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Wahl D, Risen SJ, Osburn SC, Emge T, Sharma S, Gilberto VS, Chatterjee A, Nagpal P, Moreno JA, LaRocca TJ. Nanoligomers targeting NF-κB and NLRP3 reduce neuroinflammation and improve cognitive function with aging and tauopathy. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:182. [PMID: 39068433 PMCID: PMC11283709 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-024-03182-9] [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: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation contributes to impaired cognitive function in brain aging and neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease, which is characterized by the aggregation of pathological tau. One major driver of both age- and tau-associated neuroinflammation is the NF-κB and NLRP3 signaling axis. However, current treatments targeting NF-κB or NLRP3 may have adverse/systemic effects, and most have not been clinically translatable. In this study, we tested the efficacy of a novel, nucleic acid therapeutic (Nanoligomer) cocktail specifically targeting both NF-κB and NLRP3 in the brain for reducing neuroinflammation and improving cognitive function in old (aged 19 months) wildtype mice, and in rTg4510 tau pathology mice (aged 2 months). We found that 4 weeks of NF-κB/NLRP3-targeting Nanoligomer treatment strongly reduced neuro-inflammatory cytokine profiles in the brain and improved cognitive-behavioral function in both old and rTg4510 mice. These effects of NF-κB/NLRP3-targeting Nanoligomers were also associated with reduced glial cell activation and pathology, favorable changes in transcriptome signatures of glia-associated inflammation (reduced) and neuronal health (increased), and positive systemic effects. Collectively, our results provide a basis for future translational studies targeting both NF-κB and NLRP3 in the brain, perhaps using Nanoligomers, to inhibit neuroinflammation and improve cognitive function with aging and neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devin Wahl
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, 1582 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
- Columbine Health Systems Center for Healthy Aging, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Sydney J Risen
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
- Brain Research Center, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Shelby C Osburn
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, 1582 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
- Columbine Health Systems Center for Healthy Aging, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Tobias Emge
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, 1582 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
- Columbine Health Systems Center for Healthy Aging, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Sadhana Sharma
- Sachi Bio, Colorado Technology Center, Louisville, CO, USA
| | | | | | | | - Julie A Moreno
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
- Brain Research Center, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Thomas J LaRocca
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, 1582 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA.
- Columbine Health Systems Center for Healthy Aging, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA.
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2
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Wahl D, Risen SJ, Osburn SC, Emge T, Sharma S, Gilberto VS, Chatterjee A, Nagpal P, Moreno JA, LaRocca TJ. Nanoligomers targeting NF-κB and NLRP3 reduce neuroinflammation and improve cognitive function with aging and tauopathy. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.03.578493. [PMID: 38370618 PMCID: PMC10871285 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.03.578493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation contributes to impaired cognitive function in brain aging and neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease, which is characterized by the aggregation of pathological tau. One major driver of both age- and tau-associated neuroinflammation is the NF-κB and NLRP3 signaling axis. However, current treatments targeting NF-κB or NLRP3 may have adverse/systemic effects, and most have not been clinically translatable. In this study, we tested the efficacy of a novel, nucleic acid therapeutic (Nanoligomer) cocktail specifically targeting both NF-κB and NLRP3 in the brain for reducing neuroinflammation and improving cognitive function in old (aged 19 months) wildtype mice, and in rTg4510 tau pathology mice (aged 2 months). We found that 4 weeks of NF-κB/NLRP3-targeting Nanoligomer treatment strongly reduced neuro-inflammatory cytokine profiles in the brain and improved cognitive-behavioral function in both old and rTg4510 mice. These effects of NF-κB/NLRP3-targeting Nanoligomers were also associated with reduced glial cell activation and pathology, favorable changes in transcriptome signatures of glia-associated inflammation (reduced) and neuronal health (increased), and positive systemic effects. Collectively, our results provide a basis for future translational studies targeting both NF-κB and NLRP3 in the brain, perhaps using Nanoligomers, to inhibit neuroinflammation and improve cognitive function with aging and neurodegeneration.
