1
|
Schultz A, Cheng SY, Kirchner E, Costello S, Miettinen H, Chaverra M, King C, George L, Zhao X, Narasimhan J, Weetall M, Slaugenhaupt S, Morini E, Punzo C, Lefcort F. Reduction of retinal ganglion cell death in mouse models of familial dysautonomia using AAV-mediated gene therapy and splicing modulators. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18600. [PMID: 37903840 PMCID: PMC10616160 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-45376-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Familial dysautonomia (FD) is a rare neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disease caused by a splicing mutation in the Elongator Acetyltransferase Complex Subunit 1 (ELP1) gene. The reduction in ELP1 mRNA and protein leads to the death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and visual impairment in all FD patients. Currently patient symptoms are managed, but there is no treatment for the disease. We sought to test the hypothesis that restoring levels of Elp1 would thwart the death of RGCs in FD. To this end, we tested the effectiveness of two therapeutic strategies for rescuing RGCs. Here we provide proof-of-concept data that gene replacement therapy and small molecule splicing modifiers effectively reduce the death of RGCs in mouse models for FD and provide pre-clinical foundational data for translation to FD patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Schultz
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - Shun-Yun Cheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Neurobiology and Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Emily Kirchner
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Stephanann Costello
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - Heini Miettinen
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - Marta Chaverra
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - Colin King
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - Lynn George
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
- Department of Biological and Physical Science, Montana State University Billings, Billings, MT, USA
| | - Xin Zhao
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, NJ, 07080, USA
| | | | - Marla Weetall
- PTC Therapeutics, Inc., South Plainfield, NJ, 07080, USA
| | - Susan Slaugenhaupt
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elisabetta Morini
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Claudio Punzo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Neurobiology and Gene Therapy Center, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Frances Lefcort
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Schultz A, Cheng SY, Kirchner E, Costello S, Miettinen H, Chaverra M, King C, George L, Zhao X, Narasimhan J, Weetall M, Slaugenhaupt S, Morini E, Punzo C, Lefcort F. Reduction of retinal ganglion cell death in mouse models of familial dysautonomia using AAV-mediated gene therapy and splicing modulators. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.22.541535. [PMID: 37293016 PMCID: PMC10245894 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.22.541535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Familial dysautonomia (FD) is a rare neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disease caused by a splicing mutation in the Elongator Acetyltransferase Complex Subunit 1 ( ELP1 ) gene. The reduction in ELP1 mRNA and protein leads to the death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and visual impairment in all FD patients. Currently, patient symptoms are managed, but there is no treatment for the disease. We sought to test the hypothesis that restoring levels of Elp1 would thwart the death of RGCs in FD. To this end, we tested the effectiveness of two therapeutic strategies for rescuing RGCs. Here we provide proof-of-concept data that gene replacement therapy and small molecule splicing modifiers effectively reduce the death of RGCs in mouse models for FD and provide pre-clinical data foundation for translation to FD patients.
Collapse
|
3
|
Rescue of a familial dysautonomia mouse model by AAV9-Exon-specific U1 snRNA. Am J Hum Genet 2022; 109:1534-1548. [PMID: 35905737 PMCID: PMC9388384 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2022.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Familial dysautonomia (FD) is a currently untreatable, neurodegenerative disease caused by a splicing mutation (c.2204+6T>C) that causes skipping of exon 20 of the elongator complex protein 1 (ELP1) pre-mRNA. Here, we used adeno-associated virus serotype 9 (AAV9-U1-FD) to deliver an exon-specific U1 (ExSpeU1) small nuclear RNA, designed to cause inclusion of ELP1 exon 20 only in those cells expressing the target pre-mRNA, in a phenotypic mouse model of FD. Postnatal systemic and intracerebral ventricular treatment in these mice increased the inclusion of ELP1 exon 20. This also augmented the production of functional protein in several tissues including brain, dorsal root, and trigeminal ganglia. Crucially, the treatment rescued most of the FD mouse mortality before one month of age (89% vs 52%). There were notable improvements in ataxic gait as well as renal (serum creatinine) and cardiac (ejection fraction) functions. RNA-seq analyses of dorsal root ganglia from treated mice and human cells overexpressing FD-ExSpeU1 revealed only minimal global changes in gene expression and splicing. Overall then, our data prove that AAV9-U1-FD is highly specific and will likely be a safe and effective therapeutic strategy for this debilitating disease.
Collapse
|
4
|
Al-Kuraishy HM, Al-Gareeb AI, Qusti S, Alshammari EM, Gyebi GA, Batiha GES. Covid-19-Induced Dysautonomia: A Menace of Sympathetic Storm. ASN Neuro 2021; 13:17590914211057635. [PMID: 34755562 PMCID: PMC8586167 DOI: 10.1177/17590914211057635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Among the plethora of debilitating neurological disorders of COVID-19 syndrome in survivors, the scope of SARS-CoV-2-induced dysautonomia (DNS) is yet to be understood, though the implications are enormous. Herein, we present an inclusive mini-review of SARS-CoV-2-induced DNS and its associated complications. Although, the direct link between Covid-19 and DSN is still speculative, the hypothetical links are thought to be either a direct neuronal injury of the autonomic pathway or a para/post-infectious immune-induced mechanism. SARS-CoV-2 infection-induced stress may activate the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) leading to neuro-hormonal stimulation and activation of pro-inflammatory cytokines with further development of sympathetic storm. Sympathetic over-activation in Covid-19 is correlated with increase in capillary pulmonary leakage, alveolar damage, and development of acute respiratory distress syndrome. Furthermore, SARS-CoV-2 can spread through pulmonary mechanoreceptors and chemoreceptors to medullary respiratory center in a retrograde manner resulting in sudden respiratory failure. Taken together, DSN in Covid-19 is developed due to sympathetic storm and inhibition of Parasympathetic nervous system-mediated anti-inflammatory effect with development of cytokine storm. Therefore, sympathetic and cytokine storms together with activation of Renin-Angiotensin-System are the chief final pathway involved in the development of DSN in Covid-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hayder M Al-Kuraishy
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, Almustansiriyia University
| | - Ali I Al-Gareeb
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, Almustansiriyia University
| | - Safaa Qusti
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, 37848King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eida M Alshammari
- Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, University of Ha'il, Ha'il, Saudi Arabia
| | - Gideon Ampoma Gyebi
- Department of Biochemistry, 236312Faculty of Science and Technology Bingham University, Karu, Nasarawa, Nigeria
| | - Gaber El-Saber Batiha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, 289643Damanhour University, AlBeheira, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Vahidi G, Flook H, Sherk V, Mergy M, Lefcort F, Heveran CM. Bone biomechanical properties and tissue-scale bone quality in a genetic mouse model of familial dysautonomia. Osteoporos Int 2021; 32:2335-2346. [PMID: 34036438 PMCID: PMC8563419 DOI: 10.1007/s00198-021-06006-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Familial dysautonomia (FD) is associated with a high prevalence of bone fractures, but the impacts of the disease on bone mass and quality are unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate tissue through whole-bone scale bone quality in a mouse model of FD. METHODS Femurs from mature adult Tuba1a-Cre; Elp1LoxP/LoxP conditional knockouts (CKO) (F = 7, M = 4) and controls (F = 5, M = 6) were evaluated for whole-bone flexural material properties, trabecular microarchitecture and cortical geometry, and areal bone mineral density (BMD). Adjacent maps spanning the thickness of femur midshaft cortical bone assessed tissue-scale modulus (nanoindentation), bone mineralization, mineral maturity, and collagen secondary structure (Raman spectroscopy). RESULTS Consistent with prior studies on this mouse model, the Elp1 CKO mouse model recapitulated several key hallmarks of human FD, with one difference being the male mice tended to have a more severe phenotype than females. Deletion of Elp1 in neurons (using the neuronal-specific Tuba1a-cre) led to a significantly reduced whole-bone toughness but not strength or modulus. Elp1 CKO female mice had reduced trabecular microarchitecture (BV/TV, Tb.Th, Conn.D.) but not cortical geometry. The mutant mice also had a small but significant reduction in cortical bone nanoindentation modulus. While bone tissue mineralization and mineral maturity were not impaired, FD mice may have altered collagen secondary structure. Changes in collagen secondary structure were inversely correlated with bone toughness. BMD from dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was unchanged with FD. CONCLUSION The deletion of Elp1 in neurons is sufficient to generate a mouse line which demonstrates loss of whole-bone toughness, consistent with the poor bone quality suspected in the clinical setting. The Elp1 CKO model, as with human FD, impacts the nervous system, gut, kidney function, mobility, gait, and posture. The bone quality phenotype of Elp1 CKO mice, which includes altered microarchitecture and tissue-scale material properties, is complex and likely influenced by these multisystemic changes. This mouse model may provide a useful platform to not only investigate the mechanisms responsible for bone fragility in FD, but also a powerful model system with which to evaluate potential therapeutic interventions for bone fragility in FD patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Vahidi
- Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineerings, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - H Flook
- Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineerings, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - V Sherk
- Department of Orthopaedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - M Mergy
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - F Lefcort
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - C M Heveran
- Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineerings, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Mejzini R, Flynn LL, Pitout IL, Fletcher S, Wilton SD, Akkari PA. ALS Genetics, Mechanisms, and Therapeutics: Where Are We Now? Front Neurosci 2019; 13:1310. [PMID: 31866818 PMCID: PMC6909825 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.01310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 433] [Impact Index Per Article: 86.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The scientific landscape surrounding amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) continues to shift as the number of genes associated with the disease risk and pathogenesis, and the cellular processes involved, continues to grow. Despite decades of intense research and over 50 potentially causative or disease-modifying genes identified, etiology remains unexplained and treatment options remain limited for the majority of ALS patients. Various factors have contributed to the slow progress in understanding and developing therapeutics for this disease. Here, we review the genetic basis of ALS, highlighting factors that have contributed to the elusiveness of genetic heritability. The most commonly mutated ALS-linked genes are reviewed with an emphasis on disease-causing mechanisms. The cellular processes involved in ALS pathogenesis are discussed, with evidence implicating their involvement in ALS summarized. Past and present therapeutic strategies and the benefits and limitations of the model systems available to ALS researchers are discussed with future directions for research that may lead to effective treatment strategies outlined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rita Mejzini
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
- The Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Loren L. Flynn
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
- The Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, WA, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Ianthe L. Pitout
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
- The Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, WA, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Sue Fletcher
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
- The Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, WA, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Steve D. Wilton
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
- The Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, WA, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - P. Anthony Akkari
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
- The Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, WA, Australia
- Centre for Neuromuscular and Neurological Disorders, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Kadlecová A, Maková B, Artal-Sanz M, Strnad M, Voller J. The plant hormone kinetin in disease therapy and healthy aging. Ageing Res Rev 2019; 55:100958. [PMID: 31479763 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2019.100958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2019] [Revised: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
It has been more than 60 years since the discovery of kinetin, the first known member of a group of plant hormones called cytokinins. In this review we summarize the health-promoting activity of kinetin in animal systems, ranging from cells cultured in vitro through invertebrates to mammals. Kinetin has been shown to modulate aging, to delay age-related physiological decline and to protect against some neurodegenerative diseases. We also review studies on its mechanism of action, as well as point out gaps in our current knowledge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alena Kadlecová
- Laboratory of Growth Regulators, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Experimental Botany & Palacký University, Šlechtitelů 27, CZ-78371 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Barbara Maková
- Laboratory of Growth Regulators, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Experimental Botany & Palacký University, Šlechtitelů 27, CZ-78371 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Marta Artal-Sanz
- Andalusian Centre for Developmental Biology, CISIC-JA-University Pablo de Olavide, Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemical Engineering, Carretera de Utrera km 1, 41013 Sevilla, Spain
| | - Miroslav Strnad
- Laboratory of Growth Regulators, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Experimental Botany & Palacký University, Šlechtitelů 27, CZ-78371 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Voller
- Laboratory of Growth Regulators, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Experimental Botany & Palacký University, Šlechtitelů 27, CZ-78371 Olomouc, Czech Republic; Department of Clinical and Molecular Pathology, Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacký University, Hněvotínská 3, 775 15 Olomouc, Czech Republic.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Bruun GH, Bang JMV, Christensen LL, Brøner S, Petersen USS, Guerra B, Grønning AGB, Doktor TK, Andresen BS. Blocking of an intronic splicing silencer completely rescues IKBKAP exon 20 splicing in familial dysautonomia patient cells. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 46:7938-7952. [PMID: 29762696 PMCID: PMC6125618 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gky395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2017] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Familial dysautonomia (FD) is a severe genetic disorder causing sensory and autonomic dysfunction. It is predominantly caused by a c.2204+6T>C mutation in the IKBKAP gene. This mutation decreases the 5′ splice site strength of IKBKAP exon 20 leading to exon 20 skipping and decreased amounts of full-length IKAP protein. We identified a binding site for the splicing regulatory protein hnRNP A1 downstream of the IKBKAP exon 20 5′-splice site. We show that hnRNP A1 binds to this splicing regulatory element (SRE) and that two previously described inhibitory SREs inside IKBKAP exon 20 are also bound by hnRNP A1. Knockdown of hnRNP A1 in FD patient fibroblasts increases IKBKAP exon 20 inclusion demonstrating that hnRNP A1 is a negative regulator of IKBKAP exon 20 splicing. Furthermore, by mutating the SREs in an IKBKAP minigene we show that all three SREs cause hnRNP A1-mediated exon repression. We designed splice switching oligonucleotides (SSO) that blocks the intronic hnRNP A1 binding site, and demonstrate that this completely rescues splicing of IKBKAP exon 20 in FD patient fibroblasts and increases the amounts of IKAP protein. We propose that this may be developed into a potential new specific treatment of FD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gitte H Bruun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and The Villum Center for Bioanalytical Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Jeanne M V Bang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and The Villum Center for Bioanalytical Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Lise L Christensen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and The Villum Center for Bioanalytical Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Sabrina Brøner
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and The Villum Center for Bioanalytical Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Ulrika S S Petersen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and The Villum Center for Bioanalytical Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Barbara Guerra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and The Villum Center for Bioanalytical Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Alexander G B Grønning
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and The Villum Center for Bioanalytical Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Thomas K Doktor
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and The Villum Center for Bioanalytical Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Brage S Andresen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and The Villum Center for Bioanalytical Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sinha R, Kim YJ, Nomakuchi T, Sahashi K, Hua Y, Rigo F, Bennett CF, Krainer AR. Antisense oligonucleotides correct the familial dysautonomia splicing defect in IKBKAP transgenic mice. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 46:4833-4844. [PMID: 29672717 PMCID: PMC6007753 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gky249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Familial dysautonomia (FD) is a rare inherited neurodegenerative disorder caused by a point mutation in the IKBKAP gene that results in defective splicing of its pre-mRNA. The mutation weakens the 5′ splice site of exon 20, causing this exon to be skipped, thereby introducing a premature termination codon. Though detailed FD pathogenesis mechanisms are not yet clear, correcting the splicing defect in the relevant tissue(s), thus restoring normal expression levels of the full-length IKAP protein, could be therapeutic. Splice-switching antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) can be effective targeted therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases, such as nusinersen (Spinraza), an approved drug for spinal muscular atrophy. Using a two-step screen with ASOs targeting IKBKAP exon 20 or the adjoining intronic regions, we identified a lead ASO that fully restored exon 20 splicing in FD patient fibroblasts. We also characterized the corresponding cis-acting regulatory sequences that control exon 20 splicing. When administered into a transgenic FD mouse model, the lead ASO promoted expression of full-length human IKBKAP mRNA and IKAP protein levels in several tissues tested, including the central nervous system. These findings provide insights into the mechanisms of IKBKAP exon 20 recognition, and pre-clinical proof of concept for an ASO-based targeted therapy for FD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Sinha
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA.,Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Young Jin Kim
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA.,Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY 11790, USA
| | - Tomoki Nomakuchi
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA.,Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY 11790, USA
| | - Kentaro Sahashi
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA.,Department of Neurology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Yimin Hua
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA.,Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Frank Rigo
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA
| | | | - Adrian R Krainer
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathies (HSANs) are a clinically heterogeneous group of inherited neuropathies featuring prominent sensory and autonomic involvement. Classification of HSAN is based on mode of inheritance, genetic mutation, and phenotype. In this review, we discuss the recent additions to this classification and the important updates on management with a special focus on the recently investigated disease-modifying agents. RECENT FINDINGS In this past decade, three more HSAN types were added to the classification creating even more diversity in the genotype-phenotype. Clinical trials are underway for disease-modifying and symptomatic therapeutics, targeting mainly HSAN type III. Obtaining genetic testing leads to accurate diagnosis and guides focused management in the setting of such a diverse and continuously growing phenotype. It also increases the wealth of knowledge on HSAN pathophysiologies which paves the way toward development of targeted genetic treatments in the era of precision medicine.
