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Sharma M, Aggarwal N, Mishra J, Panda JJ. Neuroglia targeting nano-therapeutic approaches to rescue aging and neurodegenerating brain. Int J Pharm 2024; 654:123950. [PMID: 38430951 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.123950] [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: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Despite intense efforts at the bench, the development of successful brain-targeting therapeutics to relieve malicious neural diseases remains primitive. The brain, being a beautifully intricate organ, consists of heterogeneous arrays of neuronal and glial cells. Primarily acting as the support system for neuronal functioning and maturation, glial cells have been observed to be engaged more apparently in the progression and worsening of various neural pathologies. The diseased state is often related to metabolic alterations in glial cells, thereby modulating their physiological homeostasis in conjunction with neuronal dysfunction. A plethora of data indicates the effect of oxidative stress, protein aggregation, and DNA damage in neuroglia impairments. Still, a deeper insight is needed to gain a conflict-free understanding in this arena. As a consequence, glial cells hold the potential to be identified as promising targets for novel therapeutic approaches aimed at brain protection. In this review, we describe the recent strides taken in the direction of understanding the impact of oxidative stress, protein aggregation, and DNA damage on neuroglia impairment and neuroglia-directed nanotherapeutic approaches to mitigate the burden of various neural disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manju Sharma
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Mohali, Punjab 140306, India
| | - Nidhi Aggarwal
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Mohali, Punjab 140306, India
| | - Jibanananda Mishra
- School of Biosciences, RIMT University, Mandi Gobindgarh, Punjab 147301, India.
| | - Jiban Jyoti Panda
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Mohali, Punjab 140306, India.
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2
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Mahbub NU, Islam MM, Hong ST, Chung HJ. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota and its effect on α-synuclein and prion protein misfolding: consequences for neurodegeneration. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1348279. [PMID: 38435303 PMCID: PMC10904658 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1348279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Abnormal behavior of α-synuclein and prion proteins is the hallmark of Parkinson's disease (PD) and prion illnesses, respectively, being complex neurological disorders. A primary cause of protein aggregation, brain injury, and cognitive loss in prion illnesses is the misfolding of normal cellular prion proteins (PrPC) into an infectious form (PrPSc). Aggregation of α-synuclein causes disruptions in cellular processes in Parkinson's disease (PD), leading to loss of dopamine-producing neurons and motor symptoms. Alteration in the composition or activity of gut microbes may weaken the intestinal barrier and make it possible for prions to go from the gut to the brain. The gut-brain axis is linked to neuroinflammation; the metabolites produced by the gut microbiota affect the aggregation of α-synuclein, regulate inflammation and immunological responses, and may influence the course of the disease and neurotoxicity of proteins, even if their primary targets are distinct proteins. This thorough analysis explores the complex interactions that exist between the gut microbiota and neurodegenerative illnesses, particularly Parkinson's disease (PD) and prion disorders. The involvement of the gut microbiota, a complex collection of bacteria, archaea, fungi, viruses etc., in various neurological illnesses is becoming increasingly recognized. The gut microbiome influences neuroinflammation, neurotransmitter synthesis, mitochondrial function, and intestinal barrier integrity through the gut-brain axis, which contributes to the development and progression of disease. The review delves into the molecular mechanisms that underlie these relationships, emphasizing the effects of microbial metabolites such as bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPS), and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in regulating brain functioning. Additionally, it looks at how environmental influences and dietary decisions affect the gut microbiome and whether they could be risk factors for neurodegenerative illnesses. This study concludes by highlighting the critical role that the gut microbiota plays in the development of Parkinson's disease (PD) and prion disease. It also provides a promising direction for future research and possible treatment approaches. People afflicted by these difficult ailments may find hope in new preventive and therapeutic approaches if the role of the gut microbiota in these diseases is better understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasir Uddin Mahbub
