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Zhong M, Xu QQ, Hu Z, Yang W, Lin ZX, Xian YF. Tianma-Gouteng pair ameliorates the cognitive deficits on two transgenic mouse models of Alzheimer's disease. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 328:118113. [PMID: 38548119 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease. Tianma-Gouteng Pair (TGP), commonly prescribed as a pair-herbs, can be found in many Chinese medicine formulae to treat brain diseases. However, the neuroprotective effects and molecular mechanisms of TGP remained unexplored. AIM OF THE STUDY This study investigated the difference between the TgCRND8 and 5 × FAD transgenic mice, the anti-AD effects of TGP, and underlying molecular mechanisms of TGP against AD through the two mouse models. METHODS Briefly, three-month-old TgCRND8 and 5 × FAD mice were orally administered with TGP for 4 and 6 months, respectively. Behavioral tests were carried out to determine the neuropsychological functions. Moreover, immunofluorescence and western blotting assays were undertaken to reveal the molecular mechanisms of TGP. RESULTS Although TgCRND8 and 5 × FAD mice had different beta-amyloid (Aβ) burdens, neuroinflammation status, and cognition impairments, TGP exerted neuroprotective effects against AD in the two models. In detail, behavioral tests revealed that TGP treatment markedly ameliorated the anxiety-like behavior, attenuated the recognition memory deficits, and increased the spatial learning ability as well as the reference memory of TgCRND8 and 5 × FAD mice. Moreover, TGP treatment could regulate the beta-amyloid precursor protein (APP) processing by inhibiting the Aβ production enzymes such as β- and γ-secretases and activating Aβ degrading enzyme to reduce Aβ accumulation. In addition, TGP reduced the Aβ42 level, the ratio of Aβ42/Αβ40, Aβ accumulation, and tau hyperphosphorylation in both the 5 × FAD and TgCRND8 mouse models. Furthermore, TGP ameliorated neuroinflammation by decreasing the densities of activated microglia and astrocytes, and inhibiting the production of inflammatory cytokines. TGP upregulated the SIRT1 and AMPK, and downregulated sterol response element binding protein 2 (SREBP2) in the brain of TgCRND8 mice and deactivation of the EPhA4 and c-Abl in the brain tissues of 5 × FAD mice. CONCLUSION Our experiments for the first time revealed the neuroprotective effects and molecular mechanism of TGP on 5 × FAD and TgCRND8 transgenic mouse models of different AD stages. TGP decreased the level of Aβ aggregates, improved the tauopathy, and reduced the neuroinflammation by regulation of the SIRT1/AMPK/SREBP2 axis and deactivation of EPhA4/c-Abl signaling pathway in the brains of TgCRND8 and 5 × FAD mice, respectively. All these findings unequivocally confirmed that the TGP would be promising in developing into an anti-AD therapeutic pharmaceutical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Zhong
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Qing-Qing Xu
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Zhen Hu
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Wen Yang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Zhi-Xiu Lin
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, PR China; Hong Kong Institute of Integrative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, PR China; Li Dak Sum Yip Yio Chin R&D Centre for Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, PR China.
| | - Yan-Fang Xian
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, PR China.
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Colom-Cadena M, Toombs J, Simzer E, Holt K, McGeachan R, Tulloch J, Jackson RJ, Catterson JH, Spires-Jones MP, Rose J, Waybright L, Caggiano AO, King D, Gobbo F, Davies C, Hooley M, Dunnett S, Tempelaar R, Meftah S, Tzioras M, Hamby ME, Izzo NJ, Catalano SM, Durrant CS, Smith C, Dando O, Spires-Jones TL. Transmembrane protein 97 is a potential synaptic amyloid beta receptor in human Alzheimer's disease. Acta Neuropathol 2024; 147:32. [PMID: 38319380 PMCID: PMC10847197 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-023-02679-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Synapse loss correlates with cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease, and soluble oligomeric amyloid beta (Aβ) is implicated in synaptic dysfunction and loss. An important knowledge gap is the lack of understanding of how Aβ leads to synapse degeneration. In particular, there has been difficulty in determining whether there is a synaptic receptor that binds Aβ and mediates toxicity. While many candidates have been observed in model systems, their relevance to human AD brain remains unknown. This is in part due to methodological limitations preventing visualization of Aβ binding at individual synapses. To overcome this limitation, we combined two high resolution microscopy techniques: array tomography and Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) to image over 1 million individual synaptic terminals in temporal cortex from AD (n = 11) and control cases (n = 9). Within presynapses and post-synaptic densities, oligomeric Aβ generates a FRET signal with transmembrane protein 97. Further, Aβ generates a FRET signal with cellular prion protein, and post-synaptic density 95 within post synapses. Transmembrane protein 97 is also present in a higher proportion of post synapses in Alzheimer's brain compared to controls. We inhibited Aβ/transmembrane protein 97 interaction in a mouse model of amyloidopathy by treating with the allosteric modulator CT1812. CT1812 drug concentration correlated negatively with synaptic FRET signal between transmembrane protein 97 and Aβ. In human-induced pluripotent stem cell derived neurons, transmembrane protein 97 is present in synapses and colocalizes with Aβ when neurons are challenged with human Alzheimer's brain homogenate. Transcriptional changes are induced by Aβ including changes in genes involved in neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation. CT1812 treatment of these neurons caused changes in gene sets involved in synaptic function. These data support a role for transmembrane protein 97 in the synaptic binding of Aβ in human Alzheimer's disease brain where it may mediate synaptotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martí Colom-Cadena
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences and UK Dementia Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK
| | - Jamie Toombs
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences and UK Dementia Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK
| | - Elizabeth Simzer
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences and UK Dementia Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK
| | - Kristjan Holt
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences and UK Dementia Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK
| | - Robert McGeachan
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences and UK Dementia Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK
| | - Jane Tulloch
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences and UK Dementia Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK
| | - Rosemary J Jackson
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences and UK Dementia Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK
- MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02129, USA
| | - James H Catterson
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences and UK Dementia Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK
| | - Maxwell P Spires-Jones
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences and UK Dementia Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK
| | - Jamie Rose
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences and UK Dementia Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK
| | | | | | - Declan King
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences and UK Dementia Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK
| | - Francesco Gobbo
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences and UK Dementia Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK
| | - Caitlin Davies
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences and UK Dementia Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK
| | - Monique Hooley
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences and UK Dementia Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK
| | - Sophie Dunnett
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences and UK Dementia Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK
| | - Robert Tempelaar
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences and UK Dementia Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK
| | - Soraya Meftah
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences and UK Dementia Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK
| | - Makis Tzioras
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences and UK Dementia Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK
- Scottish Brain Sciences, Edinburgh, EH12 9DQ, UK
| | - Mary E Hamby
- Cognition Therapeutics Inc., Pittsburgh, PA, 15203, USA
| | | | | | - Claire S Durrant
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences and UK Dementia Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK
| | - Colin Smith
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences and Sudden Death Brain Bank, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4HB, UK
| | - Owen Dando
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences and UK Dementia Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK
| | - Tara L Spires-Jones
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences and UK Dementia Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK.
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Gomez-Soler M, Olson EJ, de la Torre ER, Zhao C, Lamberto I, Flood DT, Danho W, Lechtenberg BC, Riedl SJ, Dawson PE, Pasquale EB. Lipidation and PEGylation Strategies to Prolong the in Vivo Half-Life of a Nanomolar EphA4 Receptor Antagonist. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 262:115876. [PMID: 38523699 PMCID: PMC10959496 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
The EphA4 receptor tyrosine kinase plays a role in neurodegenerative diseases, inhibition of nerve regeneration, cancer progression and other diseases. Therefore, EphA4 inhibition has potential therapeutic value. Selective EphA4 kinase inhibitors are not available, but we identified peptide antagonists that inhibit ephrin ligand binding to EphA4 with high specificity. One of these peptides is the cyclic APY-d3 (βAPYCVYRβASWSC-NH2), which inhibits ephrin-A5 ligand binding to EphA4 with low nanomolar binding affinity and is highly protease resistant. Here we describe modifications of APY-d3 that yield two different key derivatives with greatly increased half-lives in the mouse circulation, the lipidated APY-d3-laur8 and the PEGylated APY-d3-PEG4. These two derivatives inhibit ligand induced EphA4 activation in cells with sub-micromolar potency. Since they retain high potency and specificity for EphA4, lipidated and PEGylated APY-d3 derivatives represent new tools for discriminating EphA4 activities in vivo and for preclinical testing of EphA4 inhibition in animal disease models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maricel Gomez-Soler
- Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Erika J. Olson
- Departments of Chemistry and Cell and Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Elena Rubio de la Torre
- Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Chunxia Zhao
- Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Ilaria Lamberto
- Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Dillon T. Flood
- Departments of Chemistry and Cell and Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Waleed Danho
- Del Mar, California 92014, United States
- Deceased
| | - Bernhard C. Lechtenberg
- Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Stefan J. Riedl
- Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Philip E. Dawson
- Departments of Chemistry and Cell and Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Elena B. Pasquale
- Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
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Rivera J, Sharma B, Torres MM, Kumar S. Factors affecting the GABAergic synapse function in Alzheimer's disease: Focus on microRNAs. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 92:102123. [PMID: 37967653 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurological disease characterized by the loss of cognitive function, confusion, and memory deficit. Accumulation of abnormal proteins, amyloid beta (Aß), and phosphorylated Tau (p-tau) forms plaques and tangles that deteriorate synapse function, resulting in neurodegeneration and cognitive decline in AD. The human brain is composed of different types of neurons and/or synapses that are functionally defective in AD. The GABAergic synapse, the most abundant inhibitory neuron in the human brain was found to be dysfunctional in AD and contributes to disrupting neurological function. This study explored the types of GABA receptors associated with neurological dysfunction and various biological and environmental factors that cause GABAergic neuron dysfunction in AD, such as Aβ, p-tau, aging, sex, astrocytes, microglia, APOE, mental disorder, diet, physical activity, and sleep. Furthermore, we explored the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the regulation of GABAergic synapse function in neurological disorders and AD states. We also discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying GABAergic synapse dysfunction with a focus on miR-27b, miR-30a, miR-190a/b, miR-33, miR-51, miR-129-5p, miR-376-3p, miR-376c, miR-30b and miR-502-3p. The purpose of our article is to highlight the recent research on miRNAs affecting the regulation of GABAergic synapse function and factors that contribute to the progression of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jazmin Rivera
- Center of Emphasis in Neuroscience, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Bhupender Sharma
- Center of Emphasis in Neuroscience, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Melissa M Torres
- Center of Emphasis in Neuroscience, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Subodh Kumar
- Center of Emphasis in Neuroscience, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX, USA; L. Frederick Francis Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX, USA.
