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Armbrust F, Bickenbach K, Altmeppen H, Foggetti A, Winkelmann A, Wulff P, Glatzel M, Pietrzik CU, Becker-Pauly C. A novel mouse model for N-terminal truncated Aβ2-x generation through meprin β overexpression in astrocytes. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:139. [PMID: 38480559 PMCID: PMC10937767 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05139-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Neurotoxic amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides cause neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients' brains. They are released upon proteolytic processing of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) extracellularly at the β-secretase site and intramembranously at the γ-secretase site. Several AD mouse models were developed to conduct respective research in vivo. Most of these classical models overexpress human APP with mutations driving AD-associated pathogenic APP processing. However, the resulting pattern of Aβ species in the mouse brains differs from those observed in AD patients' brains. Particularly mutations proximal to the β-secretase cleavage site (e.g., the so-called Swedish APP (APPswe) fostering Aβ1-x formation) lead to artificial Aβ production, as N-terminally truncated Aβ peptides are hardly present in these mouse brains. Meprin β is an alternative β-secretase upregulated in brains of AD patients and capable of generating N-terminally truncated Aβ2-x peptides. Therefore, we aimed to generate a mouse model for the production of so far underestimated Aβ2-x peptides by conditionally overexpressing meprin β in astrocytes. We chose astrocytes as meprin β was detected in this cell type in close proximity to Aβ plaques in AD patients' brains. The meprin β-overexpressing mice showed elevated amyloidogenic APP processing detected with a newly generated neo-epitope-specific antibody. Furthermore, we observed elevated Aβ production from endogenous APP as well as AD-related behavior changes (hyperlocomotion and deficits in spatial memory). The novel mouse model as well as the established tools and methods will be helpful to further characterize APP cleavage and the impact of different Aβ species in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fred Armbrust
- Biochemical Institute, Unit for Degradomics of the Protease Web, University of Kiel, Otto-Hahn-Platz 9, 24118, Kiel, Germany.
| | - Kira Bickenbach
- Biochemical Institute, Unit for Degradomics of the Protease Web, University of Kiel, Otto-Hahn-Platz 9, 24118, Kiel, Germany
| | - Hermann Altmeppen
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Angelica Foggetti
- Institute of Physiology, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Haining, 314400, China
- College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Anne Winkelmann
- Biochemical Institute, Unit for Degradomics of the Protease Web, University of Kiel, Otto-Hahn-Platz 9, 24118, Kiel, Germany
| | - Peer Wulff
- Institute of Physiology, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Markus Glatzel
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Claus U Pietrzik
- Institute for Pathobiochemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Christoph Becker-Pauly
- Biochemical Institute, Unit for Degradomics of the Protease Web, University of Kiel, Otto-Hahn-Platz 9, 24118, Kiel, Germany.
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2
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Coimbra JRM, Moreira PI, Santos AE, Salvador JAR. Therapeutic potential of glutaminyl cyclases: Current status and emerging trends. Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103644. [PMID: 37244566 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2023.103644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Glutaminyl cyclase (QC) activity has been identified as a key effector in distinct biological processes. Human glutaminyl-peptide cyclotransferase (QPCT) and glutaminyl-peptide cyclotransferase-like (QPCTL) are considered attractive therapeutic targets in many human disorders, such as neurodegenerative diseases, and a range of inflammatory conditions, as well as for cancer immunotherapy, because of their capacity to modulate cancer immune checkpoint proteins. In this review, we explore the biological functions and structures of QPCT/L enzymes and highlight their therapeutic relevance. We also summarize recent developments in the discovery of small-molecule inhibitors targeting these enzymes, including an overview of preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judite R M Coimbra
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Paula I Moreira
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; Laboratory of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Armanda E Santos
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Jorge A R Salvador
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.
