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D'Incal CP, Cappuyns E, Choukri K, De Man K, Szrama K, Konings A, Bastini L, Van Meel K, Buys A, Gabriele M, Rizzuti L, Vitriolo A, Testa G, Mohn F, Bühler M, Van der Aa N, Van Dijck A, Kooy RF, Berghe WV. Tracing the invisible mutant ADNP protein in Helsmoortel-Van der Aa syndrome patients. Sci Rep 2024; 14:14710. [PMID: 38926592 PMCID: PMC11208605 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-65608-x] [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: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Heterozygous de novo mutations in the Activity-Dependent Neuroprotective Homeobox (ADNP) gene underlie Helsmoortel-Van der Aa syndrome (HVDAS). Most of these mutations are situated in the last exon and we previously demonstrated escape from nonsense-mediated decay by detecting mutant ADNP mRNA in patient blood. In this study, wild-type and ADNP mutants are investigated at the protein level and therefore optimal detection of the protein is required. Detection of ADNP by means of western blotting has been ambiguous with reported antibodies resulting in non-specific bands without unique ADNP signal. Validation of an N-terminal ADNP antibody (Aviva Systems) using a blocking peptide competition assay allowed to differentiate between specific and non-specific signals in different sample materials, resulting in a unique band signal around 150 kDa for ADNP, above its theoretical molecular weight of 124 kDa. Detection with different C-terminal antibodies confirmed the signals at an observed molecular weight of 150 kDa. Our antibody panel was subsequently tested by immunoblotting, comparing parental and homozygous CRISPR/Cas9 endonuclease-mediated Adnp knockout cell lines and showed disappearance of the 150 kDa signal, indicative for intact ADNP. By means of both a GFPSpark and Flag-tag N-terminally fused to a human ADNP expression vector, we detected wild-type ADNP together with mutant forms after introduction of patient mutations in E. coli expression systems by site-directed mutagenesis. Furthermore, we were also able to visualize endogenous ADNP with our C-terminal antibody panel in heterozygous cell lines carrying ADNP patient mutations, while the truncated ADNP mutants could only be detected with epitope-tag-specific antibodies, suggesting that addition of an epitope-tag possibly helps stabilizing the protein. However, western blotting of patient-derived hiPSCs, immortalized lymphoblastoid cell lines and post-mortem patient brain material failed to detect a native mutant ADNP protein. In addition, an N-terminal immunoprecipitation-competent ADNP antibody enriched truncating mutants in overexpression lysates, whereas implementation of the same method failed to enrich a possible native mutant protein in immortalized patient-derived lymphoblastoid cell lines. This study aims to shape awareness for critical assessment of mutant ADNP protein analysis in Helsmoortel-Van der Aa syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Peter D'Incal
- Cognitive Genetics (COGNET) and Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Elisa Cappuyns
- Cognitive Genetics (COGNET) and Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Kaoutar Choukri
- Cognitive Genetics (COGNET) and Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Kevin De Man
- Cognitive Genetics (COGNET) and Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Kristy Szrama
- Cognitive Genetics (COGNET) and Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Anthony Konings
- Cognitive Genetics (COGNET) and Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Lina Bastini
- Cognitive Genetics (COGNET) and Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Kim Van Meel
- Cognitive Genetics (COGNET) and Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Amber Buys
- Cognitive Genetics (COGNET) and Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | - Ludovico Rizzuti
- Neurogenomics, Human Technopole, Viale Rita Levi-Montacini 1, 20157, Milan, Italy
- High Definition Disease Modelling Lab, Stem Cell and Organoid Epigenetics, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, 20141, Milan, Italy
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Via Adamello 16, 20139, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Vitriolo
- Neurogenomics, Human Technopole, Viale Rita Levi-Montacini 1, 20157, Milan, Italy
- High Definition Disease Modelling Lab, Stem Cell and Organoid Epigenetics, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, 20141, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Via Santa Sofia 9, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Testa
- Neurogenomics, Human Technopole, Viale Rita Levi-Montacini 1, 20157, Milan, Italy
- High Definition Disease Modelling Lab, Stem Cell and Organoid Epigenetics, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, 20141, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Via Santa Sofia 9, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Mohn
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marc Bühler
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nathalie Van der Aa
- Cognitive Genetics (COGNET) and Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Anke Van Dijck
- Family Medicine and Population Health (FAMPOP), Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - R Frank Kooy
- Cognitive Genetics (COGNET) and Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Wim Vanden Berghe
