1
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Tsintzas E, Niccoli T. Using Drosophila amyloid toxicity models to study Alzheimer's disease. Ann Hum Genet 2024; 88:349-363. [PMID: 38517001 DOI: 10.1111/ahg.12554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent form of dementia and is characterised by a progressive loss of neurons, which manifests as gradual memory decline, followed by cognitive loss. Despite the significant progress in identifying novel biomarkers and understanding the prodromal pathology and symptomatology, AD remains a significant unmet clinical need. Lecanemab and aducanumab, the only Food and Drug Administration approved drugs to exhibit some disease-modifying clinical efficacy, target Aβ amyloid, underscoring the importance of this protein in disease aetiology. Nevertheless, in the absence of a definitive cure, the utilisation of preclinical models remains imperative for the identification of novel therapeutic targets and the evaluation of potential therapeutic agents. Drosophila melanogaster is a model system that can be used as a research tool to investigate neurodegeneration and therapeutic interventions. The short lifespan, low price and ease of husbandry/rearing make Drosophila an advantageous model organism from a practical perspective. However, it is the highly conserved genome and similarity of Drosophila and human neurobiology which make flies a powerful tool to investigate neurodegenerative mechanisms. In addition, the ease of transgenic modifications allows for early proof of principle studies for future therapeutic approaches in neurodegenerative research. This mini review will specifically focus on utilising Drosophila as an in vivo model of amyloid toxicity in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elli Tsintzas
- Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, Institute of Healthy Ageing, University College London, London, UK
| | - Teresa Niccoli
- Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, Institute of Healthy Ageing, University College London, London, UK
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2
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Nguyen HN, Galleri G, Rassu A, Ciampelli C, Bernardoni R, Galioto M, Albani D, Crosio C, Iaccarino C. Evaluation of Neuroinflammatory Contribution to Neurodegeneration in LRRK2 Drosophila Models. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1555. [PMID: 39062128 PMCID: PMC11274873 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12071555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Pathological mutations in the LRRK2 gene are the major genetic cause of Parkinson's disease (PD). Although several animal models with either LRRK2 down- or over-expression have been developed, the physiological function of LRRK2 remains elusive. LRRK2 is constitutively expressed in various tissues including neurons and glial cells, but importantly, it is expressed at low levels in dopaminergic neurons, further contributing to the cryptic function of LRRK2. Significant levels of LRRK2 protein and mRNA have been detected in peripheral blood mononuclear cells, lymph nodes, the spleen, and primary microglia, strongly suggesting the contribution of inflammatory cells to neuronal degeneration. In this research article, using Drosophila LRRK2 models, we were able to demonstrate a significant contribution of glial cells to the LRRK2 pathological phenotype. Furthermore, in Drosophila, neurodegeneration is associated with a significant and important increase in specific inflammatory peptides. Finally, levetiracetam, a compound widely used in human therapy to treat epilepsy, was able to rescue both neuronal degeneration and neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoai Nam Nguyen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy (G.G.); (A.R.)
| | - Grazia Galleri
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy (G.G.); (A.R.)
| | - Antonio Rassu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy (G.G.); (A.R.)
| | - Cristina Ciampelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy (G.G.); (A.R.)
| | - Roberto Bernardoni
- Department Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Manuela Galioto
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy (G.G.); (A.R.)
| | - Diego Albani
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Claudia Crosio
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy (G.G.); (A.R.)
| | - Ciro Iaccarino
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy (G.G.); (A.R.)
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3
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Garcia EL, Steiner RE, Raimer AC, Herring LE, Matera AG, Spring AM. Dysregulation of innate immune signaling in animal models of spinal muscular atrophy. BMC Biol 2024; 22:94. [PMID: 38664795 PMCID: PMC11044505 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-024-01888-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a devastating neuromuscular disease caused by hypomorphic loss of function in the survival motor neuron (SMN) protein. SMA presents across a broad spectrum of disease severity. Unfortunately, genetic models of intermediate SMA have been difficult to generate in vertebrates and are thus unable to address key aspects of disease etiology. To address these issues, we developed a Drosophila model system that recapitulates the full range of SMA severity, allowing studies of pre-onset biology as well as late-stage disease processes. RESULTS Here, we carried out transcriptomic and proteomic profiling of mild and intermediate Drosophila models of SMA to elucidate molecules and pathways that contribute to the disease. Using this approach, we elaborated a role for the SMN complex in the regulation of innate immune signaling. We find that mutation or tissue-specific depletion of SMN induces hyperactivation of the immune deficiency (IMD) and Toll pathways, leading to overexpression of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and ectopic formation of melanotic masses in the absence of an external challenge. Furthermore, the knockdown of downstream targets of these signaling pathways reduced melanotic mass formation caused by SMN loss. Importantly, we identify SMN as a negative regulator of a ubiquitylation complex that includes Traf6, Bendless, and Diap2 and plays a pivotal role in several signaling networks. CONCLUSIONS In alignment with recent research on other neurodegenerative diseases, these findings suggest that hyperactivation of innate immunity contributes to SMA pathology. This work not only provides compelling evidence that hyperactive innate immune signaling is a primary effect of SMN depletion, but it also suggests that the SMN complex plays a regulatory role in this process in vivo. In summary, immune dysfunction in SMA is a consequence of reduced SMN levels and is driven by cellular and molecular mechanisms that are conserved between insects and mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric L Garcia
- Integrative Program for Biological and Genome Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- Department of Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Rebecca E Steiner
- Integrative Program for Biological and Genome Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- RNA Discovery and Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Centers, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, 27599, USA
- Present Address: Lake, Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, FL, USA
| | - Amanda C Raimer
- Integrative Program for Biological and Genome Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, 27599, USA
- Present Address, Radford University, Radford, VA, USA
| | - Laura E Herring
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - A Gregory Matera
- Integrative Program for Biological and Genome Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, 27599, USA.
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, 27599, USA.
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, 27599, USA.
- RNA Discovery and Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Centers, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, 27599, USA.
| | - Ashlyn M Spring
- Integrative Program for Biological and Genome Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, 27402, USA.
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4
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Balestri W, Sharma R, da Silva VA, Bobotis BC, Curle AJ, Kothakota V, Kalantarnia F, Hangad MV, Hoorfar M, Jones JL, Tremblay MÈ, El-Jawhari JJ, Willerth SM, Reinwald Y. Modeling the neuroimmune system in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:32. [PMID: 38263227 PMCID: PMC10807115 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-024-03024-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are neurodegenerative disorders caused by the interaction of genetic, environmental, and familial factors. These diseases have distinct pathologies and symptoms that are linked to specific cell populations in the brain. Notably, the immune system has been implicated in both diseases, with a particular focus on the dysfunction of microglia, the brain's resident immune cells, contributing to neuronal loss and exacerbating symptoms. Researchers use models of the neuroimmune system to gain a deeper understanding of the physiological and biological aspects of these neurodegenerative diseases and how they progress. Several in vitro and in vivo models, including 2D cultures and animal models, have been utilized. Recently, advancements have been made in optimizing these existing models and developing 3D models and organ-on-a-chip systems, holding tremendous promise in accurately mimicking the intricate intracellular environment. As a result, these models represent a crucial breakthrough in the transformation of current treatments for PD and AD by offering potential for conducting long-term disease-based modeling for therapeutic testing, reducing reliance on animal models, and significantly improving cell viability compared to conventional 2D models. The application of 3D and organ-on-a-chip models in neurodegenerative disease research marks a prosperous step forward, providing a more realistic representation of the complex interactions within the neuroimmune system. Ultimately, these refined models of the neuroimmune system aim to aid in the quest to combat and mitigate the impact of debilitating neuroimmune diseases on patients and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Balestri
- Department of Engineering, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
- Medical Technologies Innovation Facility, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Ruchi Sharma
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Related Technology (CAMTEC), University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Victor A da Silva
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Related Technology (CAMTEC), University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Bianca C Bobotis
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Related Technology (CAMTEC), University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Annabel J Curle
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Vandana Kothakota
- Department of Biosciences, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | | | - Maria V Hangad
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Related Technology (CAMTEC), University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Mina Hoorfar
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
| | - Joanne L Jones
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Marie-Ève Tremblay
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Related Technology (CAMTEC), University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Neurosciences Axis, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Institute On Aging and Lifelong Health, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Jehan J El-Jawhari
- Department of Biosciences, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Stephanie M Willerth
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada.
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada.
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Related Technology (CAMTEC), University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada.
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Yvonne Reinwald
- Department of Engineering, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK.
- Medical Technologies Innovation Facility, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK.