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3
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Kemeh MM, Lazo ND. Modulation of the Activity of the Insulin-Degrading Enzyme by Aβ Peptides. ACS Chem Neurosci 2023; 14:2935-2943. [PMID: 37498802 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE) is an evolutionarily conserved protease implicated in the degradation of insulin and amyloidogenic peptides. Most of the biochemical and biophysical characterization of IDE's catalytic activity has been conducted using solutions containing a single substrate, i.e., insulin or Aβ(1-40). IDE's activity toward a particular substrate, however, is likely to be influenced by the presence of other substrates. Here, we show by a kinetic assay based on insulin's helical circular dichroic signal and MALDI TOF mass spectrometry that Aβ peptides modulate IDE's activity toward insulin in opposing ways. Aβ(1-40) enhances IDE-dependent degradation of insulin, whereas Aβ(pyroE3-42), the most pathogenic pyroglutamate-modified Aβ peptide in AD, inhibits IDE's activity. Intriguingly, Aβ(pyroE3-42) also inhibits IDE's ability to degrade Aβ(1-40). Together, our results implicate Aβ peptides in the abnormal catabolism of IDE's key substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merc M Kemeh
- Gustaf H. Carlson School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Clark University, Worcester, Massachusetts 01610, United States
| | - Noel D Lazo
- Gustaf H. Carlson School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Clark University, Worcester, Massachusetts 01610, United States
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Hook G, Kindy M, Hook V. Cathepsin B Deficiency Improves Memory Deficits and Reduces Amyloid-β in hAβPP Mouse Models Representing the Major Sporadic Alzheimer's Disease Condition. J Alzheimers Dis 2023; 93:33-46. [PMID: 36970896 PMCID: PMC10185432 DOI: 10.3233/jad-221005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
The lysosomal cysteine protease cathepsin B (CTSB) has been suggested as a biomarker for Alzheimer's disease (AD) because elevated serum CTSB in AD patients has been found to correlate with cognitive dysfunction. Furthermore, CTSB gene knockout (KO) in non-transgenic and transgenic AD animal models showed that elimination of CTSB improved memory deficits. However, conflicting CTSB KO results on amyloid-β (Aβ) pathology in transgenic AD models have been reported. The conflict is resolved here as likely being due to the different hAβPP transgenes used in the different AD mouse models. CTSB gene KO reduced wild-type (Wt) β-secretase activity, brain Aβ, pyroglutamate-Aβ, amyloid plaque, and memory deficits in models that used cDNA transgenes expressing hAβPP isoform 695. But in models that used mutated mini transgenes expressing hAβPP isoforms 751 and 770, CTSB KO had no effect on Wt β-secretase activity and slightly increased brain Aβ. All models expressed the AβPP transgenes in neurons. These conflicting results in Wt β-secretase activity models can be explained by hAβPP isoform specific cellular expression, proteolysis, and subcellular processing. CTSB KO had no effect on Swedish mutant (Swe) β-secretase activity in hAβPP695 and hAβPP751/770 models. Different proteolytic sensitivities for hAβPP with Wt versus Swe β-secretase site sequences may explain the different CTSB β-secretase effects in hAβPP695 models. But since the vast majority of sporadic AD patients have Wt β-secretase activity, the CTSB effects on Swe β-secretase activity are of little importance to the general AD population. As neurons naturally produce and process hAβPP isoform 695 and not the 751 and 770 isoforms, only the hAβPP695 Wt models mimic the natural neuronal hAβPP processing and Aβ production occurring in most AD patients. Significantly, these CTSB KO findings in the hAβPP695 Wt models demonstrate that CTSB participates in memory deficits and production of pyroglutamate-Aβ (pyroglu-Aβ), which provide rationale for future investigation of CTSB inhibitors in AD therapeutics development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Hook
- American Life Science Pharmaceuticals, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Mark Kindy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Taneja College of Pharmacy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
- James A Haley VAMC, Research Service, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Vivian Hook
- Department of Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacology, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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Hook G, Reinheckel T, Ni J, Wu Z, Kindy M, Peters C, Hook V. Cathepsin B Gene Knockout Improves Behavioral Deficits and Reduces Pathology in Models of Neurologic Disorders. Pharmacol Rev 2022; 74:600-629. [PMID: 35710131 PMCID: PMC9553114 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.121.000527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cathepsin B (CTSB) is a powerful lysosomal protease. This review evaluated CTSB gene knockout (KO) outcomes for amelioration of brain dysfunctions in neurologic diseases and aging animal models. Deletion of the CTSB gene resulted in significant improvements in behavioral deficits, neuropathology, and/or biomarkers in traumatic brain injury, ischemia, inflammatory pain, opiate tolerance, epilepsy, aging, transgenic Alzheimer's disease (AD), and periodontitis AD models as shown in 12 studies. One study found beneficial effects for double CTSB and cathepsin S KO mice in a multiple sclerosis model. Transgenic AD models using amyloid precursor protein (APP) mimicking common sporadic AD in three studies showed that CTSB KO improved memory, neuropathology, and biomarkers; two studies used APP representing rare familial AD and found no CTSB KO effect, and two studies used highly engineered APP constructs and reported slight increases in a biomarker. In clinical studies, all reports found that CTSB enzyme was upregulated in diverse neurologic disorders, including AD in which elevated CTSB was positively correlated with cognitive dysfunction. In a wide range of neurologic animal models, CTSB was also upregulated and not downregulated. Further, human genetic mutation data provided precedence for CTSB upregulation causing disease. Thus, the consilience of data is that CTSB gene KO results in improved brain dysfunction and reduced pathology through blockade of CTSB enzyme upregulation that causes human neurologic disease phenotypes. The overall findings provide strong support for CTSB as a rational drug target and for CTSB inhibitors as therapeutic candidates for a wide range of neurologic disorders. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This review provides a comprehensive compilation of the extensive data on the effects of deleting the cathepsin B (CTSB) gene in neurological and aging mouse models of brain disorders. Mice lacking the CTSB gene display improved neurobehavioral deficits, reduced neuropathology, and amelioration of neuronal cell death and inflammatory biomarkers. The significance of the compelling CTSB evidence is that the data consilience validates CTSB as a drug target for discovery of CTSB inhibitors as potential therapeutics for treating numerous neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Hook