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Institute for Medical Science, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Md Minarul Islam
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Institute for Medical Science, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Tshool Hong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Institute for Medical Science, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hea-Jong Chung
- Gwangju Center, Korea Basic Science Institute, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
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3
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Wiseman JA, Murray HC, Faull RLMF, Dragunow M, Turner CP, Dieriks BV, Curtis MA. Aggregate-prone brain regions in Parkinson's disease are rich in unique N-terminus α-synuclein conformers with high proteolysis susceptibility. NPJ Parkinsons Dis 2024; 10:1. [PMID: 38167744 PMCID: PMC10762179 DOI: 10.1038/s41531-023-00614-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
In Parkinson's disease (PD), and other α-synucleinopathies, α-synuclein (α-Syn) aggregates form a myriad of conformational and truncational variants. Most antibodies used to detect and quantify α-Syn in the human brain target epitopes within the C-terminus (residues 96-140) of the 140 amino acid protein and may fail to capture the diversity of α-Syn variants present in PD. We sought to investigate the heterogeneity of α-Syn conformations and aggregation states in the PD human brain by labelling with multiple antibodies that detect epitopes along the entire length of α-Syn. We used multiplex immunohistochemistry to simultaneously immunolabel tissue sections with antibodies mapping the three structural domains of α-Syn. Discrete epitope-specific immunoreactivities were visualised and quantified in the olfactory bulb, medulla, substantia nigra, hippocampus, entorhinal cortex, middle temporal gyrus, and middle frontal gyrus of ten PD cases, and the middle temporal gyrus of 23 PD, and 24 neurologically normal cases. Distinct Lewy neurite and Lewy body aggregate morphologies were detected across all interrogated regions/cases. Lewy neurites were the most prominent in the olfactory bulb and hippocampus, while the substantia nigra, medulla and cortical regions showed a mixture of Lewy neurites and Lewy bodies. Importantly, unique N-terminus immunoreactivity revealed previously uncharacterised populations of (1) perinuclear, (2) glial (microglial and astrocytic), and (3) neuronal lysosomal α-Syn aggregates. These epitope-specific N-terminus immunoreactive aggregate populations were susceptible to proteolysis via time-dependent proteinase K digestion, suggesting a less stable oligomeric aggregation state. Our identification of unique N-terminus immunoreactive α-Syn aggregates adds to the emerging paradigm that α-Syn pathology is more abundant and complex in human brains with PD than previously realised. Our findings highlight that labelling multiple regions of the α-Syn protein is necessary to investigate the full spectrum of α-Syn pathology and prompt further investigation into the functional role of these N-terminus polymorphs.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A Wiseman
- Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
- Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand.
| | - Helen C Murray
- Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand
| | - Richard L M F Faull
- Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand
| | - Michael Dragunow
- Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Auckland, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand
| | - Clinton P Turner
- LabPlus, Department of Anatomical Pathology, Te Whatu Ora, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Birger Victor Dieriks
- Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand
| | - Maurice A Curtis
- Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
- Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, Auckland, 1023, New Zealand.
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Zhang N, Yan Z, Xin H, Shao S, Xue S, Cespuglio R, Wang S. Relationship among α‑synuclein, aging and inflammation in Parkinson's disease (Review). Exp Ther Med 2024; 27:23. [PMID: 38125364 PMCID: PMC10728906 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2023.12311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative pathology whose major clinical symptoms are movement disorders. The main pathological characteristics of PD are the selective death of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the pars compacta of the substantia nigra and the presence of Lewy bodies containing α-synuclein (α-Syn) within these neurons. PD is associated with numerous risk factors, including environmental factors, genetic mutations and aging. In many cases, the complex interplay of numerous risk factors leads to the onset of PD. The mutated