- Cognitive Genetics (COGNET) and Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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D'Incal C, Van Dijck A, Ibrahim J, De Man K, Bastini L, Konings A, Elinck E, Gozes L, Marusic Z, Anicic M, Vukovic J, Van der Aa N, Mateiu L, Vanden Berghe W, Kooy RF. ADNP dysregulates methylation and mitochondrial gene expression in the cerebellum of a Helsmoortel-Van der Aa syndrome autopsy case. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2024; 12:62. [PMID: 38637827 PMCID: PMC11027339 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-024-01743-w] [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: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Helsmoortel-Van der Aa syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder in which patients present with autism, intellectual disability, and frequent extra-neurological features such as feeding and gastrointestinal problems, visual impairments, and cardiac abnormalities. All patients exhibit heterozygous de novo nonsense or frameshift stop mutations in the Activity-Dependent Neuroprotective Protein (ADNP) gene, accounting for a prevalence of 0.2% of all autism cases worldwide. ADNP fulfills an essential chromatin remodeling function during brain development. In this study, we investigated the cerebellum of a died 6-year-old male patient with the c.1676dupA/p.His559Glnfs*3 ADNP mutation. RESULTS The clinical presentation of the patient was representative of the Helsmoortel-Van der Aa syndrome. During his lifespan, he underwent two liver transplantations after which the child died because of multiple organ failure. An autopsy was performed, and various tissue samples were taken for further analysis. We performed a molecular characterization of the cerebellum, a brain region involved in motor coordination, known for its highest ADNP expression and compared it to an age-matched control subject. Importantly, epigenome-wide analysis of the ADNP cerebellum identified CpG methylation differences and expression of multiple pathways causing neurodevelopmental delay. Interestingly, transcription factor motif enrichment analysis of differentially methylated genes showed that the ADNP binding motif was the most significantly enriched. RNA sequencing of the autopsy brain further identified downregulation of the WNT signaling pathway and autophagy defects as possible causes of neurodevelopmental delay. Ultimately, label-free quantification mass spectrometry identified differentially expressed proteins involved in mitochondrial stress and sirtuin signaling pathways amongst others. Protein-protein interaction analysis further revealed a network including chromatin remodelers (ADNP, SMARCC2, HDAC2 and YY1), autophagy-related proteins (LAMP1, BECN1 and LC3) as well as a key histone deacetylating enzyme SIRT1, involved in mitochondrial energy metabolism. The protein interaction of ADNP with SIRT1 was further biochemically validated through the microtubule-end binding proteins EB1/EB3 by direct co-immunoprecipitation in mouse cerebellum, suggesting important mito-epigenetic crosstalk between chromatin remodeling and mitochondrial energy metabolism linked to autophagy stress responses. This is further supported by mitochondrial activity assays and stainings in patient-derived fibroblasts which suggest mitochondrial dysfunctions in the ADNP deficient human brain. CONCLUSION This study forms the baseline clinical and molecular characterization of an ADNP autopsy cerebellum, providing novel insights in the disease mechanisms of the Helsmoortel-Van der Aa syndrome. By combining multi-omic and biochemical approaches, we identified a novel SIRT1-EB1/EB3-ADNP protein complex which may contribute to autophagic flux alterations and impaired mitochondrial metabolism in the Helsmoortel-Van der Aa syndrome and holds promise as a new therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio D'Incal
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Prins Boudewijnlaan 43/6, 2650, Edegem, Antwerp, Belgium
- Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Epigenetic Signaling lab (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Anke Van Dijck
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Prins Boudewijnlaan 43/6, 2650, Edegem, Antwerp, Belgium
- Family Medicine and Population Health (FAMPOP), Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Joe Ibrahim
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Prins Boudewijnlaan 43/6, 2650, Edegem, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Kevin De Man
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Prins Boudewijnlaan 43/6, 2650, Edegem, Antwerp, Belgium
- Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Epigenetic Signaling lab (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Lina Bastini
- Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Epigenetic Signaling lab (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Anthony Konings
- Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Epigenetic Signaling lab (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Ellen Elinck
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Prins Boudewijnlaan 43/6, 2650, Edegem, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Lllana Gozes
- The Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Adams Super Center for Brain Studies and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Zlatko Marusic
- Clinical Department of Pathology and Cytology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Mirna Anicic
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Jurica Vukovic
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nathalie Van der Aa
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Prins Boudewijnlaan 43/6, 2650, Edegem, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Ligia Mateiu
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Prins Boudewijnlaan 43/6, 2650, Edegem, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Wim Vanden Berghe
- Protein Chemistry, Proteomics and Epigenetic Signaling (PPES), Epigenetic Signaling lab (PPES), Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - R Frank Kooy
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Prins Boudewijnlaan 43/6, 2650, Edegem, Antwerp, Belgium.