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5
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Martinez A, Lamaizon CM, Valls C, Llambi F, Leal N, Fitzgerald P, Guy C, Kamiński MM, Inestrosa NC, van Zundert B, Cancino GI, Dulcey AE, Zanlungo S, Marugan JJ, Hetz C, Green DR, Alvarez AR. c-Abl Phosphorylates MFN2 to Regulate Mitochondrial Morphology in Cells under Endoplasmic Reticulum and Oxidative Stress, Impacting Cell Survival and Neurodegeneration. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:2007. [PMID: 38001860 PMCID: PMC10669615 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12112007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The endoplasmic reticulum is a subcellular organelle key in the control of synthesis, folding, and sorting of proteins. Under endoplasmic reticulum stress, an adaptative unfolded protein response is activated; however, if this activation is prolonged, cells can undergo cell death, in part due to oxidative stress and mitochondrial fragmentation. Here, we report that endoplasmic reticulum stress activates c-Abl tyrosine kinase, inducing its translocation to mitochondria. We found that endoplasmic reticulum stress-activated c-Abl interacts with and phosphorylates the mitochondrial fusion protein MFN2, resulting in mitochondrial fragmentation and apoptosis. Moreover, the pharmacological or genetic inhibition of c-Abl prevents MFN2 phosphorylation, mitochondrial fragmentation, and apoptosis in cells under endoplasmic reticulum stress. Finally, in the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis mouse model, where endoplasmic reticulum and oxidative stress has been linked to neuronal cell death, we demonstrated that the administration of c-Abl inhibitor neurotinib delays the onset of symptoms. Our results uncovered a function of c-Abl in the crosstalk between endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitochondrial dynamics via MFN2 phosphorylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Martinez
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences Faculty, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
- Basal Center for Aging and Regeneration, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (CARE UC), Santiago 8331150, Chile
| | - Cristian M. Lamaizon
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences Faculty, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Biological Sciences Faculty, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
| | - Cristian Valls
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences Faculty, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
| | - Fabien Llambi
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Nancy Leal
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences Faculty, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
| | - Patrick Fitzgerald
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Cliff Guy
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Marcin M. Kamiński
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Nibaldo C. Inestrosa
- Basal Center for Aging and Regeneration, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (CARE UC), Santiago 8331150, Chile
- Center of Excellence in Biomedicine of Magallanes (CEBIMA), University of Magallanes, Punta Arenas 6210427, Chile
| | - Brigitte van Zundert
- Basal Center for Aging and Regeneration, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (CARE UC), Santiago 8331150, Chile
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine & Faculty of Life Sciences, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago 8370146, Chile
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School (UMMS), Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Gonzalo I. Cancino
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences Faculty, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
| | - Andrés E. Dulcey
- Early Translation Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), NIH, 9800 Medical Center Drive, Rockville, MD 20850, USA
| | - Silvana Zanlungo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Av. Libertador Bernardo O’Higgins 340, Santiago 8331150, Chile
| | - Juan J. Marugan
- Early Translation Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), NIH, 9800 Medical Center Drive, Rockville, MD 20850, USA
| | - Claudio Hetz
- Biomedical Neuroscience Institute (BNI), Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago 8330015, Chile
- Center for Geroscience, Brain Health and Metabolism (GERO), Santiago 8380453, Chile
- Program of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago 8330015, Chile
- The Buck Institute for Research in Aging, Novato, CA 94945, USA
| | - Douglas R. Green
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Alejandra R. Alvarez
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences Faculty, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
- Basal Center for Aging and Regeneration, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (CARE UC), Santiago 8331150, Chile
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Biological Sciences Faculty, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8331150, Chile
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Strong TA, Esquivel J, Wang Q, Ledon PJ, Wang H, Gaidosh G, Tse D, Pelaez D. Activation of multiple Eph receptors on neuronal membranes correlates with the onset of optic neuropathy. EYE AND VISION (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2023; 10:42. [PMID: 37779186 PMCID: PMC10544557 DOI: 10.1186/s40662-023-00359-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Optic neuropathy is a major cause of irreversible blindness, yet the molecular determinants that contribute to neuronal demise have not been fully elucidated. Several studies have identified 'ephrin signaling' as one of the most dysregulated pathways in the early pathophysiology of optic neuropathy with varied etiologies. Developmentally, gradients in ephrin signaling coordinate retinotopic mapping via repulsive modulation of cytoskeletal dynamics in neuronal membranes. Little is known about the role ephrin signaling plays in the post-natal visual system and its correlation with the onset of optic neuropathy. METHODS Postnatal mouse retinas were collected for mass spectrometry analysis for erythropoietin-producing human hepatocellular (Eph) receptors. Optic nerve crush (ONC) model was employed to induce optic neuropathy, and proteomic changes during the acute phase of neuropathic onset were analyzed. Confocal and super-resolution microscopy determined the cellular localization of activated Eph receptors after ONC injury. Eph receptor inhibitors assessed the neuroprotective effect of ephrin signaling modulation. RESULTS Mass spectrometry revealed expression of seven Eph receptors (EphA2, A4, A5, B1, B2, B3, and B6) in postnatal mouse retinal tissue. Immunoblotting analysis indicated a significant increase in phosphorylation of these Eph receptors 48 h after ONC. Confocal microscopy demonstrated the presence of both subclasses of Eph receptors within the retina. Stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (STORM) super-resolution imaging combined with optimal transport colocalization analysis revealed a significant co-localization of activated Eph receptors with injured neuronal cells, compared to uninjured neuronal and/or injured glial cells, 48 h post-ONC. Eph receptor inhibitors displayed notable neuroprotective effects for retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) after six days of ONC injury. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate the functional presence of diverse Eph receptors in the postnatal mammalian retina, capable of modulating multiple biological processes. Pan-Eph receptor activation contributes to the onset of neuropathy in optic neuropathies, with preferential activation of Eph receptors on neuronal processes in the inner retina following optic nerve injury. Notably, Eph receptor activation precedes neuronal loss. We observed a neuroprotective effect on RGCs upon inhibiting Eph receptors. Our study highlights the importance of investigating this repulsive pathway in early optic neuropathies and provides a comprehensive characterization of the receptors present in the developed retina of mice, relevant to both homeostasis and disease processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A Strong
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Dr. Nasser Al-Rashid Orbital Vision Research Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1638 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, USA
| | - Juan Esquivel
- Department of Physics, University of Florida College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Qikai Wang
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Dr. Nasser Al-Rashid Orbital Vision Research Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1638 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Paul J Ledon
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Dr. Nasser Al-Rashid Orbital Vision Research Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1638 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Hua Wang
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Dr. Nasser Al-Rashid Orbital Vision Research Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1638 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Gabriel Gaidosh
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - David Tse
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Dr. Nasser Al-Rashid Orbital Vision Research Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1638 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Daniel Pelaez
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
- Dr. Nasser Al-Rashid Orbital Vision Research Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1638 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA.
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, USA.
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
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Verma M, Chopra M, Kumar H. Unraveling the Potential of EphA4: A Breakthrough Target and Beacon of Hope for Neurological Diseases. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2023; 43:3375-3391. [PMID: 37477786 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-023-01390-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular carcinoma A4 (EphA4) is a transmembrane receptor protein which is a part of the most prominent family of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs). It serves a crucial role in both physiological, biological, and functional states binding with their ligand like Ephrins. Its abundance in the majority of the body's systems has been reported. Moreover, it draws much attention in the CNS since it influences axonal and vascular guidance. Also, it has a widespread role at the pathological state of various CNS disorders. Reports suggest it obstructs axonal regeneration in various neurodegenerative diseases and neurological disorders. Although, neuro-regeneration is still an open challenge to the modern drug discovery community. Hence, in this review, we will provide information about the role of EphA4 in neurological diseases by which it may emerge as a therapeutic target for CNS disease. We will also provide a glance at numerous signaling pathways that activate or inhibit the EphA4-associated biological processes contributing to the course of neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, this work might serve as a basis for futuristic studies that are related to the target-based drug discovery in the field of neuro-regeneration. Pathological and physiological events associated with EphA4 and Ephrin upregulation and interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meenal Verma
- National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Ahmedabad, Opposite Air Force Station, Palaj, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 382355, India
| | - Manjeet Chopra
- National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Ahmedabad, Opposite Air Force Station, Palaj, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 382355, India
| | - Hemant Kumar
- National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Ahmedabad, Opposite Air Force Station, Palaj, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 382355, India.
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Motaln H, Rogelj B. The Role of c-Abl Tyrosine Kinase in Brain and Its Pathologies. Cells 2023; 12:2041. [PMID: 37626851 PMCID: PMC10453230 DOI: 10.3390/cells12162041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Differentiated status, low regenerative capacity and complex signaling make neuronal tissues highly susceptible to translating an imbalance in cell homeostasis into cell death. The high rate of neurodegenerative diseases in the elderly population confirms this. The multiple and divergent signaling cascades downstream of the various stress triggers challenge researchers to identify the central components of the stress-induced signaling pathways that cause neurodegeneration. Because of their critical role in cell homeostasis, kinases have emerged as one of the key regulators. Among kinases, non-receptor tyrosine kinase (Abelson kinase) c-Abl appears to be involved in both the normal development of neural tissue and the development of neurodegenerative pathologies when abnormally expressed or activated. However, exactly how c-Abl mediates the progression of neurodegeneration remains largely unexplored. Here, we summarize recent findings on the involvement of c-Abl in normal and abnormal processes in nervous tissue, focusing on neurons, astrocytes and microglial cells, with particular reference to molecular events at the interface between stress signaling, DNA damage, and metabolic regulation. Because inhibition of c-Abl has neuroprotective effects and can prevent neuronal death, we believe that an integrated view of c-Abl signaling in neurodegeneration could lead to significantly improved treatment of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Motaln
- Department of Biotechnology, Jozef Stefan Institute, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Boris Rogelj
- Department of Biotechnology, Jozef Stefan Institute, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
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9
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Strong TA, Esquivel J, Wang Q, Ledon PJ, Wang H, Gaidosh G, Tse D, Pelaez D. Activation of Multiple Eph Receptors on Neuronal Membranes Correlates with The Onset of Traumatic Optic Neuropathy. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.05.543735. [PMID: 37333178 PMCID: PMC10274644 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.05.543735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Background Optic neuropathy (ON) is a major cause of irreversible blindness, yet the molecular determinants that contribute to neuronal demise have not been fully elucidated. Several studies have identified 'ephrin signaling' as one of the most dysregulated pathways in the early pathophysiology of ON with varied etiologies. Developmentally, gradients in ephrin signaling coordinate retinotopic mapping via repulsive modulation of cytoskeletal dynamics in neuronal membranes. Little is known about the role ephrin signaling played in the post-natal visual system and its correlation with the onset of optic neuropathy. Methods Postnatal mouse retinas were collected for mass spectrometry analysis for Eph receptors. Optic nerve crush (ONC) model was employed to induce optic neuropathy, and proteomic changes during the acute phase of neuropathic onset were analyzed. Confocal and super-resolution microscopy determined the cellular localization of activated Eph receptors after ONC injury. Eph receptor inhibitors assessed the neuroprotective effect of ephrin signaling modulation. Results Mass spectrometry revealed expression of seven Eph receptors (EphA2, A4, A5, B1, B2, B3, and B6) in postnatal mouse retinal tissue. Immunoblotting analysis indicated a significant increase in phosphorylation of these Eph receptors 48 hours after ONC. Confocal microscopy demonstrated the presence of both subclasses of Eph receptors in the inner retinal layers. STORM super-resolution imaging combined with optimal transport colocalization analysis revealed a significant co-localization of activated Eph receptors with injured neuronal processes, compared to uninjured neuronal and/or injured glial cells, 48 hours post-ONC. Eph receptor inhibitors displayed notable neuroprotective effects after 6 days of ONC injury. Conclusions Our findings demonstrate the functional presence of diverse Eph receptors in the postnatal mammalian retina, capable of modulating multiple biological processes. Pan-Eph receptor activation contributes to the onset of neuropathy in ONs, with preferential activation of Eph receptors on neuronal processes in the inner retina following optic nerve injury. Notably, Eph receptor activation precedes neuronal loss. We observed neuroprotective effects upon inhibiting Eph receptors. Our study highlights the importance of investigating this repulsive pathway in early optic neuropathies and provides a comprehensive characterization of the receptors present in the developed retina of mice, relevant to both homeostasis and disease processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A. Strong
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States of America
- Dr. Nasser Al-Rashid Orbital Vision Research Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States of America
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
| | - Juan Esquivel
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States of America
| | - Qikai Wang
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States of America
- Dr. Nasser Al-Rashid Orbital Vision Research Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States of America
| | - Paul J. Ledon
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States of America
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States of America
| | - Hua Wang
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States of America
- Dr. Nasser Al-Rashid Orbital Vision Research Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States of America
| | - Gabriel Gaidosh
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States of America
| | - David Tse
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States of America
- Dr. Nasser Al-Rashid Orbital Vision Research Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States of America
| | - Daniel Pelaez
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States of America
- Dr. Nasser Al-Rashid Orbital Vision Research Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States of America
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami College of Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States of America
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States of America
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10
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León R, Gutiérrez DA, Pinto C, Morales C, de la Fuente C, Riquelme C, Cortés BI, González-Martin A, Chamorro D, Espinosa N, Fuentealba P, Cancino GI, Zanlungo S, Dulcey AE, Marugan JJ, Álvarez Rojas A. c-Abl tyrosine kinase down-regulation as target for memory improvement in Alzheimer's disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1180987. [PMID: 37358955 PMCID: PMC10289333 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1180987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Growing evidence suggests that the non-receptor tyrosine kinase, c-Abl, plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Here, we analyzed the effect of c-Abl on the cognitive performance decline of APPSwe/PSEN1ΔE9 (APP/PS1) mouse model for AD. Methods We used the conditional genetic ablation of c-Abl in the brain (c-Abl-KO) and pharmacological treatment with neurotinib, a novel allosteric c-Abl inhibitor with high brain penetrance, imbued in rodent's chow. Results We found that APP/PS1/c-Abl-KO mice and APP/PS1 neurotinib-fed mice had improved performance in hippocampus-dependent tasks. In the object location and Barnes-maze tests, they recognized the displaced object and learned the location of the escape hole faster than APP/PS1 mice. Also, APP/PS1 neurotinib-fed mice required fewer trials to reach the learning criterion in the memory flexibility test. Accordingly, c-Abl absence and inhibition caused fewer amyloid plaques, reduced astrogliosis, and preserved neurons in the hippocampus. Discussion Our results further validate c-Abl as a target for AD, and the neurotinib, a novel c-Abl inhibitor, as a suitable preclinical candidate for AD therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rilda León
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences Faculty, Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Daniela A. Gutiérrez
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences Faculty, Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Claudio Pinto
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences Faculty, Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Cristian Morales
- Laboratory for Brain-Machine Interfaces and Neuromodulation, Facultad de Ingeniería, Instituto de Ingeniería Biológica y Médica, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Laboratory of Neural Circuits, Department of Psychiatry, Neuroscience Interdisciplinary Centre, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Catalina de la Fuente
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences Faculty, Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Cristóbal Riquelme
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences Faculty, Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Bastián I. Cortés
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences Faculty, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Adrián González-Martin
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences Faculty, Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - David Chamorro
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences Faculty, Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Nelson Espinosa
- Laboratory of Neural Circuits, Department of Psychiatry, Neuroscience Interdisciplinary Centre, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Pablo Fuentealba
- Laboratory of Neural Circuits, Department of Psychiatry, Neuroscience Interdisciplinary Centre, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Gonzalo I. Cancino
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences Faculty, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Silvana Zanlungo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Andrés E. Dulcey
- Early Translation Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), NIH, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Juan J. Marugan
- Early Translation Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), NIH, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Alejandra Álvarez Rojas
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences Faculty, Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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11
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Fu WY, Ip NY. The role of genetic risk factors of Alzheimer's disease in synaptic dysfunction. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2023; 139:3-12. [PMID: 35918217 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the progressive deterioration of cognitive functions. Due to the extended global life expectancy, the prevalence of AD is increasing among aging populations worldwide. While AD is a multifactorial disease, synaptic dysfunction is one of the major neuropathological changes that occur early in AD, before clinical symptoms appear, and is associated with the progression of cognitive deterioration. However, the underlying pathological mechanisms leading to this synaptic dysfunction remains unclear. Recent large-scale genomic analyses have identified more than 40 genetic risk factors that are associated with AD. In this review, we discuss the functional roles of these genes in synaptogenesis and synaptic functions under physiological conditions, and how their functions are dysregulated in AD. This will provide insights into the contributions of these encoded proteins to synaptic dysfunction during AD pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wing-Yu Fu
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Molecular Neuroscience Center, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China; Hong Kong Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
| | - Nancy Y Ip
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Molecular Neuroscience Center, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China; Hong Kong Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Science, Disease and Drug Development, HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518057, China.
