwako Katagi
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Makoto Urushitani
- Department of Neurology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Hideto Kojima
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
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15
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Cortical Hyperexcitability in the Driver’s Seat in ALS. CLINICAL AND TRANSLATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/ctn6010005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal disease characterized by the degeneration of cortical and spinal motor neurons. With no effective treatment available to date, patients face progressive paralysis and eventually succumb to the disease due to respiratory failure within only a few years. Recent research has revealed the multifaceted nature of the mechanisms and cell types involved in motor neuron degeneration, thereby opening up new therapeutic avenues. Intriguingly, two key features present in both ALS patients and rodent models of the disease are cortical hyperexcitability and hyperconnectivity, the mechanisms of which are still not fully understood. We here recapitulate current findings arguing for cell autonomous and non-cell autonomous mechanisms causing cortical excitation and inhibition imbalance, which is involved in the degeneration of motor neurons in ALS. Moreover, we will highlight recent evidence that strongly indicates a cardinal role for the motor cortex as a main driver and source of the disease, thus arguing for a corticofugal trajectory of the pathology.
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16
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Liu B, Li M, Zhang L, Chen Z, Lu P. Motor neuron replacement therapy for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Neural Regen Res 2022; 17:1633-1639. [PMID: 35017408 PMCID: PMC8820706 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.332123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a motor neuron degenerative disease that is also known as Lou Gehrig's disease in the United States, Charcot's disease in France, and motor neuron disease in the UK. The loss of motor neurons causes muscle wasting, paralysis, and eventually death, which is commonly related to respiratory failure, within 3-5 years after onset of the disease. Although there are a limited number of drugs approved for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, they have had little success at treating the associated symptoms, and they cannot reverse the course of motor neuron degeneration. Thus, there is still a lack of effective treatment for this debilitating neurodegenerative disorder. Stem cell therapy for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a very attractive strategy for both basic and clinical researchers, particularly as transplanted stem cells and stem cell-derived neural progenitor/precursor cells can protect endogenous motor neurons and directly replace the lost or dying motor neurons. Stem cell therapies may also be able to re-establish the motor control of voluntary muscles. Here, we review the recent progress in the use of neural stem cells and neural progenitor cells for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. We focus on MN progenitor cells derived from fetal central nervous system tissue, embryonic stem cells, and induced pluripotent stem cells. In our recent studies, we found that transplanted human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived motor neuron progenitors survive well, differentiate into motor neurons, and extend axons into the host white matter, not only in the rostrocaudal direction, but also along motor axon tracts towards the ventral roots in the immunodeficient rat spinal cord. Furthermore, the significant motor axonal extension after neural progenitor cell transplantation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis models demonstrates that motor neuron replacement therapy could be a promising therapeutic strategy for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, particularly as a variety of stem cell derivatives, including induced pluripotent stem cells, are being considered for clinical trials for various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bochao Liu
- Cell Therapy Center, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, and Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ministry of Education; Center of Neural Injury and Repair; Center of Parkinson's Disease, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
| | - Mo Li
- Cell Therapy Center, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, and Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ministry of Education; Center of Neural Injury and Repair; Center of Parkinson's Disease, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
| | - Lingyan Zhang
- iXCells Biotechnologies USA, Inc., San Diego, CA, USA; Amogene Biotech, Xiamen, Fujian Province, China
| | - Zhiguo Chen
- Cell Therapy Center, Beijing Institute of Geriatrics, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, and Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Ministry of Education; Center of Neural Injury and Repair; Center of Parkinson's Disease, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
| | - Paul Lu
- Veterans Administration San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego; Department of Neurosciences, University of California - San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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17
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Hastings N, Kuan WL, Osborne A, Kotter MRN. Therapeutic Potential of Astrocyte Transplantation. Cell Transplant 2022; 31:9636897221105499. [PMID: 35770772 PMCID: PMC9251977 DOI: 10.1177/09636897221105499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell transplantation is an attractive treatment strategy for a variety of brain disorders, as it promises to replenish lost functions and rejuvenate the brain. In particular, transplantation of astrocytes has come into light recently as a therapy for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS); moreover, grafting of astrocytes also showed positive results in models of other conditions ranging from neurodegenerative diseases of older age to traumatic injury and stroke. Despite clear differences in etiology, disorders such as ALS, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and Huntington's diseases, as well as traumatic injury and stroke, converge on a number of underlying astrocytic abnormalities, which include inflammatory changes, mitochondrial damage, calcium signaling disturbance, hemichannel opening, and loss of glutamate transporters. In this review, we examine these convergent pathways leading to astrocyte dysfunction, and explore the existing evidence for a therapeutic potential of transplantation of healthy astrocytes in various models. Existing literature presents a wide variety of methods to generate astrocytes, or relevant precursor cells, for subsequent transplantation, while described outcomes of this type of treatment also differ between studies. We take technical differences between methodologies into account to understand the variability of therapeutic benefits, or lack thereof, at a deeper level. We conclude by discussing some key requirements of an astrocyte graft that would be most suitable for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataly Hastings
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.,Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Wei-Li Kuan
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Andrew Osborne
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Mark R N Kotter
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.,Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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18
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Du Y, Mao L, Wang Z, Yan K, Zhang L, Zou J. Osteopontin - The stirring multifunctional regulatory factor in multisystem aging. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1014853. [PMID: 36619570 PMCID: PMC9813443 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1014853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteopontin (OPN) is a multifunctional noncollagenous matrix phosphoprotein that is expressed both intracellularly and extracellularly in various tissues. As a growth regulatory protein and proinflammatory immunochemokine, OPN is involved in the pathological processes of many diseases. Recent studies have found that OPN is widely involved in the aging processes of multiple organs and tissues, such as T-cell senescence, atherosclerosis, skeletal muscle regeneration, osteoporosis, neurodegenerative changes, hematopoietic stem cell reconstruction, and retinal aging. However, the regulatory roles and mechanisms of OPN in the aging process of different tissues are not uniform, and OPN even has diverse roles in different developmental stages of the same tissue, generating uncertainty for the future study and utilization of OPN. In this review, we will summarize the regulatory role and molecular mechanism of OPN in different tissues and cells, such as the musculoskeletal system, central nervous system, cardiovascular system, liver, and eye, during senescence. We believe that a better understanding of the mechanism of OPN in the aging process will help us develop targeted and comprehensive therapeutic strategies to fight the spread of age-related diseases.