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3
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Wahl D, Clayton ZS. Peripheral vascular dysfunction and the aging brain. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:9280-9302. [PMID: 38805248 PMCID: PMC11164523 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Aging is the greatest non-modifiable risk factor for most diseases, including cardiovascular diseases (CVD), which remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Robust evidence indicates that CVD are a strong determinant for reduced brain health and all-cause dementia with advancing age. CVD are also closely linked with peripheral and cerebral vascular dysfunction, common contributors to the development and progression of all types of dementia, that are largely driven by excessive levels of oxidative stress (e.g., reactive oxygen species [ROS]). Emerging evidence suggests that several fundamental aging mechanisms (e.g., "hallmarks" of aging), including chronic low-grade inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, cellular senescence and deregulated nutrient sensing contribute to excessive ROS production and are common to both peripheral and cerebral vascular dysfunction. Therefore, targeting these mechanisms to reduce ROS-related oxidative stress and improve peripheral and/or cerebral vascular function may be a promising strategy to reduce dementia risk with aging. Investigating how certain lifestyle strategies (e.g., aerobic exercise and diet modulation) and/or select pharmacological agents (natural and synthetic) intersect with aging "hallmarks" to promote peripheral and/or cerebral vascular health represent a viable option for reducing dementia risk with aging. Therefore, the primary purpose of this review is to explore mechanistic links among peripheral vascular dysfunction, cerebral vascular dysfunction, and reduced brain health with aging. Such insight and assessments of non-invasive measures of peripheral and cerebral vascular health with aging might provide a new approach for assessing dementia risk in older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devin Wahl
- Department of Health and Exercise Science and Center for Healthy Aging, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Zachary S. Clayton
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatric Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
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4
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Cavalier AN, Clayton ZS, Wahl D, Hutton DA, McEntee CM, Seals DR, LaRocca TJ. Protective effects of apigenin on the brain transcriptome with aging. Mech Ageing Dev 2024; 217:111889. [PMID: 38007051 PMCID: PMC10843586 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2023.111889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
Brain aging is associated with reduced cognitive function that increases the risk for dementia. Apigenin is a bioactive plant compound that inhibits cellular aging processes and could protect against age-related cognitive dysfunction, but its mechanisms of action in the brain have not been comprehensively studied. We characterized brain transcriptome changes in young and old mice treated with apigenin in drinking water. We observed improved learning/memory in old treated mice, and our transcriptome analyses indicated that differentially expressed genes with aging and apigenin were primarily related to immune responses, inflammation, and cytokine regulation. Moreover, we found that genes/transcripts that were increased in old vs. young mice but downregulated with apigenin treatment in old animals were associated with immune activation/inflammation, whereas transcripts that were reduced with aging but increased with apigenin were related neuronal function and signaling. We also found that these transcriptome differences with aging and apigenin treatment were driven in part by glial cells. To follow up on these in vivo transcriptome findings, we studied aged astrocytes in vitro, and we found that apigenin reduced markers of inflammation and cellular senescence in these cells. Collectively, our data suggest that apigenin may protect against age-related cognitive dysfunction by suppressing neuro-inflammatory processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa N Cavalier
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States; Columbine Health Systems Center for Healthy Aging, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | - Zachary S Clayton
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, United States
| | - Devin Wahl
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States; Columbine Health Systems Center for Healthy Aging, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | - David A Hutton
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, United States
| | - Cali M McEntee
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States; Columbine Health Systems Center for Healthy Aging, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | - Douglas R Seals
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, United States
| | - Thomas J LaRocca
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States; Columbine Health Systems Center for Healthy Aging, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States.
