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Arenaza‐Urquijo EM, Boyle R, Casaletto K, Anstey KJ, Vila‐Castelar C, Colverson A, Palpatzis E, Eissman JM, Kheng Siang Ng T, Raghavan S, Akinci M, Vonk JMJ, Machado LS, Zanwar PP, Shrestha HL, Wagner M, Tamburin S, Sohrabi HR, Loi S, Bartrés‐Faz D, Dubal DB, Vemuri P, Okonkwo O, Hohman TJ, Ewers M, Buckley RF. Sex and gender differences in cognitive resilience to aging and Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimers Dement 2024; 20:5695-5719. [PMID: 38967222 PMCID: PMC11350140 DOI: 10.1002/alz.13844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Sex and gender-biological and social constructs-significantly impact the prevalence of protective and risk factors, influencing the burden of Alzheimer's disease (AD; amyloid beta and tau) and other pathologies (e.g., cerebrovascular disease) which ultimately shape cognitive trajectories. Understanding the interplay of these factors is central to understanding resilience and resistance mechanisms explaining maintained cognitive function and reduced pathology accumulation in aging and AD. In this narrative review, the ADDRESS! Special Interest Group (Alzheimer's Association) adopted a multidisciplinary approach to provide the foundations and recommendations for future research into sex- and gender-specific drivers of resilience, including a sex/gender-oriented review of risk factors, genetics, AD and non-AD pathologies, brain structure and function, and animal research. We urge the field to adopt a sex/gender-aware approach to resilience to advance our understanding of the intricate interplay of biological and social determinants and consider sex/gender-specific resilience throughout disease stages. HIGHLIGHTS: Sex differences in resilience to cognitive decline vary by age and cognitive status. Initial evidence supports sex-specific distinctions in brain pathology. Findings suggest sex differences in the impact of pathology on cognition. There is a sex-specific change in resilience in the transition to clinical stages. Gender and sex factors warrant study: modifiable, immune, inflammatory, and vascular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eider M. Arenaza‐Urquijo
- Environment and Health Over the Life Course Programme, Climate, Air Pollution, Nature and Urban Health ProgrammeBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)BarcelonaSpain
- University of Pompeu FabraBarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
| | - Rory Boyle
- Massachusetts General HospitalHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Kaitlin Casaletto
- Department of NeurologyMemory and Aging CenterUniversity of California San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Kaarin J. Anstey
- University of New South Wales Ageing Futures InstituteSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- Neuroscience Research AustraliaSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- School of Psychology, University of New South WalesSidneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | | | - Aaron Colverson
- University of Florida Center for Arts in Medicine Interdisciplinary Research LabUniversity of Florida, Center of Arts in MedicineGainesvilleFloridaUSA
| | - Eleni Palpatzis
- Environment and Health Over the Life Course Programme, Climate, Air Pollution, Nature and Urban Health ProgrammeBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)BarcelonaSpain
- University of Pompeu FabraBarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
| | - Jaclyn M. Eissman
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Department of NeurologyVanderbilt University Medical CenterNashvilleTennesseeUSA
- Vanderbilt Genetics InstituteVanderbilt University Medical CenterNashvilleTennesseeUSA
| | - Ted Kheng Siang Ng
- Rush Institute for Healthy Aging and Department of Internal MedicineRush University Medical CenterChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | | | - Muge Akinci
- Environment and Health Over the Life Course Programme, Climate, Air Pollution, Nature and Urban Health ProgrammeBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)BarcelonaSpain
- University of Pompeu FabraBarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
| | - Jet M. J. Vonk
- Department of NeurologyMemory and Aging CenterUniversity of California San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Luiza S. Machado
- Graduate Program in Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, FarroupilhaPorto AlegreBrazil
| | - Preeti P. Zanwar
- Jefferson College of Population Health, Thomas Jefferson UniversityPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
- The Network on Life Course and Health Dynamics and Disparities, University of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | | | - Maude Wagner
- Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center, Rush University Medical CenterChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Stefano Tamburin
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement SciencesUniversity of VeronaVeronaItaly
| | - Hamid R. Sohrabi
- Centre for Healthy AgeingHealth Future InstituteMurdoch UniversityMurdochWestern AustraliaAustralia
- School of Psychology, Murdoch UniversityMurdochWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Samantha Loi
- Neuropsychiatry Centre, Royal Melbourne HospitalParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - David Bartrés‐Faz
- Department of MedicineFaculty of Medicine and Health Sciences & Institut de NeurociènciesUniversity of BarcelonaBarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques (IDIBAPS)BarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
- Institut Guttmann, Institut Universitari de Neurorehabilitació adscrit a la Universitat Autónoma de BarcelonaBadalonaBarcelonaSpain
| | - Dena B. Dubal
- Department of Neurology and Weill Institute of NeurosciencesUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
- Biomedical and Neurosciences Graduate ProgramsUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | | | - Ozioma Okonkwo
- Alzheimer's Disease Research Center and Department of MedicineUniversity of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public HealthMadisonWisconsinUSA
| | - Timothy J. Hohman
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Department of NeurologyVanderbilt University Medical CenterNashvilleTennesseeUSA
- Vanderbilt Genetics InstituteVanderbilt University Medical CenterNashvilleTennesseeUSA
| | - Michael Ewers
- Institute for Stroke and Dementia ResearchKlinikum der Universität MünchenLudwig Maximilians Universität (LMU)MunichGermany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE, Munich)MunichGermany
| | - Rachel F. Buckley
- Massachusetts General HospitalHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
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Venugopal A, Iyer M, Narayanasamy A, Ravimanickam T, Gopalakrishnan AV, Yadav MK, Kumar NS, Vellingiri B. Association of Biochemical Parameters and Screening for Mutations in the MCU Gene in Alzheimer's Disease Patients. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:4116-4128. [PMID: 38064106 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03820-y] [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: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
The most prevalent form of dementia, Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a chronic illness that is on the rise among the geriatric population. Even though research into its biochemical, genetic, and cytogenetic pathways has advanced, its aetiology is still unclear and complex. In this study, we recruited sixty-eight participants diagnosed with AD where the cytogenetic, biochemical parameters and genetic mutations were analysed. Our results revealed chromosomal aberrations such as aneuploidies in the peripheral blood of Alzheimer's disease patients. Biochemical parameters revealed no statistical significance in the study though a pattern could be observed in the serum levels. Further few novel mutations at the c.21 C > T, c.56G > A were observed in the MCU gene of mitochondrial calcium uniporter. All these findings reveal the need for a larger cohort study to gain a better and more detailed understanding of the aetiology of Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anila Venugopal
- Human Molecular Cytogenetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, 641 046, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Mahalaxmi Iyer
- Center for Neuroscience, Department of Biotechnology, Karpagam Academy of Higher Education, 641 021, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, 151401, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Arul Narayanasamy
- Disease Proteomics Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Bharathiar University, 641046, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - T Ravimanickam
- Department of Zoology, School of Science, Tamil Nadu Open University, 600015, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Abilash Valsala Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Tamil Nadu, 632014, Vellore, India
| | - Mukesh Kumar Yadav
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, 151401, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | | | - Balachandar Vellingiri
- Human Molecular Cytogenetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Biology, Bharathiar University, 641 046, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India.
- Human Cytogenetics and Stem Cell Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, 151401, Bathinda, Punjab, India.