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19
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Izrael M, Molakandov K, Revel A, Slutsky SG, Sonnenfeld T, Weiss JM, Revel M. Astrocytes Downregulate Inflammation in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: Applicability to COVID-19. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:740071. [PMID: 34778302 PMCID: PMC8585990 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.740071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: An acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is caused by the increased amounts of pro-inflammatory cytokines and neutrophil-mediated tissue injury. To date, there is no effective treatment for the ARDS available, while the need for one is growing due to the most severe complications of the current coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The human astrocytes (AstroRx) have shown immunomodulatory properties in the central nervous system (CNS). This study aimed to evaluate the capacity of astrocytes to decrease lung inflammation and to be applied as a treatment therapy in ARDS. Methods: First, we assessed the ability of clinical-grade AstroRx to suppress T-cell proliferation in a mixed lymphocyte reaction test. Next, we tested the therapeutical potential of AstroRx cells in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-based ARDS mouse model by injecting AstroRx intravenously (i.v). We determined the degree of lung injury by using a severity scoring scale of 0–2, based on the American Thoracic Society. The scoring measured the presence of neutrophils, fibrin deposits, and the thickening of alveolar walls. The state of inflammation was further assessed by quantifying the immune-cell infiltration to the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and by the presence of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines in the BALF and serum. Results: We detected that AstroRx cells were capable to suppress T-cell proliferation in vitro after exposure to the mitogen concanavalin A (ConA). In vivo, AstroRx cells were able to lower the degree of lung injury in LPS-treated animals compared with the sham injected animals (P = 0.039). In this study, 30% of AstroRx treated mice showed no lung lesions (responder mice), these mice presented a steady number of eosinophils, T cells, and neutrophils comparable with the level of naïve control mice. The inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, such as TNFα, IL1b, IL-6, and CXCL1, were also kept in check in responder AstroRx-treated mice and were not upregulated as in the sham-injected mice (P < 0.05). As a result, the LPS-treated ARDS mice had a higher survival rate when they were treated with AstroRx. Conclusions: Our results demonstrate that the immunosuppressive activity of AstroRx cells support the application of AstroRx cells as a cell therapy treatment for ARDS. The immunoregulatory activity may also be a part of the mechanism of action of AstroRx reported in the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) neurodegenerative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Izrael
- Research and Development Department at Kadimastem Ltd, Nes-Ziona, Israel
| | - Kfir Molakandov
- Research and Development Department at Kadimastem Ltd, Nes-Ziona, Israel
| | - Ariel Revel
- Research and Development Department at Kadimastem Ltd, Nes-Ziona, Israel
| | - Shalom Guy Slutsky
- Research and Development Department at Kadimastem Ltd, Nes-Ziona, Israel
| | - Tehila Sonnenfeld
- Research and Development Department at Kadimastem Ltd, Nes-Ziona, Israel
| | - Julia Miriam Weiss
- Research and Development Department at Kadimastem Ltd, Nes-Ziona, Israel
| | - Michel Revel
- Research and Development Department at Kadimastem Ltd, Nes-Ziona, Israel.,Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
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20
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Sun Y, Feng L, Liang L, Stacey GN, Wang C, Wang Y, Hu B. Neuronal cell-based medicines from pluripotent stem cells: Development, production, and preclinical assessment. Stem Cells Transl Med 2021; 10 Suppl 2:S31-S40. [PMID: 34724724 PMCID: PMC8560198 DOI: 10.1002/sctm.20-0522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain degeneration and damage is difficult to cure due to the limited endogenous repair capability of the central nervous system. Furthermore, drug development for treatment of diseases of the central nervous system remains a major challenge. However, it now appears that using human pluripotent stem cell-derived neural cells to replace degenerating cells provides a promising cell-based medicine for rejuvenation of brain function. Accordingly, a large number of studies have carried out preclinical assessments, which have involved different neural cell types in several neurological diseases. Recent advances in animal models identify the transplantation of neural derivatives from pluripotent stem cells as a promising path toward the clinical application of cell therapies [Stem Cells Transl Med 2019;8:681-693; Drug Discov Today 2019;24:992-999; Nat Med 2019;25:1045-1053]. Some groups are moving toward clinical testing in humans. However, the difficulty in selection of valuable critical quality criteria for cell products and the lack of functional assays that could indicate suitability for clinical effect continue to hinder neural cell-based medicine development [Biologicals 2019;59:68-71]. In this review, we summarize the current status of preclinical studies progress in this area and outline the biological characteristics of neural cells that have been used in new developing clinical studies. We also discuss the requirements for translation of stem cell-derived neural cells in examples of stem cell-based clinical therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Lingmin Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Glyn N Stacey
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- International Stem Cell Banking Initiative, Barley, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Chaoqun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yukai Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Baoyang Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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21
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Jurga AM, Paleczna M, Kadluczka J, Kuter KZ. Beyond the GFAP-Astrocyte Protein Markers in the Brain. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11091361. [PMID: 34572572 PMCID: PMC8468264 DOI: 10.3390/biom11091361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The idea of central nervous system as one-man band favoring neurons is long gone. Now we all are aware that neurons and neuroglia are team players and constant communication between those various cell types is essential to maintain functional efficiency and a quick response to danger. Here, we summarize and discuss known and new markers of astroglial multiple functions, their natural heterogeneity, cellular interactions, aging and disease-induced dysfunctions. This review is focused on newly reported facts regarding astrocytes, which are beyond the old stereotypes. We present an up-to-date list of marker proteins used to identify a broad spectrum of astroglial phenotypes related to the various physiological and pathological nervous system conditions. The aim of this review is to help choose markers that are well-tailored for specific needs of further experimental studies, precisely recognizing differential glial phenotypes, or for diagnostic purposes. We hope it will help to categorize the functional and structural diversity of the astroglial population and ease a clear readout of future experimental results.