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5
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Garcia EL, Steiner RE, Raimer AC, Herring LE, Matera AG, Spring AM. Dysregulation of innate immune signaling in animal models of Spinal Muscular Atrophy. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.14.571739. [PMID: 38168196 PMCID: PMC10760185 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.14.571739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Background Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a devastating neuromuscular disease caused by hypomorphic loss of function in the Survival Motor Neuron (SMN) protein. SMA presents across broad spectrum of disease severity. Unfortunately, vertebrate models of intermediate SMA have been difficult to generate and are thus unable to address key aspects of disease etiology. To address these issues, we developed a Drosophila model system that recapitulates the full range of SMA severity, allowing studies of pre-onset biology as well as late-stage disease processes. Results Here, we carried out transcriptomic and proteomic profiling of mild and intermediate Drosophila models of SMA to elucidate molecules and pathways that contribute to the disease. Using this approach, we elaborated a role for the SMN complex in the regulation of innate immune signaling. We find that mutation or tissue-specific depletion of SMN induces hyperactivation of the Immune Deficiency (IMD) and Toll pathways, leading to overexpression of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and ectopic formation of melanotic masses in the absence of an external challenge. Furthermore, knockdown of downstream targets of these signaling pathways reduced melanotic mass formation caused by SMN loss. Importantly, we identify SMN as a negative regulator of an ubiquitylation complex that includes Traf6, Bendless and Diap2, and plays a pivotal role in several signaling networks. Conclusions In alignment with recent research on other neurodegenerative diseases, these findings suggest that hyperactivation of innate immunity contributes to SMA pathology. This work not only provides compelling evidence that hyperactive innate immune signaling is a primary effect of SMN depletion, but it also suggests that the SMN complex plays a regulatory role in this process in vivo. In summary, immune dysfunction in SMA is a consequence of reduced SMN levels and is driven by cellular and molecular mechanisms that are conserved between insects and mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric L. Garcia
- Integrative Program for Biological and Genome Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill NC, USA
- Department of Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington KY, USA
| | - Rebecca E. Steiner
- Integrative Program for Biological and Genome Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill NC, USA
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Amanda C. Raimer
- Integrative Program for Biological and Genome Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill NC, USA
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Laura E. Herring
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - A. Gregory Matera
- Integrative Program for Biological and Genome Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill NC, USA
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Ashlyn M. Spring
- Integrative Program for Biological and Genome Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill NC, USA
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro NC, USA
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Jiang Y, MacNeil LT. Simple model systems reveal conserved mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease and related tauopathies. Mol Neurodegener 2023; 18:82. [PMID: 37950311 PMCID: PMC10638731 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-023-00664-x] [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: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The lack of effective therapies that slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related tauopathies highlights the need for a more comprehensive understanding of the fundamental cellular mechanisms underlying these diseases. Model organisms, including yeast, worms, and flies, provide simple systems with which to investigate the mechanisms of disease. The evolutionary conservation of cellular pathways regulating proteostasis and stress response in these organisms facilitates the study of genetic factors that contribute to, or protect against, neurodegeneration. Here, we review genetic modifiers of neurodegeneration and related cellular pathways identified in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, and the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster, focusing on models of AD and related tauopathies. We further address the potential of simple model systems to better understand the fundamental mechanisms that lead to AD and other neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuwei Jiang
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Lesley T MacNeil
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.
- Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.
- Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research, McMaster University, 1280 Main St W, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada.
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7
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Tan FHP, Ting ACJ, Najimudin N, Watanabe N, Shamsuddin S, Zainuddin A, Osada H, Azzam G. 3-[[(3S)-1,2,3,4-Tetrahydroisoquinoline-3-Carbonyl]Amino]Propanoic Acid (THICAPA) Is Protective Against Aβ42-Induced Toxicity In Vitro and in an Alzheimer's Disease Drosophila. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2023; 78:1944-1952. [PMID: 37453137 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glad169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent type of dementia globally. The accumulation of amyloid-beta (Aβ) extracellular senile plaques in the brain is one of the hallmark mechanisms found in AD. Aβ42 is the most damaging and aggressively aggregating Aβ isomer produced in the brain. Although Aβ42 has been extensively researched as a crucial peptide connected to the development of the characteristic amyloid fibrils in AD, the specifics of its pathophysiology are still unknown. Therefore, the main objective was to identify novel compounds that could potentially mitigate the negative effects of Aβ42. 3-[[(3S)-1,2,3,4-Tetrahydroisoquinoline-3-carbonyl]amino]propanoic acid (THICAPA) was identified as a ligand for Aβ42 and for reducing fibrillary Aβ42 aggregation. THICAPA also improved cell viability when administered to PC12 neuronal cells that were exposed to Aβ42. Additionally, this compound diminished Aβ42 toxicity in the current AD Drosophila model by rescuing the rough eye phenotype, prolonging the life span, and enhancing motor functions. Through next-generation RNA-sequencing, immune response pathways were downregulated in response to THICAPA treatment. Thus, this study suggests THICAPA as a possible disease-modifying treatment for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence Hui Ping Tan
- School of Health Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
- USM-RIKEN Interdisciplinary Centre for Advanced Sciences (URICAS), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | | | - Nazalan Najimudin
- USM-RIKEN Interdisciplinary Centre for Advanced Sciences (URICAS), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Nobumoto Watanabe
- USM-RIKEN Interdisciplinary Centre for Advanced Sciences (URICAS), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
- Bioprobe Application Research Unit, RIKEN CSRS, Wako, Saitama, Japan
| | - Shaharum Shamsuddin
- School of Health Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
- Nanobiotech Research Initiative, Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Azalina Zainuddin
- Department of Chemical Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Hiroyuki Osada
- USM-RIKEN Interdisciplinary Centre for Advanced Sciences (URICAS), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
- Chemical Biology Research Group, RIKEN CSRS, Wako, Saitama, Japan
| | - Ghows Azzam
- School of Biological Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
- Malaysia Genome and Vaccine Institute (MGVI), National Institutes of Biotechnology Malaysia (NIBM), Jalan Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
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8
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Mazzotta GM, Ceccato N, Conte C. Synucleinopathies Take Their Toll: Are TLRs a Way to Go? Cells 2023; 12:cells12091231. [PMID: 37174631 PMCID: PMC10177040 DOI: 10.3390/cells12091231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The misfolding and subsequent abnormal accumulation and aggregation of α-Synuclein (αSyn) as insoluble fibrils in Lewy bodies and Lewy neurites is the pathological hallmark of Parkinson's disease (PD) and several neurodegenerative disorders. A combination of environmental and genetic factors is linked to αSyn misfolding, among which neuroinflammation is recognized to play an important role. Indeed, a number of studies indicate that a Toll-like receptor (TLR)-mediated neuroinflammation might lead to a dopaminergic neural loss, suggesting that TLRs could participate in the pathogenesis of PD as promoters of immune/neuroinflammatory responses. Here we will summarize our current understanding on the mechanisms of αSyn aggregation and misfolding, focusing on the contribution of TLRs to the progression of α-synucleinopathies and speculating on their link with the non-motor disturbances associated with aging and neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nadia Ceccato
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Carmela Conte
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Perugia, 06100 Perugia, Italy
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Nukala KM, Lilienthal AJ, Lye SH, Bassuk AG, Chtarbanova S, Manak JR. Downregulation of oxidative stress-mediated glial innate immune response suppresses seizures in a fly epilepsy model. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112004. [PMID: 36641750 PMCID: PMC9942582 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous work in our laboratory has shown that mutations in prickle (pk) cause myoclonic-like seizures and ataxia in Drosophila, similar to what is observed in humans carrying mutations in orthologous PRICKLE genes. Here, we show that pk mutant brains show elevated, sustained neuronal cell death that correlates with increasing seizure penetrance, as well as an upregulation of mitochondrial oxidative stress and innate immune response (IIR) genes. Moreover, flies exhibiting more robust seizures show increased levels of IIR-associated target gene expression suggesting they may be linked. Genetic knockdown in glia of either arm of the IIR (Immune Deficiency [Imd] or Toll) leads to a reduction in neuronal death, which in turn suppresses seizure activity, with oxidative stress acting upstream of IIR. These data provide direct genetic evidence that oxidative stress in combination with glial-mediated IIR leads to progression of an epilepsy disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishna M Nukala
- Department of Biology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | | | - Shu Hui Lye
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487, USA
| | - Alexander G Bassuk
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa and Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Iowa and Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; The Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa and Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | | | - J Robert Manak
- Department of Biology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa and Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
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Sun Y, Liang C, Zheng L, Liu L, Li Z, Yang G, Li Y. Anti-fatigue effect of hypericin in a chronic forced exercise mouse model. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 284:114767. [PMID: 34710555 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Hypericum perforatum L. is a traditional Chinese medicine used to sooth the liver, relieve depression, reduce body temperature, reduce sweating, and stimulate lactation. HP was extracted from Hypericum perforatum L. AIM OF STUDY The antifatigue effects of hypericin were assessed in a series of experiments. MATERIALS AND METHODS Six-to eight-week-old male ICR mice were raised in our lab. Mice were subjected to swimming training for 2 h, 6 days/week for 6 weeks. One hour prior to each swimming session, intraperitoneal injection of saline or HP (2 or 4 mg/kg) was performed. RESULTS Compared with the fatigue model control group, HP was found to significantly increase the swimming time in forced swimming tests. The molecular mechanisms underlying the antifatigue effects were further revealed by analysing energy metabolism, the oxidant-antioxidant system and the inflammatory response. HP normalized changes in BLA, LDH, BUN, and CK, LG in the liver. In addition, multiple assays have confirmed that HP improved the MDA, T-AOC, GSH-PX and SOD activity, and the relevant signalling pathways involved in the antifatigue effects were clarified. Furthermore, HP improves the expression of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in skeletal muscle. CONCLUSION These results suggested that the anti-chronic fatigue effects of HP are likely achieved by normalizing energy metabolism and attenuating oxidative and inflammatory responses. Consequently, this study supports HP use in the clinic to alleviate chronic fatigue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Sun
- School of Physical Education, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin, 130024, China
| | - Chen Liang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Druggable Gene and Protein Screening, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin, 130024, China
| | - Lihua Zheng
- National Engineering Laboratory for Druggable Gene and Protein Screening, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin, 130024, China
| | - Lei Liu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Druggable Gene and Protein Screening, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin, 130024, China.
| | - Zhijin Li
- Xiamen Health and Medical Big Data Center (Xiamen Medicine Research Institute), Xiamen Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine Research and Development, Xiamen, Fujian, 361008, China.
| | - Guang Yang
- School of Physical Education, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin, 130024, China.