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Song QH, Zhao KX, Huang S, Chen T, He L. Escape from X-chromosome inactivation and sex differences in Alzheimer's disease. Rev Neurosci 2024; 35:341-354. [PMID: 38157427 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2023-0108] [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: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Sex differences exist in the onset and progression of Alzheimer's disease. Globally, women have a higher prevalence, while men with Alzheimer's disease experience earlier mortality and more pronounced cognitive decline than women. The cause of sex differences in Alzheimer's disease remains unclear. Accumulating evidence suggests the potential role of X-linked genetic factors in the sex difference of Alzheimer's disease (AD). During embryogenesis, a remarkable process known as X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) occurs in females, leading to one of the X chromosomes undergoing transcriptional inactivation, which balances the effects of two X chromosomes in females. Nevertheless, certain genes exceptionally escape from XCI, which provides a basis for dual expression dosage of specific genes in females. Based on recent research findings, we explore key escape genes and their potential therapeutic use associated with Alzheimer's disease. Also, we discuss their possible role in driving the sex differences in Alzheimer's disease. This will provide new perspectives for precision medicine and gender-specific treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing-Hua Song
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, No. 24 Tong Jia Xiang, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ke-Xuan Zhao
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, No. 24 Tong Jia Xiang, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Shuai Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, No. 24 Tong Jia Xiang, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Tong Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, No. 24 Tong Jia Xiang, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ling He
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, No. 24 Tong Jia Xiang, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu Province, China
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Lopez-Lee C, Torres ERS, Carling G, Gan L. Mechanisms of sex differences in Alzheimer's disease. Neuron 2024; 112:1208-1221. [PMID: 38402606 PMCID: PMC11076015 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2024.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) and the mechanisms underlying its etiology and progression are complex and multifactorial. The higher AD risk in women may serve as a clue to better understand these complicated processes. In this review, we examine aspects of AD that demonstrate sex-dependent effects and delve into the potential biological mechanisms responsible, compiling findings from advanced technologies such as single-cell RNA sequencing, metabolomics, and multi-omics analyses. We review evidence that sex hormones and sex chromosomes interact with various disease mechanisms during aging, encompassing inflammation, metabolism, and autophagy, leading to unique characteristics in disease progression between men and women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe Lopez-Lee
- Helen and Robert Appel Alzheimer's Disease Institute, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Neuroscience Graduate Program, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eileen Ruth S Torres
- Helen and Robert Appel Alzheimer's Disease Institute, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gillian Carling
- Helen and Robert Appel Alzheimer's Disease Institute, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Neuroscience Graduate Program, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Li Gan
- Helen and Robert Appel Alzheimer's Disease Institute, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Neuroscience Graduate Program, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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Reed EG, Keller-Norrell PR. Minding the Gap: Exploring Neuroinflammatory and Microglial Sex Differences in Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17377. [PMID: 38139206 PMCID: PMC10743742 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Research into Alzheimer's Disease (AD) describes a link between AD and the resident immune cells of the brain, the microglia. Further, this suspected link is thought to have underlying sex effects, although the mechanisms of these effects are only just beginning to be understood. Many of these insights are the result of policies put in place by funding agencies such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to consider sex as a biological variable (SABV) and the move towards precision medicine due to continued lackluster therapeutic options. The purpose of this review is to provide an updated assessment of the current research that summarizes sex differences and the research pertaining to microglia and their varied responses in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin G. Reed
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH 44242, USA
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Wang KW, Yuan YX, Zhu B, Zhang Y, Wei YF, Meng FS, Zhang S, Wang JX, Zhou JY. X chromosome-wide association study of quantitative biomarkers from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative study. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1277731. [PMID: 38035272 PMCID: PMC10682795 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1277731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative disease with high heritability. Compared to autosomes, a higher proportion of disorder-associated genes on X chromosome are expressed in the brain. However, only a few studies focused on the identification of the susceptibility loci for AD on X chromosome. Methods Using the data from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative Study, we conducted an X chromosome-wide association study between 16 AD quantitative biomarkers and 19,692 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) based on both the cross-sectional and longitudinal studies. Results We identified 15 SNPs statistically significantly associated with different quantitative biomarkers of the AD. For the cross-sectional study, six SNPs (rs5927116, rs4596772, rs5929538, rs2213488, rs5920524, and rs5945306) are located in or near to six genes DMD, TBX22, LOC101928437, TENM1, SPANXN1, and ZFP92, which have been reported to be associated with schizophrenia or neuropsychiatric diseases in literature. For the longitudinal study, four SNPs (rs4829868, rs5931111, rs6540385, and rs763320) are included in or near to two genes RAC1P4 and AFF2, which have been demonstrated to be associated with brain development or intellectual disability in literature, while the functional annotations of other five novel SNPs (rs12157031, rs428303, rs5953487, rs10284107, and rs5955016) have not been found. Discussion 15 SNPs were found statistically significantly associated with the quantitative biomarkers of the AD. Follow-up study in molecular genetics is needed to verify whether they are indeed related to AD. The findings in this article expand our understanding of the role of the X chromosome in exploring disease susceptibility, introduce new insights into the molecular genetics behind the AD, and may provide a mechanistic clue to further AD-related studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Wen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Ministry of Education, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Contaminants Exposure and