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Thulasidharan A, Garg L, Tendulkar S, Ratnaparkhi GS. Age-dependent dynamics of neuronal VAPB ALS inclusions in the adult brain. Neurobiol Dis 2024; 196:106517. [PMID: 38679111 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2024.106517] [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: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a relentlessly progressive and fatal disease, caused by the degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons within the brain and spinal cord in the ageing human. The dying neurons contain cytoplasmic inclusions linked to the onset and progression of the disease. Here, we use a Drosophila model of ALS8 (VAPP58S) to understand the modulation of these inclusions in the ageing adult brain. The adult VAPP58S fly shows progressive deterioration in motor function till its demise 25 days post-eclosion. The density of VAPP58S-positive brain inclusions is stable for 5-15 days of age. In contrast, adding a single copy of VAPWT to the VAPP58S animal leads to a large decrease in inclusion density with concomitant rescue of motor function and lifespan. ER stress, a contributing factor in disease, shows reduction with ageing for the disease model. Autophagy, rather than the Ubiquitin Proteasome system, is the dominant mechanism for aggregate clearance. We explored the ability of Drosophila Valosin-containing protein (VCP/TER94), the ALS14 locus, which is involved in cellular protein clearance, to regulate age-dependent aggregation. Contrary to expectation, TER94 overexpression increased VAPP58S punctae density, while its knockdown led to enhanced clearance. Expression of a dominant positive allele, TER94R152H, further stabilised VAPP58S puncta, cementing roles for an ALS8-ALS14 axis. Our results are explained by a mechanism where autophagy is modulated by TER94 knockdown. Our study sheds light on the complex regulatory events involved in the neuronal maintenance of ALS8 aggregates, suggesting a context-dependent switch between proteasomal and autophagy-based mechanisms as the larvae develop into an adult. A deeper understanding of the nucleation and clearance of the inclusions, which affect cellular stress and function, is essential for understanding the initiation and progression of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aparna Thulasidharan
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education & Research (IISER), Pune 411008, India
| | - Lovleen Garg
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education & Research (IISER), Pune 411008, India
| | - Shweta Tendulkar
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education & Research (IISER), Pune 411008, India
| | - Girish S Ratnaparkhi
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education & Research (IISER), Pune 411008, India.
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2
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Portela M, Mukherjee S, Paul S, La Marca JE, Parsons LM, Veraksa A, Richardson HE. The Drosophila tumour suppressor Lgl and Vap33 activate the Hippo pathway through a dual mechanism. J Cell Sci 2024; 137:jcs261917. [PMID: 38240353 PMCID: PMC10911279 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The tumour suppressor, Lethal (2) giant larvae [Lgl; also known as L(2)gl], is an evolutionarily conserved protein that was discovered in the vinegar fly Drosophila, where its depletion results in tissue overgrowth and loss of cell polarity. Lgl links cell polarity and tissue growth through regulation of the Notch and the Hippo signalling pathways. Lgl regulates the Notch pathway by inhibiting V-ATPase activity via Vap33. How Lgl regulates the Hippo pathway was unclear. In this current study, we show that V-ATPase activity inhibits the Hippo pathway, whereas Vap33 acts to activate Hippo signalling. Vap33 physically and genetically interacts with the actin cytoskeletal regulators RtGEF (Pix) and Git, which also bind to the Hippo protein (Hpo) and are involved in the activation of the Hippo pathway. Additionally, we show that the ADP ribosylation factor Arf79F (Arf1), which is a Hpo interactor, is involved in the inhibition of the Hippo pathway. Altogether, our data suggest that Lgl acts via Vap33 to activate the Hippo pathway by a dual mechanism: (1) through interaction with RtGEF, Git and Arf79F, and (2) through interaction and inhibition of the V-ATPase, thereby controlling epithelial tissue growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Portela
- Department of Biochemistry & Chemistry, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, 3086, Australia
- Cell Cycle and Development Laboratory, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, 3002, Australia
| | - Swastik Mukherjee
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA
| | - Sayantanee Paul
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA
| | - John E. La Marca
- Department of Biochemistry & Chemistry, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, 3086, Australia
- Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, Water and Eliza Hall Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
- Genome Engineering and Cancer Modelling Program, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, 3084, Australia
| | - Linda M. Parsons
- Cell Cycle and Development Laboratory, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, 3002, Australia
| | - Alexey Veraksa
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA
| | - Helena E. Richardson
- Department of Biochemistry & Chemistry, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, 3086, Australia
- Cell Cycle and Development Laboratory, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, 3002, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
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3
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Maragakis NJ, de Carvalho M, Weiss MD. Therapeutic targeting of ALS pathways: Refocusing an incomplete picture. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2023; 10:1948-1971. [PMID: 37641443 PMCID: PMC10647018 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.51887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous potential amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)-relevant pathways have been hypothesized and studied preclinically, with subsequent translation to clinical trial. However, few successes have been observed with only modest effects. Along with an improved but incomplete understanding of ALS as a neurodegenerative disease is the evolution of more sophisticated and diverse in vitro and in vivo preclinical modeling platforms, as well as clinical trial designs. We highlight proposed pathological pathways that have been major therapeutic targets for investigational compounds. It is likely that the failures of so many of these therapeutic compounds may not have occurred because of lack of efficacy but rather because of a lack of preclinical modeling that would help define an appropriate disease pathway, as well as a failure to establish target engagement. These challenges are compounded by shortcomings in clinical trial design, including lack of biomarkers that could predict clinical success and studies that are underpowered. Although research investments have provided abundant insights into new ALS-relevant pathways, most have not yet been developed more fully to result in clinical study. In this review, we detail some of the important, well-established pathways, the therapeutics targeting them, and the subsequent clinical design. With an understanding of some of the shortcomings in translational efforts over the last three decades of ALS investigation, we propose that scientists and clinicians may choose to revisit some of these therapeutic pathways reviewed here with an eye toward improving preclinical modeling, biomarker development, and the investment in more sophisticated clinical trial designs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mamede de Carvalho
- Faculdade de MedicinaInsqatituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Centro Académico de Medicina de Lisboa, Universidade de LisboaLisbonPortugal
| | - Michael D. Weiss
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