| | - Yuxin Li
- National Engineering Laboratory for Druggable Gene and Protein Screening, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin, 130024, China
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11
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Han MH, Kwon MJ, Ko BS, Hyeon DY, Lee D, Kim HJ, Hwang D, Lee SB. NF-κB disinhibition contributes to dendrite defects in fly models of neurodegenerative diseases. J Cell Biol 2021; 219:211484. [PMID: 33090185 PMCID: PMC7588142 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202004107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Dendrite pathology is frequently observed in various neurodegenerative diseases (NDs). Although previous studies identified several pathogenic mediators of dendrite defects that act through loss of function in NDs, the underlying pathogenic mechanisms remain largely unexplored. Here, our search for additional pathogenic contributors to dendrite defects in NDs identifies Relish/NF-κB as a novel gain-of-toxicity–based mediator of dendrite defects in animal models for polyglutamine (polyQ) diseases and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In a Drosophila model for polyQ diseases, polyQ-induced dendrite defects require Dredd/Caspase-8–mediated endoproteolytic cleavage of Relish to generate the N-terminal fragment, Rel68, and subsequent Charon-mediated nuclear localization of Rel68. Rel68 alone induced neuronal toxicity causing dendrite and behavioral defects, and we identify two novel transcriptional targets, Tup and Pros, that mediate Rel68-induced neuronal toxicity. Finally, we show that Rel68-induced toxicity also contributes to dendrite and behavioral defects in a Drosophila model for ALS. Collectively, our data propose disinhibition of latent toxicity of Relish/NF-κB as a novel pathogenic mechanism underlying dendrite pathology in NDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myeong Hoon Han
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Jee Kwon
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung Su Ko
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Do Young Hyeon
- School of Biological Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Davin Lee
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung-Jun Kim
- Dementia Research Group, Korea Brain Research Institute, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Daehee Hwang
- School of Biological Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Bae Lee
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology, Daegu, Republic of Korea.,Protein Dynamics-Based Proteotoxicity Control Laboratory, Basic Research Lab, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology, Daegu, Korea.,Well Aging Research Center, Division of Biotechnology, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology, Daegu, Korea
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12
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Shi H, Su Z, Su H, Chen H, Zhang Y, Cheng Y. Mild hypothermia improves brain injury in rats with intracerebral hemorrhage by inhibiting IRAK2/NF-κB signaling pathway. Brain Behav 2021; 11:e01947. [PMID: 33319491 PMCID: PMC7821569 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.1947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the effect of mild hypothermia on nerve injury by establishing a rat model of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), and to clarify the specific molecular mechanism of mild hypothermia in improving brain injury in ICH rats. METHODS The rat model of ICH was established by collagenase injection. The neurological deficit score (NDS), brain tissue water detection, and Nissl staining were applied to detect the degree of brain injury. ELISA was used to analyze the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and serum nerve injury indexes. Flow cytometry and Western Blot were used to detect neuronal apoptosis. RESULTS Mild hypothermia treatment significantly improved the brain injury of the ICH rats and down-regulated the inflammatory response and oxidative stress in the brain tissue. Moreover, mild hypothermia also effectively inhibited IRAK2/NF-κB signaling pathway and thus affect neuronal apoptosis. CONCLUSION Mild hypothermia alleviates inflammatory response and neuronal apoptosis by inhibiting IRAK2/NF-κB signaling pathway in the ICH rats thus improving brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Shi
- Department of Neurosurgery, YongChuan Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zulu Su
- Department of Neurosurgery, YongChuan Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hai Su
- Department of Neurosurgery, YongChuan Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, YongChuan Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, YongChuan Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuan Cheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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13
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Swanson LC, Trujillo EA, Thiede GH, Katzenberger RJ, Shishkova E, Coon JJ, Ganetzky B, Wassarman DA. Survival Following Traumatic Brain Injury in Drosophila Is Increased by Heterozygosity for a Mutation of the NF-κB Innate Immune Response Transcription Factor Relish. Genetics 2020; 216:1117-1136. [PMID: 33109529 PMCID: PMC7768241 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.120.303776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) pathologies are caused by primary and secondary injuries. Primary injuries result from physical damage to the brain, and secondary injuries arise from cellular responses to primary injuries. A characteristic cellular response is sustained activation of inflammatory pathways commonly mediated by nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) transcription factors. Using a Drosophila melanogaster TBI model, we previously found that the main proximal transcriptional response to primary injuries is triggered by activation of Toll and Imd innate immune response pathways that engage NF-κB factors Dif and Relish (Rel), respectively. Here, we found by mass spectrometry that Rel protein level increased in fly heads at 4-8 hr after TBI. To investigate the necessity of Rel for secondary injuries, we generated a null allele, Reldel , by CRISPR/Cas9 editing. When heterozygous but not homozygous, the Reldel mutation reduced mortality at 24 hr after TBI and increased the lifespan of injured flies. Additionally, the effect of heterozygosity for Reldel on mortality was modulated by genetic background and diet. To identify genes that facilitate effects of Reldel on TBI outcomes, we compared genome-wide mRNA expression profiles of uninjured and injured +/+, +/Reldel , and Reldel /Reldel flies at 4 hr following TBI. Only a few genes changed expression more than twofold in +/Reldel flies relative to +/+ and Reldel /Reldel flies, and they were not canonical innate immune response genes. Therefore, Rel is necessary for TBI-induced secondary injuries but in complex ways involving Rel gene dose, genetic background, diet, and possibly small changes in expression of innate immune response genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura C Swanson
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706
- Medical Scientist Training Program, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706
| | - Edna A Trujillo
- Department of Chemistry, College of Letters & Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706
- National Center for Quantitative Biology of Complex Systems, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706
| | - Gene H Thiede
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706
| | - Rebeccah J Katzenberger
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706
| | - Evgenia Shishkova
- National Center for Quantitative Biology of Complex Systems, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706
| | - Joshua J Coon
- Department of Chemistry, College of Letters & Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706
- National Center for Quantitative Biology of Complex Systems, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, Wisconsin 53706
| | - Barry Ganetzky
- Department of Genetics, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706
| | - David A Wassarman
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706
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14
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Dalui S, Chatterjee S, Sinha P, Bhattacharyya A. Reduced Dpp expression accelerates inflammation-mediated neurodegeneration through activated glial cells during altered innate immune response in Drosophila. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2020; 170:104680. [PMID: 32980059 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2020.104680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The progression of neurodegenerative disease is very complex biological process and the molecular crosstalk of inflammatory cytokines during neurodegeneration is associated with multiple cascade signalling. Few evidences suggest that environmental toxin, Paraquat (PQ) administration activates the microglia and intensify the release of proinflamatory cytokines during progression of Parkinson''s disease (PD) but the proper aetiology remained unknown. However, the fundamental role of anti-inflammatory molecule Decapentaplegic (Dpp), homologue of the secreted mammalian Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signalling molecule during neurodegeneration of invertebrate fly model is yet to establish. To elucidate the molecular processes during early stage of Parkinson's disease, we observed neuro-toxin plays a determining role in the increased vulnerability to a particular PQ exposure that is attended by decreased lifespan, severe locomotor deficits, and more loss of dopaminergic (DA) neuron in PQ-treated Dpp deficient fly than wild type (WT). Simultaneously, activated microglia induced the inflammatory response with the release of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine in Drosophila during neurodegeneration. Moreover, neuro-toxin exposure altered the expression of innate immune genes in both WT and mutant fly compared to the respective PQ-treated flies. Interestingly, PQ exposure reduced the expression of innate immune genes in mutant fly compared to WT. It may indicate that PQ exposure had broken down the immune defence response in mutant fly than WT whereas, without PQ exposure the innate immune tolerance level was higher in fly with reduced Dpp expression than WT. Thus, we observed the conserve anti-inflammatory factor TGF-β may exhibit a crucial defensive role during inflammation mediated neurodegeneration in invertebrate Drosophila melanogaster.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shauryabrota Dalui
- Immunology Lab, Department of Zoology, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, India.
| | - Soumya Chatterjee
- Immunology Lab, Department of Zoology, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, India.
| | - Priyobrata Sinha
- Immunology Lab, Department of Zoology, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, India.
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15
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Arora S, Ligoxygakis P. Beyond Host Defense: Deregulation of Drosophila Immunity and Age-Dependent Neurodegeneration. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1574. [PMID: 32774336 PMCID: PMC7387716 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-dependent neurodegenerative disorders are a set of diseases that affect millions of individuals worldwide. Apart from a small subset that are the result of well-defined inherited autosomal dominant gene mutations (e.g., those encoding the β-amyloid precursor protein and presenilins), our understanding of the genetic network that underscores their pathology, remains scarce. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) especially in Alzheimer's disease patients and research in Parkinson's disease have implicated inflammation and the innate immune response as risk factors. However, even if GWAS etiology points toward innate immunity, untangling cause, and consequence is a challenging task. Specifically, it is not clear whether predisposition to de-regulated immunity causes an inadequate response to protein aggregation (such as amyloid or α-synuclein) or is the direct cause of this aggregation. Given the evolutionary conservation of the innate immune response in Drosophila and humans, unraveling whether hyperactive immune response in glia have a protective or pathological role in the brain could be a potential strategy in combating age-related neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srishti Arora
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Development and Genetics, Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Petros Ligoxygakis
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Development and Genetics, Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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16
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Dhankhar J, Agrawal N, Shrivastava A. An interplay between immune response and neurodegenerative disease progression: An assessment using Drosophila as a model. J Neuroimmunol 2020; 346:577302. [PMID: 32683186 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2020.577302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegeneration, the slow and progressive loss of neurons in the central nervous system has become a major challenge to public health worldwide particularly with elderly people. Until recently, the brain and immune system were studied exclusively, independent of each other representing two distinct systems. Recent studies ensue crosstalk between these two systems to maintain homeostasis. Though the progressive loss of specific neuronal subsets is a hallmark of neurodegenerative disease, emerging evidences indicate that immune response also plays a critical role in disease progression. Due to conservation of mechanisms that govern neural development and innate immune activation in flies and humans, and availability of powerful genetic tools, the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster is one of the best model organisms to investigate the immune response in neurodegenerative disease. Owing to significant homology between human and Drosophila immune system and recent reports on interplay between immune system and neurodegenerative disease progression, the main focus of the review is to develop a comprehensive understanding of how neuro-immune interactions contribute to neurodegeneration using Drosophila as a model system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Dhankhar
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Namita Agrawal
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
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17
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Biophysical studies of protein misfolding and aggregation in in vivo models of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Q Rev Biophys 2020; 49:e22. [PMID: 32493529 DOI: 10.1017/s0033583520000025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's diseases (PD), are characterised by the formation of aberrant assemblies of misfolded proteins. The discovery of disease-modifying drugs for these disorders is challenging, in part because we still have a limited understanding of their molecular origins. In this review, we discuss how biophysical approaches can help explain the formation of the aberrant conformational states of proteins whose neurotoxic effects underlie these diseases. We discuss in particular models based on the transgenic expression of amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau in AD, and α-synuclein in PD. Because biophysical methods have enabled an accurate quantification and a detailed understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying protein misfolding and aggregation in vitro, we expect that the further development of these methods to probe directly the corresponding mechanisms in vivo will open effective routes for diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.