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Levine J, Lobyntseva A, Shazman S, Hakim F, Gozes I. Longitudinal Genotype-Phenotype (Vineland Questionnaire) Characterization of 15 ADNP Syndrome Cases Highlights Mutated Protein Length and Structural Characteristics Correlation with Communicative Abilities Accentuated in Males. J Mol Neurosci 2024; 74:15. [PMID: 38282129 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-024-02189-4] [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] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP) is essential for neurodevelopment and de novo mutations in ADNP cause the ADNP syndrome. From brain pathologies point of view, tauopathy has been demonstrated at a young age, implying stunted development coupled with early/accelerated neurodegeneration. Given potential genotype-phenotype differences and age-dependency, we have assessed here a cohort of 15 individuals (1-27-year-old), using 1-3 longitudinal parent (caretaker) interview/s (Vineland 3 questionnaire) over several years. Our results indicated developmental delays, or even developmental arrests, coupled with potential spurts of development at early ages. Severe outcomes correlated with the truncating high impact mutation, in other words, the remaining mutated protein length as well as with the tested individual age, corroborating the hypothesis of developmental delays coupled with accelerated aging. A significant correlation was noted between mutated protein length and communication, implying a high impact of ADNP on communicative skills. Additionally, correlations were discovered between the two previously described epi-genetic signatures in ADNP emphasizing aberrant acquisition of motor behaviors, with truncating mutations around the nuclear localization signal being mostly affected. Finally, all individuals seem to acquire an age equivalent of 1-6 years, requiring disease modification treatment, such as the ADNP-derived drug candidate, NAP (davunetide), which has recently shown efficacy in women suffering from the neurodegenerative disorder, progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a late-onset tauopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jospeh Levine
- The Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience and Adams Super Center for Brain Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel
- Psychiatric Division, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel
| | - Alexandra Lobyntseva
- The Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience and Adams Super Center for Brain Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel
| | - Shula Shazman
- Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, The Open University of Israel, Ra'anana, Israel
| | | | - Illana Gozes
- The Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience and Adams Super Center for Brain Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 6997801, Israel.
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4
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Magrì B, D'Amico AG, Maugeri G, Morello G, La Cognata V, Saccone S, Federico C, Cavallaro S, D'Agata V. Neuroprotective effect of the PACAP-ADNP axis on SOD1G93A mutant motor neuron death induced by trophic factors deprivation. Neuropeptides 2023; 102:102386. [PMID: 37856900 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2023.102386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive degeneration of motor neurons in the central nervous system. Mutations in the gene encoding Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1) account for approximately in 20% of familial ALS cases. The pathological mechanisms underlying the toxicity induced by mutated SOD1 are still unknown. However, it has been hypothesized that oxidative stress (OS) has a crucial role in motor neuron degeneration in ALS patients. Moreover, it has been described that SOD1 mutation interferes expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a protective key modulator against OS and reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation. The protective effect of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP) has been demonstrated in various neurological disorders, including ALS. Some of its effects are mediated by the stimulation of an intracellular factor known as activity-dependent protein (ADNP). The role of PACAP-ADNP axis on mutated SOD1 motor neuron degeneration has not been explored, yet. The present study aimed to investigate whether PACAP prevented apoptotic cell death induced by growth factor deprivation through ADNP activation and whether the peptidergic axis can counteract the OS insult. By using an in vitro model of ALS, we demonstrated that PACAP by binding to PAC1 receptor (PAC1R) prevented motor neuron death induced by serum deprivation through induction of the ADNP expression via PKC stimulation. Furthermore, we have also demonstrated that the PACAP/ADNP axis counteracted ROS formation by inducing translocation of the Nfr2 from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. In conclusion, our study provides new insights regarding the protective role of PACAP-ADNP in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedetta Magrì
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, Italy
| | | | - Grazia Maugeri
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanna Morello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Via P. Gaifami 18, Catania 95126, Italy
| | - Valentina La Cognata
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Via P. Gaifami 18, Catania 95126, Italy
| | - Salvatore Saccone
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Section of Animal Biology, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Concetta Federico
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, Section of Animal Biology, University of Catania, Catania 95123, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Cavallaro
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council, Via P. Gaifami 18, Catania 95126, Italy
| | - Velia D'Agata
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences, University of Catania, Italy.