Collapse
|
11
|
Saito-Diaz K, Zeltner N. Induced pluripotent stem cells for disease modeling, cell therapy and drug discovery in genetic autonomic disorders: a review. Clin Auton Res 2019; 29:367-384. [PMID: 30631982 DOI: 10.1007/s10286-018-00587-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 12/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The autonomic nervous system (ANS) regulates all organs in the body independent of consciousness, and is thus essential for maintaining homeostasis of the entire organism. Diseases of the ANS can arise due to environmental insults such as injury, toxins/drugs and infections or due to genetic lesions. Human studies and animal models have been instrumental to understanding connectivity and regulation of the ANS and its disorders. However, research into cellular pathologies and molecular mechanisms of ANS disorders has been hampered by the difficulties in accessing human patient-derived ANS cells in large numbers to conduct meaningful research, mainly because patient neurons cannot be easily biopsied and primary human neuronal cultures cannot be expanded.Human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) technology can elegantly bridge these issues, allowing unlimited access of patient-derived ANS cell types for cellular, molecular and biochemical analysis, facilitating the discovery of novel therapeutic targets, and eventually leading to drug discovery. Additionally, such cells may provide a source for cell replacement therapy to replenish lost or injured ANS tissue in patients.Here, we first review the anatomy and embryonic development of the ANS, as this knowledge is crucial for understanding disease modeling approaches. We then review the current advances in human stem cell technology for modeling diseases of the ANS, recent strides toward cell replacement therapy and drug discovery initiatives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenyi Saito-Diaz
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Nadja Zeltner
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA. .,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA. .,Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wali G, Sue CM, Mackay-Sim A. Patient-Derived Stem Cell Models in SPAST HSP: Disease Modelling and Drug Discovery. Brain Sci 2018; 8:E142. [PMID: 30065201 PMCID: PMC6120041 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci8080142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Revised: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hereditary spastic paraplegia is an inherited, progressive paralysis of the lower limbs first described by Adolph Strümpell in 1883 with a further detailed description of the disease by Maurice Lorrain in 1888. Today, more than 100 years after the first case of HSP was described, we still do not know how mutations in HSP genes lead to degeneration of the corticospinal motor neurons. This review describes how patient-derived stem cells contribute to understanding the disease mechanism at the cellular level and use this for discovery of potential new therapeutics, focusing on SPAST mutations, the most common cause of HSP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gautam Wali
- Department of Neurogenetics, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2065, Australia.
| | - Carolyn M Sue
- Department of Neurogenetics, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2065, Australia.
| | - Alan Mackay-Sim
- Griffith Institute for Drug Discovery, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Yu D, Tan Y, Chakraborty M, Tomchik S, Davis RL. Elongator complex is required for long-term olfactory memory formation in Drosophila. Learn Mem 2018; 25:183-196. [PMID: 29545390 PMCID: PMC5855525 DOI: 10.1101/lm.046557.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The evolutionarily conserved Elongator Complex associates with RNA polymerase II for transcriptional elongation. Elp3 is the catalytic subunit, contains histone acetyltransferase activity, and is associated with neurodegeneration in humans. Elp1 is a scaffolding subunit and when mutated causes familial dysautonomia. Here, we show that elp3 and elp1 are required for aversive long-term olfactory memory in Drosophila RNAi knockdown of elp3 in adult mushroom bodies impairs long-term memory (LTM) without affecting earlier forms of memory. RNAi knockdown with coexpression of elp3 cDNA reverses the impairment. Similarly, RNAi knockdown of elp1 impairs LTM and coexpression of elp1 cDNA reverses this phenotype. The LTM deficit in elp3 and elp1 knockdown flies is accompanied by the abolishment of a LTM trace, which is registered as increased calcium influx in response to the CS+ odor in the α-branch of mushroom body neurons. Coexpression of elp1 or elp3 cDNA rescues the memory trace in parallel with LTM. These data show that the Elongator complex is required in adult mushroom body neurons for long-term behavioral memory and the associated long-term memory trace.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dinghui Yu
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Ying Tan
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Molee Chakraborty
- Department of Neuroscience, Scripps Research Institute Florida, Jupiter, Florida 33458, USA
| | - Seth Tomchik
- Department of Neuroscience, Scripps Research Institute Florida, Jupiter, Florida 33458, USA
| | - Ronald L Davis
- Department of Neuroscience, Scripps Research Institute Florida, Jupiter, Florida 33458, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
A Patient-Specific Stem Cell Model to Investigate the Neurological Phenotype Observed in Ataxia-Telangiectasia. Methods Mol Biol 2018; 1599:391-400. [PMID: 28477134 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-6955-5_28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
The molecular pathogenesis of ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T) is not yet fully understood, and a versatile cellular model is required for in vitro studies. The occurrence of continuous neurogenesis and easy access make the multipotent adult stem cells from the olfactory mucosa within the nasal cavity a potential cellular model. We describe an efficient method to establish neuron-like cells from olfactory mucosa biopsies derived from A-T patients for the purpose of studying the cellular and molecular aspects of this debilitating disease.
Collapse
|
15
|
Animal and cellular models of familial dysautonomia. Clin Auton Res 2017; 27:235-243. [PMID: 28667575 DOI: 10.1007/s10286-017-0438-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2017] [Accepted: 06/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Since Riley and Day first described the clinical phenotype of patients with familial dysautonomia (FD) over 60 years ago, the field has made considerable progress clinically, scientifically, and translationally in treating and understanding the etiology of FD. FD is classified as a hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy (HSAN type III) and is both a developmental and a progressive neurodegenerative condition that results from an autosomal recessive mutation in the gene IKBKAP, also known as ELP1. FD primarily impacts the peripheral nervous system but also manifests in central nervous system disruption, especially in the retina and optic nerve. While the disease is rare, the rapid progress being made in elucidating the molecular and cellular mechanisms mediating the demise of neurons in FD should provide insight into degenerative pathways common to many neurological disorders. Interestingly, the protein encoded by IKBKAP/ELP1, IKAP or ELP1, is a key scaffolding subunit of the six-subunit Elongator complex, and variants in other Elongator genes are associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), intellectual disability, and Rolandic epilepsy. Here we review the recent model systems that are revealing the molecular and cellular pathophysiological mechanisms mediating FD. These powerful model systems can now be used to test targeted therapeutics for mitigating neuronal loss in FD and potentially other disorders.
Collapse
|
16
|
Human neural stem/progenitor cells derived from the olfactory epithelium express the TrkB receptor and migrate in response to BDNF. Neuroscience 2017; 355:84-100. [PMID: 28499977 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2017.04.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2017] [Revised: 04/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Neurogenesis constitutively occurs in the olfactory epithelium of mammals, including humans. The fact that new neurons in the adult olfactory epithelium derive from resident neural stem/progenitor cells suggests a potential use for these cells in studies of neural diseases, as well as in neuronal cell replacement therapies. In this regard, some studies have proposed that the human olfactory epithelium is a source of neural stem/progenitor cells for autologous transplantation. Although these potential applications are interesting, it is important to understand the cell biology and/or whether human neural stem/progenitor cells in the olfactory epithelium sense external signals, such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), that is also found in other pro-neurogenic microenvironments. BDNF plays a key role in several biological processes, including cell migration. Thus, we characterized human neural stem/progenitor cells derived from the olfactory epithelium (hNS/PCs-OE) and studied their in vitro migratory response to BDNF. In the present study, we determined that hNS/PCs-OE express the protein markers Nestin, Sox2, Ki67 and βIII-tubulin. Moreover, the doubling time of hNS/PCs-OE was approximately 38h. Additionally, we found that hNS/PCs-OE express the BDNF receptor TrkB, and pharmacological approaches showed that the BDNF-induced (40ng/ml) migration of differentiated hNS/PCs-OE was affected by the compound K252a, which prevents TrkB activation. This observation was accompanied by changes in the number of vinculin adhesion contacts. Our results suggest that hNS/PCs-OE exhibit a migratory response to BDNF, accompanied by the turnover of adhesion contacts.
