1
|
Takase EO, Yamasaki R, Nagata S, Watanabe M, Masaki K, Yamaguchi H, Kira JI, Takeuchi H, Isobe N. Astroglial connexin 43 is a novel therapeutic target for chronic multiple sclerosis model. Sci Rep 2024; 14:10877. [PMID: 38740862 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-61508-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
In chronic stages of multiple sclerosis (MS) and its animal model, experimental autoimmune encephalitis (EAE), connexin (Cx)43 gap junction channel proteins are overexpressed because of astrogliosis. To elucidate the role of increased Cx43, the central nervous system (CNS)-permeable Cx blocker INI-0602 was therapeutically administered. C57BL6 mice with chronic EAE initiated by MOG35-55 received INI-0602 (40 mg/kg) or saline intraperitoneally every other day from days post-immunization (dpi) 17-50. Primary astroglia were employed to observe calcein efflux responses. In INI-0602-treated mice, EAE clinical signs improved significantly in the chronic phase, with reduced demyelination and decreased CD3+ T cells, Iba-1+ and F4/80+ microglia/macrophages, and C3+GFAP+ reactive astroglia infiltration in spinal cord lesions. Flow cytometry analysis of CD4+ T cells from CNS tissues revealed significantly reduced Th17 and Th17/Th1 cells (dpi 24) and Th1 cells (dpi 50). Multiplex array of cerebrospinal fluid showed significantly suppressed IL-6 and significantly increased IL-10 on dpi 24 in INI-0602-treated mice, and significantly suppressed IFN-γ and MCP-1 on dpi 50 in the same group. In vitro INI-0602 treatment inhibited ATP-induced calcium propagations of Cx43+/+ astroglial cells to similar levels of those of Cx43-/- cells. Astroglial Cx43 hemichannels represent a novel therapeutic target for chronic EAE and MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ezgi Ozdemir Takase
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Ryo Yamasaki
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan.
| | - Satoshi Nagata
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Mitsuru Watanabe
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Katsuhisa Masaki
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Hiroo Yamaguchi
- School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation, Reiwa Health Sciences University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Jun-Ichi Kira
- Translational Neuroscience Center, Graduate School of Medicine, and School of Pharmacy at Fukuoka, International University of Health and Welfare, Ookawa, Japan
- Department of Neurology, Brain and Nerve Center, Fukuoka Central Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Takeuchi
- Department of Neurology and Stroke Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama City University, 3-9 Fukuura, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, 236-0004, Japan.
- Department of Neurology, Graduate School of Medicine, International University of Health and Welfare, Narita, Japan.
- Center for Intractable Neurological Diseases and Dementia, International University of Health and Welfare Atami Hospital, Atami, Japan.
| | - Noriko Isobe
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Centa JL, Stratton MP, Pratt MA, Osterlund Oltmanns JR, Wallace DG, Miller SA, Weimer JM, Hastings ML. Protracted CLN3 Batten disease in mice that genetically model an exon-skipping therapeutic approach. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2023; 33:15-27. [PMID: 37359347 PMCID: PMC10285469 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2023.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Genetic mutations that disrupt open reading frames and cause translation termination are frequent causes of human disease and are difficult to treat due to protein truncation and mRNA degradation by nonsense-mediated decay, leaving few options for traditional drug targeting. Splice-switching antisense oligonucleotides offer a potential therapeutic solution for diseases caused by disrupted open reading frames by inducing exon skipping to correct the open reading frame. We have recently reported on an exon-skipping antisense oligonucleotide that has a therapeutic effect in a mouse model of CLN3 Batten disease, a fatal pediatric lysosomal storage disease. To validate this therapeutic approach, we generated a mouse model that constitutively expresses the Cln3 spliced isoform induced by the antisense molecule. Behavioral and pathological analyses of these mice demonstrate a less severe phenotype compared with the CLN3 disease mouse model, providing evidence that antisense oligonucleotide-induced exon skipping can have therapeutic efficacy in treating CLN3 Batten disease. This model highlights how protein engineering through RNA splicing modulation can be an effective therapeutic approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L. Centa
- Center for Genetic Diseases, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA
| | - Matthew P. Stratton
- Center for Genetic Diseases, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA
- School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA
| | - Melissa A. Pratt
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA
| | | | - Douglas G. Wallace
- Department of Psychology, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL 60115, USA
| | - Steven A. Miller
- Psychology Department, College of Health Professionals, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA
| | - Jill M. Weimer
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA
| | - Michelle L. Hastings
- Center for Genetic Diseases, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Swier VJ, White KA, Johnson TB, Wang X, Han J, Pearce DA, Singh R, Drack AV, Pfeifer W, Rogers CS, Brudvig JJ, Weimer JM. A novel porcine model of CLN3 Batten disease recapitulates clinical phenotypes. Dis Model Mech 2023; 16:dmm050038. [PMID: 37305926 PMCID: PMC10434985 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.050038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Mouse models of CLN3 Batten disease, a rare lysosomal storage disorder with no cure, have improved our understanding of CLN3 biology and therapeutics through their ease of use and a consistent display of cellular pathology. However, the translatability of murine models is limited by disparities in anatomy, body size, life span and inconsistent subtle behavior deficits that can be difficult to detect in CLN3 mutant mouse models, thereby limiting their use in preclinical studies. Here, we present a longitudinal characterization of a novel miniswine model of CLN3 disease that recapitulates the most common human pathogenic variant, an exon 7-8 deletion (CLN3Δex7/8). Progressive pathology and neuron loss is observed in various regions of the CLN3Δex7/8 miniswine brain and retina. Additionally, mutant miniswine present with retinal degeneration and motor abnormalities, similar to deficits seen in humans diagnosed with the disease. Taken together, the CLN3Δex7/8 miniswine model shows consistent and progressive Batten disease pathology, and behavioral impairment mirroring clinical presentation, demonstrating its value in studying the role of CLN3 and safety/efficacy of novel disease-modifying therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vicki J. Swier
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA
| | - Katherine A. White
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA
| | - Tyler B. Johnson
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA
| | | | - Jimin Han
- Department of Ophthalmology, Center for Visual Science, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - David A. Pearce
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA
| | - Ruchira Singh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Center for Visual Science, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Arlene V. Drack
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Wanda Pfeifer
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | | | - Jon J. Brudvig
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD 57105, USA
| | - Jill M. Weimer
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD 57105, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Johnson TB, Brudvig JJ, Likhite S, Pratt MA, White KA, Cain JT, Booth CD, Timm DJ, Davis SS, Meyerink B, Pineda R, Dennys-Rivers C, Kaspar BK, Meyer K, Weimer JM. Early postnatal administration of an AAV9 gene therapy is safe and efficacious in CLN3 disease. Front Genet 2023; 14:1118649. [PMID: 37035740 PMCID: PMC10080320 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1118649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
CLN3 disease, caused by biallelic mutations in the CLN3 gene, is a rare pediatric neurodegenerative disease that has no cure or disease modifying treatment. The development of effective treatments has been hindered by a lack of etiological knowledge, but gene replacement has emerged as a promising therapeutic platform for such disorders. Here, we utilize a mouse model of CLN3 disease to test the safety and efficacy of a cerebrospinal fluid-delivered AAV9 gene therapy with a study design optimized for translatability. In this model, postnatal day one administration of the gene therapy virus resulted in robust expression of human CLN3 throughout the CNS over the 24-month duration of the study. A range of histopathological and behavioral parameters were assayed, with the therapy consistently and persistently rescuing a number of hallmarks of disease while being safe and well-tolerated. Together, the results show great promise for translation of the therapy into the clinic, prompting the launch of a first-in-human clinical trial (NCT03770572).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tyler B. Johnson
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, United States
- Amicus Therapeutics, Cranbury, NJ, United States
| | - Jon J. Brudvig
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, United States
- Amicus Therapeutics, Cranbury, NJ, United States
| | - Shibi Likhite
- The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Melissa A. Pratt
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, United States
| | - Katherine A. White
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, United States
| | - Jacob T. Cain
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, United States
- Amicus Therapeutics, Cranbury, NJ, United States
| | - Clarissa D. Booth
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, United States
| | - Derek J. Timm
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, United States
| | - Samantha S. Davis
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, United States
| | - Brandon Meyerink
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, United States
| | - Ricardo Pineda
- The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, United States
| | | | - Brian K. Kaspar
- The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Kathrin Meyer
- The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Jill M. Weimer
- Pediatrics and Rare Diseases Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, United States
- Amicus Therapeutics, Cranbury, NJ, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Neuronal genetic rescue normalizes brain network dynamics in a lysosomal storage disorder despite persistent storage accumulation. Mol Ther 2022; 30:2464-2473. [PMID: 35395398 PMCID: PMC9263320 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2022.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Although neurologic symptoms occur in two-thirds of lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs), for most we do not understand the mechanisms underlying brain dysfunction. A major unanswered question is if the pathogenic hallmark of LSDs, storage accumulation, induces functional defects directly or is a disease bystander. Also, for most LSDs we do not know the impact of loss-of-function in individual cell types. Understanding these critical questions are essential to therapy development. Here, we determined the impact of genetic rescue in distinct cell types on neural circuit dysfunction in CLN3 disease, the most common pediatric dementia and a paradigmatic neurodegenerative LSD. We restored Cln3 expression via AAV-mediated gene delivery and conditional genetic rescue in a CLN3 disease mouse model. Surprisingly, we found that low-level rescue of Cln3 expression in neurons alone normalized clinically-relevant electrophysiologic markers of network dysfunction, despite the presence of substantial residual histopathology, in contrast to restoring expression in astrocytes. Thus, loss of CLN3 function in neurons, not storage accumulation, underlies neurologic dysfunction in CLN3 disease, implying that storage clearance may be an inappropriate target for therapy development and an ineffectual biomarker.