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22
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Aishwarya L, Arun D, Kannan S. Stem cells as a potential therapeutic option for treating neurodegenerative diseases. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 17:590-605. [PMID: 35135464 DOI: 10.2174/1574888x16666210810105136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In future, neurodegenerative diseases will take over cancer's place and become the major cause of death in the world, especially in developed countries. Advancements in the medical field and its facilities have led to an increase in the old age population, and thus contributing to the increase in number of people suffering from neurodegenerative diseases. Economically it is of a great burden to society and the affected family. No current treatment aims to replace, protect, and regenerate lost neurons; instead, it alleviates the symptoms, extends the life span by a few months and creates severe side effects. Moreover, people who are affected are physically dependent for performing their basic activities, which makes their life miserable. There is an urgent need for therapy that could be able to overcome the deficits of conventional therapy for neurodegenerative diseases. Stem cells, the unspecialized cells with the properties of self-renewing and potency to differentiate into various cells types can become a potent therapeutic option for neurodegenerative diseases. Stem cells have been widely used in clinical trials to evaluate their potential in curing different types of ailments. In this review, we discuss the various types of stem cells and their potential use in the treatment of neurodegenerative disease based on published preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya L
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai-600 116. India
| | - Dharmarajan Arun
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai-600 116. India
| | - Suresh Kannan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai-600 116. India
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23
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Valori CF, Possenti A, Brambilla L, Rossi D. Challenges and Opportunities of Targeting Astrocytes to Halt Neurodegenerative Disorders. Cells 2021; 10:cells10082019. [PMID: 34440788 PMCID: PMC8395029 DOI: 10.3390/cells10082019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are a heterogeneous group of disorders whose incidence is likely to duplicate in the next 30 years along with the progressive aging of the western population. Non-cell-specific therapeutics or therapeutics designed to tackle aberrant pathways within neurons failed to slow down or halt neurodegeneration. Yet, in the last few years, our knowledge of the importance of glial cells to maintain the central nervous system homeostasis in health conditions has increased exponentially, along with our awareness of their fundamental and multifaced role in pathological conditions. Among glial cells, astrocytes emerge as promising therapeutic targets in various neurodegenerative disorders. In this review, we present the latest evidence showing the astonishing level of specialization that astrocytes display to fulfill the demands of their neuronal partners as well as their plasticity upon injury. Then, we discuss the controversies that fuel the current debate on these cells. We tackle evidence of a potential beneficial effect of cell therapy, achieved by transplanting astrocytes or their precursors. Afterwards, we introduce the different strategies proposed to modulate astrocyte functions in neurodegeneration, ranging from lifestyle changes to environmental cues. Finally, we discuss the challenges and the recent advancements to develop astrocyte-specific delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara F. Valori
- Molecular Neuropathology of Neurodegenerative Diseases, German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), 72076 Tübingen, Germany
- Correspondence: (C.F.V.); (D.R.); Tel.: +49-7071-9254-122 (C.F.V.); +39-0382-592064 (D.R.)
| | - Agostino Possenti
- Laboratory for Research on Neurodegenerative Disorders, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.P.); (L.B.)
| | - Liliana Brambilla
- Laboratory for Research on Neurodegenerative Disorders, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.P.); (L.B.)
| | - Daniela Rossi
- Laboratory for Research on Neurodegenerative Disorders, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (A.P.); (L.B.)
- Correspondence: (C.F.V.); (D.R.); Tel.: +49-7071-9254-122 (C.F.V.); +39-0382-592064 (D.R.)