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18
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Exposure to CuO Nanoparticles Mediates NFκB Activation and Enhances Amyloid Precursor Protein Expression. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8030045. [PMID: 32120908 PMCID: PMC7175332 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8030045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyloid precursor protein (APP) is directly related to Aβ amyloidosis—a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, the impact of environmental factors upon APP biology and Aβ amyloid pathology have not been well studied. The increased use of nanoparticles (NPs) or engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) has led to a growing body of evidence suggesting that exposure to metal/metal oxide NPs, such as Fe2O3, CuO, and ZnO, may contribute to the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases such as AD through neuroinflammation. Our previous studies indicated that exposure to CuO nanoparticles (CuONPs) induce potent in vitro neurotoxicity. Herein, we investigated the effects on APP expression in neuronal cells exposed to different metal oxide NPs. We found a low dose of CuONPs effectively activated the NFκB signaling pathway and increased APP expression. Moreover, the inhibition of p65 expression using siRNA abolished CuONP-mediated APP expression, suggesting that NFκB-regulated APP expression in response to CuONP exposure may be associated with AD pathology.
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19
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New insights on Drosophila antimicrobial peptide function in host defense and beyond. Curr Opin Immunol 2020; 62:22-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2019.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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20
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Genetic Dissection of Alzheimer's Disease Using Drosophila Models. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21030884. [PMID: 32019113 PMCID: PMC7037931 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21030884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a main cause of dementia, is the most common neurodegenerative disease that is related to abnormal accumulation of the amyloid β (Aβ) protein. Despite decades of intensive research, the mechanisms underlying AD remain elusive, and the only available treatment remains symptomatic. Molecular understanding of the pathogenesis and progression of AD is necessary to develop disease-modifying treatment. Drosophila, as the most advanced genetic model, has been used to explore the molecular mechanisms of AD in the last few decades. Here, we introduce Drosophila AD models based on human Aβ and summarize the results of their genetic dissection. We also discuss the utility of functional genomics using the Drosophila system in the search for AD-associated molecular mechanisms in the post-genomic era.
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21
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Shomali N, Baradaran B, Deljavanghodrati M, Akbari M, Hemmatzadeh M, Mohammadi H, Jang Y, Xu H, Sandoghchian Shotorbani S. A new insight into thymosin β4, a promising therapeutic approach for neurodegenerative disorders. J Cell Physiol 2019; 235:3270-3279. [PMID: 31612500 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.29293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Thymosin β4 (Tβ4), a G-actin-sequestering secreted peptide, improves neurovascular remodeling and central nervous system plasticity, which leads to neurological recovery in many neurological diseases. Inflammatory response adjustment and tissue inflammation consequences from neurological injury are vital for neurological recovery. The innate or nonspecific immune system is made of different components. The Toll-like receptor pro-inflammatory signaling pathway, which is one of these components, regulates tissue injury. The main component of the Toll-like/IL-1 receptor signaling pathway, which is known as IRAK1, can be regulated by miR-146a and regulates NF-κB expression. Due to the significant role of Tβ4 in oligodendrocytes, neurons, and microglial cells in neurological recovery, it is suggested that Tβ4 regulates the Toll-like receptor (TLR) pro-inflammatory signaling pathway by upregulating miR-146a in neurological disorders. However, further investigations on the role of Tβ4 in regulating the expression of miR146a and TLR signaling pathway in the immune response adjustment in neurological disorders provides an insight into mechanisms of action and the possibility of Tβ4 therapeutic effect enhancement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navid Shomali
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Behzad Baradaran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Morteza Akbari
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Maryam Hemmatzadeh
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamed Mohammadi
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Yue Jang
- Department of Immunology, Center of Clinical Medicine and Laboratory, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Huaxi Xu
- Department of Immunology, Center of Clinical Medicine and Laboratory, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Siamak Sandoghchian Shotorbani
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Immunology, Center of Clinical Medicine and Laboratory, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
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22
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Nainu F, Salim E, Asri RM, Hori A, Kuraishi T. Neurodegenerative disorders and sterile inflammation: lessons from a Drosophila model. J Biochem 2019; 166:213-221. [PMID: 31251338 DOI: 10.1093/jb/mvz053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS)-related disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases, are common but difficult to treat. As effective medical interventions are limited, those diseases will likely continue adversely affecting people's health. There is evidence that the hyperactivation of innate immunity is a hallmark of most neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and polyglutamine diseases. In mammalian and fly CNS, the presence of noninfectious ligands, including danger-associated molecular patterns, is recognized by (micro)glial cells, inducing the expression of proinflammatory cytokines. Such inflammation may contribute to the onset and progression of neurodegenerative states. Studies using fruit flies have shed light on the types of signals, receptors and cells responsible for inducing the inflammation that leads to neurodegeneration. Researchers are using fly models to assess the mechanisms of sterile inflammation in the brain and its link to progressive neurodegeneration. Given the similarity of its physiological system and biochemical function to those of mammals, especially in activating and regulating innate immune signalling, Drosophila can be a versatile model system for studying the mechanisms and biological significance of sterile inflammatory responses in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. Such knowledge would greatly facilitate the quest for a novel effective treatment for neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firzan Nainu
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Hasanuddin, Jl. Perintis Kemerdekaan Km.10 Tamalanrea, Makassar, Indonesia
| | - Emil Salim
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Jl. Tri Dharma No. 5 Pintu 4 Kampus USU, Medan, Indonesia.,Faculty of Pharmacy, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Shizenken, Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Rangga Meidianto Asri
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Hasanuddin, Jl. Perintis Kemerdekaan Km.10 Tamalanrea, Makassar, Indonesia.,Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Jl. Tri Dharma No. 5 Pintu 4 Kampus USU, Medan, Indonesia
| | - Aki Hori
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Jl. Tri Dharma No. 5 Pintu 4 Kampus USU, Medan, Indonesia
| | - Takayuki Kuraishi
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Jl. Tri Dharma No. 5 Pintu 4 Kampus USU, Medan, Indonesia
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23
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Lee WJ, Ham SA, Lee GH, Choi MJ, Yoo H, Paek KS, Lim DS, Hong K, Hwang JS, Seo HG. Activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor delta suppresses BACE1 expression by up-regulating SOCS1 in a JAK2/STAT1-dependent manner. J Neurochem 2019; 151:370-385. [PMID: 31063584 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Revised: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Neuronal expression of beta-secretase 1 (BACE1) has been implicated in the progression of Alzheimer's disease. However, the mechanisms that regulate BACE1 expression are unclear. Here, we show that peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor delta (PPARδ) decreases BACE1 expression by up-regulating suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 (SOCS1) in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. The activation of PPARδ by GW501516, a specific PPARδ agonist, inhibited expression of BACE1. This effect was abrogated by shRNA-mediated knockdown of PPARδ and by treatment with the PPARδ antagonist GSK0660, indicating that PPARδ is involved in GW501516-mediated suppression of BACE1 expression. On the other hand, GW501516-activated PPARδ induced expression of SOCS1, which is a negative regulator of cytokine signal transduction, at the transcriptional level by binding to a PPAR response element in its promoter. This GW501516-mediated induction of SOCS1 expression led to down-regulation of BACE1 expression via inactivation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1. GW501516-activated PPARδ suppressed the generation of neurotoxic amyloid beta (Aβ) in accordance with the decrease in BACE1 expression. Taken together, these results indicate that PPARδ attenuates BACE1 expression via SOCS1-mediated inhibition of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 signaling, thereby suppressing BACE1-associated generation of neurotoxic Aβ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Won Jin Lee
- College of Sang-Huh Life Sciences, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sun Ah Ham
- College of Sang-Huh Life Sciences, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Gyeong Hee Lee
- College of Sang-Huh Life Sciences, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Mi-Jung Choi
- College of Sang-Huh Life Sciences, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyunjin Yoo
- Department of Stem Cell & Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | | | - Dae-Seog Lim
- Department of Biotechnology, CHA University, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Kwonho Hong
- Department of Stem Cell & Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung Seok Hwang
- College of Sang-Huh Life Sciences, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Han Geuk Seo
- College of Sang-Huh Life Sciences, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
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24
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Galenza A, Foley E. Immunometabolism: Insights from the Drosophila model. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 94:22-34. [PMID: 30684503 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2019.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Revised: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Multicellular organisms inhabit an environment that includes a mix of essential nutrients and large numbers of potentially harmful microbes. Germline-encoded receptors scan the environment for microbe associated molecular patterns, and, upon engagement, activate powerful defenses to protect the host from infection. At the same time, digestive enzymes and transporter molecules sieve through ingested material for building blocks and energy sources necessary for survival, growth, and reproduction. We tend to view immune responses as a potent array of destructive forces that overwhelm potentially harmful agents. In contrast, we view metabolic processes as essential, constructive elements in the maintenance and propagation of life. However, there is considerable evidence of functional overlap between the two processes, and disruptions to one frequently modify outputs of the other. Studies of immunometabolism, or interactions between immunity and metabolism, have increased in prominence with the discovery of inflammatory components to metabolic diseases such as type two diabetes. In this review, we will focus on contributions of studies with the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, to our understanding of immunometabolism. Drosophila is widely used to study immune signaling, and to understand the regulation of metabolism in vivo, and this insect has considerable potential as a tool to build our understanding of the molecular and cellular bridges that connect immune and metabolic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Galenza
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2S2, Canada
| | - Edan Foley
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2S2, Canada.