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Mandrioli J, D'Amico R, Zucchi E, De Biasi S, Banchelli F, Martinelli I, Simonini C, Lo Tartaro D, Vicini R, Fini N, Gianferrari G, Pinti M, Lunetta C, Gerardi F, Tarlarini C, Mazzini L, De Marchi F, Scognamiglio A, Sorarù G, Fortuna A, Lauria G, Bella ED, Caponnetto C, Meo G, Chio A, Calvo A, Cossarizza A. Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of rapamycin in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4970. [PMID: 37591957 PMCID: PMC10435464 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40734-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
In preclinical studies rapamycin was found to target neuroinflammation, by expanding regulatory T cells, and affecting autophagy, two pillars of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) pathogenesis. Herein we report a multicenter, randomized, double-blind trial, in 63 ALS patients who were randomly assigned in a 1:1:1 ratio to receive rapamycin 2 mg/m2/day,1 mg/m2/day or placebo (EUDRACT 2016-002399-28; NCT03359538). The primary outcome, the number of patients exhibiting an increase >30% in regulatory T cells from baseline to treatment end, was not attained. Secondary outcomes were changes from baseline of T, B, NK cell subpopulations, inflammasome mRNA expression and activation status, S6-ribosomal protein phosphorylation, neurofilaments; clinical outcome measures of disease progression; survival; safety and quality of life. Of the secondary outcomes, rapamycin decreased mRNA relative expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-18, reduced plasmatic IL-18 protein, and increased the percentage of classical monocytes and memory switched B cells, although no corrections were applied for multiple tests. In conclusion, we show that rapamycin treatment is well tolerated and provides reassuring safety findings in ALS patients, but further trials are necessary to understand the biological and clinical effects of this drug in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Mandrioli
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
- Department of Neurosciences, St. Agostino-Estense Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, Modena, Italy.
| | - Roberto D'Amico
- Unit of Statistical and Methodological Support to Clinical Research, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Modena, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Zucchi
- Department of Neurosciences, St. Agostino-Estense Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, Modena, Italy
- Neurosciences PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Sara De Biasi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Federico Banchelli
- Unit of Statistical and Methodological Support to Clinical Research, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Modena, Italy
| | - Ilaria Martinelli
- Department of Neurosciences, St. Agostino-Estense Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, Modena, Italy
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Cecilia Simonini
- Department of Neurosciences, St. Agostino-Estense Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Domenico Lo Tartaro
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto Vicini
- Unit of Statistical and Methodological Support to Clinical Research, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Modena, Italy
| | - Nicola Fini
- Department of Neurosciences, St. Agostino-Estense Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Gianferrari
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Department of Neurosciences, St. Agostino-Estense Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Marcello Pinti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Christian Lunetta
- NEuroMuscular Omnicenter, Serena Onlus Foundation, Milan, Italy
- Istituto Maugeri IRCCS Milano, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Letizia Mazzini
- ALS Centre, Neurologic Clinic, Maggiore della Carità University Hospital, Novara, Italy
| | - Fabiola De Marchi
- ALS Centre, Neurologic Clinic, Maggiore della Carità University Hospital, Novara, Italy
| | - Ada Scognamiglio
- ALS Centre, Neurologic Clinic, Maggiore della Carità University Hospital, Novara, Italy
| | - Gianni Sorarù
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Centro Regionale Specializzato Malattie del Motoneurone, Azienda Ospedale Università di Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Andrea Fortuna
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lauria
- 3rd Neurology Unit and ALS Centre, IRCCS 'Carlo Besta' Neurological Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Eleonora Dalla Bella
- 3rd Neurology Unit and ALS Centre, IRCCS 'Carlo Besta' Neurological Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Claudia Caponnetto
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitatioņ Ophthalmology, Genetics, Mother and Child Disease, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Meo
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitatioņ Ophthalmology, Genetics, Mother and Child Disease, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Adriano Chio
- 'Rita Levi Montalcini' Department of Neurosciences, ALS Centre, University of Turin and Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza, Turin, Italy
| | - Andrea Calvo
- 'Rita Levi Montalcini' Department of Neurosciences, ALS Centre, University of Turin and Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza, Turin, Italy
| | - Andrea Cossarizza
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- National Institute for Cardiovascular Research, via Irnerio 48, 40126, Bologna, Italy
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Gomes NA, Lima e Silva FDC, de Oliveira Volpe CM, Villar-Delfino PH, de Sousa CF, Rocha-Silva F, Nogueira-Machado JA. Overexpression of mTOR in Leukocytes from ALS8 Patients. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:482-490. [PMID: 36722478 PMCID: PMC10207909 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666230201151016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mutated VAPBP56S (vesicle B associated membrane protein - P56S) protein has been described in a Brazilian family and classified as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis type 8 (ALS8). OBJECTIVE We aimed to study altered biochemical and immunological parameters in cells from ALS8 patients to identify possible biomarkers or therapeutic targets. METHODS Wild-type VAPB, VAPBP56S, mTOR, proinflammatory cytokines, and oxidant/reducing levels in serum, leucocytes, and cellular lysate from ALS8 patients and health Controls were performed by ELISA, fluorimetry, and spectrophotometry. RESULTS Our results showed similar levels of mutant and wild-type VAPB in serum and intracellular lysate (p > 0.05) when ALS8 patients and Controls were compared. IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-18 levels in patients and Controls showed no difference, suggesting an absence of peripheral inflammation (p > 0.05). Oxidative metabolic response, assessed by mitochondrial ROS production, and reductive response by MTT reduction, were higher in the ALS8 group compared to Controls (p < 0.05), although not characterizing typical oxidative stress in ALS8 patients. Total mTOR levels (phosphorylated or non-phosphorylated) of ALS8 patients were significantly lower in serum and higher in intracellular lysate than the mean equivalents in Controls (p < 0.05). A similar result was observed when we quantified the phosphorylated protein (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION We demonstrate the possibility of using these biochemical and immunological parameters as potential therapeutic targets or biomarkers. Furthermore, by hypothesis, we suggest a hormetic response in which both VAPB forms could coexist in different proportions throughout life. The mutated VAPBP56S production would increase with aging and predominate over the wild-type VAPB levels, determining the onset of symptoms and aggravating the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathália Augusta Gomes
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Stricto Sensu em Medicina/Biomedicina, Faculdade Santa Casa de BH, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Caroline Maria de Oliveira Volpe
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Stricto Sensu em Medicina/Biomedicina, Faculdade Santa Casa de BH, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Pedro Henrique Villar-Delfino