- American Life Science Pharmaceuticals, La Jolla, California (G.H.); Institute of Molecular Medicine and Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany (T.R.); German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany (T.R.); German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany (T.R); Center for Biological Signaling Studies BIOSS, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany (T.R.); Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China (J.N.); Department of Aging Science and Pharmacology, OBT Research Center, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan (Z.W); Taneja College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida (M.K.); James A Haley VAMC, Research Service, Tampa, Florida (M.K.); Institute of Molecular Medicine and Cell Research, Faculty of Biology, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany (C.P.); Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, La Jolla, CA (V.H.); and Department of Neuroscience and Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California, La Jolla, CA (V.H.)
| | - Thomas Reinheckel
- American Life Science Pharmaceuticals, La Jolla, California (G.H.); Institute of Molecular Medicine and Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany (T.R.); German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany (T.R.); German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany (T.R); Center for Biological Signaling Studies BIOSS, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany (T.R.); Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China (J.N.); Department of Aging Science and Pharmacology, OBT Research Center, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan (Z.W); Taneja College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida (M.K.); James A Haley VAMC, Research Service, Tampa, Florida (M.K.); Institute of Molecular Medicine and Cell Research, Faculty of Biology, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany (C.P.); Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, La Jolla, CA (V.H.); and Department of Neuroscience and Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California, La Jolla, CA (V.H.)
| | - Junjun Ni
- American Life Science Pharmaceuticals, La Jolla, California (G.H.); Institute of Molecular Medicine and Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany (T.R.); German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany (T.R.); German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany (T.R); Center for Biological Signaling Studies BIOSS, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany (T.R.); Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China (J.N.); Department of Aging Science and Pharmacology, OBT Research Center, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan (Z.W); Taneja College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida (M.K.); James A Haley VAMC, Research Service, Tampa, Florida (M.K.); Institute of Molecular Medicine and Cell Research, Faculty of Biology, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany (C.P.); Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, La Jolla, CA (V.H.); and Department of Neuroscience and Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California, La Jolla, CA (V.H.)
| | - Zhou Wu
- American Life Science Pharmaceuticals, La Jolla, California (G.H.); Institute of Molecular Medicine and Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany (T.R.); German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany (T.R.); German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany (T.R); Center for Biological Signaling Studies BIOSS, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany (T.R.); Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China (J.N.); Department of Aging Science and Pharmacology, OBT Research Center, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan (Z.W); Taneja College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida (M.K.); James A Haley VAMC, Research Service, Tampa, Florida (M.K.); Institute of Molecular Medicine and Cell Research, Faculty of Biology, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany (C.P.); Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, La Jolla, CA (V.H.); and Department of Neuroscience and Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California, La Jolla, CA (V.H.)
| | - Mark Kindy
- American Life Science Pharmaceuticals, La Jolla, California (G.H.); Institute of Molecular Medicine and Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany (T.R.); German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany (T.R.); German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany (T.R); Center for Biological Signaling Studies BIOSS, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany (T.R.); Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China (J.N.); Department of Aging Science and Pharmacology, OBT Research Center, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan (Z.W); Taneja College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida (M.K.); James A Haley VAMC, Research Service, Tampa, Florida (M.K.); Institute of Molecular Medicine and Cell Research, Faculty of Biology, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany (C.P.); Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, La Jolla, CA (V.H.); and Department of Neuroscience and Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California, La Jolla, CA (V.H.)
| | - Christoph Peters
- American Life Science Pharmaceuticals, La Jolla, California (G.H.); Institute of Molecular Medicine and Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany (T.R.); German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany (T.R.); German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany (T.R); Center for Biological Signaling Studies BIOSS, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany (T.R.); Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China (J.N.); Department of Aging Science and Pharmacology, OBT Research Center, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan (Z.W); Taneja College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida (M.K.); James A Haley VAMC, Research Service, Tampa, Florida (M.K.); Institute of Molecular Medicine and Cell Research, Faculty of Biology, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany (C.P.); Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, La Jolla, CA (V.H.); and Department of Neuroscience and Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California, La Jolla, CA (V.H.)