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Jha NK, Jha SK, Kar R, Nand P, Swati K, Goswami VK. Nuclear factor-kappa β as a therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease. J Neurochem 2019; 150:113-137. [PMID: 30802950 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a typical progressive, chronic neurodegenerative disorder with worldwide prevalence. Its clinical manifestation involves the presence of extracellular plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs). NFTs occur in brain tissues as a result of both Aβ agglomeration and Tau phosphorylation. Although there is no known cure for AD, research into possible cures and treatment options continues using cell-cultures and model animals/organisms. The nuclear factor-kappa β (NF-κβ) plays an active role in the progression of AD. Impairment to this signaling module triggers undesirable phenotypic changes such as neuroinflammation, activation of microglia, oxidative stress related complications, and apoptotic cell death. These imbalances further lead to homeostatic abnormalities in the brain or in initial stages of AD essentially pushing normal neurons toward the degeneration process. Interestingly, the role of NF-κβ signaling associated receptor-interacting protein kinase is currently observed in apoptotic and necrotic cell death, and has been reported in brains. Conversely, the NF-κβ signaling pathway has also been reported to be involved in normal brain functioning. This pathway plays a crucial role in maintaining synaptic plasticity and balancing between learning and memory. Since any impairment in the pathways associated with NF-κβ signaling causes altered neuronal dynamics, neurotherapeutics using compounds including, antioxidants, bioflavonoids, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs against such abnormalities offer possibilities to rectify aberrant excitatory neuronal activity in AD. In this review, we have provided an extensive overview of the crucial role of NF-κβ signaling in normal brain homeostasis. We have also thoroughly outlined several established pathomechanisms associated with NF-κβ pathways in AD, along with their respective therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niraj Kumar Jha
- Department of Biotechnology, Noida Institute of Engineering & Technology (NIET), Greater Noida, India
| | - Saurabh Kumar Jha
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering & Technology, Sharda University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Rohan Kar
- Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University (Formerly DCE), Delhi, India
| | - Parma Nand
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering & Technology, Sharda University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Kumari Swati
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering & Technology, Sharda University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Vineet Kumar Goswami
- Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University (Formerly DCE), Delhi, India
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Drosophila as a Model to Study Brain Innate Immunity in Health and Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19123922. [PMID: 30544507 PMCID: PMC6321579 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19123922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Innate immunity is the first line of defense against invading pathogens and plays an essential role in defending the brain against infection, injury, and disease. It is currently well recognized that central nervous system (CNS) infections can result in long-lasting neurological sequelae and that innate immune and inflammatory reactions are highly implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration. Due to the conservation of the mechanisms that govern neural development and innate immune activation from flies to mammals, the lack of a classical adaptive immune system and the availability of numerous genetic and genomic tools, the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster presents opportunities to investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms associated with immune function in brain tissue and how they relate to infection, injury and neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we present an overview of currently identified innate immune mechanisms specific to the adult Drosophila brain.
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Mendonca P, Taka E, Bauer D, Reams RR, Soliman KFA. The attenuating effects of 1,2,3,4,6 penta-O-galloyl-β-d-glucose on pro-inflammatory responses of LPS/IFNγ-activated BV-2 microglial cells through NFƙB and MAPK signaling pathways. J Neuroimmunol 2018; 324:43-53. [PMID: 30236786 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2018.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Overactivated microglial cells exhibit chronic inflammatory response and can lead to the continuous production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, perpetuating inflammation, and ultimately resulting in neuronal injury. 1,2,3,4,6-Penta-O-Galloyl-β-d-Glucose (PGG), which is a naturally occurring polyphenolic compound, has exhibited anti-inflammatory effect through the inhibition of many cytokines in different experimental models, but its effect on activated microglia cells was never described. In the present study, we investigated PGG effect in proteins involved in the NFƙB and MAPK signaling pathways, which play a central role in inflammation through their ability to induce transcription of pro-inflammatory genes. METHODS PCR arrays and RT-PCR with individual primers were used to determine the effect of PGG on mRNA expression of genes involved in NFƙB and MAPK signaling pathways. Western blots were performed to confirm PCR results. RESULTS The data obtained showed that PGG modulated the expression of 5 genes from the NFƙB (BIRC3, CHUK, IRAK1, NFƙB1, NOD1) and 2 genes from MAPK signaling pathway (CDK2 and MYC) when tested in RT-PCR assays. Western blots confirmed the PCR results at the protein level, showing that PGG attenuated the expression of total and phosphorylated proteins (CDK2, CHUK, IRAK1, and NFƙB1) involved in NFƙB and MAPK signaling. CONCLUSION These findings show that PGG could modulate the expression of genes and proteins involved in the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in microglia cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Mendonca
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, United States
| | - Equar Taka
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, United States
| | - David Bauer
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, United States
| | - Renee R Reams
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, United States
| | - Karam F A Soliman
- College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, United States.
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Kounatidis I, Chtarbanova S. Role of Glial Immunity in Lifespan Determination: A Drosophila Perspective. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1362. [PMID: 29942319 PMCID: PMC6004738 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing body of evidence indicates that proper glial function plays an important role in neuroprotection and in organismal physiology throughout lifespan. Work done in the model organism Drosophila melanogaster has revealed important aspects of glial cell biology in the contexts of longevity and neurodegeneration. In this mini review, we summarize recent findings from work done in the fruit fly Drosophila about the role of glia in maintaining a healthy status during animal’s life and discuss the involvement of glial innate immune pathways in lifespan and neurodegeneration. Overactive nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathways and defective phagocytosis appear to be major contributors to lifespan shortening and neuropathology. Glial NF-κB silencing on the other hand, extends lifespan possibly through an immune–neuroendocrine axis. Given the evolutionary conservation of NF-κB innate immune signaling and of macrophage ontogeny across fruit flies, rodents, and humans, the above observations in glia could potentially support efforts for therapeutic interventions targeting to ameliorate age-related pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilias Kounatidis
- Cell Biology, Development, and Genetics Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Zhai Z, Huang X, Yin Y. Beyond immunity: The Imd pathway as a coordinator of host defense, organismal physiology and behavior. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2018; 83:51-59. [PMID: 29146454 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2017.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2017] [Revised: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The humoral arm of host defense in Drosophila relies on two evolutionarily conserved NFκB signaling cascades, the Toll and the immune deficiency (Imd) pathways. The Imd signaling pathway senses and neutralizes Gram-negative bacteria. Its activity is tightly adjusted, allowing the host to simultaneously prevent infection by pathogenic bacteria and tolerate beneficial gut microbiota. Over-activation of Imd signaling is detrimental at least in part by causing gut dysbiosis that further exacerbates intestinal pathologies. Furthermore, it is increasingly recognized that the Imd pathway or its components also play non-immune roles. In this review, we summarize recent advances in Imd signal transduction, discuss the gut-microbiota interactions mediated by Imd signaling, and finally elaborate on its diverse physiological functions beyond immunity. Understanding the multifaceted physiological outputs of Imd activation will help integrate its immune role into the regulation of whole organismal physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongzhao Zhai
- Changsha Medical University, 410125 Changsha, China; Animal Nutrition and Human Health Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, 410081 Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | | | - Yulong Yin
- Changsha Medical University, 410125 Changsha, China; Animal Nutrition and Human Health Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, 410081 Changsha, Hunan, China
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30
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Tsuda L, Omata Y, Yamasaki Y, Minami R, Lim YM. Pyroglutamate-amyloid-β peptide expression in Drosophila leads to caspase-dependent and endoplasmic reticulum stress-related progressive neurodegeneration. Hum Mol Genet 2018; 26:4642-4656. [PMID: 28973191 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddx346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2017] [Accepted: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disorder among the elderly. During the progression of AD, massive neuronal degeneration occurs in the late stage of the disease; however, the molecular mechanisms responsible for this neuronal loss remain unknown. AβpE3-42 (an N-terminal-truncated amyloid-β peptide that begins with pyroglutamate at the third position) is produced during late-stage AD. It also aggregates more rapidly in vitro and exhibits greater toxicity in neurons than full-length Aβ1-42. In the present study, we established a Drosophila melanogaster model that expresses Aβ3-42E3Q, which effectively produces AβpE3-42, and investigated the function of AβpE3-42 using the photoreceptor neurons of Drosophila. AβpE3-42 induced caspase-dependent apoptosis and caused progressive degeneration in photoreceptor neurons. Mutations in ER stress response genes or the administration of an inhibitor of the ER stress response markedly suppressed the degeneration phenotype, suggesting that the ER stress response plays an important role in neurodegeneration caused by AβpE3-42. We also confirmed that human Tau-dependent apoptotic induction was strongly enhanced by AβpE3-42. Thus, AβpE3-42 expression system in the fly may be a promising new tool for studying late-onset neurodegeneration in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leo Tsuda
- Center for Development of Advanced Medicine for Dementia (CAMD), National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology (NCGG), Obu, Aichi 474-8511, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Omata
- Center for Development of Advanced Medicine for Dementia (CAMD), National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology (NCGG), Obu, Aichi 474-8511, Japan
| | - Yasutoyo Yamasaki
- Center for Development of Advanced Medicine for Dementia (CAMD), National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology (NCGG), Obu, Aichi 474-8511, Japan
| | - Ryunosuke Minami
- Center for Development of Advanced Medicine for Dementia (CAMD), National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology (NCGG), Obu, Aichi 474-8511, Japan
| | - Young-Mi Lim
- Center for Development of Advanced Medicine for Dementia (CAMD), National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology (NCGG), Obu, Aichi 474-8511, Japan
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Abstract
Here, we provide a brief review of the mechanistic connections between immunity and aging—a fundamental biological relationship that remains poorly understood—by considering two intertwined questions: how does aging affect immunity, and how does immunity affect aging? On the one hand, aging contributes to the deterioration of immune function and predisposes the organism to infections (“immuno-senescence”). On the other hand, excessive activation of the immune system can accelerate degenerative processes, cause inflammation and immunopathology, and thus promote aging (“inflammaging”). Interestingly, several recent lines of evidence support the hypothesis that restrained or curbed immune activity at old age (that is, optimized age-dependent immune homeostasis) might actually improve realized immune function and thereby promote longevity. We focus mainly on insights from
Drosophila, a powerful genetic model system in which both immunity and aging have been extensively studied, and conclude by outlining several unresolved questions in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Garschall
- Department of Ecology & Evolution, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Flatt
- Department of Ecology & Evolution, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department of Biology, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
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32
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Novel targets in Alzheimer's disease: A special focus on microglia. Pharmacol Res 2018; 130:402-413. [PMID: 29391235 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Revised: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Several years after the intriguing novelty in the β-amyloid (Aβ) cascade hypothesis, where the Aβ oligomers emerged as the most detrimental species in the neuropathogenic process of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in place of fibrillar plaques, more recently innate immune system have come on stage as the other prominent factor. Neuroinflammation apparently contributes to AD eziopathogenesis, in large part through overactivation of microglia cells. Genetic and experimental studies strongly support the contribution of the immune system to increasing the risk of AD and participating in its progression. Besides the central immune response mediated by resident microglial cells, peripheral immune challenges may have profound negative effects on brain physiology as well, such as those originating from the gut microbiota. Despite the initial immune response to defend the organism, perpetuation seemingly turns into a chronic detrimental phenomenon that contributes to neuronal dysfunction and exacerbation of the disease. Several new immune-druggable targets are now under investigation, but much still remains to be defined about their precise role and whether and how their physiological activity changes in the injurious context of AD. From a therapeutic perspective, we can undoubtedly consider that AD is no longer solely an Aβ pathology, but rather a multifaceted disorder calling for multi-target therapies. New therapies fighting AD must still counteract Aβ but must also restore appropriate immune defences by tempering maladaptive factors and enabling beneficial responses.