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Stricto Sensu em Medicina/Biomedicina, Faculdade Santa Casa de BH, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Camila Ferreira de Sousa
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Stricto Sensu em Medicina/Biomedicina, Faculdade Santa Casa de BH, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Fabiana Rocha-Silva
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Stricto Sensu em Medicina/Biomedicina, Faculdade Santa Casa de BH, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - José Augusto Nogueira-Machado
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Stricto Sensu em Medicina/Biomedicina, Faculdade Santa Casa de BH, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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6
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Karagas NE, Gupta R, Rastegari E, Tan KL, Leung HH, Bellen HJ, Venkatachalam K, Wong CO. Loss of Activity-Induced Mitochondrial ATP Production Underlies the Synaptic Defects in a Drosophila Model of ALS. J Neurosci 2022; 42:8019-8037. [PMID: 36261266 PMCID: PMC9617612 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2456-21.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the gene encoding vesicle-associated membrane protein B (VAPB) cause a familial form of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Expression of an ALS-related variant of vapb (vapbP58S ) in Drosophila motor neurons results in morphologic changes at the larval neuromuscular junction (NMJ) characterized by the appearance of fewer, but larger, presynaptic boutons. Although diminished microtubule stability is known to underlie these morphologic changes, a mechanism for the loss of presynaptic microtubules has been lacking. By studying flies of both sexes, we demonstrate the suppression of vapbP58S -induced changes in NMJ morphology by either a loss of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+ release channels or the inhibition Ca2+/calmodulin (CaM)-activated kinase II (CaMKII). These data suggest that decreased stability of presynaptic microtubules at vapbP58S NMJs results from hyperactivation of CaMKII because of elevated cytosolic [Ca2+]. We attribute the Ca2+ dyshomeostasis to delayed extrusion of cytosolic Ca2+ Suggesting that this defect in Ca2+ extrusion arose from an insufficient response to the bioenergetic demand of neural activity, depolarization-induced mitochondrial ATP production was diminished in vapbP58S neurons. These findings point to bioenergetic dysfunction as a potential cause for the synaptic defects in vapbP58S -expressing motor neurons.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Whether the synchrony between the rates of ATP production and demand is lost in degenerating neurons remains poorly understood. We report that expression of a gene equivalent to an amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)-causing variant of vesicle-associated membrane protein B (VAPB) in fly neurons decouples mitochondrial ATP production from neuronal activity. Consequently, levels of ATP in mutant neurons are unable to keep up with the bioenergetic burden of neuronal activity. Reduced rate of Ca2+ extrusion, which could result from insufficient energy to power Ca2+ ATPases, results in the accumulation of residual Ca2+ in mutant neurons and leads to alterations in synaptic vesicle (SV) release and synapse development. These findings suggest that synaptic defects in a model of ALS arise from the loss of activity-induced ATP production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas E Karagas
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Sciences Center, Houston, Texas 77030
- Graduate Program in Biochemistry and Cell Biology, MD Anderson Cancer Center and University of Texas Health Sciences Center Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, 77030
| | - Richa Gupta
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Sciences Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Elham Rastegari
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Sciences Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Kai Li Tan
- Departments of Molecular and Human Genetics and Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Graduate Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
- Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Ho Hang Leung
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey 07102
| | - Hugo J Bellen
- Departments of Molecular and Human Genetics and Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Graduate Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
- Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Kartik Venkatachalam
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Sciences Center, Houston, Texas 77030
- Graduate Program in Biochemistry and Cell Biology, MD Anderson Cancer Center and University of Texas Health Sciences Center Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, 77030
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, MD Anderson Cancer Center and University of Texas Health Sciences Center Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, 77030
| | - Ching-On Wong
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey 07102
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Tendulkar S, Hegde S, Garg L, Thulasidharan A, Kaduskar B, Ratnaparkhi A, Ratnaparkhi GS. Caspar, an adapter for VAPB and TER94, modulates the progression of ALS8 by regulating IMD/NFκB mediated glial inflammation in a drosophila model of human disease. Hum Mol Genet 2022; 31:2857-2875. [PMID: 35377453 PMCID: PMC9433731 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddac076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal, late-onset, progressive motor neurodegenerative disorder. A key pathological feature of the disease is the presence of heavily ubiquitinated protein inclusions. Both the unfolded protein response and the ubiquitin–proteasome system appear significantly impaired in patients and animal models of ALS. We have studied cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in ALS using a vesicle-associated membrane protein-associated protein B (VAPB/ALS8) Drosophila model [Moustaqim-Barrette, A., Lin, Y.Q., Pradhan, S., Neely, G.G., Bellen, H.J. and Tsuda, H. (2014) The ALS 8 protein, VAP, is required for ER protein quality control. Hum. Mol. Genet., 23, 1975–1989], which mimics many systemic aspects of the human disease. Here, we show that VAPB, located on the cytoplasmic face of the endoplasmic reticulum membrane, interacts with Caspar, an orthologue of human fas associated factor 1 (FAF1). Caspar, in turn, interacts with transitional endoplasmic reticulum ATPase (TER94), a fly orthologue of ALS14 (VCP/p97, valosin-containing protein). Caspar overexpression in the glia extends lifespan and also slows the progression of motor dysfunction in the ALS8 disease model, a phenomenon that we ascribe to its ability to restrain age-dependent inflammation, which is modulated by Relish/NFκB signalling. Caspar binds to VAPB via an FFAT motif, and we find that Caspar’s ability to negatively regulate NFκB signalling is not dependent on the VAPB:Caspar interaction. We hypothesize that Caspar is a key molecule in the pathogenesis of ALS. The VAPB:Caspar:TER94 complex appears to be a candidate for regulating both protein homeostasis and NFκB signalling, with our study highlighting a role for Caspar in glial inflammation. We project human FAF1 as an important protein target to alleviate the progression of motor neuron disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shweta Tendulkar
- Indian Institute of Science Education & Research (IISER) Pune 411008, India
| | - Sushmitha Hegde
- Indian Institute of Science Education & Research (IISER) Pune 411008, India
| | - Lovleen Garg
- Indian Institute of Science Education & Research (IISER) Pune 411008, India
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8