| | - Vivian Hook
- American Life Science Pharmaceuticals, La Jolla, California (G.H.); Institute of Molecular Medicine and Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany (T.R.); German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany (T.R.); German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany (T.R); Center for Biological Signaling Studies BIOSS, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany (T.R.); Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China (J.N.); Department of Aging Science and Pharmacology, OBT Research Center, Faculty of Dental Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan (Z.W); Taneja College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida (M.K.); James A Haley VAMC, Research Service, Tampa, Florida (M.K.); Institute of Molecular Medicine and Cell Research, Faculty of Biology, Albert Ludwigs University, Freiburg, Germany (C.P.); Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, La Jolla, CA (V.H.); and Department of Neuroscience and Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California, La Jolla, CA (V.H.)
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Marengo L, Armbrust F, Schoenherr C, Storck SE, Schmitt U, Zampar S, Wirths O, Altmeppen H, Glatzel M, Kaether C, Weggen S, Becker-Pauly C, Pietrzik CU. Meprin β knockout reduces brain Aβ levels and rescues learning and memory impairments in the APP/lon mouse model for Alzheimer's disease. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:168. [PMID: 35235058 PMCID: PMC8891209 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04205-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
β-Site amyloid precursor protein (APP) cleaving enzyme-1 (BACE1) is the major described β-secretase to generate Aβ peptides in Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, all therapeutic attempts to block BACE1 activity and to improve AD symptoms have so far failed. A potential candidate for alternative Aβ peptides generation is the metalloproteinase meprin β, which cleaves APP predominantly at alanine in p2 and in this study we can detect an increased meprin β expression in AD brain. Here, we report the generation of the transgenic APP/lon mouse model of AD lacking the functional Mep1b gene (APP/lon × Mep1b-/-). We examined levels of canonical and truncated Aβ species using urea-SDS-PAGE, ELISA and immunohistochemistry in brains of APP/lon mouse × Mep1b-/-. Additionally, we investigated the cognitive abilities of these mice during the Morris water maze task. Aβ1-40 and 1-42 levels are reduced in APP/lon mice when meprin β is absent. Immunohistochemical staining of mouse brain sections revealed that N-terminally truncated Aβ2-x peptide deposition is decreased in APP/lon × Mep1b-/- mice. Importantly, loss of meprin β improved cognitive abilities and rescued learning behavior impairments in APP/lon mice. These observations indicate an important role of meprin β within the amyloidogenic pathway and Aβ production in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liana Marengo
- Institute for Pathobiochemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Fred Armbrust
- Institute of Biochemistry, Unit for Degradomics of the Protease Web, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Caroline Schoenherr
- Institute for Pathobiochemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Steffen E. Storck
- Institute for Pathobiochemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Ulrich Schmitt
- Leibniz-Institute for Resilience Research, Mainz, Germany
| | - Silvia Zampar
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Göttingen (UMG), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Oliver Wirths
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Göttingen (UMG), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Hermann Altmeppen
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center HH-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Markus Glatzel
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center HH-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Sascha Weggen
- Department of Neuropathology, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Christoph Becker-Pauly
- Institute of Biochemistry, Unit for Degradomics of the Protease Web, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Claus U. Pietrzik
- Institute for Pathobiochemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- Molecular Neurodegeneration, Institute for Pathobiochemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, Duesbergweg 6, 55099 Mainz, Germany
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Abstract
The accumulation of neurotoxic amyloid-beta (Aβ) in the brain is one of the characteristic hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Aβ-peptide brain homeostasis is governed by its production and various clearance mechanisms. The blood-brain barrier provides a large surface area for influx and efflux mechanisms into and out of the brain. Different transporters and receptors have been implicated to play crucial roles in Aβ clearance from brain. Besides Aβ transport, the blood-brain barrier tightly regulates the brain's microenvironment; however, vascular alterations have been shown in patients with AD. Here, we summarize how the blood-brain barrier changes during aging and in disease and focus on recent findings of how the ABC transporter P-glycoprotein (ABCB1/P-gp) and the receptor low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) play a role in Aβ clearance from brain.