Health, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu-Xin Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Ministry of Education, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Contaminants Exposure and Health, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Ministry of Education, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Contaminants Exposure and Health, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Ministry of Education, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Contaminants Exposure and Health, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Fang Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Ministry of Education, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Contaminants Exposure and Health, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fan-Shuo Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Ministry of Education, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Contaminants Exposure and Health, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Ministry of Education, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing-Xuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Ministry of Education, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ji-Yuan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Ministry of Education, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Contaminants Exposure and Health, Guangzhou, China
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Chakraborty N, Lawrence A, Campbell R, Yang R, Hammamieh R. Biomarker discovery process at binomial decision point (2BDP): Analytical pipeline to construct biomarker panel. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2023; 21:4729-4742. [PMID: 37822559 PMCID: PMC10562676 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2023.09.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
A clinical incident is typically manifested by several molecular events; therefore, it seems logical that a successful diagnosis, prognosis, or stratification of a clinical landmark require multiple biomarkers. In this report, we presented a machine learning pipeline, namely "Biomarker discovery process at binomial decision point" (2BDP) that took an integrative approach in systematically curating independent variables (e.g., multiple molecular markers) to explain an output variable (e.g., clinical landmark) of binary in nature. In a logical sequence, 2BDP includes feature selection, unsupervised model development and cross validation. In the present work, the efficiency of 2BDP was demonstrated by finding three biomarker panels that independently explained three stages of Alzheimer's disease (AD) marked as Braak stages I, II and III, respectively. We designed three assortments from the entire cohort based on these Braak stages; subsequently, each assortment was split into two populations at Braak score I, II or III. 2BDP systematically integrated random forest and logistic regression fitting model to find biomarker panels with minimum features that explained these three assortments, e.g., significantly differentiated two populations segregated by Braak stage I, II or III, respectively. Thereafter, the efficacies of these panels were measured by the area under the curve (AUC) values of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) plot. The AUC-ROC was calculated by two cross-validation methods. Final set of gene markers was a mix of novel and a priori established AD signatures. These markers were weighted by unique coefficients and linearly connected in a group of 2-10 to explain Braak stage I, II or III by AUC ≥ 0.8. Small sample size and a lack of distinctly recruited Training and Test sets were the limitations of the present undertaking; yet 2BDP demonstrated its capability to curate a panel of optimum numbers of biomarkers to describe the outcome variable with high efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabarun Chakraborty
- Medical Readiness Systems Biology, Center for Military Psychiatry and Neuroscience (CMPN), Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Alexander Lawrence
- Medical Readiness Systems Biology, Center for Military Psychiatry and Neuroscience (CMPN), Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
- ORISE, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Ross Campbell
- Medical Readiness Systems Biology, Center for Military Psychiatry and Neuroscience (CMPN), Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
- Geneva Foundation, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Ruoting Yang
- Medical Readiness Systems Biology, Center for Military Psychiatry and Neuroscience (CMPN), Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Rasha Hammamieh
- Medical Readiness Systems Biology, Center for Military Psychiatry and Neuroscience (CMPN), Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
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8
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Kirsch-Volders M, Fenech M. Towards prevention of aneuploidy-associated cellular senescence and aging: more questions than answers? MUTATION RESEARCH. REVIEWS IN MUTATION RESEARCH 2023; 792:108474. [PMID: 37866738 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrrev.2023.108474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this review is to discuss how aneuploidy contributes to the aging process, and to identify plausible strategies for its prevention. After an overview of mechanisms leading to aneuploidy and the major features of cellular senescence, we discuss the link between (i) aneuploidy and cellular senescence; (ii) aneuploidy and aging; and (iii) cellular senescence and aging. We also consider (i) interactions between aneuploidy, micronuclei, cellular senescence and aging, (ii) the potential of nutritional treatments to prevent aneuploidy-associated senescence and aging, and (iii) knowledge and technological gaps. Evidence for a causal link between aneuploidy, senescence and aging is emerging. In vitro, aneuploidy accompanies the entry into cellular senescence and can itself induce senescence. How aneuploidy contributes in vivo to cellular senescence is less clear. Several routes depending on aneuploidy and/or senescence converge towards chronic inflammation, the major driver of unhealthy aging. Aneuploidy can induce the pro-inflammatory Senescence Associated Secretory Phenotype (SASP), either directly or as a result of micronucleus (MN) induction leading to leakage of DNA into the cytoplasm and triggering of the cGAS-STING pathway of innate immune response. A major difficulty in understanding the impact of aneuploidy on senescence and aging in vivo, results from the heterogeneity of cellular senescence in different tissues at the cytological and molecular level. Due to this complexity, there is at the present time no biomarker or biomarker combination characteristic for all types of senescent cells. In conclusion, a deeper understanding of the critical role aneuploidy plays in cellular senescence and aging is essential to devise practical strategies to protect human populations from aneuploidy-associated pathologies. We discuss emerging evidence, based on in vitro and in vivo studies, that adequate amounts of specific micronutrients are essential for prevention of aneuploidy in humans and that precise nutritional intervention may be essential to help avoid the scourge of aneuploidy-driven diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micheline Kirsch-Volders
- Laboratory for Cell Genetics, Department Biology, Faculty of Sciences and Bio-engineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Michael Fenech
- Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, SA 5000, Australia; Genome Health Foundation, North Brighton, SA 5048, Australia.