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Movahedpour A, Vakili O, Khalifeh M, Mousavi P, Mahmoodzadeh A, Taheri-Anganeh M, Razmeh S, Shabaninejad Z, Yousefi F, Behrouj H, Ghasemi H, Khatami SH. Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway and traumatic brain injury: A novel insight into targeted therapy. Cell Biochem Funct 2022; 40:232-247. [PMID: 35258097 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the most concerning health issues in which the normal brain function may be disrupted as a result of a blow, bump, or jolt to the head. Loss of consciousness, amnesia, focal neurological defects, alteration in mental state, and destructive diseases of the nervous system such as cognitive impairment, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's disease. Parkinson's disease is a chronic progressive neurodegenerative disorder, characterized by the early loss of striatal dopaminergic neurons. TBI is a major risk factor for Parkinson's disease. Existing therapeutic approaches have not been often effective, indicating the necessity of discovering more efficient therapeutic targets. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway responds to different environmental cues to modulate a large number of cellular processes such as cell proliferation, survival, protein synthesis, autophagy, and cell metabolism. Moreover, mTOR has been reported to affect the regeneration of the injured nerves throughout the central nervous system (CNS). In this context, recent evaluations have revealed that mTOR inhibitors could be potential targets to defeat a group of neurological disorders, and thus, a number of clinical trials are investigating their efficacy in treating dementia, autism, epilepsy, stroke, and brain injury, as irritating neurological defects. The current review describes the interplay between mTOR signaling and major CNS-related disorders (esp. neurodegenerative diseases), as well as the mTOR signaling-TBI relationship. It also aims to discuss the promising therapeutic capacities of mTOR inhibitors during the TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Omid Vakili
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Masoomeh Khalifeh
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Pegah Mousavi
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Amir Mahmoodzadeh
- Medical Biology Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Mortaza Taheri-Anganeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Saeed Razmeh
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Zahra Shabaninejad
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Yousefi
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Behrouj
- Behbahan Faculty of Medical Sciences, Behbahan, Iran
| | | | - Seyyed Hossein Khatami
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Frontotemporal Lobar Degenerations: Similarities in Genetic Background. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11030509. [PMID: 33805659 PMCID: PMC7998502 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11030509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating, uniformly lethal progressive degenerative disorder of motor neurons that overlaps with frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) clinically, morphologically, and genetically. Although many distinct mutations in various genes are known to cause amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, it remains poorly understood how they selectively impact motor neuron biology and whether they converge on common pathways to cause neuronal degeneration. Many of the gene mutations are in proteins that share similar functions. They can be grouped into those associated with cell axon dynamics and those associated with cellular phagocytic machinery, namely protein aggregation and metabolism, apoptosis, and intracellular nucleic acid transport. Analysis of pathways implicated by mutant ALS genes has provided new insights into the pathogenesis of both familial forms of ALS (fALS) and sporadic forms (sALS), although, regrettably, this has not yet yielded definitive treatments. Many genes play an important role, with TARDBP, SQSTM1, VCP, FUS, TBK1, CHCHD10, and most importantly, C9orf72 being critical genetic players in these neurological disorders. In this mini-review, we will focus on the molecular mechanisms of these two diseases.
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10
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Oliveira D, Verjovski-Almeida S, Zatz M. Phenotypic heterogeneity in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis type 8 and modifying mechanisms of neurodegeneration. Neural Regen Res 2021; 16:1776-1778. [PMID: 33510073 PMCID: PMC8328791 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.303030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Danyllo Oliveira
- Human Genome and Stem Cell Research Center, Department of Genetics and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Sergio Verjovski-Almeida
- Laboratório de Expressão Gênica em Eucariotos, Instituto Butantan; Departmento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Mayana Zatz
- Human Genome and Stem Cell Research Center, Department of Genetics and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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11
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Rojas P, Ramírez AI, Fernández-Albarral JA, López-Cuenca I, Salobrar-García E, Cadena M, Elvira-Hurtado L, Salazar JJ, de Hoz R, Ramírez JM. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Neurodegenerative Motor Neuron Disease With Ocular Involvement. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:566858. [PMID: 33071739 PMCID: PMC7544921 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.566858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease that causes degeneration of the lower and upper motor neurons and is the most prevalent motor neuron disease. This disease is characterized by muscle weakness, stiffness, and hyperreflexia. Patients survive for a short period from the onset of the disease. Most cases are sporadic, with only 10% of the cases being genetic. Many genes are now known to be involved in familial ALS cases, including some of the sporadic cases. It has also been observed that, in addition to genetic factors, there are numerous molecular mechanisms involved in these pathologies, such as excitotoxicity, mitochondrial disorders, alterations in axonal transport, oxidative stress, accumulation of misfolded proteins, and neuroinflammation. This pathology affects the motor neurons, the spinal cord, the cerebellum, and the brain, but recently, it has been shown that it also affects the visual system. This impact occurs not only at the level of the oculomotor system but also at the retinal level, which is why the retina is being proposed as a possible biomarker of this pathology. The current review discusses the main aspects mentioned above related to ALS, such as the main genes involved, the most important molecular mechanisms that affect this pathology, its ocular involvement, and the possible usefulness of the retina as a biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilar Rojas
- Instituto de Investigaciones Oftalmológicas Ramón Castroviejo, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto Oftálmico de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana I Ramírez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Oftalmológicas Ramón Castroviejo, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,OFTARED, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Inmunología Oftalmología y ORL, Facultad de Óptica y Optometría, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - José A Fernández-Albarral
- Instituto de Investigaciones Oftalmológicas Ramón Castroviejo, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Inés López-Cuenca
- Instituto de Investigaciones Oftalmológicas Ramón Castroviejo, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Salobrar-García
- Instituto de Investigaciones Oftalmológicas Ramón Castroviejo, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,OFTARED, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Inmunología Oftalmología y ORL, Facultad de Óptica y Optometría, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Cadena
- Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto Oftálmico de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lorena Elvira-Hurtado
- Instituto de Investigaciones Oftalmológicas Ramón Castroviejo, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan J Salazar
- Instituto de Investigaciones Oftalmológicas Ramón Castroviejo, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,OFTARED, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Inmunología Oftalmología y ORL, Facultad de Óptica y Optometría, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rosa de Hoz