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24
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Moulson AJ, Squair JW, Franklin RJM, Tetzlaff W, Assinck P. Diversity of Reactive Astrogliosis in CNS Pathology: Heterogeneity or Plasticity? Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:703810. [PMID: 34381334 PMCID: PMC8349991 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.703810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are essential for the development and homeostatic maintenance of the central nervous system (CNS). They are also critical players in the CNS injury response during which they undergo a process referred to as "reactive astrogliosis." Diversity in astrocyte morphology and gene expression, as revealed by transcriptional analysis, is well-recognized and has been reported in several CNS pathologies, including ischemic stroke, CNS demyelination, and traumatic injury. This diversity appears unique to the specific pathology, with significant variance across temporal, topographical, age, and sex-specific variables. Despite this, there is limited functional data corroborating this diversity. Furthermore, as reactive astrocytes display significant environmental-dependent plasticity and fate-mapping data on astrocyte subsets in the adult CNS is limited, it remains unclear whether this diversity represents heterogeneity or plasticity. As astrocytes are important for neuronal survival and CNS function post-injury, establishing to what extent this diversity reflects distinct established heterogeneous astrocyte subpopulations vs. environmentally dependent plasticity within established astrocyte subsets will be critical for guiding therapeutic development. To that end, we review the current state of knowledge on astrocyte diversity in the context of three representative CNS pathologies: ischemic stroke, demyelination, and traumatic injury, with the goal of identifying key limitations in our current knowledge and suggesting future areas of research needed to address them. We suggest that the majority of identified astrocyte diversity in CNS pathologies to date represents plasticity in response to dynamically changing post-injury environments as opposed to heterogeneity, an important consideration for the understanding of disease pathogenesis and the development of therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron J. Moulson
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jordan W. Squair
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Faculty of Life Sciences, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), NeuroRestore, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Robin J. M. Franklin
- Wellcome Trust - MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Wolfram Tetzlaff
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Peggy Assinck
- Wellcome Trust - MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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25
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Hart CG, Karimi-Abdolrezaee S. Recent insights on astrocyte mechanisms in CNS homeostasis, pathology, and repair. J Neurosci Res 2021; 99:2427-2462. [PMID: 34259342 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes play essential roles in development, homeostasis, injury, and repair of the central nervous system (CNS). Their development is tightly regulated by distinct spatial and temporal cues during embryogenesis and into adulthood throughout the CNS. Astrocytes have several important responsibilities such as regulating blood flow and permeability of the blood-CNS barrier, glucose metabolism and storage, synapse formation and function, and axon myelination. In CNS pathologies, astrocytes also play critical parts in both injury and repair mechanisms. Upon injury, they undergo a robust phenotypic shift known as "reactive astrogliosis," which results in both constructive and deleterious outcomes. Astrocyte activation and migration at the site of injury provides an early defense mechanism to minimize the extent of injury by enveloping the lesion area. However, astrogliosis also contributes to the inhibitory microenvironment of CNS injury and potentiate secondary injury mechanisms, such as inflammation, oxidative stress, and glutamate excitotoxicity, which facilitate neurodegeneration in CNS pathologies. Intriguingly, reactive astrocytes are increasingly a focus in current therapeutic strategies as their activation can be modulated toward a neuroprotective and reparative phenotype. This review will discuss recent advancements in knowledge regarding the development and role of astrocytes in the healthy and pathological CNS. We will also review how astrocytes have been genetically modified to optimize their reparative potential after injury, and how they may be transdifferentiated into neurons and oligodendrocytes to promote repair after CNS injury and neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher G Hart
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Spinal Cord Research Centre, Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Soheila Karimi-Abdolrezaee
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Spinal Cord Research Centre, Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
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26
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Zhao Y, Wang S, Song X, Yuan J, Qi D, Gu X, Yin MY, Han Z, Zhu Y, Liu Z, Zhang Y, Wei L, Wei ZZ. Glial Cell-Based Vascular Mechanisms and Transplantation Therapies in Brain Vessel and Neurodegenerative Diseases. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:627682. [PMID: 33841101 PMCID: PMC8032950 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.627682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) with severe neurological/psychiatric symptoms, such as cerebrovascular pathology in AD, CAA, and chronic stroke, have brought greater attention with their incidence and prevalence having markedly increased over the past few years. Causes of the significant neuropathologies, especially those observed in neurological diseases in the CNS, are commonly believed to involve multiple factors such as an age, a total environment, genetics, and an immunity contributing to their progression, neuronal, and vascular injuries. We primarily focused on the studies of glial involvement/dysfunction in part with the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and the neurovascular unit (NVU) changes, and the vascular mechanisms, which have been both suggested as critical roles in chronic stroke and many other NDDs. It has been noted that glial cells including astrocytes (which outnumber other cell types in the CNS) essentially contribute more to the BBB integrity, extracellular homeostasis, neurotransmitter release, regulation of neurogenic niches in response to neuroinflammatory stimulus, and synaptic plasticity. In a recent study for NDDs utilizing cellular and molecular biology and genetic and pharmacological tools, the role of reactive astrocytes (RACs) and gliosis was demonstrated, able to trigger pathophysiological/psychopathological detrimental changes during the disease progression. We speculate, in particular, the BBB, the NVU, and changes of the astrocytes (potentially different populations from the RACs) not only interfere with neuronal development and synaptogenesis, but also generate oxidative damages, contribute to beta-amyloid clearances and disrupted vasculature, as well as lead to neuroinflammatory disorders. During the past several decades, stem cell therapy has been investigated with a research focus to target related neuro-/vascular pathologies (cell replacement and repair) and neurological/psychiatric symptoms (paracrine protection and homeostasis). Evidence shows that transplantation of neurogenic or vasculogenic cells could be achieved to pursue differentiation and maturation within the diseased brains as expected. It would be hoped that, via regulating functions of astrocytes, astrocytic involvement, and modulation of the BBB, the NVU and astrocytes should be among major targets for therapeutics against NDDs pathogenesis by drug and cell-based therapies. The non-invasive strategies in combination with stem cell transplantation such as the well-tested intranasal deliveries for drug and stem cells by our and many other groups show great translational potentials in NDDs. Neuroimaging and clinically relevant analyzing tools need to be evaluated in various NDDs brains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Zhao