α-Syn gene, which expresses pathologicalα-Syn protein, can cause PD. Another important feature of PD is neuroinflammation, which is conducive to neuronal death. α-Syn is able to interact with certain cell types in the brain, including through phagocytosis and degradation of α-Syn by glial cells, activation of inflammatory pathways by α-Syn in glial cells, transmission of α-Syn between glial cells and neurons, and interactions between peripheral immune cells and α-Syn. In addition to the aforementioned risk factors, PD may also be associated with aging, as the prevalence of PD increases with advancing age. The aging process impairs the cellular clearance mechanism, which leads to chronic inflammation and the accumulation of intracellular α-Syn, which results in DA neuronal death. In the present review, the age-associated α-Syn pathogenicity and the interactions between α-Syn and certain types of cells within the brain are discussed to facilitate understanding of the mechanisms of PD pathogenesis, which may potentially provide insight for the future clinical treatment of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nianping Zhang
- Postdoctoral Mobile Station, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250355, P.R. China
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250355, P.R. China
| | - Zhaoli Yan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250014, P.R. China
| | - Hua Xin
- Department of Neurology, People's Hospital of Rizhao, Rizhao, Shandong 276800, P.R. China
| | - Shuai Shao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Jingmen People's Hospital, Jingmen, Hubei 448000, P.R. China
| | - Song Xue
- Experimental Center, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250355, P.R. China
| | - Raymond Cespuglio
- Neuroscience Research Center of Lyon (CNRL), Claude-Bernard Lyon-1 University, 69500 Lyon, France
| | - Shijun Wang
- Department of Pathology, College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250355, P.R. China
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Ragupathy H, Vukku M, Barodia SK. Cell-Type-Specific Mitochondrial Quality Control in the Brain: A Plausible Mechanism of Neurodegeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14421. [PMID: 37833867 PMCID: PMC10572699 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914421] [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] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegeneration is an age-dependent progressive phenomenon with no defined cause. Aging is the main risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases. During aging, activated microglia undergo phenotypic alterations that can lead to neuroinflammation, which is a well-accepted event in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. Several common mechanisms are shared by genetically or pathologically distinct neurodegenerative diseases, such as excitotoxicity, mitochondrial deficits and oxidative stress, protein misfolding and translational dysfunction, autophagy and microglia activation. Progressive loss of the neuronal population due to increased oxidative stress leads to neurodegenerative diseases, mostly due to the accumulation of dysfunctional mitochondria. Mitochondrial dysfunction and excessive neuroinflammatory responses are both sufficient to induce pathology in age-dependent neurodegeneration. Therefore, mitochondrial quality control is a key determinant for the health and survival of neuronal cells in the brain. Research has been primarily focused to demonstrate the significance of neuronal mitochondrial health, despite the important contributions of non-neuronal cells that constitute a significant portion of the brain volume. Moreover, mitochondrial morphology and function are distinctly diverse in different tissues; however, little is known about their molecular diversity among cell types. Mitochondrial dynamics and quality in different cell types markedly decide the fate of overall brain health; therefore, it is not justifiable to overlook non-neuronal cells and their significant and active contribution in facilitating overall neuronal health. In this review article, we aim to discuss the mitochondrial quality control of different cell types in the brain and how important and remarkable the diversity and highly synchronized connecting property of non-neuronal cells are in keeping the neurons healthy to control neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Manasvi Vukku
- Centre for Brain Research, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru 560012, India