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12
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Álvarez A, Gutiérrez D, Chandía-Cristi A, Yáñez M, Zanlungo S. c-Abl kinase at the crossroads of healthy synaptic remodeling and synaptic dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases. Neural Regen Res 2023; 18:237-243. [PMID: 35900397 PMCID: PMC9396477 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.346540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Our ability to learn and remember depends on the active formation, remodeling, and elimination of synapses. Thus, the development and growth of synapses as well as their weakening and elimination are essential for neuronal rewiring. The structural reorganization of synaptic complexes, changes in actin cytoskeleton and organelle dynamics, as well as modulation of gene expression, determine synaptic plasticity. It has been proposed that dysregulation of these key synaptic homeostatic processes underlies the synaptic dysfunction observed in many neurodegenerative diseases. Much is known about downstream signaling of activated N-methyl-D-aspartate and α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoazolepropionate receptors; however, other signaling pathways can also contribute to synaptic plasticity and long-lasting changes in learning and memory. The non-receptor tyrosine kinase c-Abl (ABL1) is a key signal transducer of intra and extracellular signals, and it shuttles between the cytoplasm and the nucleus. This review focuses on c-Abl and its synaptic and neuronal functions. Here, we discuss the evidence showing that the activation of c-Abl can be detrimental to neurons, promoting the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Nevertheless, c-Abl activity seems to be in a pivotal balance between healthy synaptic plasticity, regulating dendritic spines remodeling and gene expression after cognitive training, and synaptic dysfunction and loss in neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, c-Abl genetic ablation not only improves learning and memory and modulates the brain genetic program of trained mice, but its absence provides dendritic spines resiliency against damage. Therefore, the present review has been designed to elucidate the common links between c-Abl regulation of structural changes that involve the actin cytoskeleton and organelles dynamics, and the transcriptional program activated during synaptic plasticity. By summarizing the recent discoveries on c-Abl functions, we aim to provide an overview of how its inhibition could be a potentially fruitful treatment to improve degenerative outcomes and delay memory loss.
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13
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Salasova A, Monti G, Andersen OM, Nykjaer A. Finding memo: versatile interactions of the VPS10p-Domain receptors in Alzheimer’s disease. Mol Neurodegener 2022; 17:74. [PMID: 36397124 PMCID: PMC9673319 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-022-00576-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The family of VPS10p-Domain (D) receptors comprises five members named SorLA, Sortilin, SorCS1, SorCS2 and SorCS3. While their physiological roles remain incompletely resolved, they have been recognized for their signaling engagements and trafficking abilities, navigating a number of molecules between endosome, Golgi compartments, and the cell surface. Strikingly, recent studies connected all the VPS10p-D receptors to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) development. In addition, they have been also associated with diseases comorbid with AD such as diabetes mellitus and major depressive disorder. This systematic review elaborates on genetic, functional, and mechanistic insights into how dysfunction in VPS10p-D receptors may contribute to AD etiology, AD onset diversity, and AD comorbidities. Starting with their functions in controlling cellular trafficking of amyloid precursor protein and the metabolism of the amyloid beta peptide, we present and exemplify how these receptors, despite being structurally similar, regulate various and distinct cellular events involved in AD. This includes a plethora of signaling crosstalks that impact on neuronal survival, neuronal wiring, neuronal polarity, and synaptic plasticity. Signaling activities of the VPS10p-D receptors are especially linked, but not limited to, the regulation of neuronal fitness and apoptosis via their physical interaction with pro- and mature neurotrophins and their receptors. By compiling the functional versatility of VPS10p-D receptors and their interactions with AD-related pathways, we aim to further propel the AD research towards VPS10p-D receptor family, knowledge that may lead to new diagnostic markers and therapeutic strategies for AD patients.
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14
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Ganguly D, Thomas JA, Ali A, Kumar R. Mechanistic and therapeutic implications of EphA-4 receptor tyrosine kinase in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. Eur J Neurosci 2022; 56:5532-5546. [PMID: 34989046 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Erythropoietin-producing hepatoma (Eph) receptors belong to a family of tyrosine kinase receptors that plays a pivotal role in the development of the brain. Eph can be divided broadly into two groups, namely, EphA and EphB, comprising nine and five members, respectively. In recent years, the role of EphA-4 has become increasingly apparent in the onset of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Emerging evidence suggests that EphA-4 results in synaptic dysfunction, which in turn promotes the progression of AD. Moreover, pharmacological or genetic ablation of EphA-4 in the murine model of AD can alleviate the symptoms. The current review summarizes different pathways by which EphA-4 can influence pathogenesis. Since, majority of the studies had reported the protective effect of EphA-4 inhibition during AD, designing therapeutics based on decreasing its enzymatic activity might be necessary for introducing the novel interventions. Therefore, the review described peptide and nanobodies inhibitors of EphA-4 that exhibit the potential to modulate EphA-4 and could be used as lead molecules for the targeted therapy of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devargya Ganguly
- Department of Biotechnology, GITAM Institute of Sciences, GITAM (Deemed to be) University, Vishakhapatnam, India
| | - Joshua Abby Thomas
- Department of Biotechnology, GITAM Institute of Sciences, GITAM (Deemed to be) University, Vishakhapatnam, India
| | - Abid Ali
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, India
| | - Rahul Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, GITAM Institute of Sciences, GITAM (Deemed to be) University, Vishakhapatnam, India
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15
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Taylor HBC, Jeans AF. Friend or Foe? The Varied Faces of Homeostatic Synaptic Plasticity in Neurodegenerative Disease. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:782768. [PMID: 34955753 PMCID: PMC8702499 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.782768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Homeostatic synaptic plasticity (HSP) regulates synaptic strength both pre- and postsynaptically to ensure stability and efficient information transfer in neural networks. A number of neurological diseases have been associated with deficits in HSP, particularly diseases characterised by episodic network instability such as migraine and epilepsy. Recently, it has become apparent that HSP also plays a role in many neurodegenerative diseases. In this mini review, we present an overview of the evidence linking HSP to each of the major neurodegenerative diseases, finding that HSP changes in each disease appear to belong to one of three broad functional categories: (1) deficits in HSP at degenerating synapses that contribute to pathogenesis or progression; (2) HSP induced in a heterosynaptic or cell non-autonomous manner to support the function of networks of which the degenerating synapses or cells are part; and (3) induction of HSP within the degenerating population of synapses to preserve function and to resist the impact of synapse loss. Understanding the varied manifestations of HSP in neurodegeneration will not only aid understanding mechanisms of disease but could also inspire much-needed novel approaches to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexander F. Jeans
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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16
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Super-resolution microscopy: a closer look at synaptic dysfunction in Alzheimer disease. Nat Rev Neurosci 2021; 22:723-740. [PMID: 34725519 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-021-00531-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The synapse has emerged as a critical neuronal structure in the degenerative process of Alzheimer disease (AD), in which the pathogenic signals of two key players - amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau - converge, thereby causing synaptic dysfunction and cognitive deficits. The synapse presents a dynamic, confined microenvironment in which to explore how key molecules travel, localize, interact and assume different levels of organizational complexity, thereby affecting neuronal function. However, owing to their small size and the diffraction-limited resolution of conventional light microscopic approaches, investigating synaptic structure and dynamics has been challenging. Super-resolution microscopy (SRM) techniques have overcome the resolution barrier and are revolutionizing our quantitative understanding of biological systems in unprecedented spatio-temporal detail. Here we review critical new insights provided by SRM into the molecular architecture and dynamic organization of the synapse and, in particular, the interactions between Aβ and tau in this compartment. We further highlight how SRM can transform our understanding of the molecular pathological mechanisms that underlie AD. The application of SRM for understanding the roles of synapses in AD pathology will provide a stepping stone towards a broader understanding of dysfunction in other subcellular compartments and at cellular and circuit levels in this disease.
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17
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Mohamed Asik R, Suganthy N, Aarifa MA, Kumar A, Szigeti K, Mathe D, Gulyás B, Archunan G, Padmanabhan P. Alzheimer's Disease: A Molecular View of β-Amyloid Induced Morbific Events. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9091126. [PMID: 34572312 PMCID: PMC8468668 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9091126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyloid-β (Aβ) is a dynamic peptide of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) which accelerates the disease progression. At the cell membrane and cell compartments, the amyloid precursor protein (APP) undergoes amyloidogenic cleavage by β- and γ-secretases and engenders the Aβ. In addition, externally produced Aβ gets inside the cells by receptors mediated internalization. An elevated amount of Aβ yields spontaneous aggregation which causes organelles impairment. Aβ stimulates the hyperphosphorylation of tau protein via acceleration by several kinases. Aβ travels to the mitochondria and interacts with its functional complexes, which impairs the mitochondrial function leading to the activation of apoptotic signaling cascade. Aβ disrupts the Ca2+ and protein homeostasis of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Golgi complex (GC) that promotes the organelle stress and inhibits its stress recovery machinery such as unfolded protein response (UPR) and ER-associated degradation (ERAD). At lysosome, Aβ precedes autophagy dysfunction upon interacting with autophagy molecules. Interestingly, Aβ act as a transcription regulator as well as inhibits telomerase activity. Both Aβ and p-tau interaction with neuronal and glial receptors elevate the inflammatory molecules and persuade inflammation. Here, we have expounded the Aβ mediated events in the cells and its cosmopolitan role on neurodegeneration, and the current clinical status of anti-amyloid therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajmohamed Mohamed Asik
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 636921, Singapore; (R.M.A.); (B.G.)