Collapse
|
6
|
Francelle L, Mazzulli JR. Neuroinflammation in aucher disease, neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis, and commonalities with Parkinson’s disease. Brain Res 2022; 1780:147798. [PMID: 35063468 PMCID: PMC9126024 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2022.147798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs) are rare genetic disorders caused by a disruption in cellular clearance, resulting in pathological storage of undegraded lysosomal substrates. Recent clinical and genetic studies have uncovered links between multiple LSDs and common neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease (PD). Here, we review recent literature describing the role of glia cells and neuroinflammation in PD and LSDs, including Gaucher disease (GD) and neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL), and highlight converging inflammation pathways that lead to neuron loss. Recent data indicates that lysosomal dysfunction and accumulation of storage materials can initiate the activation of glial cells, through interaction with cell surface or cytosolic pattern recognition receptors that detect pathogenic aggregates of cellular debris. Activated glia cells could act to protect neurons through the elimination of toxic protein or lipid aggregates early in the disease process. However prolonged glial activation that occurs over several decades in chronic-age related neurodegeneration could induce the inappropriate elimination of synapses, leading to neuron loss. These studies provide mechanistic insight into the relationship between lysosomal dysfunction and glial activation, and offer novel therapeutic pathways for the treatment of PD and LSDs focused on reducing neuroinflammation and mitigating cell loss.
Collapse
|
7
|
Talukdar S, Emdad L, Das SK, Fisher PB. GAP junctions: multifaceted regulators of neuronal differentiation. Tissue Barriers 2021; 10:1982349. [PMID: 34651545 DOI: 10.1080/21688370.2021.1982349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions are intercellular membrane channels consisting of connexin proteins, which contribute to direct cytoplasmic exchange of small molecules, substrates and metabolites between adjacent cells. These channels play important roles in neuronal differentiation, maintenance, survival and function. Gap junctions regulate differentiation of neurons from embryonic, neural and induced pluripotent stem cells. In addition, they control transdifferentiation of neurons from mesenchymal stem cells. The expression and levels of several connexins correlate with cell cycle changes and different stages of neurogenesis. Connexins such as Cx36, Cx45, and Cx26, play a crucial role in neuronal function. Several connexin knockout mice display lethal or severely impaired phenotypes. Aberrations in connexin expression is frequently associated with various neurodegenerative disorders. Gap junctions also act as promising therapeutic targets for neuronal regenerative medicine, because of their role in neural stem cell integration, injury and remyelination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarmistha Talukdar
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States.,Vcu Institute of Molecular Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Luni Emdad
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States.,Vcu Institute of Molecular Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States.,Vcu Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Swadesh K Das
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States.,Vcu Institute of Molecular Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States.,Vcu Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Paul B Fisher
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States.,Vcu Institute of Molecular Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States.,Vcu Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Zhang X, Zhang D, Thompson JA, Chen SC, Huang Z, Jennings L, McLaren TL, Lamey TM, De Roach JN, Chen FK, McLenachan S. Gene correction of the CLN3 c.175G>A variant in patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells prevents pathological changes in retinal organoids. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2021; 9:e1601. [PMID: 33497524 PMCID: PMC8104174 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.1601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mutations in CLN3 cause Batten disease, however non‐syndromic CLN3 disease, characterized by retinal‐specific degeneration, has been also described. Here, we characterized an induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)‐derived disease model derived from a patient with non‐syndromic CLN3‐associated retinopathy. Methods Patient‐iPSC, carrying the 1 kb‐deletion and c.175G>A variants in CLN3, coisogenic iPSC, in which the c.175G>A variant was corrected, and control iPSC were differentiated into neural retinal organoids (NRO) and cardiomyocytes. CLN3 transcripts were analyzed by Sanger sequencing. Gene expression was characterized by qPCR and western blotting. NRO were characterized by immunostaining and electron microscopy. Results Novel CLN3 transcripts were detected in adult human retina and control‐NRO. The major transcript detected in patient‐NRO displayed skipping of exons 2 and 4–9. Accumulation of subunit‐C of mitochondrial ATPase (SCMAS) protein was demonstrated in patient‐derived cells. Photoreceptor progenitor cells in patient‐NRO displayed accumulation of peroxisomes and vacuolization of inner segments. Correction of the c.175G>A variant restored CLN3 mRNA and protein expression and prevented SCMAS and inner segment vacuolization. Conclusion Our results demonstrate the expression of novel CLN3 transcripts in human retinal tissues. The c.175G>A variant alters splicing of the CLN3 pre‐mRNA, leading to features consistent with CLN3 deficiency, which were prevented by gene correction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Zhang
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.,Ocular Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Lions Eye Institute, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Dan Zhang
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.,Ocular Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Lions Eye Institute, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Jennifer A Thompson
- Australian Inherited Retinal Disease Registry and DNA Bank, Department of Medical Technology and Physics, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Shang-Chih Chen
- Ocular Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Lions Eye Institute, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Zhiqin Huang
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.,Ocular Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Lions Eye Institute, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Luke Jennings
- Ocular Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Lions Eye Institute, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Terri L McLaren
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.,Australian Inherited Retinal Disease Registry and DNA Bank, Department of Medical Technology and Physics, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Tina M Lamey
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.,Australian Inherited Retinal Disease Registry and DNA Bank, Department of Medical Technology and Physics, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - John N De Roach
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.,Australian Inherited Retinal Disease Registry and DNA Bank, Department of Medical Technology and Physics, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Fred K Chen
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.,Ocular Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Lions Eye Institute, Perth, WA, Australia.,Australian Inherited Retinal Disease Registry and DNA Bank, Department of Medical Technology and Physics, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia.,Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia.,Department of Ophthalmology, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Samuel McLenachan
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.,Ocular Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Lions Eye Institute, Perth, WA, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Therapeutic efficacy of antisense oligonucleotides in mouse models of CLN3 Batten disease. Nat Med 2020; 26:1444-1451. [PMID: 32719489 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-020-0986-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
CLN3 Batten disease is an autosomal recessive, neurodegenerative, lysosomal storage disease caused by mutations in CLN3, which encodes a lysosomal membrane protein1-3. There are no disease-modifying treatments for this disease that affects up to 1 in 25,000 births, has an onset of symptoms in early childhood and typically is fatal by 20-30 years of life4-7. Most patients with CLN3 Batten have a deletion encompassing exons 7 and 8 (CLN3∆ex7/8), creating a reading frameshift7,8. Here we demonstrate that mice with this deletion can be effectively treated using an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) that induces exon skipping to restore the open reading frame. A single treatment of neonatal mice with an exon 5-targeted ASO-induced robust exon skipping for more than a year, improved motor coordination, reduced histopathology in Cln3∆ex7/8 mice and increased survival in a new mouse model of the disease. ASOs also induced exon skipping in cell lines derived from patients with CLN3 Batten disease. Our findings demonstrate the utility of ASO-based reading-frame correction as an approach to treat CLN3 Batten disease and broaden the therapeutic landscape for ASOs in the treatment of other diseases using a similar strategy.