Collapse
|
17
|
Faulty RNA splicing: consequences and therapeutic opportunities in brain and muscle disorders. Hum Genet 2017; 136:1215-1235. [DOI: 10.1007/s00439-017-1802-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Accepted: 04/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
|
18
|
Hervé M, Ibrahim EC. Proteasome inhibitors to alleviate aberrant IKBKAP mRNA splicing and low IKAP/hELP1 synthesis in familial dysautonomia. Neurobiol Dis 2017; 103:113-122. [PMID: 28404519 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2017.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2017] [Revised: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
FD is a rare neurodegenerative disorder caused by a mutation of the IKBKAP gene, which induces low expression levels of the Elongator subunit IKAP/hELP1 protein. A rational strategy for FD treatment could be to identify drugs increasing IKAP/hELP1 expression levels by blocking protein degradation pathways such as the 26S proteasome. Proteasome inhibitors are promising molecules emerging in cancer treatment and could thus constitute an enticing pharmaceutical strategy for FD treatment. Therefore, we tested three proteasome inhibitors on FD human olfactory ecto-mesenchymal stem cells (hOE-MSCs): two approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA), bortezomib and carfilzomib, as well as epoxomicin. Although all 3 inhibitors demonstrated activity in correcting IKBKAP mRNA aberrant splicing, carfilzomib was superior in enhancing IKAP/hELP1 quantity. Moreover, we observed a synergistic effect of suboptimal doses of carfilzomib on kinetin in improving IKBKAP isoforms ratio and IKAP/hELP1 expression levels allowing to counterbalance carfilzomib toxicity. Finally, we identified several dysregulated miRNAs after carfilzomib treatment that target proteasome-associated mRNAs and determined that IKAP/hELP1 deficiency in FD pathology is correlated to an overactivity of the 26S proteasome. Altogether, these results reinforce the rationale for using chemical compounds inhibiting the 26S proteasome as an innovative option for FD and a promising therapeutic pathway for many other neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mylène Hervé
- Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, CRN2M, 13344 Marseille Cedex 15, France
| | - El Chérif Ibrahim
- Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, CRN2M, 13344 Marseille Cedex 15, France; Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, INT, Inst Neurosci Timone, 13385 Marseille Cedex 5, France.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Franco I, Ortiz-López L, Roque-Ramírez B, Ramírez-Rodríguez GB, Lamas M. Pharmacological inhibition of DNA methyltransferase 1 promotes neuronal differentiation from rodent and human nasal olfactory stem/progenitor cell cultures. Int J Dev Neurosci 2017; 58:65-73. [PMID: 28161254 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2017.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Revised: 01/28/2017] [Accepted: 01/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Nasal olfactory stem and neural progenitor cells (NOS/PCs) are considered possible tools for regenerative stem cell therapies in neurodegenerative diseases. Neurogenesis is a complex process regulated by extrinsic and intrinsic signals that include DNA-methylation and other chromatin modifications that could be experimentally manipulated in order to increase neuronal differentiation. The aim of the present study was the characterization of primary cultures and consecutive passages (P2-P10) of NOS/PCs isolated from male Swiss-Webster (mNOS/PCs) or healthy humans (hNOS/PCs). We evaluated and compared cellular morphology, proliferation rates and the expression pattern of pluripotency-associated markers and DNA methylation-associated gene expression in these cultures. Neuronal differentiation was induced by exposure to all-trans retinoic acid and forskolin for 7 days and evaluated by morphological analysis and immunofluorescence against neuronal markers MAP2, NSE and MAP1B. In response to the inductive cues mNOS/PCs expressed NSE (75.67%) and MAP2 (35.34%); whereas the majority of the hNOS/PCs were immunopositive to MAP1B. Treatment with procainamide, a specific inhibitor of DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1), increases in the number of forskolin'/retinoic acid-induced mature neuronal marker-expressing mNOS/PCs cells and enhances neurite development in hNOS/PCs. Our results indicate that mice and human nasal olfactory stem/progenitors cells share pluripotency-related gene expression suggesting that their application for stem cell therapy is worth pursuing and that DNA methylation inhibitors could be efficient tools to enhance neuronal differentiation from these cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I Franco
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, CINVESTAV-Sede Sur, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - L Ortiz-López
- Laboratorio de Neurogénesis, Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - B Roque-Ramírez
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, CINVESTAV-Sede Sur, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - G B Ramírez-Rodríguez
- Laboratorio de Neurogénesis, Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - M Lamas
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, CINVESTAV-Sede Sur, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Féron F, Gepner B, Lacassagne E, Stephan D, Mesnage B, Blanchard MP, Boulanger N, Tardif C, Devèze A, Rousseau S, Suzuki K, Izpisua Belmonte JC, Khrestchatisky M, Nivet E, Erard-Garcia M. Olfactory stem cells reveal MOCOS as a new player in autism spectrum disorders. Mol Psychiatry 2016; 21:1215-24. [PMID: 26239292 PMCID: PMC4995547 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2015.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2015] [Revised: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 06/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
With an onset under the age of 3 years, autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are now understood as diseases arising from pre- and/or early postnatal brain developmental anomalies and/or early brain insults. To unveil the molecular mechanisms taking place during the misshaping of the developing brain, we chose to study cells that are representative of the very early stages of ontogenesis, namely stem cells. Here we report on MOlybdenum COfactor Sulfurase (MOCOS), an enzyme involved in purine metabolism, as a newly identified player in ASD. We found in adult nasal olfactory stem cells of 11 adults with ASD that MOCOS is downregulated in most of them when compared with 11 age- and gender-matched control adults without any neuropsychiatric disorders. Genetic approaches using in vivo and in vitro engineered models converge to indicate that altered expression of MOCOS results in neurotransmission and synaptic defects. Furthermore, we found that MOCOS misexpression induces increased oxidative-stress sensitivity. Our results demonstrate that altered MOCOS expression is likely to have an impact on neurodevelopment and neurotransmission, and may explain comorbid conditions, including gastrointestinal disorders. We anticipate our discovery to be a fresh starting point for the study on the roles of MOCOS in brain development and its functional implications in ASD clinical symptoms. Moreover, our study suggests the possible development of new diagnostic tests based on MOCOS expression, and paves the way for drug screening targeting MOCOS and/or the purine metabolism to ultimately develop novel treatments in ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Féron
- Inserm CBT 1409, Centre d'Investigations Cliniques en Biothérapie, Marseille, France,Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, NICN UMR 7259, Marseille, France,Faculty of Medicine, Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, NICN UMR 7259, 13344 Marseille, France. E-mail: or
| | - B Gepner
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, NICN UMR 7259, Marseille, France
| | - E Lacassagne
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, NICN UMR 7259, Marseille, France
| | - D Stephan
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, NICN UMR 7259, Marseille, France
| | - B Mesnage
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, NICN UMR 7259, Marseille, France
| | - M-P Blanchard
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, CRN2M UMR 6231, Marseille, France
| | - N Boulanger
- Aix Marseille Université, TAGC UMR 1090, Marseille, France
| | - C Tardif
- Aix Marseille Université, PsyCLE, EA 3273, Aix en Provence, France
| | - A Devèze
- AP-HM, Département ORL, Marseille, France
| | - S Rousseau
- AP-HM, Département Anesthésie, Marseille, France
| | - K Suzuki
- Gene Expression Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - J C Izpisua Belmonte
- Gene Expression Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - M Khrestchatisky
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, NICN UMR 7259, Marseille, France
| | - E Nivet
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, NICN UMR 7259, Marseille, France
| | - M Erard-Garcia
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, NICN UMR 7259, Marseille, France,Faculty of Medicine, Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, NICN UMR 7259, 13344 Marseille, France. E-mail: or
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Dietrich P, Dragatsis I. Familial Dysautonomia: Mechanisms and Models. Genet Mol Biol 2016; 39:497-514. [PMID: 27561110 PMCID: PMC5127153 DOI: 10.1590/1678-4685-gmb-2015-0335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2015] [Accepted: 03/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Hereditary Sensory and Autonomic Neuropathies (HSANs) compose a heterogeneous group of genetic disorders characterized by sensory and autonomic dysfunctions. Familial Dysautonomia (FD), also known as HSAN III, is an autosomal recessive disorder that affects 1/3,600 live births in the Ashkenazi Jewish population. The major features of the disease are already present at birth and are attributed to abnormal development and progressive degeneration of the sensory and autonomic nervous systems. Despite clinical interventions, the disease is inevitably fatal. FD is caused by a point mutation in intron 20 of the IKBKAP gene that results in severe reduction in expression of IKAP, its encoded protein. In vitro and in vivo studies have shown that IKAP is involved in multiple intracellular processes, and suggest that failed target innervation and/or impaired neurotrophic retrograde transport are the primary causes of neuronal cell death in FD. However, FD is far more complex, and appears to affect several other organs and systems in addition to the peripheral nervous system. With the recent generation of mouse models that recapitulate the molecular and pathological features of the disease, it is now possible to further investigate the mechanisms underlying different aspects of the disorder, and to test novel therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paula Dietrich
- Department of Physiology, The University of Tennessee, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Ioannis Dragatsis
- Department of Physiology, The University of Tennessee, Memphis, TN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Hervé M, Ibrahim EC. MicroRNA screening identifies a link between NOVA1 expression and a low level of IKAP in familial dysautonomia. Dis Model Mech 2016; 9:899-909. [PMID: 27483351 PMCID: PMC5007982 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.025841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2016] [Accepted: 06/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Familial dysautonomia (FD) is a rare neurodegenerative disease caused by a mutation in intron 20 of the IKBKAP gene (c.2204+6T>C), leading to tissue-specific skipping of exon 20 and a decrease in the synthesis of the encoded protein IKAP (also known as ELP1). Small non-coding RNAs known as microRNAs (miRNAs) are important post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression and play an essential role in the nervous system development and function. To better understand the neuronal specificity of IKAP loss, we examined expression of miRNAs in human olfactory ecto-mesenchymal stem cells (hOE-MSCs) from five control individuals and five FD patients. We profiled the expression of 373 miRNAs using microfluidics and reverse transcription coupled to quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) on two biological replicate series of hOE-MSC cultures from healthy controls and FD patients. This led to the total identification of 26 dysregulated miRNAs in FD, validating the existence of a miRNA signature in FD. We then selected the nine most discriminant miRNAs for further analysis. The signaling pathways affected by these dysregulated miRNAs were largely within the nervous system. In addition, many targets of these dysregulated miRNAs had been previously demonstrated to be affected in FD models. Moreover, we found that four of our nine candidate miRNAs target the neuron-specific splicing factor NOVA1. We demonstrated that overexpression of miR-203a-3p leads to a decrease of NOVA1, counter-balanced by an increase of IKAP, supporting a potential interaction between NOVA1 and IKAP. Taken together, these results reinforce the choice of miRNAs as potential therapeutic targets and suggest that NOVA1 could be a regulator of FD pathophysiology. Summary: A miRNA screening conducted in olfactory stem cells from patients links the neuron-specific splicing factor NOVA1 to neurodegeneration in familial dysautonomia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mylène Hervé