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5
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Tenchov R, Sasso JM, Wang X, Zhou QA. Aging Hallmarks and Progression and Age-Related Diseases: A Landscape View of Research Advancement. ACS Chem Neurosci 2024; 15:1-30. [PMID: 38095562 PMCID: PMC10767750 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Aging is a dynamic, time-dependent process that is characterized by a gradual accumulation of cell damage. Continual functional decline in the intrinsic ability of living organisms to accurately regulate homeostasis leads to increased susceptibility and vulnerability to diseases. Many efforts have been put forth to understand and prevent the effects of aging. Thus, the major cellular and molecular hallmarks of aging have been identified, and their relationships to age-related diseases and malfunctions have been explored. Here, we use data from the CAS Content Collection to analyze the publication landscape of recent aging-related research. We review the advances in knowledge and delineate trends in research advancements on aging factors and attributes across time and geography. We also review the current concepts related to the major aging hallmarks on the molecular, cellular, and organismic level, age-associated diseases, with attention to brain aging and brain health, as well as the major biochemical processes associated with aging. Major age-related diseases have been outlined, and their correlations with the major aging features and attributes are explored. We hope this review will be helpful for apprehending the current knowledge in the field of aging mechanisms and progression, in an effort to further solve the remaining challenges and fulfill its potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rumiana Tenchov
- CAS, a Division of the American Chemical
Society, 2540 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, Ohio 43202, United States
| | - Janet M. Sasso
- CAS, a Division of the American Chemical
Society, 2540 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, Ohio 43202, United States
| | - Xinmei Wang
- CAS, a Division of the American Chemical
Society, 2540 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, Ohio 43202, United States
| | - Qiongqiong Angela Zhou
- CAS, a Division of the American Chemical
Society, 2540 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, Ohio 43202, United States
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Hunzinger KJ, Caccese JB, Mannix R, Meehan WP, Hafer JF, Swanik CB, Buckley TA. Effects of contact/collision sport history on gait in early- to mid-adulthood. JOURNAL OF SPORT AND HEALTH SCIENCE 2023; 12:398-405. [PMID: 36496131 DOI: 10.1016/j.jshs.2022.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To determine the effect of contact/collision sport participation on measures of single-task (ST) and dual-task (DT) gait among early- to middle-aged adults. METHODS The study recruited 113 adults (34.88 ± 11.80 years, (mean ± SD); 53.0% female) representing 4 groups. Groups included (a) former non-contact/collision athletes and non-athletes who are not physically active (n = 28); (b) former non-contact/collision athletes who are physically active (n = 29); (c) former contact/collision sport athletes who participated in high-risk sports and are physically active (n = 29); and (d) former rugby players with prolonged repetitive head impact exposure history who are physically active (n = 27). Gait parameters were collected using inertial measurement units during ST and DT gait. DT cost was calculated for all gait parameters (double support, gait speed, and stride length). Groups were compared first using one-way analysis of covariance. Then a multiple regression was performed for participants in the high-risk sport athletes and repetitive head impact exposure athletes groups only to predict gait outcomes from contact/collision sport career duration. RESULTS There were no significant differences between groups on any ST, DT, or DT cost outcomes (p > 0.05). Contact/collision sport duration did not predict any ST, DT, or DT cost gait outcomes. CONCLUSION Years and history of contact/collision sport participation does not appear to negatively affect or predict neurobehavioral function in early- to mid-adulthood among physically active individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine J Hunzinger
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Penn Injury Science Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Jaclyn B Caccese
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Rebekah Mannix
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Departments of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - William P Meehan
- Departments of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; The Micheli Center for Sports Injury Prevention, Waltham, MA 02453, USA; Division of Sports Medicine, Department of Orthopedics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02453, USA; Department of Pediatrics and Orthopedics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02453, USA
| | - Jocelyn F Hafer
- Department of Kinesiology and Applied Physiology, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 02453, USA; Interdisciplinary Program in Biomechanics and Movement Science, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 02453, USA
| | - C Buz Swanik
- Department of Kinesiology and Applied Physiology, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 02453, USA; Interdisciplinary Program in Biomechanics and Movement Science, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 02453, USA
| | - Thomas A Buckley
- Department of Kinesiology and Applied Physiology, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 02453, USA; Interdisciplinary Program in Biomechanics and Movement Science, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 02453, USA.