Collapse
|
10
|
Domowicz MS, Chan WC, Claudio-Vázquez P, Henry JG, Ware CB, Andrade J, Dawson G, Schwartz NB. Global Brain Transcriptome Analysis of a Tpp1 Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinoses Mouse Model. ASN Neuro 2020; 11:1759091419843393. [PMID: 31003587 PMCID: PMC6475859 DOI: 10.1177/1759091419843393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In humans, homozygous mutations in the TPP1 gene results in loss
of tripeptidyl peptidase 1 (TPP1) enzymatic activity, leading to late infantile
neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses disease. Using a mouse model that targets the
Tpp1 gene and recapitulates the pathology and clinical
features of the human disease, we analyzed end-stage (4 months) transcriptional
changes associated with lack of TPP1 activity. Using RNA sequencing technology,
Tpp1 expression changes in the forebrain/midbrain and
cerebellum of 4-month-old homozygotes were compared with strain-related
controls. Transcriptional changes were found in 510 and 1,550 gene transcripts
in forebrain/midbrain and cerebellum, respectively, from
Tpp1-deficient brain tissues when compared with age-matched
controls. Analysis of the differentially expressed genes using the Ingenuity™
pathway software, revealed increased neuroinflammation activity in microglia and
astrocytes that could lead to neuronal dysfunction, particularly in the
cerebellum. We also observed upregulation in the production of nitric oxide and
reactive oxygen species; activation of leukocyte extravasation signals and
complement pathways; and downregulation of major transcription factors involved
in control of circadian rhythm. Several of these expression changes were
confirmed by independent quantitative polymerase chain reaction and histological
analysis by mRNA in situ hybridization, which allowed for an
in-depth anatomical analysis of the pathology and provided independent
confirmation of at least two of the major networks affected in this model. The
identification of differentially expressed genes has revealed new lines of
investigation for this complex disorder that may lead to novel therapeutic
targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miriam S Domowicz
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, Biological Sciences Division, The University of Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Wen-Ching Chan
- 2 Center for Research Informatics, Biological Sciences Division, The University of Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Judith G Henry
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, Biological Sciences Division, The University of Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Christopher B Ware
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, Biological Sciences Division, The University of Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jorge Andrade
- 2 Center for Research Informatics, Biological Sciences Division, The University of Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Glyn Dawson
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, Biological Sciences Division, The University of Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Nancy B Schwartz
- 1 Department of Pediatrics, Biological Sciences Division, The University of Chicago, IL, USA.,3 Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences Division, The University of Chicago, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ahrens-Nicklas RC, Tecedor L, Hall AF, Lysenko E, Cohen AS, Davidson BL, Marsh ED. Neuronal network dysfunction precedes storage and neurodegeneration in a lysosomal storage disorder. JCI Insight 2019; 4:131961. [PMID: 31573978 PMCID: PMC6948765 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.131961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulation of lysosomal storage material and late-stage neurodegeneration are hallmarks of lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs) affecting the brain. Yet, for most LSDs, including CLN3 disease, the most common form of childhood dementia, it is unclear what mechanisms drive neurologic symptoms. Do deficits arise from loss of function of the mutated protein or toxicity from storage accumulation? Here, using in vitro voltage-sensitive dye imaging and in vivo electrophysiology, we find progressive hippocampal dysfunction occurs before notable lysosomal storage and neuronal loss in 2 CLN3 disease mouse models. Pharmacologic reversal of lysosomal storage deposition in young mice does not rescue this circuit dysfunction. Additionally, we find that CLN3 disease mice lose an electrophysiologic marker of new memory encoding - hippocampal sharp-wave ripples. This discovery, which is also seen in Alzheimer's disease, suggests the possibility of a shared electrophysiologic signature of dementia. Overall, our data describe new insights into previously unknown network-level changes occurring in LSDs affecting the central nervous system and highlight the need for new therapeutic interventions targeting early circuit defects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Arron F. Hall
- Division of Human Genetics, Department of Pediatrics
| | | | | | | | - Eric D. Marsh
- Division of Child Neurology, Department of Neurology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Cellular models of Batten disease. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2019; 1866:165559. [PMID: 31655107 PMCID: PMC7338907 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2019.165559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinoses (NCL), otherwise known as Batten disease, are a group of neurodegenerative diseases caused by mutations in 13 known genes. All except one NCL is autosomal recessive in inheritance, with similar aetiology and characterised by the accumulation of autofluorescent storage material in the lysosomes of cells. Age of onset and the rate of progression vary between the NCLs. They are collectively one of the most common lysosomal storage diseases, but the enigma remains of how genetically distinct diseases result in such remarkably similar pathogenesis. Much has been learnt from cellular studies about the function of the proteins encoded by the affected genes. Such research has utilised primitive unicellular models such as yeast and amoeba containing gene orthologues, cells derived from naturally occurring (sheep) and genetically engineered (mouse) animal models or patient-derived cells. Most recently, patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines have been differentiated into neural cell-types to study molecular pathogenesis in the cells most profoundly affected by disease. Here, we review how cell models have informed much of the biochemical understanding of the NCLs and how more complex models are being used to further this understanding and potentially act as platforms for therapeutic efficacy studies in the future. Developments made in cellular models for neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL) in basic biology and use as therapeutic platforms. Cellular models elucidating function of NCL proteins. NCL proteins implicated in the mTor signalling pathway. Patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines have been differentiated into neural cell-types providing insights into the molecular pathogenesis of NCL.
Collapse
|
13
|
Mirza M, Vainshtein A, DiRonza A, Chandrachud U, Haslett LJ, Palmieri M, Storch S, Groh J, Dobzinski N, Napolitano G, Schmidtke C, Kerkovich DM. The CLN3 gene and protein: What we know. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2019; 7:e859. [PMID: 31568712 PMCID: PMC6900386 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background One of the most important steps taken by Beyond Batten Disease Foundation in our quest to cure juvenile Batten (CLN3) disease is to understand the State of the Science. We believe that a strong understanding of where we are in our experimental understanding of the CLN3 gene, its regulation, gene product, protein structure, tissue distribution, biomarker use, and pathological responses to its deficiency, lays the groundwork for determining therapeutic action plans. Objectives To present an unbiased comprehensive reference tool of the experimental understanding of the CLN3 gene and gene product of the same name. Methods BBDF compiled all of the available CLN3 gene and protein data from biological databases, repositories of federally and privately funded projects, patent and trademark offices, science and technology journals, industrial drug and pipeline reports as well as clinical trial reports and with painstaking precision, validated the information together with experts in Batten disease, lysosomal storage disease, lysosome/endosome biology. Results The finished product is an indexed review of the CLN3 gene and protein which is not limited in page size or number of references, references all available primary experiments, and does not draw conclusions for the reader. Conclusions Revisiting the experimental history of a target gene and its product ensures that inaccuracies and contradictions come to light, long‐held beliefs and assumptions continue to be challenged, and information that was previously deemed inconsequential gets a second look. Compiling the information into one manuscript with all appropriate primary references provides quick clues to which studies have been completed under which conditions and what information has been reported. This compendium does not seek to replace original articles or subtopic reviews but provides an historical roadmap to completed works.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alberto DiRonza
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas.,Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - Uma Chandrachud
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Michela Palmieri
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas.,Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - Stephan Storch
- Biochemistry, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Janos Groh
- Neurology, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Niv Dobzinski
- Biochemistry and Biophysics, UCSF School of Medicine, San Francisco, California
| | | | - Carolin Schmidtke
- Biochemistry, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Tarczyluk-Wells MA, Salzlechner C, Najafi AR, Lim MJ, Smith D, Platt FM, Williams BP, Cooper JD. Combined Anti-inflammatory and Neuroprotective Treatments Have the Potential to Impact Disease Phenotypes in Cln3 -/- Mice. Front Neurol 2019; 10:963. [PMID: 31572287 PMCID: PMC6749847 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Batten disease, or juvenile NCL, is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder that occurs due to mutations in the CLN3 gene. Because the function of CLN3 remains unclear, experimental therapies for JNCL have largely concentrated upon the targeting of downstream pathomechanisms. Neuron loss is preceded by localized glial activation, and in this proof-of-concept study we have investigated whether targeting this innate immune response with ibuprofen in combination with the neuroprotective agent lamotrigine improves the previously documented beneficial effects of immunosuppressants alone. Drugs were administered daily to symptomatic Cln3 -/- mice over a 3 month period, starting at 6 months of age, and their impact was assessed using both behavioral and neuropathological outcome measures. During the treatment period, the combination of ibuprofen and lamotrigine significantly improved the performance of Cln3 -/- mice on the vertical pole test, slowing the disease-associated decline, but had less of an impact upon their rotarod performance. There were also moderate and regionally dependent effects upon astrocyte activation that were most pronounced for ibuprofen alone, but there was no overt effect upon microglial activation. Administering such treatments for longer periods will enable testing for any impact upon the neuron loss that occurs later in disease progression. Given the partial efficacy of these treatments, it will be important to test further drugs of this type in order to find more effective combinations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta A. Tarczyluk-Wells
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Christoph Salzlechner
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Allison R. Najafi
- Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
| | - Ming J. Lim
- Guy's and St. Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, King's Health Partners Academic Health Science Centre, Evelina London Children's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David Smith
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Frances M. Platt
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Brenda P. Williams
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan D. Cooper
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Zappalà A, Vicario N, Calabrese G, Turnaturi R, Pasquinucci L, Montenegro L, Spadaro A, Parenti R, Parenti C. Neuroprotective effects of Rosmarinus officinalis L. extract in oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD)-injured human neural-like cells. Nat Prod Res 2019; 35:669-675. [PMID: 30938188 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2019.1587428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Rosmarinus officinalis L. (RO), an aromatic plant used as food condiment and in traditional medicine, exerts numerous beneficial properties including antioxidant, analgesic and neuroprotective effects. Onset and progression of homeostatic imbalances observed in the early phases of a number of neurodegenerative diseases, have been associated with a gap junction (GJ)-dependent increased membrane permeability and alterations of connexins (Cxs), including Cx43. Here, we evaluate spray-dried RO extract (SDROE)-mediated effects on cell viability, apoptosis and Cx43-based intercellular communication using human SH-SY5Y neuron-like and human A-172 glial-like cells in an in vitro model of oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD) injury. We found that SDROE exerts a protective action in OGD-injured cells, increasing cell viability and metabolic turnover and decreasing Cx43-based cell coupling. These data suggest that SDROE-mediated Cx43 reduction may be the molecular basis for its beneficial effects to be exploited for preventive treatment against the risk of some neurodegenerative disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agata Zappalà
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Physiology Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Nunzio Vicario
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Physiology Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanna Calabrese
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Physiology Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rita Turnaturi
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Lorella Pasquinucci
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Lucia Montenegro
- Department of Drug Sciences, Pharmaceutical Technology Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Angelo Spadaro
- Department of Drug Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosalba Parenti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Physiology Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Carmela Parenti
- Department of Drug Sciences, Pharmacology Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Verkhratsky A, Parpura V, Rodriguez-Arellano JJ, Zorec R. Astroglia in Alzheimer's Disease. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1175:273-324. [PMID: 31583592 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-13-9913-8_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia. Cellular changes in the brains of the patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease occur well in advance of the clinical symptoms. At the cellular level, the most dramatic is a demise of neurones. As astroglial cells carry out homeostatic functions of the brain, it is certain that these cells are at least in part a cause of Alzheimer's disease. Historically, Alois Alzheimer himself has recognised this at the dawn of the disease description. However, the role of astroglia in this disease has been understudied. In this chapter, we summarise the various aspects of glial contribution to this disease and outline the potential of using these cells in prevention (exercise and environmental enrichment) and intervention of this devastating disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexei Verkhratsky
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK. .,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Center for Basic and Translational Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark. .,Achucarro Center for Neuroscience, IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, 48011, Bilbao, Spain.