- Cognitive Neuroimaging Centre, 59 Nanyang Drive, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 636921, Singapore
- Department of Animal Science, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli 620024, Tamil Nadu, India;
| | - Natarajan Suganthy
- Department of Nanoscience and Technology, Alagappa University, Karaikudi 630003, Tamil Nadu, India;
| | - Mohamed Asik Aarifa
- Department of Animal Science, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli 620024, Tamil Nadu, India;
| | - Arvind Kumar
- Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad 500007, Telangana, India;
| | - Krisztián Szigeti
- Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary; (K.S.); (D.M.)
- CROmed Translational Research Centers, 1094 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Domokos Mathe
- Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary; (K.S.); (D.M.)
- CROmed Translational Research Centers, 1094 Budapest, Hungary
- In Vivo Imaging Advanced Core Facility, Hungarian Center of Excellence for Molecular Medicine (HCEMM), 1094 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Balázs Gulyás
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 636921, Singapore; (R.M.A.); (B.G.)
- Cognitive Neuroimaging Centre, 59 Nanyang Drive, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 636921, Singapore
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Govindaraju Archunan
- Department of Animal Science, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli 620024, Tamil Nadu, India;
- Marudupandiyar College, Thanjavur 613403, Tamil Nadu, India
- Correspondence: (G.A.); (P.P.)
| | - Parasuraman Padmanabhan
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 636921, Singapore; (R.M.A.); (B.G.)
- Cognitive Neuroimaging Centre, 59 Nanyang Drive, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 636921, Singapore
- Correspondence: (G.A.); (P.P.)
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18
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González-Martín A, Moyano T, Gutiérrez DA, Carvajal FJ, Cerpa W, Hanley JG, Gutiérrez RA, Álvarez AR. c-Abl regulates a synaptic plasticity-related transcriptional program involved in memory and learning. Prog Neurobiol 2021; 205:102122. [PMID: 34284000 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2021.102122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Memory consolidation requires activation of a gene expression program that allows de novo protein synthesis. But the molecular mechanisms that favour or restrict that program are poorly understood. The kinase c-Abl can modulate gene expression through transcription factors and chromatin modifiers. Here, we show that c-Abl ablation in the brain improves learning acquisition and memory consolidation in mice. Its absence also affects gene expression profiles in the mouse hippocampus. We found that genes involved in synaptic plasticity and actin cytoskeleton dynamics, such as Arp2 and Thorase, are up-regulated at the mRNA and protein levels in trained c-Abl KO mice and by a chemical-LTP stimulus. Trained c-Abl KO mice also show that dendritic spines are larger than in wild-type mice and present at a higher density. These results indicate that c-Abl kinase is an important part of the mechanism that limits or restricts signalling of relevant gene programs involved in morphological and functional spine changes upon neuronal stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrián González-Martín
- Department of Cell & Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile; Centre for Aging and Regeneration (CARE-UC), Chile
| | - Tomás Moyano
- FONDAP Center for Genome Regulation, Millennium Institute for Integrative Biology (iBio), Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Avda. Libertador Bernardo O'Higgins 340, Santiago, 8331150, Chile
| | - Daniela A Gutiérrez
- Department of Cell & Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile; Centre for Aging and Regeneration (CARE-UC), Chile
| | - Franciso J Carvajal
- Department of Cell & Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile; Center of Excellence in Biomedicine of Magallanes (CEBIMA), Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas, Chile
| | - Waldo Cerpa
- Department of Cell & Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile; Centre for Aging and Regeneration (CARE-UC), Chile; Center of Excellence in Biomedicine of Magallanes (CEBIMA), Universidad de Magallanes, Punta Arenas, Chile
| | - Jonathan G Hanley
- Centre for Synaptic Plasticity and School of Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences Building, University of Bristol, University Walk, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Rodrigo A Gutiérrez
- FONDAP Center for Genome Regulation, Millennium Institute for Integrative Biology (iBio), Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Avda. Libertador Bernardo O'Higgins 340, Santiago, 8331150, Chile
| | - Alejandra R Álvarez
- Department of Cell & Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile; Centre for Aging and Regeneration (CARE-UC), Chile.
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19
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EphA4 is highly expressed in the atria of heart and its deletion leads to atrial hypertrophy and electrocardiographic abnormalities in rats. Life Sci 2021; 278:119595. [PMID: 33974931 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
AIMS EphA4 is a member of the Eph receptor family, and expressed mainly in central nervous system (CNS), which is involved in CNS development and multiple diseases. Due to the variability in EphA4 expression, we wondered if EphA4 is expressed in other tissues, and what role does EphA4 play? MATERIALS AND METHODS We generated an EphA4 knockout (KO) rat line with red fluorescent marker protein encoded by the mCherry cassette inserted downstream of the EphA4 promoter as a reporter. Using this system, we observed high expression of EphA4 in the heart atria and in the brain. KEY FINDINGS EphaA4 KO rats (EphA4-/-) developed obvious atrial hypertrophy with an increased atria-to-heart weight ratio and atrial cardiomyocyte cross-sectional area at six months of age. EphA4-/- rats had reduced atrial end diastolic volume (EDV), atrial ejection fraction (EF) and left ventricular EF. They also exhibited increased amplitude of QRS complexes and QT intervals, with invisible p waves. RNA sequencing revealed that EphA4 KO altered the transcription of multiple genes involved in regulation of transcription and translation, ion binding, metabolism and cell adhesion. Deletion of EphA4 reduced IGF1 mRNA and protein expression, which is involved in cardiac remodeling. SIGNIFICANCE Our data demonstrated that EphA4 was highly expressed in the atria and its deletion caused atrial dysfunction. Our findings also suggested that the EphA4 KO rat could be a potential model for studies on atrial remodeling.
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20
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Pei YA, Davies J, Zhang M, Zhang HT. The Role of Synaptic Dysfunction in Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 76:49-62. [PMID: 32417776 DOI: 10.3233/jad-191334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Deemed as incurable, Alzheimer's disease (AD) research is becoming less convoluted as our understanding of its pathology increases. With current treatments focusing on merely mitigating the symptoms of AD, there have been many attempts to find a molecular culprit to serve as the single underlying cause and therapeutic target for clinical applications to approach the disease from its roots. Indeed, over the course of decades, the endless search for a singular target culprit in AD has uncovered a cascade of pathological defects, adding on to each other throughout the progression of the disease. The developmental patterns of amyloid-β (Aβ) oligomers have been studied as a means to discover the complex molecular interplay between various immune responses, genetic mutations, pathway disturbances, and regulating factors that disturb synapse homeostasis before disease manifestation. This new understanding has shifted the underlying goal of the research community from merely removing Aβ oligomers to finding methods that can predict high risk individuals and resorting to cocktail-drug treatments in an attempt to regulate multiple pathways that cumulatively result in the debilitating symptoms of the disease. By utilizing various assays from immuno-targeting to molecular biomarkers, we then interfere in the molecular cascades in an endeavor to avoid synapse dysfunction before disease maturity. Here, we review the current literature supporting the importance of synapses in AD, our current understanding of the molecular interactions leading up to clinical diagnoses, and the techniques used in targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixuan Amy Pei
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Julie Davies
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Melanie Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Han-Ting Zhang
- Departments of Neuroscience and Behavioral Medicine & Psychiatry, Rockefeller Neurosciences Institute, West Virginia University Health Sciences Center, Morgantown, WV, USA
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21
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Reichenstein M, Borovok N, Sheinin A, Brider T, Michaelevski I. Abelson Kinases Mediate the Depression of Spontaneous Synaptic Activity Induced by Amyloid Beta 1-42 Peptides. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2021; 41:431-448. [PMID: 32399753 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-020-00858-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Amyloid beta (Aβ) peptides represent one of the most studied etiological factors of Alzheimer's disease. Nevertheless, the effects elicited by different molecular forms of amyloid beta peptides widely vary between the studies, mostly depending on experimental conditions. Despite the enormous amount of accumulated evidences concerning the pathological effects of amyloid beta peptides, the exact identity of the amyloid beta species is still controversial, and even less is clear as regards to the downstream effectors that mediate the devastating impact of these peptides on synapses in the central nervous system. Recent publications indicate that some of the neurotoxic effects of amyloid beta peptides may be mediated via the activation of proteins belonging to the Abelson non-receptor tyrosine kinase (Abl) family, that are known to regulate actin cytoskeleton structure as well as phosphorylate microtubule-associated tau protein, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. By performing series of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSC) recordings in cultured hippocampal cells, we demonstrate that activation of Abl kinases by acute application of 42 amino acid-length monomeric amyloid beta (Aβ1-42) peptides reduces spontaneous synaptic release, while this effect can be rescued by pharmacologic inhibition of Abl kinase activity, or by reduction of Abl expression with small interfering RNAs. Our electrophysiological data are further reinforced by a subsequent biochemical analysis, showing enhanced phosphorylation of Abl kinase substrate CT10 Regulator of Kinase-homolog-Like (Crkl) upon treatment of hippocampal neurons with Aβ peptides. Thus, we conclude that Abl kinase activation may be involved in Aβ-induced weakening of synaptic transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Reichenstein
- Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tel Aviv University, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - N Borovok
- Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tel Aviv University, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - A Sheinin
- Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tel Aviv University, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - T Brider
- Department of Molecular Biology, Ariel University, 40700, Ariel, Israel
| | - I Michaelevski
- Department of Molecular Biology, Ariel University, 40700, Ariel, Israel.
- Integrative Brain Science Center Ariel, IBSCA, Ariel University, 40700, Ariel, Israel.
- The Adelson Medical School, Ariel University, 40700, Ariel, Israel.
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22
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Wang JL, Chen WG, Zhang JJ, Xu CJ. Nogo-A-Δ20/EphA4 interaction antagonizes apoptosis of neural stem cells by integrating p38 and JNK MAPK signaling. J Mol Histol 2021; 52:521-537. [PMID: 33555537 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-021-09960-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Nogo-A protein consists of two main extracellular domains: Nogo-66 (rat amino acid [aa] 1019-1083) and Nogo-A-Δ20 (extracellular, active 180 amino acid Nogo-A region), which serve as strong inhibitors of axon regeneration in the adult CNS (Central Nervous System). Although receptors S1PR2 and HSPGs have been identified as Nogo-A-Δ20 binding proteins, it remains at present elusive whether other receptors directly interacting with Nogo-A-Δ20 exist, and decrease cell death. On the other hand, the key roles of EphA4 in the regulation of glioblastoma, axon regeneration and NSCs (Neural Stem Cells) proliferation or differentiation are well understood, but little is known the relationship between EphA4 and Nogo-A-Δ20 in NSCs apoptosis. Thus, we aim to determine whether Nogo-A-Δ20 can bind to EphA4 and affect survival of NSCs. Here, we discover that EphA4, belonging to a member of erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular (Eph) receptors family, could be acting as a high affinity ligand for Nogo-A-Δ20. Trans-membrane protein of EphA4 is needed for Nogo-A-Δ20-triggered inhibition of NSCs apoptosis, which are mediated by balancing p38 inactivation and JNK MAPK pathway activation. Finally, we predict at the atomic level that essential residues Lys-205, Ile-190, Pro-194 in Nogo-A-Δ20 and EphA4 residues Gln-390, Asn-425, Pro-426 might play critical roles in Nogo-A-Δ20/EphA4 binding via molecular docking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Ling Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital 1 of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei-Guang Chen
- Department of Histology & Embryology, School of Basic Medical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Cha Shan University Town, No.1 Central North Road, Wenzhou, 325035, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia-Jia Zhang
- School of 1St Clinical Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao-Jin Xu
- Department of Histology & Embryology, School of Basic Medical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Cha Shan University Town, No.1 Central North Road, Wenzhou, 325035, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.