- CRN2M-UMR7286, Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, Faculté de Médecine Nord, Marseille 13344, Cedex 15, France
| | - El Chérif Ibrahim
- CRN2M-UMR7286, Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, Faculté de Médecine Nord, Marseille 13344, Cedex 15, France
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Lefler S, Cohen MA, Kantor G, Cheishvili D, Even A, Birger A, Turetsky T, Gil Y, Even-Ram S, Aizenman E, Bashir N, Maayan C, Razin A, Reubinoff BE, Weil M. Familial Dysautonomia (FD) Human Embryonic Stem Cell Derived PNS Neurons Reveal that Synaptic Vesicular and Neuronal Transport Genes Are Directly or Indirectly Affected by IKBKAP Downregulation. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0138807. [PMID: 26437462 PMCID: PMC4593545 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0138807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2014] [Accepted: 09/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A splicing mutation in the IKBKAP gene causes Familial Dysautonomia (FD), affecting the IKAP protein expression levels and proper development and function of the peripheral nervous system (PNS). Here we found new molecular insights for the IKAP role and the impact of the FD mutation in the human PNS lineage by using a novel and unique human embryonic stem cell (hESC) line homozygous to the FD mutation originated by pre implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) analysis. We found that IKBKAP downregulation during PNS differentiation affects normal migration in FD-hESC derived neural crest cells (NCC) while at later stages the PNS neurons show reduced intracellular colocalization between vesicular proteins and IKAP. Comparative wide transcriptome analysis of FD and WT hESC-derived neurons together with the analysis of human brains from FD and WT 12 weeks old embryos and experimental validation of the results confirmed that synaptic vesicular and neuronal transport genes are directly or indirectly affected by IKBKAP downregulation in FD neurons. Moreover we show that kinetin (a drug that corrects IKBKAP alternative splicing) promotes the recovery of IKAP expression and these IKAP functional associated genes identified in the study. Altogether, these results support the view that IKAP might be a vesicular like protein that might be involved in neuronal transport in hESC derived PNS neurons. This function seems to be mostly affected in FD-hESC derived PNS neurons probably reflecting some PNS neuronal dysfunction observed in FD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Lefler
- Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Diseases and Personalized Medicine, Department of Cell Research and Immunology, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, The Sagol School of Neurosciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Malkiel A Cohen
- The Hadassah Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research Center, The Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene Therapy, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Ein Kerem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Gal Kantor
- Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Diseases and Personalized Medicine, Department of Cell Research and Immunology, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, The Sagol School of Neurosciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - David Cheishvili
- Department of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research, Institute of Medical Research Israel-Canada, Hebrew University Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Aviel Even
- Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Diseases and Personalized Medicine, Department of Cell Research and Immunology, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, The Sagol School of Neurosciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Anastasya Birger
- The Hadassah Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research Center, The Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene Therapy, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Ein Kerem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Tikva Turetsky
- The Hadassah Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research Center, The Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene Therapy, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Ein Kerem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yaniv Gil
- The Hadassah Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research Center, The Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene Therapy, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Ein Kerem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Sharona Even-Ram
- The Hadassah Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research Center, The Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene Therapy, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Ein Kerem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Einat Aizenman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Ein Kerem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Nibal Bashir
- Department of Obstetric and Gynecology, Hadassah Hospital Mount Scopus, Hebrew University Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Channa Maayan
- Department of Pediatrics, Hadassah Hospital Mount Scopus, Hebrew University Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Aharon Razin
- Department of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research, Institute of Medical Research Israel-Canada, Hebrew University Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Benjamim E Reubinoff
- The Hadassah Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research Center, The Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene Therapy, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Ein Kerem, Jerusalem, Israel; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Ein Kerem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Miguel Weil
- Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Diseases and Personalized Medicine, Department of Cell Research and Immunology, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, The Sagol School of Neurosciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Translational potential of olfactory mucosa for the study of neuropsychiatric illness. Transl Psychiatry 2015; 5:e527. [PMID: 25781226 PMCID: PMC4354342 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2014.141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2014] [Revised: 10/22/2014] [Accepted: 11/17/2014] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The olfactory mucosa (OM) is a unique source of regenerative neural tissue that is readily obtainable from living human subjects and thus affords opportunities for the study of psychiatric illnesses. OM tissues can be used, either as ex vivo OM tissue or in vitro OM-derived neural cells, to explore parameters that have been difficult to assess in the brain of living individuals with psychiatric illness. As OM tissues are distinct from brain tissues, an understanding of the neurobiology of the OM is needed to relate findings in these tissues to those of the brain as well as to design and interpret ex vivo or in vitro OM studies. To that end, we discuss the molecular, cellular and functional characteristics of cell types within the olfactory mucosa, describe the organization of the OM and highlight its role in the olfactory neurocircuitry. In addition, we discuss various approaches to in vitro culture of OM-derived cells and their characterization, focusing on the extent to which they reflect the in vivo neurobiology of the OM. Finally, we review studies of ex vivo OM tissues and in vitro OM-derived cells from individuals with psychiatric, neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders. In particular, we discuss the concordance of this work with postmortem brain studies and highlight possible future approaches, which may offer distinct strengths in comparison to in vitro paradigms based on genomic reprogramming.
Collapse
|
25
|
Li M, Ouyang W, Wu X, Zheng Y, Wei Y, An L. Kinetin inhibits apoptosis of aging spleen cells induced by D-galactose in rats. J Vet Sci 2014; 15:353-9. [PMID: 24962415 PMCID: PMC4178136 DOI: 10.4142/jvs.2014.15.3.353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2014] [Accepted: 04/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Kinetin (Kn) is a cytokinin growth factor that exerts several anti-aging and antioxidant effects on cells and organs. To investigate the mechanism underlying apoptotic events in aging cells induced by D-galactose (D-gal), we examined the effect of Kn delivered via nuchal subcutaneous injection on D-gal-induced aging and apoptosis in rats. Our results showed that interleukin (IL)-2 levels and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) were decreased by Kn in aging rats while IL-6 production and apoptosis increased. In addition, the expression of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 was low while that of Bax was high in the aging group. After treated with Kn, compared with aging group, there showed obvious difference in Kn group with elevated IL-2, proliferation index, Bcl-2, ΔΨm and decreased IL-6 and Bax in splenic lymphocyte. Based on these results, we concluded that Kn can effectively protect the rat spleen from aging, apoptosis, and atrophy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengyun Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Tanabe S. Role of mesenchymal stem cells in cell life and their signaling. World J Stem Cells 2014; 6:24-32. [PMID: 24567785 PMCID: PMC3927011 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v6.i1.24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2013] [Revised: 11/18/2013] [Accepted: 12/13/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have various roles in the body and cellular environment, and the cellular phenotypes of MSCs changes in different conditions. MSCs support the maintenance of other cells, and the capacity of MSCs to differentiate into several cell types makes the cells unique and full of possibilities. The involvement of MSCs in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition is an important property of these cells. In this review, the role of MSCs in cell life, including their application in therapy, is first described, and the signaling mechanism of MSCs is investigated for a further understanding of these cells.
Collapse
|
27
|
Liu B, Anderson SL, Qiu J, Rubin BY. Cardiac glycosides correct aberrant splicing of IKBKAP-encoded mRNA in familial dysautonomia derived cells by suppressing expression of SRSF3. FEBS J 2013; 280:3632-46. [PMID: 23711097 DOI: 10.1111/febs.12355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2013] [Revised: 04/30/2013] [Accepted: 05/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The ability to modulate the production of the wild-type transcript in cells bearing the splice-altering familial dysautonomia (FD) causing mutation in the IKBKAP gene prompted a study of the impact of a panel of pharmaceuticals on the splicing of this transcript, which revealed the ability of the cardiac glycoside digoxin to increase the production of the wild-type, exon-20-containing, IKBKAP-encoded transcript and the full-length IκB-kinase-complex-associated protein in FD-derived cells. Characterization of the cis elements and trans factors involved in the digoxin-mediated effect on splicing reveals that this response is dependent on an SRSF3 binding site(s) located in the intron 5' of the alternatively spliced exon and that digoxin mediates its effect by suppressing the level of the SRSF3 protein. Characterization of the digoxin-mediated effect on the RNA splicing process was facilitated by the identification of several RNA splicing events in which digoxin treatment mediates the enhanced inclusion of exonic sequence. Moreover, we demonstrate the ability of digoxin to impact the splicing process in neuronal cells, a cell type profoundly impacted by FD. This study represents the first demonstration that digoxin possesses splice-altering capabilities that are capable of reversing the impact of the FD-causing mutation. These findings support the clinical evaluation of the impact of digoxin on the FD patient population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Liu