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Hoffmann T, Rahfeld JU, Schenk M, Ponath F, Makioka K, Hutter-Paier B, Lues I, Lemere CA, Schilling S. Combination of the Glutaminyl Cyclase Inhibitor PQ912 (Varoglutamstat) and the Murine Monoclonal Antibody PBD-C06 (m6) Shows Additive Effects on Brain Aβ Pathology in Transgenic Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111791. [PMID: 34769222 PMCID: PMC8584206 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Compelling evidence suggests that pyroglutamate-modified Aβ (pGlu3-Aβ; AβN3pG) peptides play a pivotal role in the development and progression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Approaches targeting pGlu3-Aβ by glutaminyl cyclase (QC) inhibition (Varoglutamstat) or monoclonal antibodies (Donanemab) are currently in clinical development. Here, we aimed at an assessment of combination therapy of Varoglutamstat (PQ912) and a pGlu3-Aβ-specific antibody (m6) in transgenic mice. Whereas the single treatments at subtherapeutic doses show moderate (16–41%) but statistically insignificant reduction of Aβ42 and pGlu-Aβ42 in mice brain, the combination of both treatments resulted in significant reductions of Aβ by 45–65%. Evaluation of these data using the Bliss independence model revealed a combination index of ≈1, which is indicative for an additive effect of the compounds. The data are interpreted in terms of different pathways, in which the two drugs act. While PQ912 prevents the formation of pGlu3-Aβ in different compartments, the antibody is able to clear existing pGlu3-Aβ deposits. The results suggest that combination of the small molecule Varoglutamstat and a pE3Aβ-directed monoclonal antibody may allow a reduction of the individual compound doses while maintaining the therapeutic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torsten Hoffmann
- Vivoryon Therapeutics N.V., Weinbergweg 22, 06120 Halle, Germany;
- Correspondence: (T.H.); (S.S.)
| | - Jens-Ulrich Rahfeld
- Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Department of Drug Design and Target Validation, Weinbergweg 22, 06120 Halle, Germany; (J.-U.R.); (M.S.)
| | - Mathias Schenk
- Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Department of Drug Design and Target Validation, Weinbergweg 22, 06120 Halle, Germany; (J.-U.R.); (M.S.)
| | - Falk Ponath
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 60 Fenwood Rd., Boston, MA 02115, USA; (F.P.); (K.M.); (C.A.L.)
| | - Koki Makioka
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 60 Fenwood Rd., Boston, MA 02115, USA; (F.P.); (K.M.); (C.A.L.)
| | - Birgit Hutter-Paier
- QPS Austria GmbH, Department of Neuropharmacology, Parkring 12, A-8074 Grambach, Austria;
| | - Inge Lues
- Vivoryon Therapeutics N.V., Weinbergweg 22, 06120 Halle, Germany;
| | - Cynthia A. Lemere
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 60 Fenwood Rd., Boston, MA 02115, USA; (F.P.); (K.M.); (C.A.L.)
| | - Stephan Schilling
- Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Department of Drug Design and Target Validation, Weinbergweg 22, 06120 Halle, Germany; (J.-U.R.); (M.S.)
- Anhalt University of Applied Sciences, Bernburger Straße 55, 06366 Köthen, Germany
- Correspondence: (T.H.); (S.S.)
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Armbrust F, Bickenbach K, Marengo L, Pietrzik C, Becker-Pauly C. The Swedish dilemma - the almost exclusive use of APPswe-based mouse models impedes adequate evaluation of alternative β-secretases. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2021; 1869:119164. [PMID: 34699873 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2021.119164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, however incurable so far. It is widely accepted that aggregated amyloid β (Aβ) peptides play a crucial role for the pathogenesis of AD, as they cause neurotoxicity and deposit as so-called Aβ plaques in AD patient brains. Aβ peptides derive from the amyloid precursor protein (APP) upon consecutive cleavage at the β- and γ-secretase site. Hence, mutations in the APP gene are often associated with autosomal dominant inherited AD. Almost thirty years ago, two mutations at the β-secretase site were observed in two Swedish families (termed Swedish APP (APPswe) mutations), which led to early-onset AD. Consequently, APPswe was established in almost every common AD mouse model, as it contributes to early Aβ plaque formation and cognitive impairments. Analyzing these APPswe-based mouse models, the aspartyl protease BACE1 has been evolving as the prominent β-secretase responsible for Aβ release in AD and as the most important therapeutic target for AD treatment. However, with respect to β-secretase processing, the very rare occurring APPswe variant substantially differs from wild-type APP. BACE1 dominates APPswe processing resulting in the release of Aβ1-x, whereas N-terminally truncated Aβ forms are scarcely generated. However, these N-terminally truncated Aβ species such as Aβ2-x, Aβ3-x and Aβ4-x are elevated in AD patient brains and exhibit an increased potential to aggregate compared to Aβ1-x peptides. Proteases such as meprin β, cathepsin B and ADAMTS4 were identified as alternative β-secretases being capable of generating these N-terminally truncated Aβ species from wild-type APP. However, neither meprin β nor cathepsin B are capable of generating N-terminally truncated Aβ peptides from APPswe. Hence, the role of BACE1 for the Aβ formation during AD might be overrepresented through the excessive use of APPswe mouse models. In this review we critically discuss the consideration of BACE1 as the most promising therapeutic target. Shifting the focus of AD research towards alternative β secretases might unveil promising alternatives to BACE1 inhibitors constantly failing in clinical trials due to ineffectiveness and harmful side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fred Armbrust
- Biochemical Institute, Unit for Degradomics of the Protease Web, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Kira Bickenbach
- Biochemical Institute, Unit for Degradomics of the Protease Web, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Liana Marengo
- Institute for Pathobiochemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Claus Pietrzik
- Institute for Pathobiochemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany.