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7
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Barnes JN, Burns JM, Bamman MM, Billinger SA, Bodine SC, Booth FW, Brassard P, Clemons TA, Fadel PJ, Geiger PC, Gujral S, Haus JM, Kanoski SE, Miller BF, Morris JK, O’Connell KM, Poole DC, Sandoval DA, Smith JC, Swerdlow RH, Whitehead SN, Vidoni ED, van Praag H. Proceedings from the Albert Charitable Trust Inaugural Workshop on 'Understanding the Acute Effects of Exercise on the Brain'. Brain Plast 2022; 8:153-168. [PMID: 36721393 PMCID: PMC9837736 DOI: 10.3233/bpl-220146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
An inaugural workshop supported by "The Leo and Anne Albert Charitable Trust," was held October 4-7, 2019 in Scottsdale, Arizona, to focus on the effects of exercise on the brain and to discuss how physical activity may prevent or delay the onset of aging-related neurodegenerative conditions. The Scientific Program Committee (led by Dr. Jeff Burns) assembled translational, clinical, and basic scientists who research various aspects of the effects of exercise on the body and brain, with the overall goal of gaining a better understanding as to how to delay or prevent neurodegenerative diseases. In particular, research topics included the links between cardiorespiratory fitness, the cerebrovasculature, energy metabolism, peripheral organs, and cognitive function, which are all highly relevant to understanding the effects of acute and chronic exercise on the brain. The Albert Trust workshop participants addressed these and related topics, as well as how other lifestyle interventions, such as diet, affect age-related cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases. This report provides a synopsis of the presentations and discussions by the participants, and a delineation of the next steps towards advancing our understanding of the effects of exercise on the aging brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill N. Barnes
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jeffrey M. Burns
- University of Kansas Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Fairway, KS, USA
| | - Marcas M. Bamman
- UAB Center for Exercise Medicine, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | - Sue C. Bodine
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Frank W. Booth
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Patrice Brassard
- Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, and Research center of the Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec, Québec city, QC, Canada
| | - Tameka A. Clemons
- Department of Professional and Medical Education, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Paul J. Fadel
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas, USA
| | - Paige C. Geiger
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Swathi Gujral
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jacob M. Haus
- School of Kinesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Scott E. Kanoski
- Human and Evolutionary Biology Section, Department of Biological Sciences, Dornsrife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Benjamin F. Miller
- Aging and Metabolism Research Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Jill K. Morris
- University of Kansas Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Fairway, KS, USA
| | | | - David C. Poole
- Departments of Kinesiology, Anatomy and Physiology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
| | | | - J. Carson Smith
- Department of Kinesiology, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | | | - Shawn N. Whitehead
- Vulnerable Brain Laboratory, Department Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Eric D. Vidoni
- University of Kansas Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Fairway, KS, USA
| | - Henriette van Praag
- Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter FL, USA
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8
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Malin SK, Stewart NR, Ude AA, Alderman BL. Brain insulin resistance and cognitive function: influence of exercise. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2022; 133:1368-1380. [PMID: 36269295 PMCID: PMC9744647 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00375.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Exercise has systemic health benefits in people, in part, through improving whole body insulin sensitivity. The brain is an insulin-sensitive organ that is often underdiscussed relative to skeletal muscle, liver, and adipose tissue. Although brain insulin action may have only subtle impacts on peripheral regulation of systemic glucose homeostasis, it is important for weight regulation as well as mental health. In fact, brain insulin signaling is also involved in processes that support healthy cognition. Furthermore, brain insulin resistance has been associated with age-related declines in memory and executive function as well as Alzheimer's disease pathology. Herein, we provide an overview of brain insulin sensitivity in relation to cognitive function from animal and human studies, with particular emphasis placed on the impact exercise may have on brain insulin sensitivity. Mechanisms discussed include mitochondrial function, brain growth factors, and neurogenesis, which collectively help combat obesity-related metabolic disease and Alzheimer's dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven K Malin
- Department of Kinesiology & Health, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism & Nutrition, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
- New Jersey Institute for Food, Nutrition and Health, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
- Institute of Translational Medicine and Science, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Nathan R Stewart
- Department of Kinesiology & Health, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Andrew A Ude
- Department of Kinesiology & Health, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Brandon L Alderman
- Department of Kinesiology & Health, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