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23
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Stefanski KM, Russell CM, Westerfield JM, Lamichhane R, Barrera FN. PIP 2 promotes conformation-specific dimerization of the EphA2 membrane region. J Biol Chem 2021; 296:100149. [PMID: 33277361 PMCID: PMC7900517 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra120.016423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The impact of the EphA2 receptor on cancer malignancy hinges on the two different ways it can be activated. EphA2 induces antioncogenic signaling after ligand binding, but ligand-independent activation of EphA2 is pro-oncogenic. It is believed that the transmembrane (TM) domain of EphA2 adopts two alternate conformations in the ligand-dependent and the ligand-independent states. However, it is poorly understood how the difference in TM helical crossing angles found in the two conformations impacts the activity and regulation of EphA2. We devised a method that uses hydrophobic matching to stabilize two conformations of a peptide comprising the EphA2 TM domain and a portion of the intracellular juxtamembrane (JM) segment. The two conformations exhibit different TM crossing angles, resembling the ligand-dependent and ligand-independent states. We developed a single-molecule technique using styrene maleic acid lipid particles to measure dimerization in membranes. We observed that the signaling lipid PIP2 promotes TM dimerization, but only in the small crossing angle state, which we propose corresponds to the ligand-independent conformation. In this state the two TMs are almost parallel, and the positively charged JM segments are expected to be close to each other, causing electrostatic repulsion. The mechanism PIP2 uses to promote dimerization might involve alleviating this repulsion due to its high density of negative charges. Our data reveal a conformational coupling between the TM and JM regions and suggest that PIP2 might directly exert a regulatory effect on EphA2 activation in cells that is specific to the ligand-independent conformation of the receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine M Stefanski
- Graduate School of Genome Science and Technology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, USA
| | - Charles M Russell
- Department of Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, USA
| | - Justin M Westerfield
- Department of Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, USA
| | - Rajan Lamichhane
- Department of Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, USA.
| | - Francisco N Barrera
- Department of Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, USA.
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24
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Tamura K, Chiu YW, Shiohara A, Hori Y, Tomita T. EphA4 regulates Aβ production via BACE1 expression in neurons. FASEB J 2020; 34:16383-16396. [PMID: 33090569 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202001510r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Several lines of evidence suggest that the aggregation and deposition of amyloid-β peptide (Aβ) initiate the pathology of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Recently, a genome-wide association study demonstrated that a single-nucleotide polymorphism proximal to the EPHA4 gene, which encodes a receptor tyrosine kinase, is associated with AD risk. However, the molecular mechanism of EphA4 in the pathogenesis of AD, particularly in Aβ production, remains unknown. Here, we performed several pharmacological and biological experiments both in vitro and in vivo and demonstrated that EphA4 is responsible for the regulation of Aβ production. Pharmacological inhibition of EphA4 signaling and knockdown of Epha4 led to increased Aβ levels accompanied by increased expression of β-site APP cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1), which is an enzyme responsible for Aβ production. Moreover, EPHA4 overexpression and activation of EphA4 signaling via ephrin ligands decreased Aβ levels. In particular, the sterile-alpha motif domain of EphA4 was necessary for the regulation of Aβ production. Finally, EPHA4 mRNA levels were significantly reduced in the brains of AD patients, and negatively correlated with BACE1 mRNA levels. Our results indicate a novel mechanism of Aβ regulation by EphA4, which is involved in AD pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kensuke Tamura
- Laboratory of Neuropathology and Neuroscience, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yung-Wen Chiu
- Laboratory of Neuropathology and Neuroscience, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Azusa Shiohara
- Laboratory of Neuropathology and Neuroscience, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yukiko Hori
- Laboratory of Neuropathology and Neuroscience, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taisuke Tomita
- Laboratory of Neuropathology and Neuroscience, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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25
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Inducible EphA4 knockout causes motor deficits in young mice and is not protective in the SOD1 G93A mouse model of ALS. Sci Rep 2020; 10:15713. [PMID: 32973290 PMCID: PMC7515861 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-72723-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by motor neuron loss that ultimately leads to fatal paralysis. Reducing levels or function of the tyrosine kinase, ephrin type-A receptor 4 (EphA4), has been suggested as a potential approach for slowing disease progression in ALS. Because EphA4 plays roles in embryonic nervous system development, study of constitutive knockout (KO) of EphA4 in mice is limited due to confounding phenotypes with homozygous knockout. We used a tamoxifen-inducible EphA4 conditional KO mouse to achieve strong reduction of EphA4 levels in postnatal mice to test for protective effects in the SOD1G93A model of ALS. We found that EphA4 KO in young mice, but not older adult mice, causes defects in muscle function, consistent with a prolonged postnatal role for EphA4 in adolescent muscle growth. When testing the effects of inducible EphA4 KO at different timepoints in SOD1G93A mice, we found no benefits on motor function or disease pathology, including muscle denervation and motor neuron loss. Our results demonstrate deleterious effects of reducing EphA4 levels in juvenile mice and do not provide support for the hypothesis that widespread EphA4 reduction is beneficial in the SOD1G93A mouse model of ALS.
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26
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Quan Q, Li X, Feng J, Hou J, Li M, Zhang B. Ginsenoside Rg1 reduces β‑amyloid levels by inhibiting CDΚ5‑induced PPARγ phosphorylation in a neuron model of Alzheimer's disease. Mol Med Rep 2020; 22:3277-3288. [PMID: 32945455 PMCID: PMC7453505 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2020.11424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The accumulation of β-amyloid peptides (Aβ) in the brain is a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Studies have indicated that ginsenoside Rg1, a primary component of ginseng (Panax ginseng), reduces brain Aβ levels in an AD model through peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), thereby regulating the expression of insulin-degrading enzyme (Ide) and β-amyloid cleavage enzyme 1 (Bace1), which are PPARγ target genes. However, the effects of ginsenoside Rg1 on PPARγ remain unclear. Since cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (CDK5) mediates PPARγ phosphorylation in adipose tissue, this study aimed to investigate whether ginsenoside Rg1 regulates PPARγ target genes and reduces Aβ levels by inhibiting PPARγ phosphorylation through the CDK5 pathway. In the present study, a model of AD was established by treating primary cultured rat hippocampal neurons with Aβ1-42. The cells were pretreatment with ginsenoside Rg1 and roscovitine, a CDK5-inhibitor, prior to the treatment with Aβ1-42. Neuronal apoptosis was detected using TUNEL staining. PPARγ phosphorylation and protein expression levels of PPARγ, CDK5, IDE, BACE1, amyloid precursor protein (APP) and Aβ1-42 were measured by western blotting. The mRNA expression levels of PPARγ, CDK5, IDE, BACE1 and APP were assessed using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. The results of the present study demonstrated that in an AD model induced by Aβ1-42, ginsenoside Rg1 significantly decreased CDK5 expression, inhibited PPARγ phosphorylation at serine 273, elevated IDE expression, downregulated BACE1 and APP expression, decreased Aβ1-42 levels and attenuated neuronal apoptosis. The CDK5 inhibitor, roscovitine, demonstrated similar effects. These results suggest that ginsenoside Rg1 has neuroprotective properties and has potential for use in the treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiankun Quan
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710004, P.R. China
| | - Xi Li
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710004, P.R. China
| | - Jianjun Feng
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710004, P.R. China
| | - Jixing Hou
- Department of Psychiatry, Xi'an Mental Health Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710004, P.R. China
| | - Bingwei Zhang
- Department of Geriatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710004, P.R. China
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27
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Fontana IC, Zimmer AR, Rocha AS, Gosmann G, Souza DO, Lourenco MV, Ferreira ST, Zimmer ER. Amyloid-β oligomers in cellular models of Alzheimer's disease. J Neurochem 2020; 155:348-369. [PMID: 32320074 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Revised: 03/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Amyloid-β (Aβ) dysmetabolism is tightly associated with pathological processes in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Currently, it is thought that, in addition to Aβ fibrils that give rise to plaque formation, Aβ aggregates into non-fibrillar soluble oligomers (AβOs). Soluble AβOs have been extensively studied for their synaptotoxic and neurotoxic properties. In this review, we discuss physicochemical properties of AβOs and their impact on different brain cell types in AD. Additionally, we summarize three decades of studies with AβOs, providing a compelling bulk of evidence regarding cell-specific mechanisms of toxicity. Cellular models may lead us to a deeper understanding of the detrimental effects of AβOs in neurons and glial cells, putatively shedding light on the development of innovative therapies for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor C Fontana
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Aline R Zimmer
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Andreia S Rocha
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Grace Gosmann
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Diogo O Souza
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Department of Biochemistry, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Mychael V Lourenco
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry Leopoldo de Meis, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Sergio T Ferreira
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry Leopoldo de Meis, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.,Institute of Biophysics Carlos Chagas Filho, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Eduardo R Zimmer
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Department of Pharmacology, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Pharmacology and Therapeutics,, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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28
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Chen Q, Song H, Liu C, Xu J, Wei C, Wang W, Han F. The Interaction of EphA4 With PDGFRβ Regulates Proliferation and Neuronal Differentiation of Neural Progenitor Cells in vitro and Promotes Neurogenesis in vivo. Front Aging Neurosci 2020; 12:7. [PMID: 32116646 PMCID: PMC7026009 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2020.00007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Neural progenitor cells (NPCs) have great potentials in cell replacement therapy for neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), by promoting neurogenesis associated with hippocampal memory improvement. Ephrin receptors and angiogenic growth factor receptors have a marked impact on the proliferation and differentiation of NPCs. Although ephrin receptor A4 (EphA4) was shown to directly interact with platelet-derived growth factor receptor β (PDGFRβ), the functional effects of this interaction on neurogenesis in cultured NPCs and adult hippocampus have not yet been studied. Immunoprecipitation demonstrated that EphA4 directly interacted with PDGFRβ in NPCs under ligand stimulation. Ephrin-A1 and PDGF-platelet-derived growth factor BB (BB) significantly increased proliferation and neuronal differentiation of NPCs, which was further augmented by combined treatment of Ephrin-A1 and PDGF-BB. We also found that ligand-dependent proliferation and neuronal differentiation were inhibited by the dominant-negative EphA4 mutant or a PDGFR inhibitor. Most importantly, injection of ephrin-A1 and/or PDGF-BB promoted hippocampal NPC proliferation in the APP/PS1 mouse model of AD, indicating that direct interaction of EphA4 with PDGFRβ plays a functional role on neurogenesis in vivo. Finally, studies in NPCs showed that the EphA4/PDGFRβ/FGFR1/FRS2α complex formed by ligand stimulation is involved in neurogenesis via ERK signaling. The present findings provided a novel insight into the functional role of direct interaction of EphA4 and PDGFRβ in neurogenesis, implicating its potential use for treating neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingfa Chen
- The Institute for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, The Liaocheng University/Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, China
| | - Hao Song
- The Institute for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, The Liaocheng University/Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, China
| | - Chuanguo Liu
- The Translational Research Laboratory of Stem Cells and Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Jun Xu
- Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital at Qingdao, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Chuanfei Wei
- The Institute for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, The Liaocheng University/Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, China
| | - Wei Wang
- The Institute for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, The Liaocheng University/Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, China
| | - Fabin Han
- The Institute for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, The Liaocheng University/Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, China.,The Translational Research Laboratory of Stem Cells and Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
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29
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Poppe L, Rué L, Timmers M, Lenaerts A, Storm A, Callaerts-Vegh Z, Courtand G, de Boer A, Smolders S, Van Damme P, Van Den Bosch L, D'Hooge R, De Strooper B, Robberecht W, Lemmens R. EphA4 loss improves social memory performance and alters dendritic spine morphology without changes in amyloid pathology in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. ALZHEIMERS RESEARCH & THERAPY 2019; 11:102. [PMID: 31831046 PMCID: PMC6909519 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-019-0554-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background EphA4 is a receptor of the ephrin system regulating spine morphology and plasticity in the brain. These processes are pivotal in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), characterized by synapse dysfunction and loss, and the progressive loss of memory and other cognitive functions. Reduced EphA4 signaling has been shown to rescue beta-amyloid-induced dendritic spine loss and long-term potentiation (LTP) deficits in cultured hippocampal slices and primary hippocampal cultures. In this study, we investigated whether EphA4 ablation might preserve synapse function and ameliorate cognitive performance in the APPPS1 transgenic mouse model of AD. Methods A postnatal genetic ablation of EphA4 in the forebrain was established in the APPPS1 mouse model of AD, followed by a battery of cognitive tests at 9 months of age to investigate cognitive function upon EphA4 loss. A Golgi-Cox staining was used to explore alterations in dendritic spine density and morphology in the CA1 region of the hippocampus. Results Upon EphA4 loss in APPPS1 mice, we observed improved social memory in the preference for social novelty test without affecting other cognitive functions. Dendritic spine analysis revealed altered synapse morphology as characterized by increased dendritic spine length and head width. These modifications were independent of hippocampal plaque load and beta-amyloid peptide levels since these were similar in mice with normal versus reduced levels of EphA4. Conclusion Loss of EphA4 improved social memory in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease in association with alterations in spine morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Poppe
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Laboratory of Neurobiology, Center for Brain and Disease Research, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Laura Rué
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Laboratory of Neurobiology, Center for Brain and Disease Research, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mieke Timmers
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Laboratory of Neurobiology, Center for Brain and Disease Research, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Annette Lenaerts
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Laboratory of Neurobiology, Center for Brain and Disease Research, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Annet Storm
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Laboratory of Neurobiology, Center for Brain and Disease Research, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Zsuzsanna Callaerts-Vegh
- Laboratory of Biological Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,mINT Animal Behavior Core Facility, Faculty of Psychology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Gilles Courtand
- Institut de Neurosciences Cognitives et Intégratives d'Aquitaine, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5287, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Bordeaux, 33076, Bordeaux, France
| | - Antina de Boer
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Laboratory of Neurobiology, Center for Brain and Disease Research, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Silke Smolders
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Laboratory of Neurobiology, Center for Brain and Disease Research, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Philip Van Damme
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Laboratory of Neurobiology, Center for Brain and Disease Research, VIB, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Herestraat 49, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Laboratory of Neurobiology, Center for Brain and Disease Research, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Rudi D'Hooge
- Laboratory of Biological Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bart De Strooper
- VIB Center for Brain and Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Neurosciences, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,UK Dementia Research Institute at University College London, London, UK
| | - Wim Robberecht
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Herestraat 49, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Robin Lemmens
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology, and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium. .,Laboratory of Neurobiology, Center for Brain and Disease Research, VIB, Leuven, Belgium. .,Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Herestraat 49, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium.