| | - Christoph Becker-Pauly
- Biochemical Institute, Unit for Degradomics of the Protease Web, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany.
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10
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Bayer TA. N-Truncated Aβ Starting at Position Four-Biochemical Features, Preclinical Models, and Potential as Drug Target in Alzheimer's Disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:710579. [PMID: 34489680 PMCID: PMC8417877 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.710579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The discussion of whether amyloid plaque Aβ is a valid drug target to fight Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has been a matter of scientific dispute for decades. This question can only be settled by successful clinical trials and the approval of disease-modifying drugs. However, many clinical trials with antibodies against different regions of the amyloid Aβ peptide have been discontinued, as they did not meet the clinical endpoints required. Recently, passive immunization of AD patients with Donanemab, an antibody directed against the N-terminus of pyroglutamate Aβ, showed beneficial effects in a phase II trial, supporting the concept that N-truncated Aβ is a relevant target for AD therapy. There is long-standing evidence that N-truncated Aβ variants are the main variants found in amyloid plaques besides full-length Aβ1–42, t, therefore their role in triggering AD pathology and as targets for drug development are of interest. While the contribution of pyroglutamate Aβ3–42 to AD pathology has been well studied in the past, the potential role of Aβ4–42 has been largely neglected. The present review will therefore focus on Aβ4–42 as a possible drug target based on human and mouse pathology, in vitro and in vivo toxicity, and anti-Aβ4-X therapeutic effects in preclinical models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A Bayer
- Division of Molecular Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Göttingen (UMG), Georg-August-University, Göttingen, Germany
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11
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Yang X, Miao H, Xiao R, Wang L, Zhao Y, Wu Q, Ji Y, Du J, Qin H, Xuan W. Diverse protein manipulations with genetically encoded glutamic acid benzyl ester. Chem Sci 2021; 12:9778-9785. [PMID: 34349951 PMCID: PMC8299518 DOI: 10.1039/d1sc01882e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Site-specific modification of proteins has significantly advanced the use of proteins in biological research and therapeutics development. Among various strategies aimed at this end, genetic code expansion (GCE) allows structurally and functionally distinct non-canonical amino acids (ncAAs) to be incorporated into specific sites of a protein. Herein, we genetically encode an esterified glutamic acid analogue (BnE) into proteins, and demonstrate that BnE can be applied in different types of site-specific protein modifications, including N-terminal pyroglutamation, caging Glu in the active site of a toxic protein, and endowing proteins with metal chelator hydroxamic acid and versatile reactive handle acyl hydrazide. Importantly, novel epigenetic mark Gln methylation is generated on histones via the derived acyl hydrazide handle. This work provides useful and unique tools to modify proteins at specific Glu or Gln residues, and complements the toolbox of GCE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaochen Yang
- State Key Laboratory and Institute of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Nankai University Tianjin 300071 China
| | - Hui Miao
- State Key Laboratory and Institute of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Nankai University Tianjin 300071 China
| | - Ruotong Xiao
- State Key Laboratory and Institute of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Nankai University Tianjin 300071 China
| | - Luyao Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University 30 Shuangqing Rd. Beijing China
| | - Yan Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University 30 Shuangqing Rd. Beijing China
| | - Qifan Wu
- State Key Laboratory and Institute of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Nankai University Tianjin 300071 China
| | - Yanli Ji
- State Key Laboratory and Institute of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Nankai University Tianjin 300071 China
| | - Juanjuan Du
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University 30 Shuangqing Rd. Beijing China
| | - Hongqiang Qin
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Dalian, 116023 China
| | - Weimin Xuan
- State Key Laboratory and Institute of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Nankai University Tianjin 300071 China
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12
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Armbrust F, Bickenbach K, Koudelka T, Tholey A, Pietrzik C, Becker-Pauly C. Phosphorylation of meprin β controls its cell surface abundance and subsequently diminishes ectodomain shedding. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21677. [PMID: 34125978 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202100271r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Meprin β is a zinc-dependent metalloprotease exhibiting a unique cleavage specificity with strong preference for acidic amino acids at the cleavage site. Proteomic studies revealed a diverse substrate pool of meprin β including the interleukin-6 receptor (IL-6R) and the amyloid precursor protein (APP). Dysregulation of meprin β is often associated with pathological conditions such as chronic inflammation, fibrosis, or Alzheimer's disease (AD). The extracellular regulation of meprin β including interactors, sheddases, and activators has been intensively investigated while intracellular regulation has been barely addressed in the literature. This study aimed to analyze C-terminal phosphorylation of meprin β with regard to cell surface expression and proteolytic activity. By immunoprecipitation of endogenous meprin β from the colon cancer cell line Colo320 and subsequent LC-MS analysis, we identified several phosphorylation sites in its C-terminal region. Here, T694 in the C-terminus of meprin β was the most preferred residue after phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) stimulation. We further demonstrated the role of protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms for meprin β phosphorylation and identified the involvement of PKC-α and PKC-β. As a result of phosphorylation, the meprin β activity at the cell surface is reduced and, consequently, the extent of substrate cleavage is diminished. Our data indicate that this decrease of the surface activity is caused by the internalization and degradation of meprin β.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fred Armbrust
- Biochemical Institute, Unit for Degradomics of the Protease Web, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Kira Bickenbach
- Biochemical Institute, Unit for Degradomics of the Protease Web, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Tomas Koudelka
- Systematic Proteomics & Bioanalytics, Institute for Experimental Medicine, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Andreas Tholey
- Systematic Proteomics & Bioanalytics, Institute for Experimental Medicine, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Claus Pietrzik
- Institute for Pathobiochemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Christoph Becker-Pauly
- Biochemical Institute, Unit for Degradomics of the Protease Web, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
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13
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Wirths O, Zampar S. Emerging roles of N- and C-terminally truncated Aβ species in Alzheimer’s disease. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2019; 23:991-1004. [DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2019.1702972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Wirths
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Molecular Psychiatry, University Medical Center (UMG), Georg-August-University, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Silvia Zampar
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Molecular Psychiatry, University Medical Center (UMG), Georg-August-University, Göttingen, Germany
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14
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Menon PK, Koistinen NA, Iverfeldt K, Ström AL. Phosphorylation of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) at Ser-675 promotes APP processing involving meprin β. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:17768-17776. [PMID: 31604820 PMCID: PMC6879340 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.008310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Revised: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by abnormal deposition of β-amyloid (Aβ) peptides. Aβ is a cleavage product of the amyloid precursor protein (APP), and aberrant posttranslational modifications of APP can alter APP processing and increase Aβ generation. In the AD brain, seven different residues, including Ser-675 (APP695 numbering) in the APP cytoplasmic domain has been found to be phosphorylated. Here, we show that expression of a phosphomimetic variant of Ser-675 in APP (APP-S675E), in human neuroblastoma SK-N-AS cells, reduces secretion of the soluble APP ectodomain (sAPPα), even though the total plasma membrane level of APP was unchanged compared with APP levels in cells expressing APPwt or APP-S675A. Moreover, the level of an alternative larger C-terminal fragment (CTF) increased in the APP-S675E cells, whereas the CTF form that was most abundant in cells expressing APPwt or APP-S675A decreased in the APP-S675E cells. Upon siRNA-mediated knockdown of the astacin metalloprotease meprin β, the levels of the alternative CTF decreased and the CTF ratio was restored back to APPwt levels. Our findings suggest that APP-Ser-675 phosphorylation alters the balance of APP processing, increasing meprin β-mediated and decreasing α-secretase-mediated processing of APP at the plasma membrane. As meprin β cleavage of APP has been shown to result in formation of highly aggregation-prone, truncated Aβ2-40/42 peptides, enhanced APP processing by this enzyme could contribute to AD pathology. We propose that it would be of interest to clarify in future studies how APP-Ser-675 phosphorylation promotes meprin β-mediated APP cleavage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Preeti Kumaran Menon
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Niina Anneli Koistinen
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kerstin Iverfeldt
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna-Lena Ström
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
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15