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Unraveling the Burden of Iron in Neurodegeneration: Intersections with Amyloid Beta Peptide Pathology. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2018; 2018:2850341. [PMID: 29581821 PMCID: PMC5831758 DOI: 10.1155/2018/2850341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Accepted: 12/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Iron overload is a hallmark of many neurodegenerative processes such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's diseases. Unbound iron accumulated as a consequence of brain aging is highly reactive with water and oxygen and produces reactive oxygen species (ROS) or free radicals. ROS are toxic compounds able to damage cell membranes, DNA, and mitochondria. Which are the mechanisms involved in neuronal iron homeostasis and in neuronal response to iron-induced oxidative stress constitutes a cutting-edge topic in metalloneurobiology. Increasing our knowledge about the underlying mechanisms that operate in iron accumulation and their consequences would shed light on the comprehension of the molecular events that participate in the pathophysiology of the abovementioned neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, current evidences about iron accumulation in the brain, the signaling mechanisms triggered by metal overload, as well as the interaction between amyloid β (Aβ) and iron, will be summarized.
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34
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Jones SV, Kounatidis I. Nuclear Factor-Kappa B and Alzheimer Disease, Unifying Genetic and Environmental Risk Factors from Cell to Humans. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1805. [PMID: 29312321 PMCID: PMC5732234 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, an eversible, progressive disease that causes problems with memory, thinking, language, planning, and behavior. There are a number of risk factors associated with developing AD but the exact cause remains unknown. The predominant theory is that excessive build-up of amyloid protein leads to cell death, brain atrophy, and cognitive and functional decline. However, the amyloid hypothesis has not led to a single successful treatment. The recent failure of Solanezumab, a monoclonal antibody to amyloid, in a large phase III trial was emblematic of the repeated failure of anti-amyloid therapeutics. New disease targets are urgently needed. The innate immune system is increasingly being implicated in the pathology of number of chronic diseases. This focused review will summarize the role of transcription factor nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), a key regulator of innate immunity, in the major genetic and environmental risk factors in cellular, invertebrate and vertebrate models of AD. The paper will also explore the relationship between NF-κB and emerging environmental risk factors in an attempt to assess the potential for this transcription factor to be targeted for disease prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Vann Jones
- Department of Psychiatry, Warneford Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ilias Kounatidis
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Development and Genetics, Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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35
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Shmuel-Galia L, Klug Y, Porat Z, Charni M, Zarmi B, Shai Y. Intramembrane attenuation of the TLR4-TLR6 dimer impairs receptor assembly and reduces microglia-mediated neurodegeneration. J Biol Chem 2017; 292:13415-13427. [PMID: 28655763 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m117.784983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2017] [Revised: 06/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, a single study revealed a new complex composed of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), TLR6, and CD36 induced by fibrillary Aβ peptides, the hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. Unlike TLRs located on the plasma membrane that dimerize on the membrane after ligand binding to their extracellular domain, the TLR4-TLR6-CD36 complex assembly has been suggested to be induced by intracellular signals from CD36, similar to integrin inside-out signaling. However, the assembly site of TLR4-TLR6-CD36 and the domains participating in Aβ-induced signaling is still unknown. By interfering with TLR4-TLR6 dimerization using a TLR4-derived peptide, we show that receptor assembly is abrogated within the plasma membrane. Furthermore, we reveal that the transmembrane domains of TLR4 and TLR6 have an essential role in receptor dimerization and activation. Inhibition of TLR4-TLR6 assembly was associated with reduced secretion of proinflammatory mediators from microglia cells, ultimately rescuing neurons from death. Our findings support TLR4-TLR6 dimerization induced by Aβ. Moreover, we shed new light on TLR4-TLR6 assembly and localization and show the potential of inhibiting TLR4-TLR6 dimerization as a treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yoel Klug
- From the Departments of Biomolecular Science and
| | - Ziv Porat
- Biological Services, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | | | - Batya Zarmi
- From the Departments of Biomolecular Science and
| | - Yechiel Shai
- From the Departments of Biomolecular Science and
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36
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Belfiori-Carrasco LF, Marcora MS, Bocai NI, Ceriani MF, Morelli L, Castaño EM. A Novel Genetic Screen Identifies Modifiers of Age-Dependent Amyloid β Toxicity in the Drosophila Brain. Front Aging Neurosci 2017; 9:61. [PMID: 28352227 PMCID: PMC5349081 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2017.00061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2016] [Accepted: 02/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The accumulation of amyloid β peptide (Aβ) in the brain of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients begins many years before clinical onset. Such process has been proposed to be pathogenic through the toxicity of Aβ soluble oligomers leading to synaptic dysfunction, phospho-tau aggregation and neuronal loss. Yet, a massive accumulation of Aβ can be found in approximately 30% of aged individuals with preserved cognitive function. Therefore, within the frame of the "amyloid hypothesis", compensatory mechanisms and/or additional neurotoxic or protective factors need to be considered and investigated. Here we describe a modifier genetic screen in Drosophila designed to identify genes that modulate toxicity of Aβ42 in the CNS. The expression of Aβ42 led to its accumulation in the brain and a moderate impairment of negative geotaxis at 18 days post-eclosion (d.p.e) as compared with genetic or parental controls. These flies were mated with a collection of lines carrying chromosomal deletions and negative geotaxis was assessed at 5 and 18 d.p.e. Our screen is the first to take into account all of the following features, relevant to sporadic AD: (1) pan-neuronal expression of wild-type Aβ42; (2) a quantifiable complex behavior; (3) Aβ neurotoxicity associated with progressive accumulation of the peptide; and (4) improvement or worsening of climbing ability only evident in aged animals. One hundred and ninety-nine deficiency (Df) lines accounting for ~6300 genes were analyzed. Six lines, including the deletion of 52 Drosophila genes with human orthologs, significantly modified Aβ42 neurotoxicity in 18-day-old flies. So far, we have validated CG11796 and identified CG17249 as a strong candidate (whose human orthologs are HPD and PRCC, respectively) by using RNAi or mutant hemizygous lines. PRCC encodes proline-rich protein PRCC (ppPRCC) of unknown function associated with papillary renal cell carcinoma. HPD encodes 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD), a key enzyme in tyrosine degradation whose Df causes autosomal recessive Tyrosinemia type 3, characterized by mental retardation. Interestingly, lines with a partial Df of HPD ortholog showed increased intraneuronal accumulation of Aβ42 that coincided with geotaxis impairment. These previously undetected modifiers of Aβ42 neurotoxicity in Drosophila warrant further study to validate their possible role and significance in the pathogenesis of sporadic AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lautaro F Belfiori-Carrasco
- Laboratorio de Amiloidosis y Neurodegeneración, Fundación Instituto Leloir-Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET) Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María S Marcora
- Laboratorio de Amiloidosis y Neurodegeneración, Fundación Instituto Leloir-Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET) Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nadia I Bocai
- Laboratorio de Amiloidosis y Neurodegeneración, Fundación Instituto Leloir-Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET) Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M Fernanda Ceriani
- Laboratorio de Genética del Comportamiento, Fundación Instituto Leloir-Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET) Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Laura Morelli
- Laboratorio de Amiloidosis y Neurodegeneración, Fundación Instituto Leloir-Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET) Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Eduardo M Castaño
- Laboratorio de Amiloidosis y Neurodegeneración, Fundación Instituto Leloir-Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET) Buenos Aires, Argentina
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37
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Yorkie Regulates Neurodegeneration Through Canonical Pathway and Innate Immune Response. Mol Neurobiol 2017; 55:1193-1207. [PMID: 28102471 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-017-0388-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Expansion of CAG repeats in certain genes has long been known to be associated with neurodegenerastion, but the quest to identity the underlying mechanisms is still on. Here, we analyzed the role of Yorkie, the coactivator of the Hippo pathway, and provide evidence to state that it is a robust genetic modifier of polyglutamine (PolyQ)-mediated neurodegeneration. Yorkie reduces the pathogenicity of inclusion bodies in the cell by activating cyclin E and bantam, rather than by preventing apoptosis through DIAP1. PolyQ aggregates inhibit Yorkie functioning at the protein, rather than the transcript level, and this is probably accomplished by the interaction between PolyQ and Yorkie. We show that PolyQ aggregates upregulate expression of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and Yorkie negatively regulates immune deficiency (IMD) and Toll pathways through relish and cactus, respectively, thus reducing AMPs and mitigating PolyQ affects. These studies strongly suggest a novel mechanism of suppression of PolyQ-mediated neurotoxicity by Yorkie through multiple channels.