- Beijing Clinical Research Institute, Beijing, China.,Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States.,Department of Critical Care Medicine, Airport Hospital of Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Shuanglin Wang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Airport Hospital of Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Department of Cardiovascular Thoracic Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Institute of Neurology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaopeng Song
- Mclean Imaging Center, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, United States
| | - Junliang Yuan
- Mclean Imaging Center, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, United States.,Department of Neurology, Institute of Mental Health, Peking University Sixth Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Dong Qi
- Beijing Clinical Research Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohuan Gu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Michael Yaoyao Yin
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, United States.,Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Zhou Han
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Yanbing Zhu
- Beijing Clinical Research Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Zhandong Liu
- Beijing Clinical Research Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Yongbo Zhang
- Beijing Clinical Research Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Ling Wei
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Zheng Zachory Wei
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States.,Emory Specialized Center of Sex Differences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
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27
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Ahani-Nahayati M, Shariati A, Mahmoodi M, Olegovna Zekiy A, Javidi K, Shamlou S, Mousakhani A, Zamani M, Hassanzadeh A. Stem cell in neurodegenerative disorders; an emerging strategy. Int J Dev Neurosci 2021; 81:291-311. [PMID: 33650716 DOI: 10.1002/jdn.10101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders are a diversity of disorders, surrounding Alzheimer's (AD), Parkinson's (PD), Huntington's diseases (HD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) accompanied by some other less common diseases generally characterized by either developed deterioration of central or peripheral nervous system structurally or functionally. Today, with the viewpoint of an increasingly aging society, the number of patients with neurodegenerative diseases and sociomedical burdens will spread intensely. During the last decade, stem cell technology has attracted great attention for treating neurodegenerative diseases worldwide because of its unique attributes. As acknowledged, there are several categories of stem cells being able to proliferate and differentiate into various cellular lineages, highlighting their significance in the context of regenerative medicine. In preclinical models, stem cell therapy using mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs), hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), and neural progenitor or stem cells (NPCs or NSCs) along with pluripotent stem cells (PSCs)-derived neuronal cells could elicit desired therapeutic effects, enabling functional deficit rescue partially. Regardless of the noteworthy progress in our scientific awareness and understanding of stem cell biology, there still exist various challenges to defeat. In the present review, we provide a summary of the therapeutic potential of stem cells and discuss the current status and prospect of stem cell strategy in neurodegenerative diseases, in particular, AD, PD, ALS, and HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milad Ahani-Nahayati
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Science, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Shariati
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahnaz Mahmoodi
- Department of Biology, School of Basic Science, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Angelina Olegovna Zekiy
- Department of Prosthetic Dentistry, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Kamran Javidi
- School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran.,Immunology Research Center (IRC), Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Somayeh Shamlou
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Akbar Mousakhani
- Department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Majid Zamani
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Ali Hassanzadeh
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Neurosciences Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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28
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Vanarsa K, Soomro S, Zhang T, Strachan B, Pedroza C, Nidhi M, Cicalese P, Gidley C, Dasari S, Mohan S, Thai N, Truong VTT, Jordan N, Saxena R, Putterman C, Petri M, Mohan C. Quantitative planar array screen of 1000 proteins uncovers novel urinary protein biomarkers of lupus nephritis. Ann Rheum Dis 2020; 79:1349-1361. [PMID: 32651195 PMCID: PMC7839323 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2019-216312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The goal of these studies is to discover novel urinary biomarkers of lupus nephritis (LN). METHODS Urine from systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients was interrogated for 1000 proteins using a novel, quantitative planar protein microarray. Hits were validated in an independent SLE cohort with inactive, active non-renal (ANR) and active renal (AR) patients, in a cohort with concurrent renal biopsies, and in a longitudinal cohort. Single-cell renal RNA sequencing data from LN kidneys were examined to deduce the cellular origin of each biomarker. RESULTS Screening of 1000 proteins revealed 64 proteins to be significantly elevated in SLE urine, of which 17 were ELISA validated in independent cohorts. Urine Angptl4 (area under the curve (AUC)=0.96), L-selectin (AUC=0.86), TPP1 (AUC=0.84), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFβ1) (AUC=0.78), thrombospondin-1 (AUC=0.73), FOLR2 (AUC=0.72), platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β (AUC=0.67) and PRX2 (AUC=0.65) distinguished AR from ANR SLE, outperforming anti-dsDNA, C3 and C4, in terms of specificity, sensitivity and positive predictive value. In multivariate regression analysis, urine Angptl4, L-selectin, TPP1 and TGFβ1 were highly associated with disease activity, even after correction for demographic variables. In SLE patients with serial follow-up, urine L-selectin (followed by urine Angptl4 and TGFβ1) were best at tracking concurrent or pending disease flares. Importantly, several proteins elevated in LN urine were also expressed within the kidneys in LN, either within resident renal cells or infiltrating immune cells, based on single-cell RNA sequencing analysis. CONCLUSION Unbiased planar array screening of 1000 proteins has led to the discovery of urine Angptl4, L-selectin and TGFβ1 as potential biomarker candidates for tracking disease activity in LN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamala Vanarsa