| | - Vladimir Parpura
- Department of Neurobiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.,University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Jose Julio Rodriguez-Arellano
- BioCruces Health Research Institute, IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain.,Department of Neuroscience, The University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Plaza de Cruces 12, 48903, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Robert Zorec
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology-Molecular Cell Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pathophysiology, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Celica BIOMEDICAL, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Bosch ME, Kielian T. Astrocytes in juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (CLN3) display metabolic and calcium signaling abnormalities. J Neurochem 2018; 148:612-624. [PMID: 29964296 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Revised: 05/21/2018] [Accepted: 06/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (JNCL) is a lysosomal storage disease caused by autosomal recessive mutations in ceroid lipofuscinosis 3 (CLN3). Children with JNCL experience progressive visual, cognitive, and motor deterioration with a decreased life expectancy (late teens-early 20s). Neuronal loss is thought to occur, in part, via glutamate excitotoxicity; however, little is known about astrocyte glutamate regulation in JNCL. Spontaneous Ca2+ oscillations were reduced in murine Cln3Δex7/8 astrocytes, which were also observed following glutamate or cytokine exposure. Astrocyte glutamate transport is an energy-demanding process and disruptions in metabolic pathways could influence glutamate homeostasis in Cln3Δex7/8 astrocytes. Indeed, basal mitochondrial respiration and ATP production were significantly reduced in Cln3Δex7/8 astrocytes. These changes were not attributable to reduced mitochondria, since mitochondrial DNA levels were similar between wild type and Cln3Δex7/8 astrocytes. Interestingly, despite these functional deficits in Cln3Δex7/8 astrocytes, glutamate transporter expression and glutamate uptake were not dramatically affected. Concurrent with impaired astrocyte metabolism and Ca2+ signaling, murine Cln3Δex7/8 neurons were hyper-responsive to glutamate, as reflected by heightened and prolonged Ca2+ signals. These findings identify intrinsic metabolic and Ca2+ signaling defects in Cln3Δex7/8 astrocytes that may contribute to neuronal dysfunction in CLN3 disease. This article is part of the Special Issue "Lysosomal Storage Disorders".
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Megan E Bosch
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Tammy Kielian
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Burkovetskaya M, Bosch ME, Karpuk N, Fallet R, Kielian T. Caspase 1 activity influences juvenile Batten disease (CLN3) pathogenesis. J Neurochem 2018; 148:652-668. [PMID: 29873075 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Juvenile Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (JNCL) is an autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disease caused by loss-of-function mutations in CLN3. Symptoms appear between 5 and 10 years of age, beginning with blindness and seizures, followed by progressive cognitive and motor decline, and premature death. Glial activation and impaired neuronal activity are early signs of pathology in the Cln3Δex7/8 mouse model of JNCL, whereas neuron death occurs much later in the disease process. We previously reported that Cln3Δex7/8 microglia are primed toward a pro-inflammatory phenotype typified by exaggerated caspase 1 inflammasome activation and here we extend those findings to demonstrate heightened caspase activity in the Cln3Δex7/8 mouse brain. Based on the ability of caspase 1 to cleave a large number of substrates that have been implicated in JNCL pathology, we examined the functional implications of caspase 1 inflammasome activity by crossing Cln3Δex7/8 and caspase 1-deficient mice to create Cln3Δex7/8 /Casp-1-/- animals. Caspase 1 deletion influenced motor behavior deficits and astrocyte activation in the context of CLN3 mutation, since both were significantly reversed in Cln3Δex7/8 /Casp-1-/- mice, with phenotypes approaching that of wild-type animals. We also report a progressive age-dependent reduction in whisker length in Cln3Δex7/8 mice that was partially caspase 1-dependent. However, not all CLN3 phenotypes were reversed following caspase 1 deletion, since no significant differences in lysosomal accumulation or microglial activation were observed between Cln3Δex7/8 and Cln3Δex7/8 /Casp-1-/- mice. Although the molecular targets of aberrant caspase 1 activity in the context of CLN3 mutation remain to be identified, our studies suggest that caspase 1 may represent a potential therapeutic target to mitigate some attributes of CLN3 disease. This article is part of the Special Issue "Lysosomal Storage Disorders".
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Burkovetskaya
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Megan E Bosch
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Nikolay Karpuk
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Rachel Fallet
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Tammy Kielian
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lange J, Haslett LJ, Lloyd-Evans E, Pocock JM, Sands MS, Williams BP, Cooper JD. Compromised astrocyte function and survival negatively impact neurons in infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2018; 6:74. [PMID: 30089511 PMCID: PMC6081811 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-018-0575-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (NCLs) are the most common cause of childhood dementia and are invariably fatal. Early localized glial activation occurs in these disorders, and accurately predicts where neuronal loss is most pronounced. Recent evidence suggests that glial dysfunction may contribute to neuron loss, and we have now explored this possibility in infantile NCL (INCL, CLN1 disease). We grew primary cultures of astrocytes, microglia, and neurons derived from Ppt1 deficient mice (Ppt1−/−) and assessed their properties compared to wildtype (WT) cultures, before co-culturing them in different combinations (astrocytes with microglia, astrocytes or microglia with neurons, all three cell types together). These studies revealed that both Ppt1−/− astrocytes and microglia exhibit a more activated phenotype under basal unstimulated conditions, as well as alterations to their protein expression profile following pharmacological stimulation. Ppt1- /− astrocytes also displayed abnormal calcium signalling and an elevated cytoplasmic Ca2+ level, and a profound defect in their survival. Ppt1−/− neurons displayed decreased neurite outgrowth, altered complexity, a reduction in cell body size, and impaired neuron survival with prolonged time in culture. In co-cultures, the presence of both astrocytes and microglia from Ppt1−/− mice further impaired the morphology of both wild type and Ppt1−/− neurons. This negative influence was more pronounced for Ppt1−/− microglia, which appeared to trigger increased Ppt1−/− neuronal death. In contrast, wild type glial cells, especially astrocytes, ameliorated some of the morphological defects observed in Ppt1−/− neurons. These findings suggest that both Ppt1−/− microglia and astrocytes are dysfunctional and may contribute to the neurodegeneration observed in CLN1 disease. However, the dysfunctional phenotypes of Ppt1−/− glia are different from those present in CLN3 disease, suggesting that the pathogenic role of glia may differ between NCLs.