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38
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Butterfield DA, Palmieri EM, Castegna A. Clinical implications from proteomic studies in neurodegenerative diseases: lessons from mitochondrial proteins. Expert Rev Proteomics 2016; 13:259-74. [PMID: 26837425 DOI: 10.1586/14789450.2016.1149470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondria play a key role in eukaryotic cells, being mediators of energy, biosynthetic and regulatory requirements of these cells. Emerging proteomics techniques have allowed scientists to obtain the differentially expressed proteome or the proteomic redox status in mitochondria. This has unmasked the diversity of proteins with respect to subcellular location, expression and interactions. Mitochondria have become a research 'hot spot' in subcellular proteomics, leading to identification of candidate clinical targets in neurodegenerative diseases in which mitochondria are known to play pathological roles. The extensive efforts to rapidly obtain differentially expressed proteomes and unravel the redox proteomic status in mitochondria have yielded clinical insights into the neuropathological mechanisms of disease, identification of disease early stage and evaluation of disease progression. Although current technical limitations hamper full exploitation of the mitochondrial proteome in neurosciences, future advances are predicted to provide identification of specific therapeutic targets for neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Allan Butterfield
- a Department of Chemistry, and Sanders-Brown Center on Aging , University of Kentucky , Lexington , KY , USA
| | - Erika M Palmieri
- b Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics , University of Bari 'Aldo Moro' , Bari , Italy
| | - Alessandra Castegna
- b Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics , University of Bari 'Aldo Moro' , Bari , Italy
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Iwai-Shimada M, Takahashi T, Kim MS, Fujimura M, Ito H, Toyama T, Naganuma A, Hwang GW. Methylmercury induces the expression of TNF-α selectively in the brain of mice. Sci Rep 2016; 6:38294. [PMID: 27910896 PMCID: PMC5133575 DOI: 10.1038/srep38294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 11/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Methylmercury selectively damages the central nervous system (CNS). The tumor necrosis factor (TNF) superfamily includes representative cytokines that participate in the inflammatory response as well as cell survival, and apoptosis. In this study, we found that administration of methylmercury selectively induced TNF-α expression in the brain of mice. Although the accumulated mercury concentration in the liver and kidneys was greater than in the brain, TNF-α expression was induced to a greater extent in brain. Thus, it is possible that there may exist a selective mechanism by which methylmercury induces TNF-α expression in the brain. We also found that TNF-α expression was induced by methylmercury in C17.2 cells (mouse neural stem cells) and NF-κB may participate as a transcription factor in that induction. Further, we showed that the addition of TNF-α antagonist (WP9QY) reduced the toxicity of methylmercury to C17.2 cells. In contrast, the addition of recombinant TNF-α to the culture medium decreased the cell viability. We suggest that TNF-α may play a part in the selective damage of the CNS by methylmercury. Furthermore, our results indicate that the higher TNF-α expression induced by methylmercury maybe the cause of cell death, as TNF-α binds to its receptor after being released extracellularly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miyuki Iwai-Shimada
- Laboratory of Molecular and Biochemical Toxicology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8578, Japan.,Center for Health and Environmental Risk Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Onogawa16-2, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8506, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Takahashi
- Laboratory of Molecular and Biochemical Toxicology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8578, Japan.,School of Pharmacy, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, 1432-1 Horinouchi, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0232, Japan
| | - Min-Seok Kim
- Laboratory of Molecular and Biochemical Toxicology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8578, Japan.,Department of Inhalation Toxicology Research, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Jeonbuk 56212, Republic of Korea
| | - Masatake Fujimura
- Department of Basic Medical Science, National Institute for Minamata Disease, Kumamoto 867-0008, Japan
| | - Hitoyasu Ito
- Department of Informative Clinical Medicine, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1194, Japan
| | - Takashi Toyama
- Laboratory of Molecular and Biochemical Toxicology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8578, Japan
| | - Akira Naganuma
- Laboratory of Molecular and Biochemical Toxicology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8578, Japan
| | - Gi-Wook Hwang
- Laboratory of Molecular and Biochemical Toxicology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8578, Japan
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Zhang M, Wang Y, Qian F, Li P, Xu X. Hypericin inhibits oligomeric amyloid β42-induced inflammation response in microglia and ameliorates cognitive deficits in an amyloid β injection mouse model of Alzheimer's disease by suppressing MKL1. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2016; 481:71-76. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2016.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/05/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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41
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Mengke NS, Hu B, Han QP, Deng YY, Fang M, Xie D, Li A, Zeng HK. Rapamycin inhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced neuroinflammation in vitro and in vivo. Mol Med Rep 2016; 14:4957-4966. [PMID: 27779711 PMCID: PMC5355655 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2016.5883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2015] [Accepted: 07/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common type of progressive neurodegenerative disorder, and is responsible for the most common form of dementia in the elderly. Inflammation occurs in the brains of patients with AD, and is critical for disease progression. In the present study, the effects of rapamycin (RAPA) on neuroinflammation lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced were investigated. SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells were treated with 20 µg/ml LPS and 0.1, 1 or 10 nmol/l RAPA, and were analyzed at various time points (6, 12 and 24 h). The mRNA expression levels of interleukin (IL) 1β, IL6 and hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF1α) were determined using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The protein expression levels of phosphorylated (p-)S6, p-nuclear factor κB (NFκB), p-inhibitor of NFκB kinase subunit β (IKKβ) and p-tau protein were measured by western blot analysis. p-IKKβ, p-NFκB, p-S6 and p-tau were significantly decreased at 6, 12 and 24 h when cells were treated with ≥0.1 nmol/ml RAPA. In addition, female Sprague Dawley rats were intracranially injected with a single dose of 100 µg/kg LPS in the absence or presence of 1 mg/kg RAPA pretreatment. Brain tissues were subjected to immunohistochemical analysis 6–24 h later, which revealed that the expression levels of HIF1α and p-S6 in rat cerebral cortex were increased following LPS injection; however, this increase was abrogated by RAPA treatment. RAPA may therefore be considered a potential therapeutic agent for the early or emergency treatment of neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na-Shun Mengke
- Faculty of Graduate Studies, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China
| | - Bei Hu
- Faculty of Graduate Studies, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China
| | - Qian-Peng Han
- Faculty of Graduate Studies, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China
| | - Yi-Yu Deng
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Guangdong General Hospital & Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Ming Fang
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Guangdong General Hospital & Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Di Xie
- Faculty of Graduate Studies, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China
| | - Ang Li
- Department of Histoembryology, Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China
| | - Hong-Ke Zeng
- Faculty of Graduate Studies, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, P.R. China
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Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a complex disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. The complexity of TBI partly stems from the fact that injuries to the brain instigate non-neurological injuries to other organs such as the intestine. Additionally, genetic variation is thought to play a large role in determining the nature and severity of non-neurological injuries. We recently reported that TBI in flies, as in humans, increases permeability of the intestinal epithelial barrier resulting in hyperglycemia and a higher risk of death. Furthermore, we demonstrated that genetic variation in flies is also pertinent to the complexity of non-neurological injuries following TBI. The goals of this review are to place our findings in the context of what is known about TBI-induced intestinal permeability from studies of TBI patients and rodent TBI models and to draw attention to how studies of the fly TBI model can provide unique insights that may facilitate diagnosis and treatment of TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Barry Ganetzky
- a Laboratory of Genetics; University of Wisconsin-Madison ; Madison , WI USA
| | - David A Wassarman
- a Laboratory of Genetics; University of Wisconsin-Madison ; Madison , WI USA
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Alquézar C, de la Encarnación A, Moreno F, de Munain AL, Martín-Requero Á. Progranulin deficiency induces overactivation of WNT5A expression via TNF-α/NF-κB pathway in peripheral cells from frontotemporal dementia-linked granulin mutation carriers. J Psychiatry Neurosci 2016; 41:225-39. [PMID: 26624524 PMCID: PMC4915932 DOI: 10.1503/jpn.150131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loss-of-function progranulin gene (GRN) mutations have been identified as the major cause of frontotemporal lobar degeneration with transactive response (TAR) DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) pathology (frontotemporal lobar degeneration [FTLD]-TDP); however, little is known about the association between progranulin (PGRN) deficiency and neuronal loss in individuals with FTLD-TDP. Previously we reported enhanced proliferative activity associated with the activation of WNT5A/CDK6/pRb signalling in PGRN-deficient cells. The objective of this work was to elucidate the association between PGRN deficiency, WNT5A signalling and cell proliferation in immortalized lymphoblasts from carriers of the c.709-1G > A GRN mutation (asymptomatic and FTLD-TDP). METHODS We assessed cell proliferation in carriers of the c.709-1G > A GRN gene mutation and controls without GRN mutation and without sign of neurologic degeneration by cell counting or using an MTT assay. We used a luciferase assay to measure the nuclear factor-κ (NF-κ) activity. We evaluated messenger RNA levels using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and protein levels by immunoblotting. Co-immunoprecipitation was used to analyze the interaction between PGRN and its receptors. RESULTS We enrolled 19 carriers of the GRN gene mutation and 10 controls in this study. The PGRN-deficient cells showed increased expression of WNT5A due to NF-κB signalling overactivation. We observed a competition between PGRN and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) for binding both TNF receptors (TNFR) I and II. Blocking NF-κB signalling using wedelolactone or specific antibodies against TNFRs inhibited WNT5A overexpression and proliferation of PGRN-deficient cells. Conversely, the activation of NF-κB signalling by TNF-α increased WNT5A-dependent proliferation of control cells. LIMITATIONS All cell lines were derived from individuals harboring the same splicing GRN mutation. Nevertheless, most of the known GRN mutations lead to haploinsufficiency of the protein. CONCLUSION Our results revealed an important role of NF-κB signalling in PGRN-associated FTLD-TDP and confirm that PGRN can bind to TNF-α receptors regulating the expression of WNT5A, suggesting novel targets for treatment of FTLD-TDP linked to GRN mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Ángeles Martín-Requero
- Correspondence to: Á. Martín-Requero, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas (CSIC), Ramiro de Maeztu 9, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
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Sarkar A, Irwin M, Singh A, Riccetti M, Singh A. Alzheimer's disease: the silver tsunami of the 21(st) century. Neural Regen Res 2016; 11:693-7. [PMID: 27335537 PMCID: PMC4904444 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.182680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), a fatal progressive neurodegenerative disorder, has no cure to date. One of the causes of AD is the accumulation of amyloid-beta 42 (Aβ42) plaques, which result in the onset of neurodegeneration. It is not known how these plaques trigger the onset of neurodegeneration. There are several animal models developed to (i) study etiology of disease, (ii) look for genetic modifiers, and (iii) identify chemical inhibitors that can block neurodegeneration and help to find cure for this disease. An insect model of Drosophila melanogaster has also provided new insights into the disease. Here we will discuss the utility of the Drosophila eye model to study Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Sarkar
- Department of Biology, University of Dayton, Dayton, OH, USA
| | - Madison Irwin
- Department of Biology, University of Dayton, Dayton, OH, USA
| | - Aditi Singh
- Department of Biology, University of Dayton, Dayton, OH, USA
| | | | - Amit Singh
- Department of Biology, University of Dayton, Dayton, OH, USA; Premedical Program, University of Dayton, Dayton, OH, USA; Center for Tissue Regeneration and Engineering at Dayton (TREND), University of Dayton, Dayton, OH, USA
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45
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Modeling the complex pathology of Alzheimer's disease in Drosophila. Exp Neurol 2015; 274:58-71. [PMID: 26024860 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2015.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2015] [Revised: 05/13/2015] [Accepted: 05/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia and the most common neurodegenerative disorder. AD is mostly a sporadic disorder and its main risk factor is age, but mutations in three genes that promote the accumulation of the amyloid-β (Aβ42) peptide revealed the critical role of amyloid precursor protein (APP) processing in AD. Neurofibrillary tangles enriched in tau are the other pathological hallmark of AD, but the lack of causative tau mutations still puzzles researchers. Here, we describe the contribution of a powerful invertebrate model, the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster, to uncover the function and pathogenesis of human APP, Aβ42, and tau. APP and tau participate in many complex cellular processes, although their main function is microtubule stabilization and the to-and-fro transport of axonal vesicles. Additionally, expression of secreted Aβ42 induces prominent neuronal death in Drosophila, a critical feature of AD, making this model a popular choice for identifying intrinsic and extrinsic factors mediating Aβ42 neurotoxicity. Overall, Drosophila has made significant contributions to better understand the complex pathology of AD, although additional insight can be expected from combining multiple transgenes, performing genome-wide loss-of-function screens, and testing anti-tau therapies alone or in combination with Aβ42.