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30
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Gutierrez DA, Vargas LM, Chandia-Cristi A, de la Fuente C, Leal N, Alvarez AR. c-Abl Deficiency Provides Synaptic Resiliency Against Aβ-Oligomers. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:526. [PMID: 31849613 PMCID: PMC6902026 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Spine pathology has been implicated in the early onset of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), where Aβ-Oligomers (AβOs) cause synaptic dysfunction and loss. Previously, we described that pharmacological inhibition of c-Abl prevents AβOs-induced synaptic alterations. Hence, this kinase seems to be a key element in AD progression. Here, we studied the role of c-Abl on dendritic spine morphological changes induced by AβOs using c-Abl null neurons (c-Abl-KO). First, we characterized the effect of c-Abl deficiency on dendritic spine density and found that its absence increases dendritic spine density. While AβOs-treatment reduces the spine number in both wild-type (WT) and c-Abl-KO neurons, AβOs-driven spine density loss was not affected by c-Abl. We then characterized AβOs-induced morphological changes in dendritic spines of c-Abl-KO neurons. AβOs induced a decrease in the number of mushroom spines in c-Abl-KO neurons while preserving the populations of immature stubby, thin, and filopodia spines. Furthermore, synaptic contacts evaluated by PSD95/Piccolo clustering and cell viability were preserved in AβOs-exposed c-Abl-KO neurons. In conclusion, our results indicate that in the presence of AβOs c-Abl participates in synaptic contact removal, increasing susceptibility to AβOs damage. Its deficiency increases the immature spine population reducing AβOs-induced synapse elimination. Therefore, c-Abl signaling could be a relevant actor in the early stages of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela A Gutierrez
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Faculty of Biological Science, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Center for Aging and Regeneration (CARE), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Lina M Vargas
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Faculty of Biological Science, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Center for Aging and Regeneration (CARE), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - América Chandia-Cristi
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Faculty of Biological Science, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Center for Aging and Regeneration (CARE), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Catalina de la Fuente
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Faculty of Biological Science, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Center for Aging and Regeneration (CARE), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Nancy Leal
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Faculty of Biological Science, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Center for Aging and Regeneration (CARE), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Alejandra R Alvarez
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Faculty of Biological Science, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Center for Aging and Regeneration (CARE), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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31
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Poppe L, Smolders S, Rué L, Timmers M, Lenaerts A, Storm A, Schoonaert L, de Boer A, Van Damme P, Van Den Bosch L, Robberecht W, Lemmens R. Lowering EphA4 Does Not Ameliorate Disease in a Mouse Model for Severe Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:1233. [PMID: 31803009 PMCID: PMC6877733 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.01233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
EphA4 is a receptor of the Eph-ephrin system, which plays an important role in axon guidance during development. Previously, we identified EphA4 as a genetic modifier of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in both zebrafish and rodent models, via modulation of the intrinsic vulnerability, and re-sprouting capacity of motor neurons. Moreover, loss of EphA4 rescued the motor axon phenotype in a zebrafish model of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Similar to ALS, SMA is a neurodegenerative disorder affecting spinal motor neurons resulting in neuromuscular junction (NMJ) denervation, muscle atrophy and paralysis. In this study, we investigated the disease modifying potential of reduced EphA4 protein levels in the SMNΔ7 mouse model for severe SMA. Reduction of EphA4 did not improve motor function, survival, motor neuron survival or NMJ innervation. Our data suggest that either lowering EphA4 has limited therapeutic potential in SMA or that the clinical severity hampers the potential beneficial role of EphA4 reduction in this mouse model for SMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Poppe
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven – University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB – KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Silke Smolders
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven – University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB – KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Laura Rué
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven – University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB – KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mieke Timmers
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven – University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB – KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Annette Lenaerts
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven – University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB – KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Annet Storm
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven – University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB – KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lies Schoonaert
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven – University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB – KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Antina de Boer
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven – University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB – KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Philip Van Damme
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven – University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB – KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven – University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB – KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Wim Robberecht
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven – University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Robin Lemmens
- Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Brain Institute (LBI), KU Leuven – University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, VIB – KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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32
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Chen XQ, Mobley WC. Alzheimer Disease Pathogenesis: Insights From Molecular and Cellular Biology Studies of Oligomeric Aβ and Tau Species. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:659. [PMID: 31293377 PMCID: PMC6598402 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer disease (AD) represents an oncoming epidemic that without an effective treatment promises to exact extraordinary human and financial burdens. Studies of pathogenesis are essential for defining targets for discovering disease-modifying treatments. Past studies of AD neuropathology provided valuable, albeit limited, insights. Nevertheless, building on these findings, recent studies have provided an increasingly rich harvest of genetic, molecular and cellular data that are creating unprecedented opportunities to both understand and treat AD. Among the most significant are those documenting the presence within the AD brain of toxic oligomeric species of Aβ and tau. Existing data support the view that such species can propagate and spread within neural circuits. To place these findings in context we first review the genetics and neuropathology of AD, including AD in Down syndrome (AD-DS). We detail studies that support the existence of toxic oligomeric species while noting the significant unanswered questions concerning their precise structures, the means by which they spread and undergo amplification and how they induce neuronal dysfunction and degeneration. We conclude by offering a speculative synthesis for how oligomers of Aβ and tau initiate and drive pathogenesis. While 100 years after Alzheimer's first report there is much still to learn about pathogenesis and the discovery of disease-modifying treatments, the application of new concepts and sophisticated new tools are poised to deliver important advances for combatting AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu-Qiao Chen
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - William C. Mobley
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
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33
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Olabarria M, Pasini S, Corona C, Robador P, Song C, Patel H, Lefort R. Dysfunction of the ubiquitin ligase E3A Ube3A/E6-AP contributes to synaptic pathology in Alzheimer's disease. Commun Biol 2019; 2:111. [PMID: 30937395 PMCID: PMC6430817 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-019-0350-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Synaptic dysfunction and synapse loss are prominent features in Alzheimer's disease. Members of the Rho-family of guanosine triphosphatases, specifically RhoA, and the synaptic protein Arc are implicated in these pathogenic processes. They share a common regulatory molecule, the E3 ligase Ube3A/E6-AP. Here, we show that Ube3A is reduced in an Alzheimer's disease mouse model, Tg2576 mouse, which overexpresses human APP695 carrying the Swedish mutation, and accumulates Aβ in the brain. Depletion of Ube3A precedes the age-dependent behavioral deficits and loss of dendritic spines in these mice, and results from a decrease in solubility following phosphorylation by c-Abl, after Aβ exposure. Loss of Ube3A triggers the accumulation of Arc and Ephexin-5, driving internalization of GluR1, and activation of RhoA, respectively, culminating in pruning of synapses, which is blocked by restoring Ube3A. Taken together, our results place Ube3A as a critical player in Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis, and as a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markel Olabarria
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease & the Aging Brain and the Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032 USA
| | - Silvia Pasini
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease & the Aging Brain and the Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032 USA
- Present Address: Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37205 USA
| | - Carlo Corona
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease & the Aging Brain and the Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032 USA
| | - Pablo Robador
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease & the Aging Brain and the Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032 USA
| | - Cheng Song
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease & the Aging Brain and the Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032 USA
| | - Hardik Patel
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease & the Aging Brain and the Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032 USA
| | - Roger Lefort
- Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer’s Disease & the Aging Brain and the Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032 USA
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34
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Yu L, Liu Y, Jin Y, Cao X, Chen J, Jin J, Gu Y, Bao X, Ren Z, Xu Y, Zhu X. Lentivirus-Mediated HDAC3 Inhibition Attenuates Oxidative Stress in APPswe/PS1dE9 Mice. J Alzheimers Dis 2019; 61:1411-1424. [PMID: 29376873 DOI: 10.3233/jad-170844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Amyloid-β (Aβ) induces a burst of oxidative stress and plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Our previous results have shown that histone deacetylase 3 (HDAC3) inhibition ameliorates spatial memory deficits and decreases the Aβ burden in the brains of 9-month-old APPswe/PS1dE9 (APP/PS1) mice. In this study, we investigated the role of HDAC3 inhibition in oxidative stress in vivo and in vitro models of AD. HDAC3 was detected mainly in the neurons, and HDAC3 inhibition significantly decreased reactive oxygen species generation and improved primary cortical neuron viability. In addition, HDAC3 inhibition attenuated spatial memory dysfunction in 6-month-old APP/PS1 mice, and decreased the apoptotic rate in the hippocampi as demonstrated by TUNEL staining. HDAC3 inhibition also reduced markers of lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, and DNA/RNA oxidation in the hippocampi of APP/PS1 mice. Moreover, HDAC3 inhibition inactivated the c-Abl/MST1/YAP signaling pathway in the hippocampi of APP/PS1 mice. In conclusion, our data show that HDAC3 inhibition can attenuate spatial memory deficits and inhibit oxidative stress in APP/PS1 mice; these results indicate a potential strategy for AD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linjie Yu
- Department of Neurology, Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,Nanjing, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Neurology, Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,Nanjing, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuexinzi Jin
- Department of Neurology, Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,Nanjing, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Nanjing, China.,Department of Neurology, Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiang Cao
- Department of Neurology, Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,Nanjing, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jian Chen
- Department of Neurology, Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,Nanjing, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Nanjing, China.,Department of Neurology, Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiali Jin
- Department of Neurology, Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,Nanjing, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yue Gu
- Department of Neurology, Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,Nanjing, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xinyu Bao
- Department of Neurology, Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,Nanjing, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhuoying Ren
- Department of Neurology, Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,Nanjing, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yun Xu
- Department of Neurology, Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,Nanjing, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaolei Zhu
- Department of Neurology, Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,The State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,Nanjing, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular Medicine, Nanjing, China
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35