Collapse
|
20
|
Schultz ML, Tecedor L, Lysenko E, Ramachandran S, Stein CS, Davidson BL. Modulating membrane fluidity corrects Batten disease phenotypes in vitro and in vivo. Neurobiol Dis 2018; 115:182-193. [PMID: 29660499 PMCID: PMC5969532 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2018.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2017] [Revised: 03/25/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses are a class of inherited neurodegenerative diseases characterized by the accumulation of autofluorescent storage material. The most common neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis has juvenile onset with rapid onset blindness and progressive degeneration of cognitive processes. The juvenile form is caused by mutations in the CLN3 gene, which encodes the protein CLN3. While mouse models of Cln3 deficiency show mild disease phenotypes, it is apparent from patient tissue- and cell-based studies that its loss impacts many cellular processes. Using Cln3 deficient mice, we previously described defects in mouse brain endothelial cells and blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability. Here we expand on this to other components of the BBB and show that Cln3 deficient mice have increased astrocyte endfeet area. Interestingly, this phenotype is corrected by treatment with a commonly used GAP junction inhibitor, carbenoxolone (CBX). In addition to its action on GAP junctions, CBX has also been proposed to alter lipid microdomains. In this work, we show that CBX modifies lipid microdomains and corrects membrane fluidity alterations in Cln3 deficient endothelial cells, which in turn improves defects in endocytosis, caveolin-1 distribution at the plasma membrane, and Cdc42 activity. In further work using the NIH Library of Integrated Network-based Cellular Signatures (LINCS), we discovered other small molecules whose impact was similar to CBX in that they improved Cln3-deficient cell phenotypes. Moreover, Cln3 deficient mice treated orally with CBX exhibited recovery of impaired BBB responses and reduced auto-fluorescence. CBX and the compounds identified by LINCS, many of which have been used in humans or approved for other indications, may find therapeutic benefit in children suffering from CLN3 deficiency through mechanisms independent of their original intended use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark L Schultz
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States
| | - Luis Tecedor
- The Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
| | - Elena Lysenko
- The Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
| | - Shyam Ramachandran
- The Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
| | - Colleen S Stein
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States
| | - Beverly L Davidson
- The Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States; Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Zorec R, Parpura V, Verkhratsky A. Astroglial vesicular network: evolutionary trends, physiology and pathophysiology. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2018; 222. [PMID: 28665546 DOI: 10.1111/apha.12915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2017] [Revised: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 06/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Intracellular organelles, including secretory vesicles, emerged when eukaryotic cells evolved some 3 billion years ago. The primordial organelles that evolved in Archaea were similar to endolysosomes, which developed, arguably, for specific metabolic tasks, including uptake, metabolic processing, storage and disposal of molecules. In comparison with prokaryotes, cell volume of eukaryotes increased by several orders of magnitude and vesicle traffic emerged to allow for communication between distant intracellular locations. Lysosomes, first described in 1955, a prominent intermediate of endo- and exocytotic pathways, operate virtually in all eukaryotic cells including astroglia, the most heterogeneous type of homeostatic glia in the central nervous system. Astrocytes support neuronal network activity in particular through elaborated secretion, based on a complex intracellular vesicle network dynamics. Deranged homeostasis underlies disease and astroglial vesicle traffic contributes to the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative (Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease), neurodevelopmental diseases (intellectual deficiency, Rett's disease) and neuroinfectious (Zika virus) disorders. This review addresses astroglial cell-autonomous vesicular traffic network, as well as its into primary and secondary vesicular network defects in diseases, and considers this network as a target for developing new therapies for neurological conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R. Zorec
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology and Molecular Cell Physiology; Institute of Pathophysiology; University of Ljubljana; Ljubljana Slovenia
- Celica; BIOMEDICAL; Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - V. Parpura
- Department of Neurobiology; Civitan International Research Center and Center for Glial Biology in Medicine; Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute; Atomic Force Microscopy and Nanotechnology Laboratories; University of Alabama; Birmingham AL USA
| | - A. Verkhratsky
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology and Molecular Cell Physiology; Institute of Pathophysiology; University of Ljubljana; Ljubljana Slovenia
- Celica; BIOMEDICAL; Ljubljana Slovenia
- Faculty of Biology; Medicine and Health; The University of Manchester; Manchester UK
- Achucarro Center for Neuroscience; IKERBASQUE; Basque Foundation for Science; Bilbao Spain
- Department of Neurosciences; University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU and CIBERNED; Leioa Spain
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Vicario N, Zappalà A, Calabrese G, Gulino R, Parenti C, Gulisano M, Parenti R. Connexins in the Central Nervous System: Physiological Traits and Neuroprotective Targets. Front Physiol 2017; 8:1060. [PMID: 29326598 PMCID: PMC5741605 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.01060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell-to-cell interaction and cell-to-extracellular environment communication are emerging as new therapeutic targets in neurodegenerative disorders. Dynamic expression of connexins leads to distinctive hemichannels and gap junctions, characterized by cell-specific conduction, exchange of stimuli or metabolites, and particular channel functions. Herein, we briefly reviewed classical physiological traits and functions of connexins, hemichannels, and gap junctions, in order to discuss the controversial role of these proteins and their mediated interactions during neuroprotection, with a particular focus on Cx43-based channels. We pointed out the contribution of connexins in neural cells populations during neurodegenerative processes to explore potential neuroprotective therapeutic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nunzio Vicario
- Section of Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Agata Zappalà
- Section of Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanna Calabrese
- Section of Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosario Gulino
- Section of Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Carmela Parenti
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Massimo Gulisano
- Section of Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosalba Parenti
- Section of Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Parviainen L, Dihanich S, Anderson GW, Wong AM, Brooks HR, Abeti R, Rezaie P, Lalli G, Pope S, Heales SJ, Mitchison HM, Williams BP, Cooper JD. Glial cells are functionally impaired in juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis and detrimental to neurons. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2017; 5:74. [PMID: 29041969 PMCID: PMC5645909 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-017-0476-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 09/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (NCLs or Batten disease) are a group of inherited, fatal neurodegenerative disorders of childhood. In these disorders, glial (microglial and astrocyte) activation typically occurs early in disease progression and predicts where neuron loss subsequently occurs. We have found that in the most common juvenile form of NCL (CLN3 disease or JNCL) this glial response is less pronounced in both mouse models and human autopsy material, with the morphological transformation of both astrocytes and microglia severely attenuated or delayed. To investigate their properties, we isolated glia and neurons from Cln3-deficient mice and studied their basic biology in culture. Upon stimulation, both Cln3-deficient astrocytes and microglia also showed an attenuated ability to transform morphologically, and an altered protein secretion profile. These defects were more pronounced in astrocytes, including the reduced secretion of a range of neuroprotective factors, mitogens, chemokines and cytokines, in addition to impaired calcium signalling and glutamate clearance. Cln3-deficient neurons also displayed an abnormal organization of their neurites. Most importantly, using a co-culture system, Cln3-deficient astrocytes and microglia had a negative impact on the survival and morphology of both Cln3-deficient and wildtype neurons, but these effects were largely reversed by growing mutant neurons with healthy glia. These data provide evidence that CLN3 disease astrocytes are functionally compromised. Together with microglia, they may play an active role in neuron loss in this disorder and can be considered as potential targets for therapeutic interventions.
Collapse
|
24
|
Self-Complementary AAV9 Gene Delivery Partially Corrects Pathology Associated with Juvenile Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (CLN3). J Neurosci 2017; 36:9669-82. [PMID: 27629717 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1635-16.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (JNCL) is a fatal lysosomal storage disease caused by autosomal-recessive mutations in CLN3 for which no treatment exists. Symptoms appear between 5 and 10 years of age, beginning with blindness and seizures, followed by progressive cognitive and motor decline and premature death (late teens to 20s). We explored a gene delivery approach for JNCL by generating two self-complementary adeno-associated virus 9 (scAAV9) constructs to address CLN3 dosage effects using the methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2) and β-actin promoters to drive low versus high transgene expression, respectively. This approach was based on the expectation that low CLN3 levels are required for cellular homeostasis due to minimal CLN3 expression postnatally, although this had not yet been demonstrated in vivo One-month-old Cln3(Δex7/8) mice received one systemic (intravenous) injection of scAAV9/MeCP2-hCLN3 or scAAV9/β-actin-hCLN3, with green fluorescent protein (GFP)-expressing viruses as controls. A promoter-dosage effect was observed in all brain regions examined, in which hCLN3 levels were elevated 3- to 8-fold in Cln3(Δex7/8) mice receiving scAAV9/β-actin-hCLN3 versus scAAV9/MeCP2-hCLN3. However, a disconnect occurred between CLN3 levels and disease improvement, because only the scAAV9 construct driving low CLN3 expression (scAAV9/MeCP2-hCLN3) corrected motor deficits and attenuated microglial and astrocyte activation and lysosomal pathology. This may have resulted from preferential promoter usage because transgene expression after intravenous scAAV9/MeCP2-GFP injection was primarily detected in NeuN(+) neurons, whereas scAAV9/β-actin-GFP drove transgene expression in GFAP(+) astrocytes. This is the first demonstration of a systemic delivery route to restore CLN3 in vivo using scAAV9 and highlights the importance of promoter selection for disease modification in juvenile animals. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (JNCL) is a fatal lysosomal storage disease caused by CLN3 mutations. We explored a gene delivery approach using two self-complementary adeno-associated virus 9 (scAAV9) constructs to address CLN3 dosage effects using the methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2) and β-actin promoters. hCLN3 levels were elevated 3- to 8-fold in Cln3(Δex7/8) mice receiving scAAV9/β-actin-hCLN3 versus scAAV9/MeCP2-hCLN3 after a single systemic injection. However, only scAAV9/MeCP2-hCLN3 corrected motor deficits and attenuated glial activation and lysosomal pathology. This may reflect preferential promoter usage because transgene expression with scAAV9/MeCP2-green fluorescent protein (GFP) was primarily in neurons, whereas scAAV9/β-actin-GFP drove transgene expression in astrocytes. This is the first demonstration of systemic delivery for CLN3 using scAAV9 and highlights the importance of promoter selection for disease modification in juvenile animals.