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Wang M, Yan Z, Wang J, Yang Y, Deng Q, Han Y, Zhang L, Yang H, Pan J, Wang M. The characteristics and alteration of peripheral immune function in patients with multiple system atrophy. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1223076. [PMID: 37771450 PMCID: PMC10525398 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1223076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a degenerative disease. Immune dysfunction found to play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of this disease in the literature, while the characteristics of peripheral immune function remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the characteristics and alterations of peripheral immune function in patients with MSA. Methods A case-control study was conducted between January 2021 to December 2022 at SanBo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China. A total of 74 participants were recruited, including 47 MSA patients and 27 non-MSA participants. Peripheral blood samples were collected from each participant. A total of 29 types of immune cells were measured using the flow cytometry analysis technology. Single-factor analysis and multiple-factor analysis (multiple linear regression models) were performed to determine the differences and risk factors in immune cells between the MSA and non-MSA groups. Results Alterations of the count or percentage of CD19+ B lymphocytes and CD3-CD56+ B lymphocytes in MSA patients were found in this study. The reductions of the count and percentage of CD19+ B lymphocytes were still robust after adjusting for variables of age, gender, body mass index, albumin, and hemoglobin. Furthermore, the reductions in the count and percentage of CD19+ B lymphocytes in the MSA patients were more significant in women and individuals aged 60 years old or above than in the non-MSA participants. Conclusion Our findings suggested that MSA patients may be influenced by B lymphocytes, particularly CD19+ cells. Therefore, the reductions in immune cells should be considered in the diagnosis and treatment of MSA. Further studies are warranted to confirm and expand upon these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Mengyang Wang
- Department of Neurology, Sanbo Brain Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Zorina SA, Jurja S, Mehedinti M, Stoica AM, Chita DS, Floris SA, Axelerad A. Infectious Microorganisms Seen as Etiologic Agents in Parkinson’s Disease. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13030805. [PMID: 36983960 PMCID: PMC10053287 DOI: 10.3390/life13030805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Infections represent a possible risk factor for parkinsonism and Parkinson’s disease (PD) based on information from epidemiology and fundamental science. The risk is unclear for the majority of agents. Moreover, the latency between infection and PD seems to be very varied and often lengthy. In this review, the evidence supporting the potential involvement of infectious microorganisms in the development of Parkinson’s disease is examined. Consequently, it is crucial to determine the cause and give additional treatment accordingly. Infection is an intriguing suggestion regarding the cause of Parkinson’s disease. These findings demonstrate that persistent infection with viral and bacterial microorganisms might be a cause of Parkinson’s disease. As an initiating factor, infection may generate a spectrum of gut microbiota dysbiosis, engagement of glial tissues, neuroinflammation, and alpha-synuclein accumulation, all of which may trigger and worsen the onset in Parkinson’s disease also contribute to its progression. Still uncertain is the primary etiology of PD with infection. The possible pathophysiology of PD infection remains a matter of debate. Furthermore, additional study is required to determine if PD patients develop the disease due to infectious microorganisms or solely since they are more sensitive to infectious causes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stuparu Alina Zorina
- Department of Neurology, ‘St. Andrew’ County Clinical Emergency Hospital of Constanta, 900591 Constanta, Romania; (S.A.Z.)
- Department of Neurology, General Medicine Faculty, ‘Ovidius’ University, 900470 Constanta, Romania
| | - Sanda Jurja
- Department of Ophthalmology, ‘St. Andrew’ County Clinical Emergency Hospital of Constanta, 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Department of Ophthalmology, General Medicine Faculty, ‘Ovidius’ University, 900470 Constanta, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | - Mihaela Mehedinti
- Department of Morphological and Functional Science, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, “Dunarea de Jos”, 800017 Galati, Romania
| | - Ana-Maria Stoica
- Department of Ophthalmology, ‘St. Andrew’ County Clinical Emergency Hospital of Constanta, 900591 Constanta, Romania
- Department of Ophthalmology, General Medicine Faculty, ‘Ovidius’ University, 900470 Constanta, Romania
| | - Dana Simona Chita
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of General Medicine and Pharmacy, “Vasile Goldis” Western University of Arad, 310045 Arad, Romania
| | - Stuparu Alexandru Floris
- Department of Orthopedy and Traumatology, ‘St. Andrew’ County Clinical Emergency Hospital of Constanta, 900591 Constanta, Romania
| | - Any Axelerad
- Department of Neurology, ‘St. Andrew’ County Clinical Emergency Hospital of Constanta, 900591 Constanta, Romania; (S.A.Z.)