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46
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Katzenberger RJ, Chtarbanova S, Rimkus SA, Fischer JA, Kaur G, Seppala JM, Swanson LC, Zajac JE, Ganetzky B, Wassarman DA. Death following traumatic brain injury in Drosophila is associated with intestinal barrier dysfunction. eLife 2015; 4. [PMID: 25742603 PMCID: PMC4377547 DOI: 10.7554/elife.04790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2014] [Accepted: 03/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of death and disability worldwide. Unfavorable TBI outcomes result from primary mechanical injuries to the brain and ensuing secondary non-mechanical injuries that are not limited to the brain. Our genome-wide association study of Drosophila melanogaster revealed that the probability of death following TBI is associated with single nucleotide polymorphisms in genes involved in tissue barrier function and glucose homeostasis. We found that TBI causes intestinal and blood–brain barrier dysfunction and that intestinal barrier dysfunction is highly correlated with the probability of death. Furthermore, we found that ingestion of glucose after a primary injury increases the probability of death through a secondary injury mechanism that exacerbates intestinal barrier dysfunction. Our results indicate that natural variation in the probability of death following TBI is due in part to genetic differences that affect intestinal barrier dysfunction. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.04790.001 Traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a violent blow to the head or body and the resultant collision of the brain against the skull is a major cause of disability and death in humans. Primary injury to the brain triggers secondary injuries that further damage the brain and other organs, generating many of the detrimental consequences of TBI. However, despite decades of study, the exact nature of these secondary injuries and their origin are poorly understood. A better understanding of secondary injuries should help to develop novel therapies to improve TBI outcomes in affected individuals. To obtain this information, in 2013 researchers devised a method to inflict TBI in the common fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, an organism that is readily amenable to detailed genetic and molecular studies. This investigation demonstrated that flies subjected to TBI display many of the same symptoms observed in humans after a brain injury, including temporary loss of mobility and damage to the brain that becomes worse over time. In addition, many of the flies die within 24 hr after brain injury. Now Katzenberger et al. use this experimental system to investigate the secondary injuries responsible for these deaths. First, genetic variants were identified that confer increased or decreased susceptibility to death after brain injury. Several of the identified genes affect the structural integrity of the intestinal barrier that isolates the contents of the gut—including nutrients and bacteria—from the circulatory system. Katzenberger et al. subsequently found that the breakdown of this barrier after brain injury permits bacteria and glucose to leak out of the intestine. Treating flies with antibiotics did not increase survival, whereas reducing glucose levels in the circulatory system after brain injury did. Thus, Katzenberger et al. conclude that high levels of glucose in the circulatory system, a condition known as hyperglycemia, is a key culprit in death following TBI. Notably, these results parallel findings in humans, where hyperglycemia is highly predictive of death following TBI. Similarly, individuals with diabetes have a significantly increased risk of death after TBI. These results suggest that the secondary injuries leading to death are the same in flies and humans and that further studies in flies are likely to provide additional new information that will help us understand the complex consequences of TBI. Important challenges remain, including understanding precisely how the brain and intestine communicate, how injury to the brain leads to disruption of the intestinal barrier, and why elevated glucose levels increase mortality after brain injury. Answers to these questions could help pave the way to new therapies for TBI. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.04790.002
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebeccah J Katzenberger
- Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
| | | | - Stacey A Rimkus
- Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
| | - Julie A Fischer
- Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
| | - Gulpreet Kaur
- Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
| | - Jocelyn M Seppala
- Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
| | - Laura C Swanson
- Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
| | - Jocelyn E Zajac
- Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
| | - Barry Ganetzky
- Laboratory of Genetics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
| | - David A Wassarman
- Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
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Buchon N, Silverman N, Cherry S. Immunity in Drosophila melanogaster--from microbial recognition to whole-organism physiology. Nat Rev Immunol 2014; 14:796-810. [PMID: 25421701 PMCID: PMC6190593 DOI: 10.1038/nri3763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 521] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Since the discovery of antimicrobial peptide responses 40 years ago, the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster has proven to be a powerful model for the study of innate immunity. Early work focused on innate immune mechanisms of microbial recognition and subsequent nuclear factor-κB signal transduction. More recently, D. melanogaster has been used to understand how the immune response is regulated and coordinated at the level of the whole organism. For example, researchers have used this model in studies investigating interactions between the microbiota and the immune system at barrier epithelial surfaces that ensure proper nutritional and immune homeostasis both locally and systemically. In addition, studies in D. melanogaster have been pivotal in uncovering how the immune response is regulated by both endocrine and metabolic signalling systems, and how the immune response modifies these systems as part of a homeostatic circuit. In this Review, we briefly summarize microbial recognition and antiviral immunity in D. melanogaster, and we highlight recent studies that have explored the effects of organism-wide regulation of the immune response and, conversely, the effects of the immune response on organism physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Buchon
- Department of Entomology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, USA
| | - Neal Silverman
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, University of Massachusetts School of Medicine, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605, USA
| | - Sara Cherry
- Department of Microbiology, Penn Genome Frontiers Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA
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DeCarlo CA, Tuokko HA, Williams D, Dixon RA, MacDonald SWS. BioAge: toward a multi-determined, mechanistic account of cognitive aging. Ageing Res Rev 2014; 18:95-105. [PMID: 25278166 PMCID: PMC4258131 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2014.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2014] [Revised: 09/06/2014] [Accepted: 09/15/2014] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The search for reliable early indicators of age-related cognitive decline represents a critical avenue for progress in aging research. Chronological age is a commonly used developmental index; however, it offers little insight into the mechanisms underlying cognitive decline. In contrast, biological age (BioAge), reflecting the vitality of essential biological systems, represents a promising operationalization of developmental time. Current BioAge models have successfully predicted age-related cognitive deficits. Research on aging-related cognitive function indicates that the interaction of multiple risk and protective factors across the human lifespan confers individual risk for late-life cognitive decline, implicating a multi-causal explanation. In this review, we explore current BioAge models, describe three broad yet pathologically relevant biological processes linked to cognitive decline, and propose a novel operationalization of BioAge accounting for both moderating and causal mechanisms of cognitive decline and dementia. We argue that a multivariate and mechanistic BioAge approach will lead to a greater understanding of disease pathology as well as more accurate prediction and early identification of late-life cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Correne A DeCarlo
- Department of Psychology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada; Centre on Aging, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada.
| | - Holly A Tuokko
- Department of Psychology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada; Centre on Aging, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Dorothy Williams
- Department of Geriatrics, West Coast General Hospital, Port Alberni, BC, Canada
| | - Roger A Dixon
- Department of Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB Canada
| | - Stuart W S MacDonald
- Department of Psychology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada; Centre on Aging, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
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Latypova EM, Timoshenko SI, Kislik GA, Vitek M, Shvartsman AL, Sarantseva SV. [Investigation of neuroprotective activity of apolipoprotein E peptide mimetic Cog1410 in transgenic lines of Drosophila melanogaster]. BIOMEDIT︠S︡INSKAI︠A︡ KHIMII︠A︡ 2014; 60:515-21. [PMID: 25249536 DOI: 10.18097/pbmc20146004515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The neuroprotective activity of apolipoprotein E (apoE) peptide mimetic Cog1410, containing amino acid sequence of the receptor-binding domain apoE, has been investigated in transgenic lines of Drosophila melanogaster expressing human APP and beta-secretase. Expression of two transgenes caused neuropathological processes attributed to Alzheimer's disease: neurodegeneration, cognitive abnormality and amyloid deposits formation in brain. It was shown that Cog 1410 reduces neurodegeneration in brain of transgenic flies and improves cognitive functions (odor recognition). These data suggest that Cog1410 is a potential neuroprotector that can be used in AD treatment.
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50
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Allan K, Perez KA, Barnham KJ, Camakaris J, Burke R. A commonly usedDrosophilamodel of Alzheimer's disease generates an aberrant species of amyloid-β with an additional N-terminal glutamine residue. FEBS Lett 2014; 588:3739-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2014.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2014] [Revised: 08/18/2014] [Accepted: 08/18/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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