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Ganaiem M, Gildor ND, Shazman S, Karmon G, Ivashko-Pachima Y, Gozes I. NAP (Davunetide): The Neuroprotective ADNP Drug Candidate Penetrates Cell Nuclei Explaining Pleiotropic Mechanisms. Cells 2023; 12:2251. [PMID: 37759476 PMCID: PMC10527813 DOI: 10.3390/cells12182251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Recently, we showed aberrant nuclear/cytoplasmic boundaries/activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP) distribution in ADNP-mutated cells. This malformation was corrected upon neuronal differentiation by the ADNP-derived fragment drug candidate NAP (davunetide). Here, we investigated the mechanism of NAP nuclear protection. (2) Methods: CRISPR/Cas9 DNA-editing established N1E-115 neuroblastoma cell lines that express two different green fluorescent proteins (GFPs)-labeled mutated ADNP variants (p.Tyr718* and p.Ser403*). Cells were exposed to NAP conjugated to Cy5, followed by live imaging. Cells were further characterized using quantitative morphology/immunocytochemistry/RNA and protein quantifications. (3) Results: NAP rapidly distributed in the cytoplasm and was also seen in the nucleus. Furthermore, reduced microtubule content was observed in the ADNP-mutated cell lines. In parallel, disrupting microtubules by zinc or nocodazole intoxication mimicked ADNP mutation phenotypes and resulted in aberrant nuclear-cytoplasmic boundaries, which were rapidly corrected by NAP treatment. No NAP effects were noted on ADNP levels. Ketamine, used as a control, was ineffective, but both NAP and ketamine exhibited direct interactions with ADNP, as observed via in silico docking. (4) Conclusions: Through a microtubule-linked mechanism, NAP rapidly localized to the cytoplasmic and nuclear compartments, ameliorating mutated ADNP-related deficiencies. These novel findings explain previously published gene expression results and broaden NAP (davunetide) utilization in research and clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maram Ganaiem
- The Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience and Adams Super Center for Brain Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel; (M.G.); (N.D.G.); (G.K.); (Y.I.-P.)
| | - Nina D. Gildor
- The Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience and Adams Super Center for Brain Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel; (M.G.); (N.D.G.); (G.K.); (Y.I.-P.)
| | - Shula Shazman
- Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, The Open University of Israel, Raanana 4353107, Israel;
- Department of Information Systems, The Max Stern Yezreel Valley College, Yezreel Valley, Afula 1930600, Israel
| | - Gidon Karmon
- The Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience and Adams Super Center for Brain Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel; (M.G.); (N.D.G.); (G.K.); (Y.I.-P.)
| | - Yanina Ivashko-Pachima
- The Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience and Adams Super Center for Brain Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel; (M.G.); (N.D.G.); (G.K.); (Y.I.-P.)
| | - Illana Gozes
- The Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience and Adams Super Center for Brain Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel; (M.G.); (N.D.G.); (G.K.); (Y.I.-P.)