- Department of Neurology, General Medicine Faculty, ‘Ovidius’ University, 900470 Constanta, Romania
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Fisher DW, Tulloch J, Yu CE, Tsuang D. A Preliminary Comparison of the Methylome and Transcriptome from the Prefrontal Cortex Across Alzheimer’s Disease and Lewy Body Dementia. J Alzheimers Dis Rep 2023; 7:279-297. [PMID: 37220618 PMCID: PMC10200238 DOI: 10.3233/adr220114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Pathological amyloid-β and α-synuclein are associated with a spectrum of related dementias, ranging from Alzheimer’s disease (AD), dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), to Parkinson disease dementia (PDD). While these diseases share clinical and pathological features, they also have unique patterns of pathology. However, epigenetic factors that contribute to these pathological differences remain unknown. Objective: In this preliminary study, we explore differences in DNA methylation and transcription in five neuropathologically defined groups: cognitively unimpaired controls, AD, pure DLB, DLB with concomitant AD (DLBAD), and PDD. Methods: We employed an Illumina Infinium 850k array and RNA-seq to quantify these differences in DNA methylation and transcription, respectively. We then used Weighted Gene Co-Network Expression Analysis (WGCNA) to determine transcriptional modules and correlated these with DNA methylation. Results: We found that PDD was transcriptionally unique and correlated with an unexpected hypomethylation pattern compared to the other dementias and controls. Surprisingly, differences between PDD and DLB were especially notable with 197 differentially methylated regions. WGCNA yielded numerous modules associated with controls and the four dementias: one module was associated with transcriptional differences between controls and all the dementias as well as having significant overlap with differentially methylated probes. Functional enrichment demonstrated that this module was associated with responses to oxidative stress. Conclusion: Future work that extends these joint DNA methylation and transcription analyses will be critical to better understanding of differences that contribute to varying clinical presentation across dementias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel W. Fisher
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jessica Tulloch
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Veteran’s Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
- Division of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Chang-En Yu
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Veteran’s Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
- Division of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Debby Tsuang
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Veteran’s Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
- Division of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, WA, USA
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Meneghini V, Peviani M, Luciani M, Zambonini G, Gritti A. Delivery Platforms for CRISPR/Cas9 Genome Editing of Glial Cells in the Central Nervous System. Front Genome Ed 2021; 3:644319. [PMID: 34713256 PMCID: PMC8525379 DOI: 10.3389/fgeed.2021.644319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Glial cells (astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia) are emerging as key players in several physiological and pathological processes of the central nervous system (CNS). Astrocytes and oligodendrocytes are not only supportive cells that release trophic factors or regulate energy metabolism, but they also actively modulate critical neuronal processes and functions in the tripartite synapse. Microglia are defined as CNS-resident cells that provide immune surveillance; however, they also actively contribute to shaping the neuronal microenvironment by scavenging cell debris or regulating synaptogenesis and pruning. Given the many interconnected processes coordinated by glial cells, it is not surprising that both acute and chronic CNS insults not only cause neuronal damage but also trigger complex multifaceted responses, including neuroinflammation, which can critically contribute to the disease progression and worsening of symptoms in several neurodegenerative diseases. Overall, this makes glial cells excellent candidates for targeted therapies to treat CNS disorders. In recent years, the application of gene editing technologies has redefined therapeutic strategies to treat genetic and age-related neurological diseases. In this review, we discuss the advantages and limitations of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9-based gene editing in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, focusing on the development of viral- and nanoparticle-based delivery methods for in vivo glial cell targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasco Meneghini
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Peviani
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "L. Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Marco Luciani
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Giada Zambonini
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Angela Gritti
- San Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene Therapy (SR-Tiget), IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