Collapse
|
25
|
Vicario N, Calabrese G, Zappalà A, Parenti C, Forte S, Graziano ACE, Vanella L, Pellitteri R, Cardile V, Parenti R. Inhibition of Cx43 mediates protective effects on hypoxic/reoxygenated human neuroblastoma cells. J Cell Mol Med 2017; 21:2563-2572. [PMID: 28488330 PMCID: PMC5618696 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.13177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 02/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs), a special population of glial cells, are able to synthesise several trophic factors exerting a neuroprotective action and promoting growth and functional recovery in both in vitro and in vivo models. In the present work, we investigated the neuroprotective effects of OEC-conditioned medium (OEC-CM) on two different human neuron-like cell lines, SH-SY5Y and SK-N-SH (neuroblastoma cell lines), under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. In addition, we also focused our attention on the role of connexins (Cxs) in the neuroprotective processes. Our results confirmed OEC-CM mediated neuroprotection as shown by cell adherence, proliferation and cellular viability analyses. Reduced connexin 43 (Cx43) levels in OEC-CM compared to unconditioned cells in hypoxic conditions prompted us to investigate the role of Cx43-Gap junctions (GJs) and Cx43-hemichannels (HCs) in hypoxic/reoxygenation injury using carbenoxolone (non-selective GJ inhibitor), ioxynil octanoato (selective Cx43-GJ inhibitor) and Gap19 (selective Cx43-HC inhibitor). We found that Cx43-GJ and Cx43-HC inhibitors are able to protect SH-SY5Y and allow to these cultures to overcome the injury. Our findings support the hypothesis that both OEC-CM and the inhibition of Cx43-GJs and Cx43-HCs offer a neuroprotective effect by reducing Cx43-mediated cell-to-cell and cell-to-extracellular environment communications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nunzio Vicario
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Physiology Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanna Calabrese
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Physiology Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Agata Zappalà
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Physiology Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Carmela Parenti
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | | | - Luca Vanella
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosalia Pellitteri
- Institute Neurological Sciences, National Research Council, Catania, Italy
| | - Venera Cardile
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Physiology Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosalba Parenti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Physiology Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Age-dependent alterations in neuronal activity in the hippocampus and visual cortex in a mouse model of Juvenile Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (CLN3). Neurobiol Dis 2017; 100:19-29. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2016.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2016] [Revised: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 12/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
|
27
|
Aldrich A, Bosch ME, Fallet R, Odvody J, Burkovetskaya M, Rama Rao KV, Cooper JD, Drack AV, Kielian T. Efficacy of phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors in juvenile Batten disease (CLN3). Ann Neurol 2016; 80:909-923. [PMID: 27804148 PMCID: PMC5215570 DOI: 10.1002/ana.24815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Revised: 09/19/2016] [Accepted: 10/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (JNCL), or juvenile Batten disease, is a pediatric lysosomal storage disease caused by autosomal recessive mutations in CLN3, typified by blindness, seizures, progressive cognitive and motor decline, and premature death. Currently, there is no treatment for JNCL that slows disease progression, which highlights the need to explore novel strategies to extend the survival and quality of life of afflicted children. Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) is a second messenger with pleiotropic effects, including regulating neuroinflammation and neuronal survival. Here we investigated whether 3 phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) inhibitors (rolipram, roflumilast, and PF-06266047) could mitigate behavioral deficits and cell-specific pathology in the Cln3Δex7/8 mouse model of JNCL. METHODS In a randomized, blinded study, wild-type (WT) and Cln3Δex7/8 mice received PDE4 inhibitors daily beginning at 1 or 3 months of age and continuing for 6 to 9 months, with motor deficits assessed by accelerating rotarod testing. The effect of PDE4 inhibitors on cAMP levels, astrocyte and microglial activation (glial fibrillary acidic protein and CD68, respectively), lysosomal pathology (lysosomal-associated membrane protein 1), and astrocyte glutamate transporter expression (glutamate/aspartate transporter) were also examined in WT and Cln3Δex7/8 animals. RESULTS cAMP levels were significantly reduced in the Cln3Δex7/8 brain, and were restored by PF-06266047. PDE4 inhibitors significantly improved motor function in Cln3Δex7/8 mice, attenuated glial activation and lysosomal pathology, and restored glutamate transporter expression to levels observed in WT animals, with no evidence of toxicity as revealed by blood chemistry analysis. INTERPRETATION These studies reveal neuroprotective effects for PDE4 inhibitors in Cln3Δex7/8 mice and support their therapeutic potential in JNCL patients. Ann Neurol 2016;80:909-923.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amy Aldrich
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Megan E Bosch
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Rachel Fallet
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Jessica Odvody
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Maria Burkovetskaya
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | | | - Jonathan D Cooper
- Department of Basic & Clinical Neuroscience, King's College, London, United Kingdom.,Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute and David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA
| | - Arlene V Drack
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA
| | - Tammy Kielian
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Oetjen S, Kuhl D, Hermey G. Revisiting the neuronal localization and trafficking of CLN3 in juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis. J Neurochem 2016; 139:456-470. [DOI: 10.1111/jnc.13744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Revised: 07/14/2016] [Accepted: 07/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Oetjen
- Institute for Molecular and Cellular Cognition; Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg; University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf; Hamburg Germany
| | - Dietmar Kuhl
- Institute for Molecular and Cellular Cognition; Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg; University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf; Hamburg Germany
| | - Guido Hermey
- Institute for Molecular and Cellular Cognition; Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg; University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf; Hamburg Germany
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Geraets RD, Koh SY, Hastings ML, Kielian T, Pearce DA, Weimer JM. Moving towards effective therapeutic strategies for Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2016; 11:40. [PMID: 27083890 PMCID: PMC4833901 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-016-0414-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2015] [Accepted: 03/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinoses (NCLs) are a family of autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disorders that annually affect 1:100,000 live births worldwide. This family of diseases results from mutations in one of 14 different genes that share common clinical and pathological etiologies. Clinically, the diseases are subcategorized into infantile, late-infantile, juvenile and adult forms based on their age of onset. Though the disease phenotypes may vary in their age and order of presentation, all typically include progressive visual deterioration and blindness, cognitive impairment, motor deficits and seizures. Pathological hallmarks of NCLs include the accumulation of storage material or ceroid in the lysosome, progressive neuronal degeneration and massive glial activation. Advances have been made in genetic diagnosis and counseling for families. However, comprehensive treatment programs that delay or halt disease progression have been elusive. Current disease management is primarily targeted at controlling the symptoms rather than "curing" the disease. Recognizing the growing need for transparency and synergistic efforts to move the field forward, this review will provide an overview of the therapeutic approaches currently being pursued in preclinical and clinical trials to treat different forms of NCL as well as provide insight to novel therapeutic approaches in development for the NCLs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan D. Geraets
- />Children’s Health Research Center, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD USA
- />Sanford School of Medicine at the University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD USA
| | - Seung yon Koh
- />Children’s Health Research Center, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD USA
| | - Michelle L. Hastings
- />Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL USA
| | - Tammy Kielian
- />Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE USA
| | - David A. Pearce
- />Children’s Health Research Center, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD USA
- />Sanford School of Medicine at the University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD USA
| | - Jill M. Weimer
- />Children’s Health Research Center, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD USA
- />Sanford School of Medicine at the University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Hu X, Yuan Y, Wang D, Su Z. Heterogeneous astrocytes: Active players in CNS. Brain Res Bull 2016; 125:1-18. [PMID: 27021168 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2016.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2016] [Revised: 03/22/2016] [Accepted: 03/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes, the predominant cell type that are broadly distributed in the brain and spinal cord, play key roles in maintaining homeostasis of the central nerve system (CNS) in physiological and pathological conditions. Increasing evidence indicates that astrocytes are a complex colony with heterogeneity on morphology, gene expression, function and many other aspects depending on their spatio-temporal distribution and activation level. In pathological conditions, astrocytes differentially respond to all kinds of insults, including injury and disease, and participate in the neuropathological process. Based on current studies, we here give an overview of the roles of heterogeneous astrocytes in CNS, especially in neuropathologies, which focuses on biological and functional diversity of astrocytes. We propose that a precise understanding of the heterogeneous astrocytes is critical to unlocking the secrets about pathogenesis and treatment of the mazy CNS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Hu
- Institute of Neuroscience and Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology of Ministry of Education, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yimin Yuan