- Laboratory for Familial Dysautonomia Research, Department of Biological Sciences, Fordham University, Bronx, NY 10458, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Ould-Yahoui A, Sbai O, Baranger K, Bernard A, Gueye Y, Charrat E, Clément B, Gigmes D, Dive V, Girard SD, Féron F, Khrestchatisky M, Rivera S. Role of Matrix Metalloproteinases in Migration and Neurotrophic Properties of Nasal Olfactory Stem and Ensheathing Cells. Cell Transplant 2013; 22:993-1010. [DOI: 10.3727/096368912x657468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Adult olfactory ectomesenchymal stem cells (OE-MSCs) and olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs), both from the nasal olfactory lamina propria, display robust regenerative properties when transplanted into the nervous system, but the mechanisms supporting such therapeutic effects remain unknown. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are an important family of proteinases contributing to cell motility and axonal outgrowth across the extracellular matrix (ECM) in physiological and pathological conditions. In this study, we have characterized for the first time in nasal human OE-MSCs the expression profile of some MMPs currently associated with cell migration and invasiveness. We demonstrate different patterns of expression for MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-9, and MT1-MMP upon cell migration when compared with nonmigrating cells. Our results establish a correspondence between the localization of these proteinases in the migration front with the ability of cells to migrate. Using various modulators of MMP activity, we also show that at least MMP-2, MMP-9, and MT1-MMP contribute to OE-MSC migration in an in vitro 3D test. Furthermore, we demonstrate under the same conditions of culture used for in vivo transplantation that OE-MSCs and OECs secrete neurotrophic factors that promote neurite outgrowth of cortical and dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons, as well as axo-dendritic differentiation of cortical neurons. These effects were abolished by the depletion of MMP-2 and MMP-9 from the culture conditioned media. Altogether, our results provide the first evidence that MMPs may contribute to the therapeutic features of OE-MSCs and OECs through the control of their motility and/or their neurotrophic properties. Our data provide new insight into the mechanisms of neuroregeneration and will contribute to optimization of cell therapy strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adlane Ould-Yahoui
- Aix-Marseille Univ, Neurobiologie des Interactions Cellulaires et Neurophysiopathologie (NICN), UMR 7259, 13344, Marseille, France
- CNRS, Neurobiologie des Interactions Cellulaires et Neurophysiopathologie (NICN), UMR 7259, 13344, Marseille, France
| | - Oualid Sbai
- Aix-Marseille Univ, Neurobiologie des Interactions Cellulaires et Neurophysiopathologie (NICN), UMR 7259, 13344, Marseille, France
- CNRS, Neurobiologie des Interactions Cellulaires et Neurophysiopathologie (NICN), UMR 7259, 13344, Marseille, France
| | - Kévin Baranger
- Aix-Marseille Univ, Neurobiologie des Interactions Cellulaires et Neurophysiopathologie (NICN), UMR 7259, 13344, Marseille, France
- CNRS, Neurobiologie des Interactions Cellulaires et Neurophysiopathologie (NICN), UMR 7259, 13344, Marseille, France
| | - Anne Bernard
- Aix-Marseille Univ, Neurobiologie des Interactions Cellulaires et Neurophysiopathologie (NICN), UMR 7259, 13344, Marseille, France
- CNRS, Neurobiologie des Interactions Cellulaires et Neurophysiopathologie (NICN), UMR 7259, 13344, Marseille, France
| | - Yatma Gueye
- Aix-Marseille Univ, Neurobiologie des Interactions Cellulaires et Neurophysiopathologie (NICN), UMR 7259, 13344, Marseille, France
- CNRS, Neurobiologie des Interactions Cellulaires et Neurophysiopathologie (NICN), UMR 7259, 13344, Marseille, France
| | - Eliane Charrat
- Aix-Marseille Univ, Institut de Chimie Radicalaire, Equipe Chimie Radicalaire, Organique et Polymères de Spécialité, UMR 7273, Marseille, France
- CNRS, Institut de Chimie Radicalaire, Equipe Chimie Radicalaire, Organique et Polymères de Spécialité, UMR 7273, Marseille, France
| | - Benoît Clément
- Aix-Marseille Univ, Institut de Chimie Radicalaire, Equipe Chimie Radicalaire, Organique et Polymères de Spécialité, UMR 7273, Marseille, France
- CNRS, Institut de Chimie Radicalaire, Equipe Chimie Radicalaire, Organique et Polymères de Spécialité, UMR 7273, Marseille, France
| | - Didier Gigmes
- Aix-Marseille Univ, Institut de Chimie Radicalaire, Equipe Chimie Radicalaire, Organique et Polymères de Spécialité, UMR 7273, Marseille, France
- CNRS, Institut de Chimie Radicalaire, Equipe Chimie Radicalaire, Organique et Polymères de Spécialité, UMR 7273, Marseille, France
| | - Vincent Dive
- Département d'Ingénierie et d'Etudes des Protéines (DIEP), CEA/Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Stéphane D. Girard
- Aix-Marseille Univ, Neurobiologie des Interactions Cellulaires et Neurophysiopathologie (NICN), UMR 7259, 13344, Marseille, France
- CNRS, Neurobiologie des Interactions Cellulaires et Neurophysiopathologie (NICN), UMR 7259, 13344, Marseille, France
| | - François Féron
- Aix-Marseille Univ, Neurobiologie des Interactions Cellulaires et Neurophysiopathologie (NICN), UMR 7259, 13344, Marseille, France
- CNRS, Neurobiologie des Interactions Cellulaires et Neurophysiopathologie (NICN), UMR 7259, 13344, Marseille, France
| | - Michel Khrestchatisky
- Aix-Marseille Univ, Neurobiologie des Interactions Cellulaires et Neurophysiopathologie (NICN), UMR 7259, 13344, Marseille, France
- CNRS, Neurobiologie des Interactions Cellulaires et Neurophysiopathologie (NICN), UMR 7259, 13344, Marseille, France
| | - Santiago Rivera
- Aix-Marseille Univ, Neurobiologie des Interactions Cellulaires et Neurophysiopathologie (NICN), UMR 7259, 13344, Marseille, France
- CNRS, Neurobiologie des Interactions Cellulaires et Neurophysiopathologie (NICN), UMR 7259, 13344, Marseille, France
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Mackay-Sim A. Patient-derived stem cells: pathways to drug discovery for brain diseases. Front Cell Neurosci 2013; 7:29. [PMID: 23543597 PMCID: PMC3608922 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2013.00029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2012] [Accepted: 03/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The concept of drug discovery through stem cell biology is based on technological developments whose genesis is now coincident. The first is automated cell microscopy with concurrent advances in image acquisition and analysis, known as high content screening (HCS). The second is patient-derived stem cells for modeling the cell biology of brain diseases. HCS has developed from the requirements of the pharmaceutical industry for high throughput assays to screen thousands of chemical compounds in the search for new drugs. HCS combines new fluorescent probes with automated microscopy and computational power to quantify the effects of compounds on cell functions. Stem cell biology has advanced greatly since the discovery of genetic reprograming of somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). There is now a rush of papers describing their generation from patients with various diseases of the nervous system. Although the majority of these have been genetic diseases, iPSCs have been generated from patients with complex diseases (schizophrenia and sporadic Parkinson’s disease). Some genetic diseases are also modeled in embryonic stem cells (ESCs) generated from blastocysts rejected during in vitro fertilization. Neural stem cells have been isolated from post-mortem brain of Alzheimer’s patients and neural stem cells generated from biopsies of the olfactory organ of patients is another approach. These “olfactory neurosphere-derived” cells demonstrate robust disease-specific phenotypes in patients with schizophrenia and Parkinson’s disease. HCS is already in use to find small molecules for the generation and differentiation of ESCs and iPSCs. The challenges for using stem cells for drug discovery are to develop robust stem cell culture methods that meet the rigorous requirements for repeatable, consistent quantities of defined cell types at the industrial scale necessary for HCS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alan Mackay-Sim
- National Centre for Adult Stem Cell Research, Eskitis Institute for Cell and Molecular Therapies, Griffith University Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Mackay-Sim A. Concise review: Patient-derived olfactory stem cells: new models for brain diseases. Stem Cells 2013; 30:2361-5. [PMID: 22961669 DOI: 10.1002/stem.1220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Traditional models of brain diseases have had limited success in driving candidate drugs into successful clinical translation. This has resulted in large international pharmaceutical companies moving out of neuroscience research. Cells are not brains, obviously, but new patient-derived stem models have the potential to elucidate cell biological aspects of brain diseases that are not present in worm, fly, or rodent models, the work horses of disease investigations and drug discovery. Neural stem cells are present in the olfactory mucosa, the organ of smell in the nose. Patient-derived olfactory mucosa has demonstrated disease-associated differences in a variety of brain diseases and recently olfactory mucosa stem cells have been generated from patients with schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease, and familial dysautonomia. By comparison with cells from healthy controls, patient-derived olfactory mucosa stem cells show disease-specific alterations in gene expression and cell functions including: a shorter cell cycle and faster proliferation in schizophrenia, oxidative stress in Parkinson's disease, and altered cell migration in familial dysautonomia. Olfactory stem cell cultures thus reveal patient-control differences, even in complex genetic diseases such as schizophrenia and Parkinson's disease, indicating that multiple genes of small effect can converge on shared cell signaling pathways to present as a disease-specific cellular phenotype. Olfactory mucosa stem cells can be maintained in homogeneous cultures that allow robust and repeatable multiwell assays suitable for screening libraries of drug candidate molecules.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alan Mackay-Sim
- National Centre for Adult Stem Cell Research, Eskitis Institute for Cell and Molecular Therapies, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Stewart R, Kozlov S, Matigian N, Wali G, Gatei M, Sutharsan R, Bellette B, Wraith-Kijas A, Cochrane J, Coulthard M, Perry C, Sinclair K, Mackay-Sim A, Lavin MF. A patient-derived olfactory stem cell disease model for ataxia-telangiectasia. Hum Mol Genet 2013; 22:2495-509. [PMID: 23474819 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddt101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The autosomal recessive disorder ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T) is characterized by genome instability, cancer predisposition and neurodegeneration. Although the role of ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM) protein, the protein defective in this syndrome, is well described in the response to DNA damage, its role in protecting the nervous system is less clear. We describe the establishment and characterization of patient-specific stem cells that have the potential to address this shortcoming. Olfactory neurosphere (ONS)-derived cells were generated from A-T patients, which expressed stem cell markers and exhibited A-T molecular and cellular characteristics that included hypersensitivity to radiation, defective radiation-induced signaling and cell cycle checkpoint defects. Introduction of full-length ATM cDNA into these cells corrected defects in the A-T cellular phenotype. Gene expression profiling and pathway analysis revealed defects in multiple cell signaling pathways associated with ATM function, with cell cycle, cell death and DNA damage response pathways being the most significantly dysregulated. A-T ONS cells were also capable of differentiating into neural progenitors, but they were defective in neurite formation, number of neurites and length of these neurites. Thus, ONS cells are a patient-derived neural stem cell model that recapitulate the phenotype of A-T, do not require genetic reprogramming, have the capacity to differentiate into neurons and have potential to delineate the neurological defect in these patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Romal Stewart
- Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Brisbane, Queensland 4006, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Abstract
The olfactory mucosa, located in the nasal cavity, is the only nervous tissue that is exposed to the external environment and easily accessible in every living individual. In addition, this organ is home of a continuing neurogenesis that is sustained by a large population of stem cells. Here, we describe a method for biopsying olfactory mucosa from human nasal cavities and isolating multipotent adult stem cells that can be used to either identify biomarkers in brain disorders or repair the pathological/traumatized nervous system.