- Instituto de Investigaciones Oftalmológicas Ramón Castroviejo, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,OFTARED, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Inmunología Oftalmología y ORL, Facultad de Óptica y Optometría, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - José M Ramírez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Oftalmológicas Ramón Castroviejo, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,OFTARED, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Inmunología Oftalmología y ORL, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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12
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Story BD, Miller ME, Bradbury AM, Million ED, Duan D, Taghian T, Faissler D, Fernau D, Beecy SJ, Gray-Edwards HL. Canine Models of Inherited Musculoskeletal and Neurodegenerative Diseases. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:80. [PMID: 32219101 PMCID: PMC7078110 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Mouse models of human disease remain the bread and butter of modern biology and therapeutic discovery. Nonetheless, more often than not mouse models do not reproduce the pathophysiology of the human conditions they are designed to mimic. Naturally occurring large animal models have predominantly been found in companion animals or livestock because of their emotional or economic value to modern society and, unlike mice, often recapitulate the human disease state. In particular, numerous models have been discovered in dogs and have a fundamental role in bridging proof of concept studies in mice to human clinical trials. The present article is a review that highlights current canine models of human diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, degenerative myelopathy, neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis, globoid cell leukodystrophy, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, mucopolysaccharidosis, and fucosidosis. The goal of the review is to discuss canine and human neurodegenerative pathophysiologic similarities, introduce the animal models, and shed light on the ability of canine models to facilitate current and future treatment trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett D. Story
- Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn, AL, United States
- University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Matthew E. Miller
- Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Allison M. Bradbury
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Emily D. Million
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Dongsheng Duan
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Department of Biomedical, Biological and Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Toloo Taghian
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Dominik Faissler
- Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, North Grafton, MA, United States
| | - Deborah Fernau
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Sidney J. Beecy
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
- Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, North Grafton, MA, United States
| | - Heather L. Gray-Edwards
- Horae Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
- Department of Radiology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
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13
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Chaplot K, Pimpale L, Ramalingam B, Deivasigamani S, Kamat SS, Ratnaparkhi GS. SOD1 activity threshold and TOR signalling modulate VAP(P58S) aggregation via reactive oxygen species-induced proteasomal degradation in a Drosophila model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Dis Model Mech 2019; 12:dmm.033803. [PMID: 30635270 PMCID: PMC6398501 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.033803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an incurable, late-onset motor neuron disease, linked strongly to various causative genetic loci. ALS8 codes for a missense mutation, P56S, in VAMP-associated protein B (VAPB) that causes the protein to misfold and form cellular aggregates. Uncovering genes and mechanisms that affect aggregation dynamics would greatly help increase our understanding of the disease and lead to potential therapeutics. We developed a quantitative high-throughput Drosophila S2R+ cell-based kinetic assay coupled with fluorescent microscopy to score for genes involved in the modulation of aggregates of the fly orthologue, VAP(P58S), fused with GFP. A targeted RNA interference screen against 900 genes identified 150 hits that modify aggregation, including the ALS loci Sod1 and TDP43 (also known as TBPH), as well as genes belonging to the mTOR pathway. Further, a system to measure the extent of VAP(P58S) aggregation in the Drosophila larval brain was developed in order to validate the hits from the cell-based screen. In the larval brain, we find that reduction of SOD1 levels or decreased mTOR signalling reduces aggregation, presumably by increasing the levels of cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). The mechanism of aggregate clearance is, primarily, proteasomal degradation, which appears to be triggered by an increase in ROS. We have thus uncovered an interesting interplay between SOD1, ROS and mTOR signalling that regulates the dynamics of VAP aggregation. Mechanistic processes underlying such cellular regulatory networks will lead to better understanding of the initiation and progression of ALS.This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kriti Chaplot
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune 411008, India
| | - Lokesh Pimpale
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune 411008, India
| | | | | | - Siddhesh S Kamat
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune 411008, India
| | - Girish S Ratnaparkhi
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune 411008, India
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14
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Yanagi KS, Wu Z, Amaya J, Chapkis N, Duffy AM, Hajdarovic KH, Held A, Mathur AD, Russo K, Ryan VH, Steinert BL, Whitt JP, Fallon JR, Fawzi NL, Lipscombe D, Reenan RA, Wharton KA, Hart AC. Meta-analysis of Genetic Modifiers Reveals Candidate Dysregulated Pathways in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Neuroscience 2019; 396:A3-A20. [PMID: 30594291 PMCID: PMC6549511 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2018.10.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Revised: 10/14/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease that has significant overlap with frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Mutations in specific genes have been identified that can cause and/or predispose patients to ALS. However, the clinical variability seen in ALS patients suggests that additional genes impact pathology, susceptibility, severity, and/or progression of the disease. To identify molecular pathways involved in ALS, we undertook a meta-analysis of published genetic modifiers both in patients and in model organisms, and undertook bioinformatic pathway analysis. From 72 published studies, we generated a list of 946 genes whose perturbation (1) impacted ALS in patient populations, (2) altered defects in laboratory models, or (3) modified defects caused by ALS gene ortholog loss of function. Herein, these are all called modifier genes. We found 727 modifier genes that encode proteins with human orthologs. Of these, 43 modifier genes were identified as modifiers of more than one ALS gene/model, consistent with the hypothesis that shared genes and pathways may underlie ALS. Further, we used a gene ontology-based bioinformatic analysis to identify pathways and associated genes that may be important in ALS. To our knowledge this is the first comprehensive survey of ALS modifier genes. This work suggests that shared molecular mechanisms may underlie pathology caused by different ALS disease genes. Surprisingly, few ALS modifier genes have been tested in more than one disease model. Understanding genes that modify ALS-associated defects will help to elucidate the molecular pathways that underlie ALS and provide additional targets for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine S Yanagi
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States; Robert J. and Nancy D. Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States.