- Institute of Neuroscience and Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology of Ministry of Education, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan Wang
- Institute of Neuroscience and Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology of Ministry of Education, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhida Su
- Institute of Neuroscience and Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology of Ministry of Education, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Bosch ME, Kielian T. Neuroinflammatory paradigms in lysosomal storage diseases. Front Neurosci 2015; 9:417. [PMID: 26578874 PMCID: PMC4627351 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2015.00417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2015] [Accepted: 10/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs) include approximately 70 distinct disorders that collectively account for 14% of all inherited metabolic diseases. LSDs are caused by mutations in various enzymes/proteins that disrupt lysosomal function, which impairs macromolecule degradation following endosome-lysosome and phagosome-lysosome fusion and autophagy, ultimately disrupting cellular homeostasis. LSDs are pathologically typified by lysosomal inclusions composed of a heterogeneous mixture of various proteins and lipids that can be found throughout the body. However, in many cases the CNS is dramatically affected, which may result from heightened neuronal vulnerability based on their post-mitotic state. Besides intrinsic neuronal defects, another emerging factor common to many LSDs is neuroinflammation, which may negatively impact neuronal survival and contribute to neurodegeneration. Microglial and astrocyte activation is a hallmark of many LSDs that affect the CNS, which often precedes and predicts regions where eventual neuron loss will occur. However, the timing, intensity, and duration of neuroinflammation may ultimately dictate the impact on CNS homeostasis. For example, a transient inflammatory response following CNS insult/injury can be neuroprotective, as glial cells attempt to remove the insult and provide trophic support to neurons. However, chronic inflammation, as seen in several LSDs, can promote neurodegeneration by creating a neurotoxic environment due to elevated levels of cytokines, chemokines, and pro-apoptotic molecules. Although neuroinflammation has been reported in several LSDs, the cellular basis and mechanisms responsible for eliciting neuroinflammatory pathways are just beginning to be defined. This review highlights the role of neuroinflammation in select LSDs and its potential contribution to neuron loss.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Megan E. Bosch
- Departments of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical CenterOmaha, NE, USA
| | - Tammy Kielian
- Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical CenterOmaha, NE, USA
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Abstract
Microglia often accumulate around degenerating neurons. These macrophage-like immune cells produce a variety of neurotoxic and neuroprotective factors. Thus, the accumulation of glia in various neurologic disorders does not reflect only gliosis, but likely results in an active contribution to neuroinflammation, neural degeneration, and cell regeneration. We previously showed that glutamate is the most neurotoxic factor released by activated microglia, and suppressing glutamate release from microglia can inhibit disease progression in various animal models of neurodegenerative disorders. On the other hand, when exposed to harmful stimuli, neurons also produce and release various factors that serve as "help-me" signals. For example, the CX3C chemokine fractalkine, interleukin-34, and fibroblast growth factor-2 are secreted from damaged neurons; these help-me signals induce various microglial activities to rescue neurons, including upregulated phagocytosis of toxicants and damaged debris, and production of antioxidant enzymes and other neurotrophic factors. Elucidating the interactions between neurons and microglia will help uncover the mechanisms underlying chronic neuroinflammatory conditions, and may provide insights into new therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akio Suzumura
- Department of Neuroimmunology, RIEM, Nagoya University
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Rama Rao KV, Kielian T. Neuron-astrocyte interactions in neurodegenerative diseases: Role of neuroinflammation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 6:245-263. [PMID: 26543505 DOI: 10.1111/cen3.12237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Selective neuron loss in discrete brain regions is a hallmark of various neurodegenerative disorders, although the mechanisms responsible for this regional vulnerability of neurons remain largely unknown. Earlier studies attributed neuron dysfunction and eventual loss during neurodegenerative diseases as exclusively cell autonomous. Although cell-intrinsic factors are one critical aspect in dictating neuron death, recent evidence also supports the involvement of other central nervous system cell types in propagating non-cell autonomous neuronal injury during neurodegenerative diseases. One such example is astrocytes, which support neuronal and synaptic function, but can also contribute to neuroinflammatory processes through robust chemokine secretion. Indeed, aberrations in astrocyte function have been shown to negatively impact neuronal integrity in several neurological diseases. The present review focuses on neuroinflammatory paradigms influenced by neuron-astrocyte cross-talk in the context of select neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kakulavarapu V Rama Rao
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Tammy Kielian
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Retamal MA, Reyes EP, García IE, Pinto B, Martínez AD, González C. Diseases associated with leaky hemichannels. Front Cell Neurosci 2015; 9:267. [PMID: 26283912 PMCID: PMC4515567 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2015.00267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 06/29/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Hemichannels (HCs) and gap junction channels (GJCs) formed by protein subunits called connexins (Cxs) are major pathways for intercellular communication. While HCs connect the intracellular compartment with the extracellular milieu, GJCs allow the interchange of molecules between cytoplasm of two contacting cells. Under physiological conditions, HCs are mostly closed, but they can open under certain stimuli allowing the release of autocrine and paracrine molecules. Moreover, some pathological conditions, like ischemia or other inflammation conditions, significantly increase HCs activity. In addition, some mutations in Cx genes associated with human diseases, such as deafness or cataracts, lead to the formation of more active HCs or “leaky HCs.” In this article we will revise cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the appearance of leaky HCs, and the consequences of their expression in different cellular systems and animal models, in seeking a common pattern or pathological mechanism of disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mauricio A Retamal
- Centro de Fisiología Celular e Integrativa, Facultad de Medicina, Clínica Alemana Universidad del Desarrollo Santiago, Chile
| | - Edison P Reyes
- Centro de Fisiología Celular e Integrativa, Facultad de Medicina, Clínica Alemana Universidad del Desarrollo Santiago, Chile ; Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Universidad Autónoma de Chile Santiago, Chile
| | - Isaac E García
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Bernardo Pinto
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Agustín D Martínez
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Carlos González
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencia de Valparaíso, Instituto de Neurociencia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso Valparaíso, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
|
36
|
Rama Rao KV, Kielian T. Astrocytes and lysosomal storage diseases. Neuroscience 2015; 323:195-206. [PMID: 26037807 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2015.05.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2015] [Revised: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 05/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs) encompass a wide range of disorders characterized by inborn errors of lysosomal function. The majority of LSDs result from genetic defects in lysosomal enzymes, although some arise from mutations in lysosomal proteins that lack known enzymatic activity. Neuropathological abnormalities are a feature of several LSDs and when severe, represent an important determinant in disease outcome. Glial dysfunction, particularly in astrocytes, is also observed in numerous LSDs and has been suggested to impact neurodegeneration. This review will discuss the potential role of astrocytes in LSDs and highlight the possibility of targeting glia as a beneficial strategy to counteract the neuropathology associated with LSDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K V Rama Rao
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, United States
| | - T Kielian
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Cooper JD, Tarczyluk MA, Nelvagal HR. Towards a new understanding of NCL pathogenesis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2015; 1852:2256-61. [PMID: 26026924 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2015.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2015] [Revised: 05/20/2015] [Accepted: 05/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinoses (NCLs, Batten disease) are a group of inherited neurodegenerative disorders that have been traditionally grouped together on the basis of certain shared clinical and pathological features. However, as the number of genes that appear to cause new forms of NCL continues to grow, it is timely to reassess our understanding of the pathogenesis of these disorders and what groups them together. The various NCL subtypes do indeed share features of a build-up of autofluorescent storage material, progressive neuron loss and activation of the innate immune system. The characterisation of animal models has highlighted the selective nature of neuron loss and its intimate relationship with glial activation, rather than the generalised build-up of storage material. More recent data provide evidence for the pathway-dependent nature of pathology, the contribution of glial dysfunction, and the involvement of new brain regions previously thought to be unaffected, and it is becoming apparent that pathology extends beyond the brain. These data have important implications, not just for therapy, but also for our understanding of these disorders. However, looking beneath these broadly similar pathological themes evidence emerges for marked differences in the nature and extent of these events in different forms of NCL. Indeed, given the widely different nature of the mutated gene products it is perhaps more surprising that these disorders resemble each other as much as they do. Such data raise the question whether we should rethink the collective grouping of these gene deficiencies together, or whether it would be better to consider them as separate entities. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Current Research on the Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinoses (Batten Disease).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan D Cooper
- Pediatric Storage Disorders Laboratory (PSDL), Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, James Black Centre, 125 Coldharbour Lane, London SE5 9NU, UK.