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Zhou Y, Yamamura Y, Ogawa M, Tsuji R, Tsuchiya K, Kasahara J, Goto S. c-Abl Inhibition Exerts Symptomatic Antiparkinsonian Effects Through a Striatal Postsynaptic Mechanism. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:1311. [PMID: 30505273 PMCID: PMC6250819 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.01311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is caused by a progressive degeneration of nigral dopaminergic cells leading to striatal dopamine deficiency. From the perspective of antiparkinsonian drug mechanisms, pharmacologic treatment of PD can be divided into symptomatic and disease-modifying (neuroprotective) therapies. An increase in the level and activity of the Abelson non-receptor tyrosine kinase (c-Abl) has been identified in both human and mouse brains under PD conditions. In the last decade, it has been observed that the inhibition of c-Abl activity holds promise for protection against the degeneration of nigral dopaminergic cells in PD and thereby exerts antiparkinsonian effects. Accordingly, c-Abl inhibitors have been applied clinically as a disease-modifying therapeutic strategy for PD treatment. Moreover, in a series of studies, including that presented here, experimental evidence suggests that in a mouse model of parkinsonism induced by N-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine, c-Abl inhibition exerts an immediate effect improving motor impairments by normalizing altered activity in striatal postsynaptic signaling pathways mediated by Cdk5 (cyclin-dependent kinase 5) and DARPP-32 (dopamine- and cyclic AMP-regulated phosphoprotein 32 kDa). Based on this, we suggest that c-Abl inhibitors represent an ideal antiparkinsonian agent that has both disease-modifying and symptomatic effects. Future research is required to carefully evaluate the therapeutic efficacy and clinical challenges associated with applying c-Abl inhibitors to the treatment of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhou
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disorders Research, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan.,Department of Neurobiology and Therapeutics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Yukio Yamamura
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disorders Research, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan.,Department of Neurobiology and Therapeutics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Ogawa
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disorders Research, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan.,Department of Neurobiology and Therapeutics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Tsuji
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disorders Research, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan.,Department of Neurobiology and Therapeutics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Koichiro Tsuchiya
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Jiro Kasahara
- Department of Neurobiology and Therapeutics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Satoshi Goto
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disorders Research, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
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36
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Chen Y, Fu AKY, Ip NY. Synaptic dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease: Mechanisms and therapeutic strategies. Pharmacol Ther 2018; 195:186-198. [PMID: 30439458 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2018.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most prevalent neurodegenerative disease in the elderly population, is characterized by progressive cognitive decline and pathological hallmarks of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. However, its pathophysiological mechanisms are poorly understood, and diagnostic tools and interventions are limited. Here, we review recent research on the amyloid hypothesis and beta-amyloid-induced dysfunction of neuronal synapses through distinct cell surface receptors. We also review how tau protein leads to synaptotoxicity through pathological modification, localization, and propagation. Finally, we discuss experimental therapeutics for AD and propose potential applications of disease-modifying strategies targeting synaptic failure for improved treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Chen
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience and Molecular Neuroscience Center, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China; The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Science, Disease and Drug Development, HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
| | - Amy K Y Fu
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience and Molecular Neuroscience Center, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Science, Disease and Drug Development, HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Nancy Y Ip
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience and Molecular Neuroscience Center, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Science, Disease and Drug Development, HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
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37
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Saha N, Robev D, Mason EO, Himanen JP, Nikolov DB. Therapeutic potential of targeting the Eph/ephrin signaling complex. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2018; 105:123-133. [PMID: 30343150 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2018.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Revised: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The Eph-ephrin signaling pathway mediates developmental processes and the proper functioning of the adult human body. This distinctive bidirectional signaling pathway includes a canonical downstream signal cascade inside the Eph-bearing cells, as well as a reverse signaling in the ephrin-bearing cells. The signaling is terminated by ADAM metalloproteinase cleavage, internalization, and degradation of the Eph/ephrin complexes. Consequently, the Eph-ephrin-ADAM signaling cascade has emerged as a key target with immense therapeutic potential particularly in the context of cancer. An interesting twist was brought forth by the emergence of ephrins as the entry receptors for the pathological Henipaviruses, which has spurred new studies to target the viral entry. The availability of high-resolution structures of the multi-modular Eph receptors in complexes with ephrins and other binding partners, such as peptides, small molecule inhibitors and antibodies, offers a wealth of information for the structure-guided development of therapeutic intervention. Furthermore, genomic data mining of Eph mutants involved in cancer provides information for targeted drug development. In this review we summarize the distinct avenues for targeting the Eph-ephrin signaling pathway, including its termination by ADAM proteinases. We highlight the latest developments in Eph-related pharmacology in the context of Eph-ephrin-ADAM-based antibodies and small molecules. Finally, the future prospects of genomics- and proteomics-based medicine are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayanendu Saha
- Sloan-Kettering Institute for Cancer Research, Structural Biology Program, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Dorothea Robev
- Sloan-Kettering Institute for Cancer Research, Structural Biology Program, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Emilia O Mason
- Sloan-Kettering Institute for Cancer Research, Structural Biology Program, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | - Juha P Himanen
- Sloan-Kettering Institute for Cancer Research, Structural Biology Program, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, United States.
| | - Dimitar B Nikolov
- Sloan-Kettering Institute for Cancer Research, Structural Biology Program, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, United States
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38
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Cellular Receptors of Amyloid β Oligomers (AβOs) in Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19071884. [PMID: 29954063 PMCID: PMC6073792 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19071884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Revised: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
It is estimated that Alzheimer’s disease (AD) affects tens of millions of people, comprising not only suffering patients, but also their relatives and caregivers. AD is one of age-related neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) characterized by progressive synaptic damage and neuronal loss, which result in gradual cognitive impairment leading to dementia. The cause of AD remains still unresolved, despite being studied for more than a century. The hallmark pathological features of this disease are senile plaques within patients’ brain composed of amyloid beta (Aβ) and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) of Tau protein. However, the roles of Aβ and Tau in AD pathology are being questioned and other causes of AD are postulated. One of the most interesting theories proposed is the causative role of amyloid β oligomers (AβOs) aggregation in the pathogenesis of AD. Moreover, binding of AβOs to cell membranes is probably mediated by certain proteins on the neuronal cell surface acting as AβO receptors. The aim of our paper is to describe alternative hypotheses of AD etiology, including genetic alterations and the role of misfolded proteins, especially Aβ oligomers, in Alzheimer’s disease. Furthermore, in this review we present various putative cellular AβO receptors related to toxic activity of oligomers.
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Amyloid-β oligomers synaptotoxicity: The emerging role of EphA4/c-Abl signaling in Alzheimer's disease. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2018; 1864:1148-1159. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2018.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2017] [Revised: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Kulawik A, Heise H, Zafiu C, Willbold D, Bannach O. Advancements of the
sFIDA
method for oligomer‐based diagnostics of neurodegenerative diseases. FEBS Lett 2018; 592:516-534. [DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.12983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2017] [Revised: 01/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Kulawik
- Institute of Complex Systems (ICS‐6: Structural Biochemistry) Forschungszentrum Jülich Germany
- Institut für Physikalische Biologie Heinrich‐Heine‐Universität Düsseldorf Germany
| | - Henrike Heise
- Institute of Complex Systems (ICS‐6: Structural Biochemistry) Forschungszentrum Jülich Germany
- Institut für Physikalische Biologie Heinrich‐Heine‐Universität Düsseldorf Germany
| | - Christian Zafiu
- Institute of Complex Systems (ICS‐6: Structural Biochemistry) Forschungszentrum Jülich Germany
| | - Dieter Willbold
- Institute of Complex Systems (ICS‐6: Structural Biochemistry) Forschungszentrum Jülich Germany
- Institut für Physikalische Biologie Heinrich‐Heine‐Universität Düsseldorf Germany
| | - Oliver Bannach
- Institute of Complex Systems (ICS‐6: Structural Biochemistry) Forschungszentrum Jülich Germany
- Institut für Physikalische Biologie Heinrich‐Heine‐Universität Düsseldorf Germany
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Estrada LD, Chamorro D, Yañez MJ, Gonzalez M, Leal N, von Bernhardi R, Dulcey AE, Marugan J, Ferrer M, Soto C, Zanlungo S, Inestrosa NC, Alvarez AR. Reduction of Blood Amyloid-β Oligomers in Alzheimer's Disease Transgenic Mice by c-Abl Kinase Inhibition. J Alzheimers Dis 2018; 54:1193-1205. [PMID: 27567806 DOI: 10.3233/jad-151087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
One of the pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the presence of amyloid plaques, which are deposits of misfolded and aggregated amyloid-beta peptide (Aβ). The role of the c-Abl tyrosine kinase in Aβ-mediated neurodegeneration has been previously reported. Here, we investigated the therapeutic potential of inhibiting c-Abl using imatinib. We developed a novel method, based on a technique used to detect prions (PMCA), to measure minute amounts of misfolded-Aβ in the blood of AD transgenic mice. We found that imatinib reduces Aβ-oligomers in plasma, which correlates with a reduction of AD brain features such as plaques and oligomers accumulation, neuroinflammation, and cognitive deficits. Cells exposed to imatinib and c-Abl KO mice display decreased levels of β-CTF fragments, suggesting that an altered processing of the amyloid-beta protein precursor is the most probable mechanism behind imatinib effects. Our findings support the role of c-Abl in Aβ accumulation and AD, and propose AD-PMCA as a new tool to evaluate AD progression and screening for drug candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisbell D Estrada
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Cell and Molecular Biology Department, Biological Sciences Faculty, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile.,Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración (CARE), Departamento de Biología Celular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile.,Laboratorio Bionanotecnologia, Facultad de Salud, Universidad Bernardo O Higgins, Chile
| | - David Chamorro
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Cell and Molecular Biology Department, Biological Sciences Faculty, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile
| | - María José Yañez
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Cell and Molecular Biology Department, Biological Sciences Faculty, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile
| | - Marcelo Gonzalez
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Cell and Molecular Biology Department, Biological Sciences Faculty, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile
| | - Nancy Leal
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Cell and Molecular Biology Department, Biological Sciences Faculty, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile
| | - Rommy von Bernhardi
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile
| | - Andrés E Dulcey
- National Center for Advancing Translational Science (NACTS), NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Juan Marugan
- National Center for Advancing Translational Science (NACTS), NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Marc Ferrer
- National Center for Advancing Translational Science (NACTS), NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Claudio Soto
- Mitchell Center for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Brain Disorders, University of Texas Medical School at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Silvana Zanlungo
- Gastroentorology Department, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile
| | - Nibaldo C Inestrosa
- Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración (CARE), Departamento de Biología Celular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile.,Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing, School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Australia.,Centro de Excelencia en Biomedicina de Magallanes (CEBIMA), Universidad de Magallanes, Chile
| | - Alejandra R Alvarez
- Cell Signaling Laboratory, Cell and Molecular Biology Department, Biological Sciences Faculty, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile.,Centro de Envejecimiento y Regeneración (CARE), Departamento de Biología Celular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile
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Near infrared light decreases synaptic vulnerability to amyloid beta oligomers. Sci Rep 2017; 7:15012. [PMID: 29118388 PMCID: PMC5678170 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-15357-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2017] [Accepted: 10/25/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Synaptic dysfunction due to the disrupting binding of amyloid beta (Aβ) and tau oligomers is one of the earliest impairments in Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), driving initial cognitive deficits and clinical manifestation. Consequently, there is ample consensus that preventing early synaptic dysfunction would be an effective therapeutic strategy for AD. With this goal in mind, we investigated the effect of a treatment of mice with near infrared (NIR) light on synaptic vulnerability to Aβ oligomers. We found that Aβ oligomer binding to CNS synaptosomes isolated from wild type (wt) mice treated with NIR light was significantly reduced and the resulting suppression of long term potentiation (LTP) by Aβ oligomers was prevented. Similarly, APP transgenic mice treated with NIR showed a significant reduction of endogenous Aβ at CNS synapses. We further found that these phenomena were accompanied by increased synaptic mitochondrial membrane potential in both wt and Tg2576 mice. This study provides evidence that NIR light can effectively reduce synaptic vulnerability to damaging Aβ oligomers, thus furthering NIR light therapy as a viable treatment for AD.