| | - Zhijin Wu
- Department of Biostatistics, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States.
| | - Joshua Amaya
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biotechnology, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States; Robert J. and Nancy D. Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States.
| | - Natalie Chapkis
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States; Robert J. and Nancy D. Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States.
| | - Amanda M Duffy
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States; Robert J. and Nancy D. Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States.
| | - Kaitlyn H Hajdarovic
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States; Robert J. and Nancy D. Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States.
| | - Aaron Held
- Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry Graduate Program, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States; Robert J. and Nancy D. Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States.
| | - Arjun D Mathur
- Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry Graduate Program, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States; Robert J. and Nancy D. Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States.
| | - Kathryn Russo
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States; Robert J. and Nancy D. Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States.
| | - Veronica H Ryan
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States; Robert J. and Nancy D. Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States.
| | - Beatrice L Steinert
- Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry Department, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States; Robert J. and Nancy D. Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States.
| | - Joshua P Whitt
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States; Robert J. and Nancy D. Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States.
| | - Justin R Fallon
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States; Robert J. and Nancy D. Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States.
| | - Nicolas L Fawzi
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biotechnology, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States; Robert J. and Nancy D. Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States.
| | - Diane Lipscombe
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States; Robert J. and Nancy D. Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States.
| | - Robert A Reenan
- Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry Department, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States; Robert J. and Nancy D. Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States.
| | - Kristi A Wharton
- Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry Department, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States; Robert J. and Nancy D. Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States.
| | - Anne C Hart
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States; Robert J. and Nancy D. Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States.
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15
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Aquilina B, Cauchi RJ. Modelling motor neuron disease in fruit flies: Lessons from spinal muscular atrophy. J Neurosci Methods 2018; 310:3-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2018.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2017] [Revised: 04/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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16
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Khairoalsindi OA, Abuzinadah AR. Maximizing the Survival of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Patients: Current Perspectives. Neurol Res Int 2018; 2018:6534150. [PMID: 30159171 PMCID: PMC6109498 DOI: 10.1155/2018/6534150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a neurodegenerative disease that leads to loss of the upper and lower motor neurons. Almost 90% of all cases occur in the sporadic form, with the rest occurring in the familial form. The disease has a poor prognosis, with only two disease-modifying drugs approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The approved drugs for the disease have very limited survival benefits. Edaravone is a new FDA-approved medication that may slow the disease progression by 33% in a selected subgroup of ALS patients. This paper covers the various interventions that may provide survival benefits, such as early diagnosis, medications, gene therapy, stem cell therapy, diet, nutritional supplements, multidisciplinary clinics, and mechanical invasive and noninvasive ventilation. The recent data on masitinib, the role of enteral feeding, gene therapy, and stem cell therapy is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ahmad R. Abuzinadah
- King Abdulaziz University, Internal Medicine Department, Neurology Division, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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17
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Mandrioli J, D’Amico R, Zucchi E, Gessani A, Fini N, Fasano A, Caponnetto C, Chiò A, Dalla Bella E, Lunetta C, Mazzini L, Marinou K, Sorarù G, de Biasi S, Lo Tartaro D, Pinti M, Cossarizza A. Rapamycin treatment for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: Protocol for a phase II randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter, clinical trial (RAP-ALS trial). Medicine (Baltimore) 2018; 97:e11119. [PMID: 29901635 PMCID: PMC6024184 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000011119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Misfolded aggregated proteins and neuroinflammation significantly contribute to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) pathogenesis, hence representing therapeutic targets to modify disease expression. Rapamycin inhibits mechanistic target of Rapamycin (mTOR) pathway and enhances autophagy with demonstrated beneficial effects in neurodegeneration in cell line and animal models, improving phenotype in SQSTM1 zebrafish, in Drosophila model of ALS-TDP, and in the TDP43 mouse model, in which it reduced neuronal loss and TDP43 inclusions. Rapamycin also expands regulatory T lymphocytes (Treg) and increased Treg levels are associated with slow progression in ALS patients.Therefore, we planned a randomized clinical trial testing Rapamycin treatment in ALS patients. METHODS RAP-ALS is a phase II randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter (8 ALS centers in Italy), clinical trial. The primary aim is to assess whether Rapamycin administration increases Tregs number in treated patients compared with control arm. Secondary aims include the assessment of safety and tolerability of Rapamycin in patients with ALS; the minimum dosage to have Rapamycin in cerebrospinal fluid; changes in immunological (activation and homing of T, B, NK cell subpopulations) and inflammatory markers, and on mTOR downstream pathway (S6RP phosphorylation); clinical activity (ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised, survival, forced vital capacity); and quality of life (ALSAQ40 scale). DISCUSSION Rapamycin potentially targets mechanisms at play in ALS (i.e., autophagy and neuroinflammation), with promising preclinical studies. It is an already approved drug, with known pharmacokinetics, already available and therefore with significant possibility of rapid translation to daily clinics. Findings will provide reliable data for further potential trials. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria of Modena and by the Ethics Committees of participating centers (Eudract n. 2016-002399-28) based on the Helsinki declaration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Mandrioli
- Department of Neuroscience, St. Agostino-Estense Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena
| | - Roberto D’Amico
- Unit of Statistics, Department of Diagnostic, Clinical and Public Health Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, Modena
| | - Elisabetta Zucchi
- Department of Neuroscience, St. Agostino-Estense Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena
| | - Annalisa Gessani