- Center of Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
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9
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Hunt NJ, Wahl D, Westwood LJ, Lockwood GP, Le Couteur DG, Cogger VC. Targeting the liver in dementia and cognitive impairment: Dietary macronutrients and diabetic therapeutics. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 190:114537. [PMID: 36115494 PMCID: PMC10125004 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Many people living with dementia and cognitive impairment have dysfunctional mitochondrial and insulin-glucose metabolism resembling type 2 diabetes mellitus and old age. Evidence from human trials shows that nutritional interventions and anti-diabetic medicines that target nutrient-sensing pathways overcome these deficits in glucose and energy metabolism and can improve cognition and/or reduce symptoms of dementia. The liver is the main organ that mediates the systemic effects of diets and many diabetic medicines; therefore, it is an intermediate target for such dementia interventions. A challenge is the efficacy of these treatments in older age. Solutions include the targeted hepatic delivery of diabetic medicines using nanotechnologies and titration of macronutrients to optimize hepatic energy metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J Hunt
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2008, Australia; Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2008, Australia; Sydney Nano Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2008, Australia; ANZAC Research Institute & Centre for Education and Research on Ageing, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia
| | - Devin Wahl
- Department of Health and Exercise Science & Centre for Healthy Aging, Colorado State University, CO 80523, United States
| | - Lara J Westwood
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2008, Australia; ANZAC Research Institute & Centre for Education and Research on Ageing, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia
| | - Glen P Lockwood
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2008, Australia; ANZAC Research Institute & Centre for Education and Research on Ageing, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia
| | - David G Le Couteur
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2008, Australia; Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2008, Australia; ANZAC Research Institute & Centre for Education and Research on Ageing, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia
| | - Victoria C Cogger
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2008, Australia; ANZAC Research Institute & Centre for Education and Research on Ageing, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia.
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10
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Wahl D, Moreno JA, Santangelo KS, Zhang Q, Afzali MF, Walsh MA, Musci RV, Cavalier AN, Hamilton KL, LaRocca TJ. Nontransgenic Guinea Pig Strains Exhibit Hallmarks of Human Brain Aging and Alzheimer's Disease. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2022; 77:1766-1774. [PMID: 35323931 PMCID: PMC9434446 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glac073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Older age is the primary risk factor for most chronic diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). Current preclinical models to study brain aging and AD are mainly transgenic and harbor mutations intended to mirror brain pathologies associated with human brain aging/AD (eg, by increasing production of the amyloid precursor protein, amyloid beta [Aβ], and/or phosphorylated tau, all of which are key pathological mediators of AD). Although these models may provide insight on pathophysiological processes in AD, none completely recapitulate the disease and its strong age-dependence, and there has been limited success in translating preclinical results and treatments to humans. Here, we describe 2 nontransgenic guinea pig (GP) models, a standard PigmEnTed (PET) strain, and lesser-studied Dunkin-Hartley (DH) strain, that may naturally mimic key features of brain aging and AD in humans. We show that brain aging in PET GP is transcriptomically similar to human brain aging, whereas older DH brains are transcriptomically more similar to human AD. Both strains/models also exhibit increased neurofilament light chain (NFL, a marker of neuronal damage) with aging, and DH animals display greater S100 calcium-binding protein B (S100β), ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 (Iba1), and Aβ and phosphorylated tau-which are all important markers of neuroinflammation-associated AD. Collectively, our results suggest that both the PET and DH GP may be useful, nontransgenic models to study brain aging and AD, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devin Wahl
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
- Center for Healthy Aging, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Julie A Moreno
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Kelly S Santangelo
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Maryam F Afzali
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Maureen A Walsh
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Robert V Musci
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Alyssa N Cavalier
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Karyn L Hamilton
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
- Center for Healthy Aging, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Thomas J LaRocca
- Address correspondence to: Thomas J. LaRocca, PhD, Department of Health and Exercise Science, Center for Healthy Aging, Colorado State University, 1582 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1582, USA. E-mail:
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11