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Sanam Soomro
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ting Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Briony Strachan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Claudia Pedroza
- Center for Clinical Research and Evidence-based Medicine, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Malavika Nidhi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Pietro Cicalese
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Christopher Gidley
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Shobha Dasari
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Shree Mohan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Nathan Thai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Van Thi Thanh Truong
- Center for Clinical Research and Evidence-based Medicine, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Nicole Jordan
- Division of Rheumatology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Ramesh Saxena
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Chaim Putterman
- Division of Rheumatology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Zefat, Israel
- Research Institute, Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya, Israel
| | - Michelle Petri
- Division of Rheumatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Chandra Mohan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
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29
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Clark CM, Clark RM, Hoyle JA, Dickson TC. Pathogenic or protective? Neuropeptide Y in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Neurochem 2020; 156:273-289. [PMID: 32654149 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Neuropeptide Y (NPY) is an endogenous peptide of the central and enteric nervous systems which has gained significant interest as a potential neuroprotective agent for treatment of neurodegenerative disease. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an aggressive and fatal neurodegenerative disease characterized by motor deficits and motor neuron loss. In ALS, recent evidence from ALS patients and animal models has indicated that NPY may have a role in the disease pathogenesis. Increased NPY levels were found to correlate with disease progression in ALS patients. Similarly, NPY expression is increased in the motor cortex of ALS mice by end stages of the disease. Although the functional consequence of increased NPY levels in ALS is currently unknown, NPY has been shown to exert a diverse range of neuroprotective roles in other neurodegenerative diseases; through modulation of potassium channel activity, increased production of neurotrophins, inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum stress and autophagy, reduction of excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation and hyperexcitability. Several of these mechanisms and signalling pathways are heavily implicated in the pathogenesis of ALS. Therefore, in this review, we discuss possible effects of NPY and NPY-receptor signalling in the ALS disease context, as determining NPY's contribution to, or impact on, ALS disease mechanisms will be essential for future studies investigating the NPY system as a therapeutic strategy in this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney M Clark
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Rosemary M Clark
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Joshua A Hoyle
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Tracey C Dickson
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
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30
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Izrael M, Slutsky SG, Revel M. Rising Stars: Astrocytes as a Therapeutic Target for ALS Disease. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:824. [PMID: 32848579 PMCID: PMC7399224 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a multifactorial disease, characterized by a progressive loss of motor neurons that eventually leads to paralysis and death. The current ALS-approved drugs modestly change the clinical course of the disease. The mechanism by which motor neurons progressively degenerate remains unclear but entails a non-cell autonomous process. Astrocytes impaired biological functionality were implicated in multiple neurodegenerative diseases, including ALS, frontotemporal dementia (FTD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and Alzheimer disease (AD). In ALS disease patients, A1 reactive astrocytes were found to play a key role in the pathology of ALS disease and death of motor neurons, via loss or gain of function or acquired toxicity. The contribution of astrocytes to the maintenance of motor neurons by diverse mechanisms makes them a promising therapeutic candidate for the treatment of ALS. Therapeutic approaches targeting at modulating the function of endogenous astrocytes or replacing lost functionality by transplantation of healthy astrocytes, may contribute to the development of therapies which might slow down or even halt the progression ALS diseases. The proposed mechanisms by which astrocytes can potentially ameliorate ALS progression and the status of ALS clinical studies involving astrocytes are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Izrael
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Department at Kadimastem Ltd., Nes-Ziona, Israel
| | - Shalom Guy Slutsky
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Department at Kadimastem Ltd., Nes-Ziona, Israel
| | - Michel Revel
- Neurodegenerative Diseases Department at Kadimastem Ltd., Nes-Ziona, Israel.,Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
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31
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Raman S, Srinivasan G, Brookhouser N, Nguyen T, Henson T, Morgan D, Cutts J, Brafman DA. A Defined and Scalable Peptide-Based Platform for the Generation of Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Astrocytes. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2020; 6:3477-3490. [PMID: 32550261 PMCID: PMC7284803 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.0c00067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
![]()
Astrocytes
comprise the most abundant cell type in the central
nervous system (CNS) and play critical roles in maintaining neural
tissue homeostasis. In addition, astrocyte dysfunction and death has
been implicated in numerous neurological disorders such as multiple
sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
(ALS), and Parkinson’s disease (PD). As such, there is much
interest in using human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-derived astrocytes
for drug screening, disease modeling, and regenerative medicine applications.
However, current protocols for generation of astrocytes from hPSCs
are limited by the use of undefined xenogeneic components and two-dimensional
(2D) culture surfaces, which limits their downstream applications
where large-quantities of cells generated under defined conditions
are required. Here, we report the use of a completely synthetic, peptide-based
substrate that allows for the differentiation of highly pure populations
of astrocytes from several independent hPSC lines, including those
derived from patients with neurodegenerative disease. This substrate,
which we demonstrate is compatible with both conventional 2D culture
formats and scalable microcarrier (MC)-based technologies, leads to
the generation of cells that express high levels of canonical astrocytic
markers as well as display properties characteristic of functionally
mature cells including production of apolipoprotein E (ApoE), responsiveness
to inflammatory stimuli, ability to take up amyloid-β (Aβ),
and appearance of robust calcium transients. Finally, we show that
these astrocytes can be cryopreserved without any loss of functionality.