Collapse
|
33
|
Close P, Gillard M, Ladang A, Jiang Z, Papuga J, Hawkes N, Nguyen L, Chapelle JP, Bouillenne F, Svejstrup J, Fillet M, Chariot A. DERP6 (ELP5) and C3ORF75 (ELP6) regulate tumorigenicity and migration of melanoma cells as subunits of Elongator. J Biol Chem 2012; 287:32535-45. [PMID: 22854966 PMCID: PMC3463322 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.402727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The Elongator complex is composed of 6 subunits (Elp1-Elp6) and promotes RNAPII transcript elongation through histone acetylation in the nucleus as well as tRNA modification in the cytoplasm. This acetyltransferase complex directly or indirectly regulates numerous biological processes ranging from exocytosis and resistance to heat shock in yeast to cell migration and neuronal differentiation in higher eukaryotes. The identity of human ELP1 through ELP4 has been reported but human ELP5 and ELP6 have remained uncharacterized. Here, we report that DERP6 (ELP5) and C3ORF75 (ELP6) encode these subunits of human Elongator. We further investigated the importance and function of these two subunits by a combination of biochemical analysis and cellular assays. Our results show that DERP6/ELP5 is required for the integrity of Elongator and directly connects ELP3 to ELP4. Importantly, the migration and tumorigenicity of melanoma-derived cells are significantly decreased upon Elongator depletion through ELP1 or ELP3. Strikingly, DERP6/ELP5 and C3ORF75/ELP6-depleted melanoma cells have similar defects, further supporting the idea that DERP6/ELP5 and C3ORF75/ELP6 are essential for Elongator function. Together, our data identify DERP6/ELP5 and C3ORF75/ELP6 as key players for migration, invasion and tumorigenicity of melanoma cells, as integral subunits of Elongator.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Close
- From the Interdisciplinary Cluster for Applied Genoproteomics (GIGA-R)
- GIGA Signal Transduction and Laboratory of Medical Chemistry
| | - Magali Gillard
- From the Interdisciplinary Cluster for Applied Genoproteomics (GIGA-R)
- GIGA Signal Transduction and Laboratory of Medical Chemistry
| | - Aurélie Ladang
- From the Interdisciplinary Cluster for Applied Genoproteomics (GIGA-R)
- GIGA Signal Transduction and Laboratory of Medical Chemistry
| | - Zheshen Jiang
- From the Interdisciplinary Cluster for Applied Genoproteomics (GIGA-R)
- GIGA Signal Transduction and Laboratory of Medical Chemistry
| | - Jessica Papuga
- From the Interdisciplinary Cluster for Applied Genoproteomics (GIGA-R)
- GIGA Signal Transduction and Laboratory of Medical Chemistry
| | - Nicola Hawkes
- the Mechanisms of Transcription Laboratory, Clare Hall Laboratories, Cancer Research UK London Research Institute, South Mimms EN6 3LD, United Kingdom
| | - Laurent Nguyen
- From the Interdisciplinary Cluster for Applied Genoproteomics (GIGA-R)
- Developmental Neurobiology Unit and GIGA Neurosciences
| | - Jean-Paul Chapelle
- From the Interdisciplinary Cluster for Applied Genoproteomics (GIGA-R)
- GIGA Signal Transduction and Laboratory of Medical Chemistry
| | | | - Jesper Svejstrup
- the Mechanisms of Transcription Laboratory, Clare Hall Laboratories, Cancer Research UK London Research Institute, South Mimms EN6 3LD, United Kingdom
| | - Marianne Fillet
- From the Interdisciplinary Cluster for Applied Genoproteomics (GIGA-R)
- GIGA Signal Transduction and Laboratory of Medical Chemistry
- Laboratory of Analytical Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, CIRM, and
| | - Alain Chariot
- From the Interdisciplinary Cluster for Applied Genoproteomics (GIGA-R)
- GIGA Signal Transduction and Laboratory of Medical Chemistry
- Walloon Excellence in Life Sciences and Biotechnology (WELBIO), GIGA-R, University of Liège, CHU, Sart-Tilman, B-4000 Liège, Belgium and
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Dietrich P, Alli S, Shanmugasundaram R, Dragatsis I. IKAP expression levels modulate disease severity in a mouse model of familial dysautonomia. Hum Mol Genet 2012; 21:5078-90. [PMID: 22922231 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/dds354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathies (HSANs) encompass a group of genetically inherited disorders characterized by sensory and autonomic dysfunctions. Familial dysautonomia (FD), also known as HSAN type III, is an autosomal recessive disorder that affects 1/3600 live births in the Ashkenazi Jewish population. The disease is caused by abnormal development and progressive degeneration of the sensory and autonomic nervous systems and is inevitably fatal, with only 50% of patients reaching the age of 40. FD is caused by a mutation in intron 20 of the Ikbkap gene that results in severe reduction in the expression of its encoded protein, inhibitor of kappaB kinase complex-associated protein (IKAP). Although the mutation that causes FD was identified in 2001, so far there is no appropriate animal model that recapitulates the disorder. Here, we report the generation and characterization of the first mouse models for FD that recapitulate the molecular and pathological features of the disease. Important for therapeutic interventions is also our finding that a slight increase in IKAP levels is enough to ameliorate the phenotype and increase the life span. Understanding the mechanisms underlying FD will provide insights for potential new therapeutic interventions not only for FD, but also for other peripheral neuropathies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paula Dietrich
- Department of Physiology, The University of Tennessee, Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Hunnicutt BJ, Chaverra M, George L, Lefcort F. IKAP/Elp1 is required in vivo for neurogenesis and neuronal survival, but not for neural crest migration. PLoS One 2012; 7:e32050. [PMID: 22384137 PMCID: PMC3285659 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0032050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2011] [Accepted: 01/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Familial Dysautonomia (FD; Hereditary Sensory Autonomic Neuropathy; HSAN III) manifests from a failure in development of the peripheral sensory and autonomic nervous systems. The disease results from a point mutation in the IKBKAP gene, which encodes the IKAP protein, whose function is still unresolved in the developing nervous system. Since the neurons most severely depleted in the disease derive from the neural crest, and in light of data identifying a role for IKAP in cell motility and migration, it has been suggested that FD results from a disruption in neural crest migration. To determine the function of IKAP during development of the nervous system, we (1) first determined the spatial-temporal pattern of IKAP expression in the developing peripheral nervous system, from the onset of neural crest migration through the period of programmed cell death in the dorsal root ganglia, and (2) using RNAi, reduced expression of IKBKAP mRNA in the neural crest lineage throughout the process of dorsal root ganglia (DRG) development in chick embryos in ovo. Here we demonstrate that IKAP is not expressed by neural crest cells and instead is expressed as neurons differentiate both in the CNS and PNS, thus the devastation of the PNS in FD could not be due to disruptions in neural crest motility or migration. In addition, we show that alterations in the levels of IKAP, through both gain and loss of function studies, perturbs neuronal polarity, neuronal differentiation and survival. Thus IKAP plays pleiotropic roles in both the peripheral and central nervous systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Frances Lefcort
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Boone N, Bergon A, Loriod B, Devèze A, Nguyen C, Axelrod FB, Ibrahim EC. Genome-wide analysis of familial dysautonomia and kinetin target genes with patient olfactory ecto-mesenchymal stem cells. Hum Mutat 2012; 33:530-40. [PMID: 22190446 DOI: 10.1002/humu.22010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2011] [Accepted: 12/08/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Familial dysautonomia (FD) is a rare inherited neurodegenerative disorder. The most common mutation is a c.2204+6T>C transition in the 5' splice site (5'ss) of IKBKAP intron 20, which causes a tissue-specific skipping of exon 20, resulting in lower synthesis of IKAP/hELP1 protein. To better understand the specificity of neuron loss in FD, we modeled the molecular mechanisms of IKBKAP mRNA splicing by studying human olfactory ecto-mesenchymal stem cells (hOE-MSCs) derived from FD patient nasal biopsies. We explored how the modulation of IKBKAP mRNA alternative splicing impacts the transcriptome at the genome-wide level. We found that the FD transcriptional signature was highly associated with biological functions related to the development of the nervous system. In addition, we identified target genes of kinetin, a plant cytokinin that corrects IKBKAP mRNA splicing and increases the expression of IKAP/hELP1. We identified this compound as a putative regulator of splicing factors and added new evidence for a sequence-specific correction of splicing. In conclusion, hOE-MSCs isolated from FD patients represent a promising avenue for modeling the altered genetic expression of FD, demonstrating a methodology that can be applied to a host of other genetic disorders to test the therapeutic potential of candidate molecules.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Boone
- Aix-Marseille Université, NICN, UMR 6184, Marseille, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Altered cell cycle dynamics in schizophrenia. Biol Psychiatry 2012; 71:129-35. [PMID: 22074612 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2011.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2011] [Revised: 09/06/2011] [Accepted: 10/02/2011] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The olfactory mucosa, the organ of smell in the nose, is a neural tissue that regenerates new sensory neurons throughout adult life. Based on this tissue, we previously demonstrated increased mitosis in olfactory biopsy cultures from schizophrenia patients compared with healthy control subjects. In addition, neural stem/progenitor cell cultures (neurosphere-derived cells) from nasal biopsies from individuals with schizophrenia show significantly altered gene and protein expression in key cell cycle control pathways. METHODS The aim of this study was to investigate cell cycle dynamics in olfactory neurosphere-derived cells from nine male schizophrenia patients and nine male healthy control subjects. Cell cycles were arrested by serum deprivation after which cell population doubling time, proliferation fraction, and cell cycle period were calculated from cell counts over 96 hours. Cell cycle phase was investigated using flow cytometry. Cell lysates were analyzed for expression of cyclin proteins. RESULTS Cell population proliferation rate was increased in schizophrenia through a larger pool of proliferating progenitors and a reduced cell cycle period. All phases of the cell cycle were phase-shifted by 2 hours in the schizophrenia-derived cells, which expressed higher levels of the cyclins D1, E, and A2. CONCLUSIONS Our observations indicate that schizophrenia is associated with subtle alterations in cell cycle dynamics, shortening of the cell cycle period, and increased expression of G1/S phase cyclins. We speculate that this underlying diathesis could alter the temporal and spatial cascade of brain development and contribute to an altered neurodevelopmental trajectory in schizophrenia.