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García-González L, Pilat D, Baranger K, Rivera S. Emerging Alternative Proteinases in APP Metabolism and Alzheimer's Disease Pathogenesis: A Focus on MT1-MMP and MT5-MMP. Front Aging Neurosci 2019; 11:244. [PMID: 31607898 PMCID: PMC6769103 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2019.00244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Processing of amyloid beta precursor protein (APP) into amyloid-beta peptide (Aβ) by β-secretase and γ-secretase complex is at the heart of the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Targeting this proteolytic pathway effectively reduces/prevents pathology and cognitive decline in preclinical experimental models of the disease, but therapeutic strategies based on secretase activity modifying drugs have so far failed in clinical trials. Although this may raise some doubts on the relevance of β- and γ-secretases as targets, new APP-cleaving enzymes, including meprin-β, legumain (δ-secretase), rhomboid-like protein-4 (RHBDL4), caspases and membrane-type matrix metalloproteinases (MT-MMPs/η-secretases) have confirmed that APP processing remains a solid mechanism in AD pathophysiology. This review will discuss recent findings on the roles of all these proteinases in the nervous system, and in particular on the roles of MT-MMPs, which are at the crossroads of pathological events involving not only amyloidogenesis, but also inflammation and synaptic dysfunctions. Assessing the potential of these emerging proteinases in the Alzheimer’s field opens up new research prospects to improve our knowledge of fundamental mechanisms of the disease and help us establish new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dominika Pilat
- Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, INP, Inst Neurophysiopathol, Marseille, France
| | - Kévin Baranger
- Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, INP, Inst Neurophysiopathol, Marseille, France
| | - Santiago Rivera
- Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, INP, Inst Neurophysiopathol, Marseille, France
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16
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Scharfenberg F, Armbrust F, Marengo L, Pietrzik C, Becker-Pauly C. Regulation of the alternative β-secretase meprin β by ADAM-mediated shedding. Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:3193-3206. [PMID: 31201463 PMCID: PMC11105663 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03179-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 05/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is the sixth-leading cause of death in industrialized countries. Neurotoxic amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques are one of the pathological hallmarks in AD patient brains. Aβ accumulates in the brain upon sequential, proteolytic processing of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) by β- and γ-secretases. However, so far disease-modifying drugs targeting β- and γ-secretase pathways seeking a decrease in the production of toxic Aβ peptides have failed in clinics. It has been demonstrated that the metalloproteinase meprin β acts as an alternative β-secretase, capable of generating truncated Aβ2-x peptides that have been described to be increased in AD patients. This indicates an important β-site cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE-1)-independent contribution of the metalloprotease meprin β within the amyloidogenic pathway and may lead to novel drug targeting avenues. However, meprin β itself is embedded in a complex regulatory network. Remarkably, the anti-amyloidogenic α-secretase a disintegrin and metalloproteinase domain-containing protein 10 (ADAM10) is a direct competitor for APP at the cell surface, but also a sheddase of inactive pro-meprin β. Overall, we highlight the current cellular, molecular and structural understanding of meprin β as alternative β-secretase within the complex protease web, regulating APP processing in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franka Scharfenberg
- Unit for Degradomics of the Protease Web, Biochemical Institute, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Fred Armbrust
- Unit for Degradomics of the Protease Web, Biochemical Institute, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Liana Marengo
- Institute for Pathobiochemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Claus Pietrzik
- Institute for Pathobiochemistry, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany.
| | - Christoph Becker-Pauly
- Unit for Degradomics of the Protease Web, Biochemical Institute, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany.
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17
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Yuksel M, Tacal O. Trafficking and proteolytic processing of amyloid precursor protein and secretases in Alzheimer's disease development: An up-to-date review. Eur J Pharmacol 2019; 856:172415. [PMID: 31132354 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2019.172415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2019] [Revised: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), which is predicted to affect 1 in 85 persons worldwide by 2050, results in progressive loss of neuronal functions, leading to impairments in memory and cognitive abilities. As being one of the major neuropathological hallmarks of AD, senile plaques mainly consist of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides, which are derived from amyloid precursor protein (APP) via the sequential cleavage by β- and γ-secretases. Although the overproduction and accumulation of Aβ peptides are at the center of AD research, the new discoveries point out to the complexity of the disease development. In this respect, it is crucial to understand the processing and the trafficking of APP, the enzymes involved in its processing, the cleavage products and their therapeutic potentials. This review summarizes the salient features of APP processing focusing on APP, the canonical secretases as well as the novel secretases and the cleavage products with an update of the recent developments. We also discussed the intracellular trafficking of APP and secretases in addition to their potential in AD therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melike Yuksel
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hacettepe University, 06100, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Ozden Tacal
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hacettepe University, 06100, Ankara, Turkey.
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