In the future, we anticipate that these methods will enable the development
of bioprocesses for the production of hPSC-derived astrocytes needed
for biomedical research and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sreedevi Raman
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States
| | - Gayathri Srinivasan
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States
| | - Nicholas Brookhouser
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States.,Graduate Program in Clinical Translational Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, Arizona 85004, United States
| | - Toan Nguyen
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States
| | - Tanner Henson
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States
| | - Daylin Morgan
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States
| | - Joshua Cutts
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States
| | - David A Brafman
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States
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32
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Gleichman AJ, Carmichael ST. Glia in neurodegeneration: Drivers of disease or along for the ride? Neurobiol Dis 2020; 142:104957. [PMID: 32512150 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2020.104957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
While much of the research on neurodegenerative diseases has focused on neurons, non-neuronal cells are also affected. The extent to which glia and other non-neuronal cells are causally involved in disease pathogenesis versus more passively responding to disease is an area of active research. This is complicated by the fact that there is rarely one known cause of neurodegenerative diseases; rather, these disorders likely involve feedback loops that perpetuate dysfunction. Here, we will review genetic as well as experimental evidence that suggest that non-neuronal cells are at least partially driving disease pathogenesis in numerous neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal dementia, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington's disease, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy J Gleichman
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California - Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States.
| | - S Thomas Carmichael
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California - Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
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33
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Next-generation stem cells - ushering in a new era of cell-based therapies. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2020; 19:463-479. [PMID: 32612263 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-020-0064-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Naturally occurring stem cells isolated from humans have been used therapeutically for decades. This has primarily involved the transplantation of primary cells such as haematopoietic and mesenchymal stem cells and, more recently, derivatives of pluripotent stem cells. However, the advent of cell-engineering approaches is ushering in a new generation of stem cell-based therapies, greatly expanding their therapeutic utility. These next-generation stem cells are being used as 'Trojan horses' to improve the delivery of drugs and oncolytic viruses to intractable tumours and are also being engineered with angiogenic, neurotrophic and anti-inflammatory molecules to accelerate the repair of injured or diseased tissues. Moreover, gene therapy and gene editing technologies are being used to create stem cell derivatives with improved functionality, specificity and responsiveness compared with their natural counterparts. Here, we review these engineering approaches and areas in which they will help broaden the utility and clinical applicability of stem cells.
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Glial Cells-The Strategic Targets in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Treatment. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9010261. [PMID: 31963681 PMCID: PMC7020059 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9010261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurological disease, which is characterized by the degeneration of motor neurons in the motor cortex and the spinal cord and subsequently by muscle atrophy. To date, numerous gene mutations have been linked to both sporadic and familial ALS, but the effort of many experimental groups to develop a suitable therapy has not, as of yet, proven successful. The original focus was on the degenerating motor neurons, when researchers tried to understand the pathological mechanisms that cause their slow death. However, it was soon discovered that ALS is a complicated and diverse pathology, where not only neurons, but also other cell types, play a crucial role via the so-called non-cell autonomous effect, which strongly deteriorates neuronal conditions. Subsequently, variable glia-based in vitro and in vivo models of ALS were established and used for brand-new experimental and clinical approaches. Such a shift towards glia soon bore its fruit in the form of several clinical studies, which more or less successfully tried to ward the unfavourable prognosis of ALS progression off. In this review, we aimed to summarize current knowledge regarding the involvement of each glial cell type in the progression of ALS, currently available treatments, and to provide an overview of diverse clinical trials covering pharmacological approaches, gene, and cell therapies.
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Sivaraman MAF. Ethical Guiding Principles of "Do No Harm" and the "Intention to Save Lives" in relation to Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research: Finding Common Ground between Religious Views and Principles of Medical Ethics. Asian Bioeth Rev 2019; 11:409-435. [PMID: 33717326 DOI: 10.1007/s41649-019-00103-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the goals of medicine is to improve well-being, in line with the principle of beneficence (do no harm). Likewise, scientists claim that the goal of human embryonic stem cell (hESC) research is to find treatments for diseases. In hESC research, stem cells are harvested from a 5-day-old embryo. Surplus embryos from infertility treatments or embryos created for the sole purpose of harvesting stem cells are used in the research, and in the process the embryos get destroyed. The use of human embryos for research purpose raises ethical concern. In this context, the religious leaders play the role to be the moral compass and "reality check" to engage with the public. In Malaysia, the Ministry of Health has outlined the Guidelines for Stem Cell Research and Therapy, reflecting on Islamic principles. Since there has not been much focus on the viewpoints of other faiths in Malaysia, this study attempts to (i) explore the ethical guiding principles deliberated by religious leaders from the Buddhist, Hindu and Catholic traditions and (ii) identify if there is a common ground between the mainstream religious views and principles of medical ethics, in relation to hESC research. Eleven religious leaders representing the Buddhist, Hindu and Catholic traditions were interviewed. Interestingly, though reasoning of religious leaders came from different angles, their underlying concerns revolve around the values of "do no harm" and "intention to save lives". These values are also the key principles in medical ethics. The findings are applied to answer the question as to whether religious and medical guiding principles can co-exist and complement in ethical decision-making, without compromising the values.