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Gozes I, Shazman S. A novel davunetide (NAPVSIPQQ to NAPVSIPQE) point mutation in activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP) causes a mild developmental syndrome. Eur J Neurosci 2023. [PMID: 36669790 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
NAP (NAPVSIPQ, drug candidate name, davunetide) is the neuroprotective fragment of activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP). Recent studies identified NAPVSIP as a Src homology 3 (SH3) domain-ligand association site, responsible for controlling signalling pathways regulating the cytoskeleton. Furthermore, the SIP motif in NAP/ADNP was identified as crucial for direct microtubule end-binding protein interaction facilitating microtubule dynamics and Tau microtubule interaction, at the microtubule end-binding protein site EB1 and EB3. Most de novo ADNP mutations reveal heterozygous STOP or frameshift STOP aberrations, driving the autistic/intellectual disability-related ADNP syndrome. Here, we report for the first time on a de novo missense mutation, resulting in ADNP containing NAPVISPQE instead of NAPVSIPQQ, in a child presenting developmental hypotonia, possibly associated with inflammation affecting food intake in early life coupled with fear of peer interactions and suggestive of a novel case of the ADNP syndrome. In silico modelling showed that the mutation Q (polar side chain) to E (negative side chain) affected the electrostatic characteristics of ADNP (reducing, while scattering the electrostatic positive patch). Comparison with the most prevalent pathogenic ADNP mutation, p.Tyr719*, indicated a further reduction in the electrostatic patch. Previously, exogenous NAP partially ameliorated deficits associated with ADNP p.Tyr719* mutations in transfected cells and in CRISPR/Cas9 genome edited cell and mouse models. These findings stress the importance of the NAP sequence in ADNP and as a future putative therapy for the ADNP syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Illana Gozes
- Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Adams Super Center for Brain Studies and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Shula Shazman
- Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, The Open University of Israel, Ra'anana, Israel.,Department of Information Systems, The Max Stern Yezreel Valley College, Afula, Israel
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Distinct Impairments Characterizing Different ADNP Mutants Reveal Aberrant Cytoplasmic-Nuclear Crosstalk. Cells 2022; 11:cells11192994. [PMID: 36230962 PMCID: PMC9563912 DOI: 10.3390/cells11192994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP) is essential for neuronal structure and function. Multiple de novo pathological mutations in ADNP cause the autistic ADNP syndrome, and they have been further suggested to affect Alzheimer’s disease progression in a somatic form. Here, we asked if different ADNP mutations produce specific neuronal-like phenotypes toward better understanding and personalized medicine. (2) Methods: We employed CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing in N1E-115 neuroblastoma cells to form neuron-like cell lines expressing ADNP mutant proteins conjugated to GFP. These new cell lines were characterized by quantitative morphology, immunocytochemistry and live cell imaging. (3) Results: Our novel cell lines, constitutively expressing GFP-ADNP p.Pro403 (p.Ser404* human orthologue) and GFP-ADNP p.Tyr718* (p.Tyr719* human orthologue), revealed new and distinct phenotypes. Increased neurite numbers (day 1, in culture) and increased neurite lengths upon differentiation (day 7, in culture) were linked with p.Pro403*. In contrast, p.Tyr718* decreased cell numbers (day 1). These discrete phenotypes were associated with an increased expression of both mutant proteins in the cytoplasm. Reduced nuclear/cytoplasmic boundaries were observed in the p.Tyr718* ADNP-mutant line, with this malformation being corrected by the ADNP-derived fragment drug candidate NAP. (4) Conclusions: Distinct impairments characterize different ADNP mutants and reveal aberrant cytoplasmic-nuclear crosstalk.
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Downey J, Lam JC, Li VO, Gozes I. Somatic Mutations and Alzheimer’s Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2022; 90:475-493. [DOI: 10.3233/jad-220643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) represents a global health challenge, with an estimated 55 million people suffering from the non-curable disease across the world. While amyloid-β plaques and tau neurofibrillary tangles in the brain define AD proteinopathy, it has become evident that diverse coding and non-coding regions of the genome may significantly contribute to AD neurodegeneration. The diversity of factors associated with AD pathogenesis, coupled with age-associated damage, suggests that a series of triggering events may be required to initiate AD. Since somatic mutations accumulate with aging, and aging is a major risk factor for AD, there is a great potential for somatic mutational events to drive disease. Indeed, recent data from the Gozes team/laboratories as well as other leading laboratories correlated the accumulation of somatic brain mutations with the progression of tauopathy. In this review, we lay the current perspectives on the principal genetic factors associated with AD and the potential causes, highlighting the contribution of somatic mutations to the pathogenesis of late onset Alzheimer’s disease. The roles that artificial intelligence and big data can play in accelerating the progress of causal somatic mutation markers/biomarkers identification, and the associated drug discovery/repurposing, have been highlighted for future AD and other neurodegenerative studies, with the aim to bring hope for the vulnerable aging population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jocelyn Downey
- Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jacqueline C.K. Lam
- Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Computer Science and Technology, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Victor O.K. Li
- Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Illana Gozes