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9
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Ocañas SR, Ansere VA, Kellogg CM, Isola JVV, Chucair-Elliott AJ, Freeman WM. Chromosomal and gonadal factors regulate microglial sex effects in the aging brain. Brain Res Bull 2023; 195:157-171. [PMID: 36804773 PMCID: PMC10810555 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2023.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
Biological sex contributes to phenotypic sex effects through genetic (sex chromosomal) and hormonal (gonadal) mechanisms. There are profound sex differences in the prevalence and progression of age-related brain diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases. Inflammation of neural tissue is one of the most consistent age-related phenotypes seen with healthy aging and disease. The pro-inflammatory environment of the aging brain has primarily been attributed to microglial reactivity and adoption of heterogeneous reactive states dependent upon intrinsic (i.e., sex) and extrinsic (i.e., age, disease state) factors. Here, we review sex effects in microglia across the lifespan, explore potential genetic and hormonal molecular mechanisms of microglial sex effects, and discuss currently available models and methods to study sex effects in the aging brain. Despite recent attention to this area, significant further research is needed to mechanistically understand the regulation of microglial sex effects across the lifespan, which may open new avenues for sex informed prevention and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah R Ocañas
- Genes & Human Disease Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
| | - Victor A Ansere
- Genes & Human Disease Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Collyn M Kellogg
- Genes & Human Disease Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Jose V V Isola
- Aging & Metabolism Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Ana J Chucair-Elliott
- Genes & Human Disease Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Willard M Freeman
- Genes & Human Disease Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
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10
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Alamro H, Thafar MA, Albaradei S, Gojobori T, Essack M, Gao X. Exploiting machine learning models to identify novel Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers and potential targets. Sci Rep 2023; 13:4979. [PMID: 36973386 PMCID: PMC10043000 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-30904-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractWe still do not have an effective treatment for Alzheimer's disease (AD) despite it being the most common cause of dementia and impaired cognitive function. Thus, research endeavors are directed toward identifying AD biomarkers and targets. In this regard, we designed a computational method that exploits multiple hub gene ranking methods and feature selection methods with machine learning and deep learning to identify biomarkers and targets. First, we used three AD gene expression datasets to identify 1/ hub genes based on six ranking algorithms (Degree, Maximum Neighborhood Component (MNC), Maximal Clique Centrality (MCC), Betweenness Centrality (BC), Closeness Centrality, and Stress Centrality), 2/ gene subsets based on two feature selection methods (LASSO and Ridge). Then, we developed machine learning and deep learning models to determine the gene subset that best distinguishes AD samples from the healthy controls. This work shows that feature selection methods achieve better prediction performances than the hub gene sets. Beyond this, the five genes identified by both feature selection methods (LASSO and Ridge algorithms) achieved an AUC = 0.979. We further show that 70% of the upregulated hub genes (among the 28 overlapping hub genes) are AD targets based on a literature review and six miRNA (hsa-mir-16-5p, hsa-mir-34a-5p, hsa-mir-1-3p, hsa-mir-26a-5p, hsa-mir-93-5p, hsa-mir-155-5p) and one transcription factor, JUN, are associated with the upregulated hub genes. Furthermore, since 2020, four of the six microRNA were also shown to be potential AD targets. To our knowledge, this is the first work showing that such a small number of genes can distinguish AD samples from healthy controls with high accuracy and that overlapping upregulated hub genes can narrow the search space for potential novel targets.