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Caruso G, Torrisi SA, Mogavero MP, Currenti W, Castellano S, Godos J, Ferri R, Galvano F, Leggio GM, Grosso G, Caraci F. Polyphenols and neuroprotection: Therapeutic implications for cognitive decline. Pharmacol Ther 2021; 232:108013. [PMID: 34624428 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2021.108013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Dietary polyphenols have been the focus of major interest for their potential benefits on human health. Several preclinical studies have been conducted to provide a rationale for their potential use as therapeutic agents in preventing or ameliorating cognitive decline. However, results from human studies are scarce and poorly documented. The aim of this review was to discuss the potential mechanisms involved in age-related cognitive decline or early stage cognitive impairment and current evidence from clinical human studies conducted on polyphenols and the aforementioned outcomes. The evidence published so far is encouraging but contrasting findings are to be taken into account. Most studies on anthocyanins showed a consistent positive effect on various cognitive aspects related to aging or early stages of cognitive impairment. Studies on cocoa flavanols, resveratrol, and isoflavones provided substantial contrasting results and further research is needed to clarify the therapeutic potential of these compounds. Results from other studies on quercetin, green tea flavanols, hydroxycinnamic acids (such as chlorogenic acid), curcumin, and olive oil tyrosol and derivatives are rather promising but still too few to provide any real conclusions. Future translational studies are needed to address issues related to dosage, optimal formulations to improve bioavailability, as well as better control for the overall diet, and correct target population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Caruso
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sebastiano A Torrisi
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Mogavero
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, IRCCS, Scientific Institute of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Walter Currenti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sabrina Castellano
- Department of Educational Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Justyna Godos
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Fabio Galvano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Gian Marco Leggio
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Grosso
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
| | - Filippo Caraci
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy; Oasi Research Institute - IRCCS, Troina, Italy
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11
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Gonzalez-Latapi P, Bayram E, Litvan I, Marras C. Cognitive Impairment in Parkinson's Disease: Epidemiology, Clinical Profile, Protective and Risk Factors. Behav Sci (Basel) 2021; 11:bs11050074. [PMID: 34068064 PMCID: PMC8152515 DOI: 10.3390/bs11050074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cognitive impairment is a common non-motor symptom in Parkinson's Disease (PD) and an important source of patient disability and caregiver burden. The timing, profile and rate of cognitive decline varies widely among individuals with PD and can range from normal cognition to mild cognitive impairment (PD-MCI) and dementia (PDD). Beta-amyloid and tau brain accumulation, oxidative stress and neuroinflammation are reported risk factors for cognitive impairment. Traumatic brain injury and pesticide and tobacco exposure have also been described. Genetic risk factors including genes such as COMT, APOE, MAPT and BDNF may also play a role. Less is known about protective factors, although the Mediterranean diet and exercise may fall in this category. Nonetheless, there is conflicting evidence for most of the factors that have been studied. The use of inconsistent criteria and lack of comprehensive assessment in many studies are important methodological issues. Timing of exposure also plays a crucial role, although identification of the correct time window has been historically difficult in PD. Our understanding of the mechanism behind these factors, as well as the interactions between gene and environment as determinants of disease phenotype and the identification of modifiable risk factors will be paramount, as this will allow for potential interventions even in established PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Gonzalez-Latapi
- Edmond J. Safra Program in Parkinson’s Disease and the Morton and Gloria Shulman Movement Disorders Clinic, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5T2S8, Canada;
| | - Ece Bayram
- Parkinson and Other Movement Disorders Center, Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; (E.B.); (I.L.)
| | - Irene Litvan
- Parkinson and Other Movement Disorders Center, Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; (E.B.); (I.L.)
| | - Connie Marras
- Edmond J. Safra Program in Parkinson’s Disease and the Morton and Gloria Shulman Movement Disorders Clinic, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5T2S8, Canada;
- Correspondence:
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Mechanisms of Neurodegeneration in Various Forms of Parkinsonism-Similarities and Differences. Cells 2021; 10:cells10030656. [PMID: 33809527 PMCID: PMC7999195 DOI: 10.3390/cells10030656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson’s disease (PD), dementia with Lewy body (DLB), progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), corticobasal degeneration (CBD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA) belong to a group of neurodegenerative diseases called parkinsonian syndromes. They share several clinical, neuropathological and genetic features. Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by the progressive dysfunction of specific populations of neurons, determining clinical presentation. Neuronal loss is associated with extra- and intracellular accumulation of misfolded proteins. The parkinsonian diseases affect distinct areas of the brain. PD and MSA belong to a group of synucleinopathies that are characterized by the presence of fibrillary aggregates of α-synuclein protein in the cytoplasm of selected populations of neurons and glial cells. PSP is a tauopathy associated with the pathological aggregation of the microtubule associated tau protein. Although PD is common in the world’s aging population and has been extensively studied, the exact mechanisms of the neurodegeneration are still not fully understood. Growing evidence indicates that parkinsonian disorders to some extent share a genetic background, with two key components identified so far: the microtubule associated tau protein gene (MAPT) and the α-synuclein gene (SNCA). The main pathways of parkinsonian neurodegeneration described in the literature are the protein and mitochondrial pathways. The factors that lead to neurodegeneration are primarily environmental toxins, inflammatory factors, oxidative stress and traumatic brain injury.
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