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CSF transplantation of a specific iPSC-derived neural stem cell subpopulation ameliorates the disease phenotype in a mouse model of spinal muscular atrophy with respiratory distress type 1. Exp Neurol 2019; 321:113041. [DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2019.113041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 07/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Abstract
Motor neuron disorders are highly debilitating and mostly fatal conditions for which only limited therapeutic options are available. To overcome this limitation and develop more effective therapeutic strategies, it is critical to discover the pathogenic mechanisms that trigger and sustain motor neuron degeneration with the greatest accuracy and detail. In the case of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), several genes have been associated with familial forms of the disease, whilst the vast majority of cases develop sporadically and no defined cause can be held responsible. On the contrary, the huge majority of Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) occurrences are caused by loss-of-function mutations in a single gene, SMN1. Although the typical hallmark of both diseases is the loss of motor neurons, there is increasing awareness that pathological lesions are also present in the neighbouring glia, whose dysfunction clearly contributes to generating a toxic environment in the central nervous system. Here, ALS and SMA are sequentially presented, each disease section having a brief introduction, followed by a focussed discussion on the role of the astrocytes in the disease pathogenesis. Such a dissertation is substantiated by the findings that built awareness on the glial involvement and how the glial-neuronal interplay is perturbed, along with the appraisal of this new cellular site for possible therapeutic intervention.
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Astrocytes: Emerging Therapeutic Targets in Neurological Disorders. Trends Mol Med 2019; 25:750-759. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2019.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Rivera S, García-González L, Khrestchatisky M, Baranger K. Metalloproteinases and their tissue inhibitors in Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders. Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:3167-3191. [PMID: 31197405 PMCID: PMC11105182 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03178-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Revised: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
As life expectancy increases worldwide, age-related neurodegenerative diseases will increase in parallel. The lack of effective treatment strategies may soon lead to an unprecedented health, social and economic crisis. Any attempt to halt the progression of these diseases requires a thorough knowledge of the pathophysiological mechanisms involved to facilitate the identification of new targets and the application of innovative therapeutic strategies. The metzincin superfamily of metalloproteinases includes matrix metalloproteinases (MMP), a disintegrin and metalloproteinase (ADAM) and ADAM with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS). These multigenic and multifunctional proteinase families regulate the functions of an increasing number of signalling and scaffolding molecules involved in neuroinflammation, blood-brain barrier disruption, protein misfolding, synaptic dysfunction or neuronal death. Metalloproteinases and their physiological inhibitors, the tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), are therefore, at the crossroads of molecular and cellular mechanisms that support neurodegenerative processes, and emerge as potential new therapeutic targets. We provide an overview of current knowledge on the role and regulation of metalloproteinases and TIMPs in four major neurodegenerative diseases: Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and Huntington's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santiago Rivera
- Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, INP, Inst Neurophysiopathol, Marseille, France.
| | | | | | - Kévin Baranger
- Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, INP, Inst Neurophysiopathol, Marseille, France
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Mahmoud S, Gharagozloo M, Simard C, Gris D. Astrocytes Maintain Glutamate Homeostasis in the CNS by Controlling the Balance between Glutamate Uptake and Release. Cells 2019; 8:cells8020184. [PMID: 30791579 PMCID: PMC6406900 DOI: 10.3390/cells8020184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 313] [Impact Index Per Article: 62.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Revised: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Glutamate is one of the most prevalent neurotransmitters released by excitatory neurons in the central nervous system (CNS); however, residual glutamate in the extracellular space is, potentially, neurotoxic. It is now well-established that one of the fundamental functions of astrocytes is to uptake most of the synaptically-released glutamate, which optimizes neuronal functions and prevents glutamate excitotoxicity. In the CNS, glutamate clearance is mediated by glutamate uptake transporters expressed, principally, by astrocytes. Interestingly, recent studies demonstrate that extracellular glutamate stimulates Ca2+ release from the astrocytes’ intracellular stores, which triggers glutamate release from astrocytes to the adjacent neurons, mostly by an exocytotic mechanism. This released glutamate is believed to coordinate neuronal firing and mediate their excitatory or inhibitory activity. Therefore, astrocytes contribute to glutamate homeostasis in the CNS, by maintaining the balance between their opposing functions of glutamate uptake and release. This dual function of astrocytes represents a potential therapeutic target for CNS diseases associated with glutamate excitotoxicity. In this regard, we summarize the molecular mechanisms of glutamate uptake and release, their regulation, and the significance of both processes in the CNS. Also, we review the main features of glutamate metabolism and glutamate excitotoxicity and its implication in CNS diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaimaa Mahmoud
- Program of Immunology, Department of Pharmacology-Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada.
| | - Marjan Gharagozloo
- Program of Immunology, Department of Pharmacology-Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada.
| | - Camille Simard
- Program of Immunology, Department of Pharmacology-Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada.
| | - Denis Gris
- Program of Immunology, Department of Pharmacology-Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada.
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Barbeito L. Astrocyte-based cell therapy: new hope for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients? Stem Cell Res Ther 2018; 9:241. [PMID: 30257722 PMCID: PMC6158881 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-018-1006-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal paralytic disease with no cure or treatment to stop disease progression. Because ALS represents an urgent unmet medical need, a significant number of therapeutics are being tested in preclinical and clinical studies. A recent publication in Stem Cell Research & Therapy by Izrael and colleagues reports about embryonic stem cell-derived astrocytes as a potential cell therapy for ALS. Such cells behave as highly trophic “young astrocytes”, being able to delay disease onset and prolong survival when injected intrathechally in murine models of ALS overexpressing the SOD1G93A mutation. The safety and therapeutic potential of these cells are currently being evaluated in a clinical trial in ALS patients. This commentary discusses the mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic effects of these “young astrocytes” in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Barbeito
- Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay.
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