| | - Marta A Tarczyluk
- Pediatric Storage Disorders Laboratory (PSDL), Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, James Black Centre, 125 Coldharbour Lane, London SE5 9NU, UK
| | - Hemanth R Nelvagal
- Pediatric Storage Disorders Laboratory (PSDL), Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, James Black Centre, 125 Coldharbour Lane, London SE5 9NU, UK
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Orellana JA, Moraga-Amaro R, Díaz-Galarce R, Rojas S, Maturana CJ, Stehberg J, Sáez JC. Restraint stress increases hemichannel activity in hippocampal glial cells and neurons. Front Cell Neurosci 2015; 9:102. [PMID: 25883550 PMCID: PMC4382970 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2015.00102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2014] [Accepted: 03/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Stress affects brain areas involved in learning and emotional responses, which may contribute in the development of cognitive deficits associated with major depression. These effects have been linked to glial cell activation, glutamate release and changes in neuronal plasticity and survival including atrophy of hippocampal apical dendrites, loss of synapses and neuronal death. Under neuro-inflammatory conditions, we recently unveiled a sequential activation of glial cells that release ATP and glutamate via hemichannels inducing neuronal death due to activation of neuronal NMDA/P2X7 receptors and pannexin1 hemichannels. In the present work, we studied if stress-induced glia activation is associated to changes in hemichannel activity. To this end, we compared hemichannel activity of brain cells after acute or chronic restraint stress in mice. Dye uptake experiments in hippocampal slices revealed that acute stress induces opening of both Cx43 and Panx1 hemichannels in astrocytes, which were further increased by chronic stress; whereas enhanced Panx1 hemichannel activity was detected in microglia and neurons after acute/chronic and chronic stress, respectively. Moreover, inhibition of NMDA/P2X7 receptors reduced the chronic stress-induced hemichannel opening, whereas blockade of Cx43 and Panx1 hemichannels fully reduced ATP and glutamate release in hippocampal slices from stressed mice. Thus, we propose that gliotransmitter release through hemichannels may participate in the pathogenesis of stress-associated psychiatric disorders and possibly depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan A Orellana
- Departamento de Neurología, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile Santiago, Chile
| | - Rodrigo Moraga-Amaro
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología, Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas and Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Andres Bello Santiago, Chile
| | - Raúl Díaz-Galarce
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología, Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas and Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Andres Bello Santiago, Chile
| | - Sebastián Rojas
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología, Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas and Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Andres Bello Santiago, Chile
| | - Carola J Maturana
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile Santiago, Chile
| | - Jimmy Stehberg
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología, Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas and Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Andres Bello Santiago, Chile
| | - Juan C Sáez
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile Santiago, Chile ; Instituto Milenio, Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias de Valparaíso Santiago, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Orellana JA, Busso D, Ramírez G, Campos M, Rigotti A, Eugenín J, von Bernhardi R. Prenatal nicotine exposure enhances Cx43 and Panx1 unopposed channel activity in brain cells of adult offspring mice fed a high-fat/cholesterol diet. Front Cell Neurosci 2014; 8:403. [PMID: 25520621 PMCID: PMC4251442 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2014.00403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2014] [Accepted: 11/08/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Nicotine, the most important neuroteratogen of tobacco smoke, can reproduce brain and cognitive disturbances per se when administered prenatally. However, it is still unknown if paracrine signaling among brain cells participates in prenatal nicotine-induced brain impairment of adult offspring. Paracrine signaling is partly mediated by unopposed channels formed by connexins hemichannels (HCs) and pannexins serving as aqueous pores permeable to ions and small signaling molecules, allowing exchange between the intra- and extracellular milieus. Our aim was to address whether prenatal nicotine exposure changes the activity of those channels in adult mice offspring under control conditions or subjected to a second challenge during young ages: high-fat/cholesterol (HFC) diet. To induce prenatal exposure to nicotine, osmotic minipumps were implanted in CF1 pregnant mice at gestational day 5 to deliver nicotine bitartrate or saline (control) solutions. After weaning, offspring of nicotine-treated or untreated pregnant mice were fed ad libitum with chow or HFC diets for 8 weeks. The functional state of connexin 43 (Cx43) and pannexin 1 (Panx1) unopposed channels was evaluated by dye uptake experiments in hippocampal slices from 11-week-old mice. We found that prenatal nicotine increased the opening of Cx43 HCs in astrocytes, and Panx1 channels in microglia and neurons only if offspring mice were fed with HFC diet. Blockade of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) and prostaglandin E receptor 1 (EP1), ionotropic ATP receptor type 7 (P2X7) and NMDA receptors, showed differential inhibition of prenatal nicotine-induced channel opening in glial cells and neurons. Importantly, inhibition of the above mentioned enzymes and receptors, or blockade of Cx43 and Panx1 unopposed channels greatly reduced adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and glutamate release from hippocampal slices of prenatally nicotine-exposed offspring. We propose that unregulated gliotransmitter release through Cx43 and Panx1 unopposed channels may participate in brain alterations observed in offspring of mothers exposed to tobacco smoke during pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan A Orellana
- Departamento de Neurología, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile Santiago, Chile
| | - Dolores Busso
- Departamento de Nutrición, Diabetes y Metabolismo, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile Santiago, Chile ; Centro de Nutrición Molecular y Enfermedades Crónicas, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile Santiago, Chile
| | - Gigliola Ramírez
- Departamento de Neurología, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile Santiago, Chile
| | - Marlys Campos
- Laboratorio de Sistemas Neurales, Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile Santiago, Chile
| | - Attilio Rigotti
- Departamento de Nutrición, Diabetes y Metabolismo, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile Santiago, Chile ; Centro de Nutrición Molecular y Enfermedades Crónicas, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile Santiago, Chile
| | - Jaime Eugenín
- Laboratorio de Sistemas Neurales, Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile Santiago, Chile
| | - Rommy von Bernhardi
- Departamento de Neurología, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile Santiago, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Takeuchi H, Suzumura A. Gap junctions and hemichannels composed of connexins: potential therapeutic targets for neurodegenerative diseases. Front Cell Neurosci 2014; 8:189. [PMID: 25228858 PMCID: PMC4151093 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2014.00189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2014] [Accepted: 06/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Microglia are macrophage-like resident immune cells that contribute to the maintenance of homeostasis in the central nervous system (CNS). Abnormal activation of microglia can cause damage in the CNS, and accumulation of activated microglia is a characteristic pathological observation in neurologic conditions such as trauma, stroke, inflammation, epilepsy, and neurodegenerative diseases. Activated microglia secrete high levels of glutamate, which damages CNS cells and has been implicated as a major cause of neurodegeneration in these conditions. Glutamate-receptor blockers and microglia inhibitors (e.g., minocycline) have been examined as therapeutic candidates for several neurodegenerative diseases; however, these compounds exerted little therapeutic benefit because they either perturbed physiological glutamate signals or suppressed the actions of protective microglia. The ideal therapeutic approach would hamper the deleterious roles of activated microglia without diminishing their protective effects. We recently found that abnormally activated microglia secrete glutamate via gap-junction hemichannels on the cell surface. Moreover, administration of gap-junction inhibitors significantly suppressed excessive microglial glutamate release and improved disease symptoms in animal models of neurologic conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease. Recent evidence also suggests that neuronal and glial communication via gap junctions amplifies neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. Elucidation of the precise pathologic roles of gap junctions and hemichannels may lead to a novel therapeutic strategies that can slow and halt the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hideyuki Takeuchi
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Nagoya University Nagoya, Japan
| | - Akio Suzumura
- Department of Neuroimmunology, Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Nagoya University Nagoya, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Bosch M, Kielian T. Hemichannels in neurodegenerative diseases: is there a link to pathology? Front Cell Neurosci 2014; 8:242. [PMID: 25191227 PMCID: PMC4138772 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2014.00242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 07/31/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Although originally considered a structural component of gap junctions, connexin hemichannels (HCs) are now recognized as functional entities capable of influencing metabolic gradients within the CNS, allowing direct communication between the intra- and extracellular milieus. Besides connexins, HCs can also be formed by pannexins, which are not capable of gap junction assembly. Both positive and negative effects have been attributed to HC activity in the context of neurodegenerative diseases. For example, HCs can exert neuroprotective effects by promoting the uptake of neurotoxic molecules, whereas chronic HC opening can disrupt molecular gradients leading to cellular dysfunction and death. The latter scenario has been suggested for multiple neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and more recently, lysosomal storage disorders, which are the focus of this perspective. Currently available evidence suggests a complex role for HCs in neurodegenerative disorders, which sets the stage for future studies to determine whether targeting HC action may improve disease outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Megan Bosch
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Tammy Kielian
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, NE, USA
| |
Collapse
|