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Huang TY, Zhao Y, Jiang LL, Li X, Liu Y, Sun Y, Piña-Crespo JC, Zhu B, Masliah E, Willnow TE, Pasquale EB, Xu H. SORLA attenuates EphA4 signaling and amyloid β-induced neurodegeneration. J Exp Med 2017; 214:3669-3685. [PMID: 29114064 PMCID: PMC5716044 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20171413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Revised: 09/12/2017] [Accepted: 09/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Sortilin-related receptor with LDLR class A repeats (SORLA, SORL1, or LR11) is a genetic risk factor associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Although SORLA is known to regulate trafficking of the amyloid β (Aβ) precursor protein to decrease levels of proteotoxic Aβ oligomers, whether SORLA can counteract synaptic dysfunction induced by Aβ oligomers remains unclear. Here, we show that SORLA interacts with the EphA4 receptor tyrosine kinase and attenuates ephrinA1 ligand-induced EphA4 clustering and activation to limit downstream effects of EphA4 signaling in neurons. Consistent with these findings, SORLA transgenic mice, compared with WT mice, exhibit decreased EphA4 activation and redistribution to postsynaptic densities, with milder deficits in long-term potentiation and memory induced by Aβ oligomers. Importantly, we detected elevated levels of active EphA4 in human AD brains, where EphA4 activation is inversely correlated with SORLA/EphA4 association. These results demonstrate a novel role for SORLA as a physiological and pathological EphA4 modulator, which attenuates synaptotoxic EphA4 activation and cognitive impairment associated with Aβ-induced neurodegeneration in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Y Huang
- Neuroscience Initiative, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA
| | - Yingjun Zhao
- Neuroscience Initiative, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA
| | - Lu-Lin Jiang
- Neuroscience Initiative, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA
| | - Xiaoguang Li
- Neuroscience Initiative, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA
| | - Yan Liu
- Neuroscience Initiative, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA.,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disease and Aging Research, Institute of Neuroscience, Medical College, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Yu Sun
- Neuroscience Initiative, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA
| | - Juan C Piña-Crespo
- Neuroscience Initiative, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA
| | - Bing Zhu
- Neuroscience Initiative, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA
| | - Eliezer Masliah
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA.,Department of Neuroscience, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | | | - Elena B Pasquale
- Neuroscience Initiative, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA.,Department of Pathology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Huaxi Xu
- Neuroscience Initiative, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA .,Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disease and Aging Research, Institute of Neuroscience, Medical College, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
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Amyloid β synaptotoxicity is Wnt-PCP dependent and blocked by fasudil. Alzheimers Dement 2017; 14:306-317. [PMID: 29055813 PMCID: PMC5869054 DOI: 10.1016/j.jalz.2017.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2017] [Revised: 06/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Synapse loss is the structural correlate of the cognitive decline indicative of dementia. In the brains of Alzheimer's disease sufferers, amyloid β (Aβ) peptides aggregate to form senile plaques but as soluble peptides are toxic to synapses. We previously demonstrated that Aβ induces Dickkopf-1 (Dkk1), which in turn activates the Wnt–planar cell polarity (Wnt-PCP) pathway to drive tau pathology and neuronal death. Methods We compared the effects of Aβ and of Dkk1 on synapse morphology and memory impairment while inhibiting or silencing key elements of the Wnt-PCP pathway. Results We demonstrate that Aβ synaptotoxicity is also Dkk1 and Wnt-PCP dependent, mediated by the arm of Wnt-PCP regulating actin cytoskeletal dynamics via Daam1, RhoA and ROCK, and can be blocked by the drug fasudil. Discussion Our data add to the importance of aberrant Wnt signaling in Alzheimer's disease neuropathology and indicate that fasudil could be repurposed as a treatment for the disease. Aβ synaptotoxicity is Dickkopf-1 and Wnt-PCP dependent. The Wnt-PCP pathway drives Aβ-driven synapse loss via RhoA and ROCK. ROCK inhibitor fasudil blocks Aβ-driven synapse loss and cognitive impairment. Fasudil should be assessed for repurposing for Alzheimer's disease.
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McKeever PM, Kim T, Hesketh AR, MacNair L, Miletic D, Favrin G, Oliver SG, Zhang Z, St George-Hyslop P, Robertson J. Cholinergic neuron gene expression differences captured by translational profiling in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Neurobiol Aging 2017; 57:104-119. [PMID: 28628896 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2017.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2017] [Revised: 04/25/2017] [Accepted: 05/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cholinergic neurotransmission is impaired in Alzheimer's disease (AD), and loss of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons is a key component of disease pathogenicity and symptomatology. To explore the molecular basis of this cholinergic dysfunction, we paired translating ribosome affinity purification (TRAP) with RNA sequencing (TRAP-Seq) to identify the actively translating mRNAs in anterior forebrain cholinergic neurons in the TgCRND8 mouse model of AD. Bioinformatic analyses revealed the downregulation of 67 of 71 known cholinergic-related transcripts, consistent with cholinergic neuron dysfunction in TgCRND8 mice, as well as transcripts related to oxidative phosphorylation, neurotrophins, and ribosomal processing. Upregulated transcripts included those related to axon guidance, glutamatergic synapses and kinase activity and included AD-risk genes Sorl1 and Ptk2b. In contrast, the total transcriptome of the anterior forebrain showed upregulation in cytokine signaling, microglia, and immune system pathways, including Trem2, Tyrobp, and Inpp5d. Hence, TRAP-Seq clearly distinguished the differential gene expression alterations occurring in cholinergic neurons of TgCRND8 mice compared with wild-type littermates, providing novel candidate pathways to explore for therapeutic development in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul M McKeever
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - TaeHyung Kim
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular & Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Andrew R Hesketh
- Department of Biochemistry, Cambridge Systems Biology Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Laura MacNair
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Denise Miletic
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Giorgio Favrin
- Department of Biochemistry, Cambridge Systems Biology Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Stephen G Oliver
- Department of Biochemistry, Cambridge Systems Biology Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Zhaolei Zhang
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular & Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Peter St George-Hyslop
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Janice Robertson
- Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
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Fu AKY, Ip NY. Regulation of postsynaptic signaling in structural synaptic plasticity. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2017; 45:148-155. [DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2017.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Revised: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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Shrivastava AN, Aperia A, Melki R, Triller A. Physico-Pathologic Mechanisms Involved in Neurodegeneration: Misfolded Protein-Plasma Membrane Interactions. Neuron 2017; 95:33-50. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2017.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2016] [Revised: 05/12/2017] [Accepted: 05/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Schoonaert L, Rué L, Roucourt B, Timmers M, Little S, Chávez-Gutiérrez L, Dewilde M, Joyce P, Curnock A, Weber P, Haustraete J, Hassanzadeh-Ghassabeh G, De Strooper B, Van Den Bosch L, Van Damme P, Lemmens R, Robberecht W. Identification and characterization of Nanobodies targeting the EphA4 receptor. J Biol Chem 2017; 292:11452-11465. [PMID: 28526745 PMCID: PMC5500810 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.774141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2017] [Revised: 05/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The ephrin receptor A4 (EphA4) is one of the receptors in the ephrin system that plays a pivotal role in a variety of cell-cell interactions, mostly studied during development. In addition, EphA4 has been found to play a role in cancer biology as well as in the pathogenesis of several neurological disorders such as stroke, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and Alzheimer's disease. Pharmacological blocking of EphA4 has been suggested to be a therapeutic strategy for these disorders. Therefore, the aim of our study was to generate potent and selective Nanobodies against the ligand-binding domain of the human EphA4 receptor. We identified two Nanobodies, Nb 39 and Nb 53, that bind EphA4 with affinities in the nanomolar range. These Nanobodies were most selective for EphA4, with residual binding to EphA7 only. Using Alphascreen technology, we found that both Nanobodies displaced all known EphA4-binding ephrins from the receptor. Furthermore, Nb 39 and Nb 53 inhibited ephrin-induced phosphorylation of the EphA4 protein in a cell-based assay. Finally, in a cortical neuron primary culture, both Nanobodies were able to inhibit endogenous EphA4-mediated growth-cone collapse induced by ephrin-B3. Our results demonstrate the potential of Nanobodies to target the ligand-binding domain of EphA4. These Nanobodies may deserve further evaluation as potential therapeutics in disorders in which EphA4-mediated signaling plays a role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lies Schoonaert
- From the KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Research Institute for Neuroscience and Disease (LIND), 3000 Leuven, Belgium.,VIB, Center for Brain and Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Laura Rué
- From the KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Research Institute for Neuroscience and Disease (LIND), 3000 Leuven, Belgium.,VIB, Center for Brain and Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bart Roucourt
- KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Laboratory for Signal Integration in Cell Fate Decision, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mieke Timmers
- From the KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Research Institute for Neuroscience and Disease (LIND), 3000 Leuven, Belgium.,VIB, Center for Brain and Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Susan Little
- Vertex Pharmaceuticals (Europe) Ltd., Biology Department, OX14 4RW Abingdon, United Kingdom
| | - Lucía Chávez-Gutiérrez
- VIB, Center for Brain and Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.,KU Leuven, Department of Neurosciences and Leuven Research Institute for Neuroscience and Disease (LIND), 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Maarten Dewilde
- VIB, Center for Brain and Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.,KU Leuven, Department of Neurosciences and Leuven Research Institute for Neuroscience and Disease (LIND), 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Peter Joyce
- Vertex Pharmaceuticals (Europe) Ltd., Biology Department, OX14 4RW Abingdon, United Kingdom
| | - Adam Curnock
- Vertex Pharmaceuticals (Europe) Ltd., Biology Department, OX14 4RW Abingdon, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Weber
- Vertex Pharmaceuticals (Europe) Ltd., Biology Department, OX14 4RW Abingdon, United Kingdom
| | - Jurgen Haustraete
- Protein Service Facility, Inflammation Research Center, VIB, Ghent University, 9052 Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Bart De Strooper
- VIB, Center for Brain and Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.,KU Leuven, Department of Neurosciences and Leuven Research Institute for Neuroscience and Disease (LIND), 3000 Leuven, Belgium.,Institute of Neurology, University College London, WC1E 6BT London, United Kingdom, and
| | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- From the KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Research Institute for Neuroscience and Disease (LIND), 3000 Leuven, Belgium.,VIB, Center for Brain and Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Philip Van Damme
- From the KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Research Institute for Neuroscience and Disease (LIND), 3000 Leuven, Belgium.,VIB, Center for Brain and Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.,University Hospitals Leuven, Department of Neurology, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Robin Lemmens
- From the KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Research Institute for Neuroscience and Disease (LIND), 3000 Leuven, Belgium.,VIB, Center for Brain and Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.,University Hospitals Leuven, Department of Neurology, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Wim Robberecht
- From the KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology and Leuven Research Institute for Neuroscience and Disease (LIND), 3000 Leuven, Belgium, .,University Hospitals Leuven, Department of Neurology, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Forner S, Baglietto-Vargas D, Martini AC, Trujillo-Estrada L, LaFerla FM. Synaptic Impairment in Alzheimer's Disease: A Dysregulated Symphony. Trends Neurosci 2017; 40:347-357. [PMID: 28494972 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2017.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 286] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2017] [Revised: 04/13/2017] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by memory loss, cognitive decline, and devastating neurodegeneration, not only as a result of the extracellular accumulation of beta-amyloid peptide (Aβ) and intracellular accumulation of tau, but also as a consequence of the dysfunction and loss of synapses. Although significant advances have been made in our understanding of the relationship of the pathological role of Aβ and tau in synapse dysfunction, several questions remain as to how Aβ and tau interdependently cause impairments in synaptic function in AD. Overall, more insight into these questions should enable researchers in this field to develop novel therapeutic targets to mitigate or delay the cognitive deficits associated with this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Forner
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - David Baglietto-Vargas
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Alessandra C Martini
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Laura Trujillo-Estrada
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Frank M LaFerla
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
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