Collapse
|
38
|
Axelrod FB, Liebes L, Gold-Von Simson G, Mendoza S, Mull J, Leyne M, Norcliffe-Kaufmann L, Kaufmann H, Slaugenhaupt SA. Kinetin improves IKBKAP mRNA splicing in patients with familial dysautonomia. Pediatr Res 2011; 70:480-3. [PMID: 21775922 PMCID: PMC3189334 DOI: 10.1203/pdr.0b013e31822e1825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Familial dysautonomia (FD) is caused by an intronic splice mutation in the IKBKAP gene that leads to partial skipping of exon 20 and tissue-specific reduction in I-κ-B kinase complex-associated protein/elongation protein 1 (IKAP/ELP-1) expression. Kinetin (6-furfurylaminopurine) has been shown to improve splicing and increase WT IKBKAP mRNA and IKAP protein expression in FD cell lines and carriers. To determine whether oral kinetin treatment could alter mRNA splicing in FD subjects and was tolerable, we administered kinetin to eight FD individuals homozygous for the splice mutation. Subjects received 23.5 mg/Kg/d for 28 d. An increase in WT IKBKAP mRNA expression in leukocytes was noted after 8 d in six of eight individuals; after 28 d, the mean increase compared with baseline was significant (p = 0.002). We have demonstrated that kinetin is tolerable in this medically fragile population. Not only did kinetin produce the desired effect on splicing in FD patients but also that effect seems to improve with time despite lack of dose change. This is the first report of a drug that produces in vivo mRNA splicing changes in individuals with FD and supports future long-term trials to determine whether kinetin will prove therapeutic in FD patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felicia B Axelrod
- Department of Pediatrics, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Girard SD, Devéze A, Nivet E, Gepner B, Roman FS, Féron F. Isolating nasal olfactory stem cells from rodents or humans. J Vis Exp 2011:2762. [PMID: 21876529 PMCID: PMC3217619 DOI: 10.3791/2762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The olfactory mucosa, located in the nasal cavity, is in charge of detecting odours. It is also the only nervous tissue that is exposed to the external environment and easily accessible in every living individual. As a result, this tissue is unique for anyone aiming to identify molecular anomalies in the pathological brain or isolate adult stem cells for cell therapy. Molecular abnormalities in brain diseases are often studied using nervous tissue samples collected post-mortem. However, this material has numerous limitations. In contrast, the olfactory mucosa is readily accessible and can be biopsied safely without any loss of sense of smell1. Accordingly, the olfactory mucosa provides an "open window" in the adult human through which one can study developmental (e.g. autism, schizophrenia)2-4 or neurodegenerative (e.g. Parkinson, Alzheimer) diseases4,5. Olfactory mucosa can be used for either comparative molecular studies4,6 or in vitro experiments on neurogenesis3,7. The olfactory epithelium is also a nervous tissue that produces new neurons every day to replace those that are damaged by pollution, bacterial of viral infections. This permanent neurogenesis is sustained by progenitors but also stem cells residing within both compartments of the mucosa, namely the neuroepithelium and the underlying lamina propria8-10. We recently developed a method to purify the adult stem cells located in the lamina propria and, after having demonstrated that they are closely related to bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSC), we named them olfactory ecto-mesenchymal stem cells (OE-MSC)11. Interestingly, when compared to BM-MSCs, OE-MSCs display a high proliferation rate, an elevated clonogenicity and an inclination to differentiate into neural cells. We took advantage of these characteristics to perform studies dedicated to unveil new candidate genes in schizophrenia and Parkinson's disease4. We and others have also shown that OE-MSCs are promising candidates for cell therapy, after a spinal cord trauma12,13, a cochlear damage14 or in an animal models of Parkinson's disease15 or amnesia16. In this study, we present methods to biopsy olfactory mucosa in rats and humans. After collection, the lamina propria is enzymatically separated from the epithelium and stem cells are purified using an enzymatic or a non-enzymatic method. Purified olfactory stem cells can then be either grown in large numbers and banked in liquid nitrogen or induced to form spheres or differentiated into neural cells. These stem cells can also be used for comparative omics (genomic, transcriptomic, epigenomic, proteomic) studies.
Collapse
|
40
|
Shetty RS, Gallagher CS, Chen YT, Hims MM, Mull J, Leyne M, Pickel J, Kwok D, Slaugenhaupt SA. Specific correction of a splice defect in brain by nutritional supplementation. Hum Mol Genet 2011; 20:4093-101. [PMID: 21821670 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddr333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies emphasize the importance of mRNA splicing in human genetic disease, as 20-30% of all disease-causing mutations are predicted to result in mRNA splicing defects. The plasticity of the mRNA splicing reaction has made these mutations attractive candidates for the development of therapeutics. Familial dysautonomia (FD) is a severe neurodegenerative disorder, and all patients have an intronic IVS20+6T>C splice site mutation in the IKBKAP gene, which results in tissue-specific skipping of exon 20 and a corresponding reduction in ikappaB kinase complex associated protein (IKAP) levels. We created transgenic mouse lines using a human IKBKAP bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) into which we inserted the IKBKAP splice mutation (FD BAC) and have shown that the transgenic mice exhibit the same tissue-specific aberrant splicing patterns as seen in FD patients. We have previously demonstrated that the plant cytokinin kinetin can significantly improve the production of wild-type IKBKAP transcripts in FD lymphoblast cell lines by improving exon inclusion. In this study, we tested the ability of kinetin to alter IKBKAP splicing in the transgenic mice carrying the FD BAC and show that it corrects IKBKAP splicing in all major tissues assayed, including the brain. The amount of wild-type IKBKAP mRNA and IKAP protein was significantly higher in the kinetin-treated mice. These exciting results prove that treatment of FD, as well as other mechanistically related splicing disorders, with kinetin holds great promise as a potential therapeutic aimed at increasing normal protein levels, which may, in turn, slow disease progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ranjit S Shetty
- Center for Human Genetic Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 185 Cambridge Street, CPZN-5254, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Stem cell models for biomarker discovery in brain disease. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2011; 101:239-57. [PMID: 22050854 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-387718-5.00009-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Most brain diseases arise from interactions between complex genetic and environmental risk factors. Finding biomarkers for brain diseases will require appropriate cellular models to identify dysregulated cell functions and disease-associated biochemistries. Patient-derived stem cells hold great potential as models of brain diseases. Stem cells can proliferate and can be banked, stored, and thawed for genomic, proteomic, and functional studies. Patient-derived, induced pluripotent stem cells and adult stem cells from the olfactory organ in the nose are already giving novel insights into a number of brain diseases, including Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia. Biomarker discovery may be possible from investigating disease-associated cell biologies in patient-derived stem cells.
Collapse
|