- Department of Neuroscience, St. Agostino-Estense Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena
| | - Nicola Fini
- Department of Neuroscience, St. Agostino-Estense Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena
| | - Antonio Fasano
- Department of Neuroscience, St. Agostino-Estense Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena
| | - Claudia Caponnetto
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation Ophthalmology, Genetics, Mother and Child Disease, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova
| | - Adriano Chiò
- “Rita Levi Montalcini”—Department of Neurosciences, ALS Centre, University of Turin and Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza, Turin
| | - Eleonora Dalla Bella
- 3rd Neurology Unit and ALS Centre, IRCCS “Carlo Besta” Neurological Institute, Milan
| | | | - Letizia Mazzini
- ALS Centre, Neurologic Clinic, Maggiore della Carità University Hospital, Novara
| | - Kalliopi Marinou
- ALS Center, “Salvatore Maugeri” Clinical-Scientific Institutes, Milan
| | - Gianni Sorarù
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Padua, Padua,
| | - Sara de Biasi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena
| | - Domenico Lo Tartaro
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia School of Medicine, Modena, Italy
| | - Marcello Pinti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena
| | - Andrea Cossarizza
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia School of Medicine, Modena, Italy
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18
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Azuma Y, Mizuta I, Tokuda T, Mizuno T. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Model. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1076:79-95. [PMID: 29951816 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-13-0529-0_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease that affects upper and lower motor neurons in the brain and the spinal cord. Due to the progressive neurodegeneration, ALS leads to paralysis and death caused by respiratory failure 2-5 years after the onset of symptoms. There is no effective cure available. Most ALS cases are sporadic, without family history, whereas 10% of the cases are familial. Identification of variants in more than 30 different loci has provided insight into the pathogenic molecular mechanisms mediating disease pathogenesis. Studies of a Drosophila melanogaster model for each of the ALS genes can contribute to uncovering pathophysiological mechanism of ALS and finding targets of the disease-modifying therapy. In this review, we focus on three ALS-causing genes: TAR DNA-binding protein (TDP-43), fused in sarcoma/translocated in liposarcoma (FUS/TLS), and chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 (C9orf72).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumiko Azuma
- Department of Neurology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Ikuko Mizuta
- Department of Neurology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takahiko Tokuda
- Department of Neurology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
- Molecular Pathobiology of Brain Diseases, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Toshiki Mizuno
- Department of Neurology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
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19
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Shahheydari H, Ragagnin A, Walker AK, Toth RP, Vidal M, Jagaraj CJ, Perri ER, Konopka A, Sultana JM, Atkin JD. Protein Quality Control and the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/Frontotemporal Dementia Continuum. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:119. [PMID: 28539871 PMCID: PMC5423993 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein homeostasis, or proteostasis, has an important regulatory role in cellular function. Protein quality control mechanisms, including protein folding and protein degradation processes, have a crucial function in post-mitotic neurons. Cellular protein quality control relies on multiple strategies, including molecular chaperones, autophagy, the ubiquitin proteasome system, endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-associated degradation (ERAD) and the formation of stress granules (SGs), to regulate proteostasis. Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by the presence of misfolded protein aggregates, implying that protein quality control mechanisms are dysfunctional in these conditions. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) are neurodegenerative diseases that are now recognized to overlap clinically and pathologically, forming a continuous disease spectrum. In this review article, we detail the evidence for dysregulation of protein quality control mechanisms across the whole ALS-FTD continuum, by discussing the major proteins implicated in ALS and/or FTD. We also discuss possible ways in which protein quality mechanisms could be targeted therapeutically in these disorders and highlight promising protein quality control-based therapeutics for clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamideh Shahheydari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie UniversitySydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Audrey Ragagnin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie UniversitySydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Adam K Walker
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie UniversitySydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Reka P Toth
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie UniversitySydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Marta Vidal
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie UniversitySydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Cyril J Jagaraj
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie UniversitySydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Emma R Perri
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie UniversitySydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Anna Konopka
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie UniversitySydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jessica M Sultana
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie UniversitySydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Julie D Atkin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie UniversitySydney, NSW, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe UniversityMelbourne, VIC, Australia
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Boeynaems S, Bogaert E, Van Damme P, Van Den Bosch L. Inside out: the role of nucleocytoplasmic transport in ALS and FTLD. Acta Neuropathol 2016; 132:159-173. [PMID: 27271576 PMCID: PMC4947127 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-016-1586-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Revised: 05/27/2016] [Accepted: 05/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by the presence of protein inclusions with a different protein content depending on the type of disease. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) are no exceptions to this common theme. In most ALS and FTLD cases, the predominant pathological species are RNA-binding proteins. Interestingly, these proteins are both depleted from their normal nuclear localization and aggregated in the cytoplasm. This key pathological feature has suggested a potential dual mechanism with both nuclear loss of function and cytoplasmic gain of function being at play. Yet, why and how this pathological cascade is initiated in most patients, and especially sporadic cases, is currently unresolved. Recent breakthroughs in C9orf72 ALS/FTLD disease models point at a pivotal role for the nuclear transport system in toxicity. To address whether defects in nuclear transport are indeed implicated in the disease, we reviewed two decades of ALS/FTLD literature and combined this with bioinformatic analyses. We find that both RNA-binding proteins and nuclear transport factors are key players in ALS/FTLD pathology. Moreover, our analyses suggest that disturbances in nucleocytoplasmic transport play a crucial initiating role in the disease, by bridging both nuclear loss and cytoplasmic gain of functions. These findings highlight this process as a novel and promising therapeutic target for ALS and FTLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Boeynaems