- The Elton Laboratory for Molecular Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Adams Super Center for Brain Studies and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Conrow-Graham M, Williams JB, Martin J, Zhong P, Cao Q, Rein B, Yan Z. A convergent mechanism of high risk factors ADNP and POGZ in neurodevelopmental disorders. Brain 2022; 145:3250-3263. [PMID: 35775424 PMCID: PMC10233273 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awac152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
ADNP and POGZ are two top-ranking risk factors for autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability, but how they are linked to these neurodevelopmental disorders is largely unknown. Both ADNP and POGZ are chromatin regulators, which could profoundly affect gene transcription and cellular function in the brain. Using post-mortem tissue from patients with autism spectrum disorder, we found diminished expression of ADNP and POGZ in the prefrontal cortex, a region highly implicated in neurodevelopmental disorders. To understand the functional role of these neurodevelopmental disorder risk factors, we used viral-based gene transfer to investigate how Adnp or Pogz deficiency in mouse prefrontal cortex affects behavioural, transcriptomic and synaptic function. Mice with prefrontal cortex deficiency of Adnp or Pogz exhibited specific impairment of cognitive task performance. RNA-sequencing revealed that Adnp or Pogz deficiency induced prominent upregulation of overlapping genes enriched in neuroinflammation, similar to the elevation of pro-inflammatory genes in humans with neurodevelopmental disorders. Concomitantly, Adnp or Pogz deficiency led to the significant increase of pro-phagocytic microglial activation in prefrontal cortex, as well as the significant decrease of glutamatergic transmission and postsynaptic protein expression. These findings have uncovered the convergent functions of two top risk factors for autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability in prefrontal cortex, providing a mechanism linking chromatin, transcriptional and synaptic dysregulation to cognitive deficits associated with neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Conrow-Graham
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Jamal B Williams
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Jennifer Martin
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Ping Zhong
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Qing Cao
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Benjamin Rein
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Zhen Yan
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, State University of New York at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
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Levine J, Hakim F, Kooy RF, Gozes I. Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale in a Cohort of Four ADNP Syndrome Patients Implicates Age-Dependent Developmental Delays with Increased Impact of Activities of Daily Living. J Mol Neurosci 2022; 72:1531-1546. [PMID: 35920977 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-022-02048-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP) is one of the lead genes in autism spectrum disorder/intellectual disability. Heterozygous, de novo ADNP mutations cause the ADNP syndrome. Here, to evaluate natural history of the syndrome, mothers of two ADNP syndrome boys aged 6 and a half and two adults aged 27 years (man and woman) were subjected to Vineland III questionnaire assessing adaptive behavior. The boys were assessed again about 2 years after the first measurements. The skill measures, presented as standard scores (SS) included domains of communication, daily living, socialization, motor skills and a sum of adaptive behavior composite. The age equivalent (AE) and growth scale values (GSV) encompassing 11 subdomains assess the age level at which the subject's raw score is found at a norm sample median and the individual temporal progression, respectively. The norm referenced standard scores age-matched, mean 100 ± 15 of the two children showed the lowest outcome in communication (SS: 20-30). Daily living skills presented SS of 50-60, with a possible potential loss of some activities as the child ages, especially in interpersonal relationships with people outside of the immediate family (boy A). In contrast, in socialization, both children were at the SS of 38, with some positive increase to SS of ~ 45 (interpersonal relations with family members and coping skills, depending on the particular individual), 2 years later. Interestingly, there was an apparent large difference in motor skills (gross and fine) at the young age, with subject B showing a relatively higher level of skills (SS: 70), decreasing to subject A level (SS: 40) 2 years later. Together, the adaptive behavior composite suggested a level of SS: 39-48 with B showing a potential increase (SS: 41-44) and A, a substantial decrease (SS: 48-39), suggesting a strong impact of daily living skills. Adults were at SS: 20, which is the lowest possible score. AE showed minor improvements for subject A and B, with all AE values being below 3 years. GSVs for subject A showed some improvement with age, especially in interpersonal, play and leisure, and gross motor subdomains. GSV for subject B showed minor improvements in the various subdomains. Notably, all subjects showed a percentile rank < 1 compared with age-matched norms except for subject B as to motor domain (2nd percentile) at the age of 6 years. In summary, the results, especially comparing SS and AEs between childhood and adulthood, implied a continuous deterioration of activities compared to the general population, encompassing a slower developmental process coupled to possible neurodegeneration, strongly supporting a great need for disease modifying medicinal procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Levine
- The Elton Laboratory for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience and Adams Super Center for Brain Studies, Tel Aviv University, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Psychiatric Division, Ben Gurion University, Beersheba, Israel
| | | | - R Frank Kooy
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Illana Gozes
- The Elton Laboratory for Neuroendocrinology, Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience and Adams Super Center for Brain Studies, Tel Aviv University, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel.
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