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Wilkerson GB, Nabhan DC, Perry TS. A Novel Approach to Assessment of Perceptual-Motor Efficiency and Training-Induced Improvement in the Performance Capabilities of Elite Athletes. Front Sports Act Living 2021; 3:729729. [PMID: 34661098 PMCID: PMC8517233 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2021.729729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Standard clinical assessments of mild traumatic brain injury are inadequate to detect subtle abnormalities that can be revealed by sophisticated diagnostic technology. An association has been observed between sport-related concussion (SRC) and subsequent musculoskeletal injury, but the underlying neurophysiological mechanism is not currently understood. A cohort of 16 elite athletes (10 male, 6 female), which included nine individuals who reported a history of SRC (5 male, 4 female) that occurred between 4 months and 8 years earlier, volunteered to participate in a 12-session program for assessment and training of perceptual-motor efficiency. Performance metrics derived from single- and dual-task whole-body lateral and diagonal reactive movements to virtual reality targets in left and right directions were analyzed separately and combined in various ways to create composite representations of global function. Intra-individual variability across performance domains demonstrated very good SRC history classification accuracy for the earliest 3-session phase of the program (Reaction Time Dispersion AUC = 0.841; Deceleration Dispersion AUC = 0.810; Reaction Time Discrepancy AUC = 0.825, Deceleration Discrepancy AUC = 0.794). Good earliest phase discrimination was also found for Composite Asymmetry between left and right movement directions (AUC = 0.778) and Excursion Average distance beyond the minimal body displacement necessary for virtual target deactivation (AUC = 0.730). Sensitivity derived from Youden's Index for the 6 global factors ranged from 67 to 89% and an identical specificity value of 86% for all of them. Median values demonstrated substantial improvement from the first 3-session phase to the last 3-session phase for Composite Asymmetry and Excursion Average. The results suggest that a Composite Asymmetry value ≥ 0.15 and an Excursion Average value ≥ 7 m, provide reasonable qualitative approximations for clinical identification of suboptimal perceptual-motor performance. Despite acknowledged study limitations, the findings support a hypothesized relationship between whole-body reactive agility performance and functional connectivity among brain networks subserving sensory perception, cognitive decision-making, and motor execution. A complex systems approach appears to perform better than traditional data analysis methods for detection of subtle perceptual-motor impairment, which has the potential to advance both clinical management of SRC and training for performance enhancement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary B Wilkerson
- Department of Health and Human Performance, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Chattanooga, TN, United States
| | - Dustin C Nabhan
- Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center, Norwegian School of Sport Science, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tyler S Perry
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Emory Healthcare, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Wahl D, Cavalier AN, LaRocca TJ. Response. Exerc Sport Sci Rev 2021; 49:293. [PMID: 34547763 PMCID: PMC8485757 DOI: 10.1249/jes.0000000000000266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Devin Wahl
- Department of Health an Exercise Science, Center for Healthy Aging, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
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Burtscher J, Mallet RT, Burtscher M, Millet GP. Conditioning the Brain: From Exercise to Hypoxia. Exerc Sport Sci Rev 2021; 49:291-292. [PMID: 34547762 DOI: 10.1249/jes.0000000000000271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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Wahl D, LaRocca TJ. Transcriptomic Effects of Healthspan-Promoting Dietary Interventions: Current Evidence and Future Directions. Front Nutr 2021; 8:712129. [PMID: 34447778 PMCID: PMC8383293 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2021.712129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging is the greatest risk factor most diseases, including cardiovascular disorders, cancers, diabetes, and neurodegeneration, but select nutritional interventions may profoundly reduce the risk for these conditions. These interventions include calorie restriction, intermittent fasting, protein restriction, and reducing intake of certain amino acids. Certain ad libitum diets, including the Mediterranean, Finnish Geriatric Intervention Study to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Disability, and Okinawan diets also promote healthy aging. Evidence indicates that these dietary strategies influence aging and healthspan by acting on the biological "hallmarks of aging" and especially upstream nutrient sensing pathways. Recent advances in "omics" technologies, including RNA-sequencing (transcriptomics), have increased our understanding of how such nutritional interventions may influence gene expression related to these biological mediators of aging, primarily in pre-clinical studies. However, whether these effects are also reflected in the human transcriptome, which may provide insight on other downstream/related cellular processes with aging, is an emerging topic. Broadly, the investigation of how these nutritional interventions influence the transcriptome may provide novel insight into pathways associated with aging, and potential targets to treat age-associated disease and increase healthspan. Therefore, the purpose of this mini review is to summarize what is known about the transcriptomic effects of key dietary/nutritional interventions in both pre-clinical models and humans, address gaps in the literature, and provide insight into future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devin Wahl
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
- Center for Healthy Aging, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | - Thomas J. LaRocca
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
- Center for Healthy Aging, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
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