- />Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Research Institute for Neuroscience and Disease (LIND), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- />Laboratory of Neurobiology, Vesalius Research Center, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg O&N4, PB912, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Elke Bogaert
- />Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Research Institute for Neuroscience and Disease (LIND), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- />Laboratory of Neurobiology, Vesalius Research Center, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg O&N4, PB912, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Philip Van Damme
- />Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Research Institute for Neuroscience and Disease (LIND), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- />Laboratory of Neurobiology, Vesalius Research Center, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg O&N4, PB912, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- />Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Research Institute for Neuroscience and Disease (LIND), KU Leuven-University of Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- />Laboratory of Neurobiology, Vesalius Research Center, VIB, Campus Gasthuisberg O&N4, PB912, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- />Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Herrando-Grabulosa M, Mulet R, Pujol A, Mas JM, Navarro X, Aloy P, Coma M, Casas C. Novel Neuroprotective Multicomponent Therapy for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Designed by Networked Systems. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0147626. [PMID: 26807587 PMCID: PMC4726541 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0147626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2015] [Accepted: 01/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis is a fatal, progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by loss of motor neuron function for which there is no effective treatment. One of the main difficulties in developing new therapies lies on the multiple events that contribute to motor neuron death in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Several pathological mechanisms have been identified as underlying events of the disease process, including excitotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, altered axonal transport, proteasome dysfunction, synaptic deficits, glial cell contribution, and disrupted clearance of misfolded proteins. Our approach in this study was based on a holistic vision of these mechanisms and the use of computational tools to identify polypharmacology for targeting multiple etiopathogenic pathways. By using a repositioning analysis based on systems biology approach (TPMS technology), we identified and validated the neuroprotective potential of two new drug combinations: Aliretinoin and Pranlukast, and Aliretinoin and Mefloquine. In addition, we estimated their molecular mechanisms of action in silico and validated some of these results in a well-established in vitro model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis based on cultured spinal cord slices. The results verified that Aliretinoin and Pranlukast, and Aliretinoin and Mefloquine promote neuroprotection of motor neurons and reduce microgliosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mireia Herrando-Grabulosa
- Group of Neuroplasticity and Regeneration, Institut de Neurociències and Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roger Mulet
- Anaxomics Biotech SL, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Albert Pujol
- Joint IRB-BSC-CRG Program in Computational Biology, Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | | | - Xavier Navarro
- Group of Neuroplasticity and Regeneration, Institut de Neurociències and Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Patrick Aloy
- Joint IRB-BSC-CRG Program in Computational Biology, Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Mireia Coma
- Anaxomics Biotech SL, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- * E-mail: (CC); (MC)
| | - Caty Casas
- Group of Neuroplasticity and Regeneration, Institut de Neurociències and Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
- * E-mail: (CC); (MC)
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Zarei S, Carr K, Reiley L, Diaz K, Guerra O, Altamirano PF, Pagani W, Lodin D, Orozco G, Chinea A. A comprehensive review of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Surg Neurol Int 2015; 6:171. [PMID: 26629397 PMCID: PMC4653353 DOI: 10.4103/2152-7806.169561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 395] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2015] [Accepted: 08/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a late-onset fatal neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons with an incidence of about 1/100,000. Most ALS cases are sporadic, but 5–10% of the cases are familial ALS. Both sporadic and familial ALS (FALS) are associated with degeneration of cortical and spinal motor neurons. The etiology of ALS remains unknown. However, mutations of superoxide dismutase 1 have been known as the most common cause of FALS. In this study, we provide a comprehensive review of ALS. We cover all aspects of the disease including epidemiology, comorbidities, environmental risk factor, molecular mechanism, genetic factors, symptoms, diagnostic, treatment, and even the available supplement and management of ALS. This will provide the reader with an advantage of receiving a broad range of information about the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Zarei
- Department of Medicine, San Juan Bautista School of Medicine, Caguas, USA
| | - Karen Carr
- Department of Medicine, San Juan Bautista School of Medicine, Caguas, USA
| | - Luz Reiley
- Department of Medicine, San Juan Bautista School of Medicine, Caguas, USA
| | - Kelvin Diaz
- Department of Medicine, San Juan Bautista School of Medicine, Caguas, USA
| | - Orleiquis Guerra
- Department of Medicine, San Juan Bautista School of Medicine, Caguas, USA
| | | | - Wilfredo Pagani
- Department of Medicine, San Juan Bautista School of Medicine, Caguas, USA
| | - Daud Lodin
- Department of Medicine, San Juan Bautista School of Medicine, Caguas, USA
| | - Gloria Orozco
- Department of Medicine, San Juan Bautista School of Medicine, Caguas, USA
| | - Angel Chinea
- Neurologist, Caribbean Neurological Center, Caguas, USA
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23
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Autophagy and Neurodegeneration: Insights from a Cultured Cell Model of ALS. Cells 2015; 4:354-86. [PMID: 26287246 PMCID: PMC4588041 DOI: 10.3390/cells4030354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2015] [Revised: 07/07/2015] [Accepted: 07/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Autophagy plays a major role in the elimination of cellular waste components, the renewal of intracellular proteins and the prevention of the build-up of redundant or defective material. It is fundamental for the maintenance of homeostasis and especially important in post-mitotic neuronal cells, which, without competent autophagy, accumulate protein aggregates and degenerate. Many neurodegenerative diseases are associated with defective autophagy; however, whether altered protein turnover or accumulation of misfolded, aggregate-prone proteins is the primary insult in neurodegeneration has long been a matter of debate. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal disease characterized by selective degeneration of motor neurons. Most of the ALS cases occur in sporadic forms (SALS), while 10%–15% of the cases have a positive familial history (FALS). The accumulation in the cell of misfolded/abnormal proteins is a hallmark of both SALS and FALS, and altered protein degradation due to autophagy dysregulation has been proposed to contribute to ALS pathogenesis. In this review, we focus on the main molecular features of autophagy to provide a framework for discussion of our recent findings about the role in disease pathogenesis of the ALS-linked form of the VAPB gene product, a mutant protein that drives the generation of unusual cytoplasmic inclusions.
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