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11
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Yurov YB, Vorsanova SG, Iourov IY. FISHing for Chromosome Instability and Aneuploidy in the Alzheimer's Disease Brain. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2561:191-204. [PMID: 36399271 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2655-9_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) is the method of choice for visualizing chromosomal DNA in post-mitotic cells. The availability of chromosome-enumeration (centromeric), site-specific, and multicolor-banding DNA probes offers opportunities to uncover genomic changes, at the chromosomal level, in single interphase nuclei. Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been associated repeatedly with (sub)chromosome instability and aneuploidy, likely affecting the brain. Although the types and rates of chromosome instability in the AD brain remain a matter of debate, molecular cytogenetic analysis of brain cells appears to be important for uncovering mechanisms of neurodegeneration. Here, we describe a FISH protocol for studying chromosome instability and aneuploidy in the AD brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuri B Yurov
- Yurov's Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Cytogenomics of the Brain, Mental Health Research Center, Moscow, Russia.,Vorsanova's Laboratory of Molecular Cytogenetics of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Veltischev Research and Clinical Institute for Pediatrics of the Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Svetlana G Vorsanova
- Yurov's Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Cytogenomics of the Brain, Mental Health Research Center, Moscow, Russia.,Vorsanova's Laboratory of Molecular Cytogenetics of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Veltischev Research and Clinical Institute for Pediatrics of the Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ivan Y Iourov
- Yurov's Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Cytogenomics of the Brain, Mental Health Research Center, Moscow, Russia. .,Vorsanova's Laboratory of Molecular Cytogenetics of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Veltischev Research and Clinical Institute for Pediatrics of the Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia.
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12
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Iourov IY, Vorsanova SG, Kurinnaia OS, Kutsev SI, Yurov YB. Somatic mosaicism in the diseased brain. Mol Cytogenet 2022; 15:45. [PMID: 36266706 PMCID: PMC9585840 DOI: 10.1186/s13039-022-00624-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
It is hard to believe that all the cells of a human brain share identical genomes. Indeed, single cell genetic studies have demonstrated intercellular genomic variability in the normal and diseased brain. Moreover, there is a growing amount of evidence on the contribution of somatic mosaicism (the presence of genetically different cell populations in the same individual/tissue) to the etiology of brain diseases. However, brain-specific genomic variations are generally overlooked during the research of genetic defects associated with a brain disease. Accordingly, a review of brain-specific somatic mosaicism in disease context seems to be required. Here, we overview gene mutations, copy number variations and chromosome abnormalities (aneuploidy, deletions, duplications and supernumerary rearranged chromosomes) detected in the neural/neuronal cells of the diseased brain. Additionally, chromosome instability in non-cancerous brain diseases is addressed. Finally, theoretical analysis of possible mechanisms for neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders indicates that a genetic background for formation of somatic (chromosomal) mosaicism in the brain is likely to exist. In total, somatic mosaicism affecting the central nervous system seems to be a mechanism of brain diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Y Iourov
- Yurov's Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Cytogenomics of the Brain, Mental Health Research Center, Moscow, Russia. .,Vorsanova's Laboratory of Molecular Cytogenetics of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Veltischev Research and Clinical Institute for Pediatrics and Pediatric Surgery of the Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University of the Russian Ministry of Health, Moscow, Russia. .,Department of Medical Biological Disciplines, Belgorod State University, Belgorod, Russia.
| | - Svetlana G Vorsanova
- Yurov's Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Cytogenomics of the Brain, Mental Health Research Center, Moscow, Russia.,Vorsanova's Laboratory of Molecular Cytogenetics of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Veltischev Research and Clinical Institute for Pediatrics and Pediatric Surgery of the Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University of the Russian Ministry of Health, Moscow, Russia
| | - Oxana S Kurinnaia
- Yurov's Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Cytogenomics of the Brain, Mental Health Research Center, Moscow, Russia.,Vorsanova's Laboratory of Molecular Cytogenetics of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Veltischev Research and Clinical Institute for Pediatrics and Pediatric Surgery of the Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University of the Russian Ministry of Health, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Yuri B Yurov
- Yurov's Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Cytogenomics of the Brain, Mental Health Research Center, Moscow, Russia.,Vorsanova's Laboratory of Molecular Cytogenetics of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Veltischev Research and Clinical Institute for Pediatrics and Pediatric Surgery of the Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University of the Russian Ministry of Health, Moscow, Russia
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13
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Andrews EJ, Martini AC, Head E. Exploring the role of sex differences in Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis in Down syndrome. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:954999. [PMID: 36033603 PMCID: PMC9411995 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.954999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Women are disproportionately affected by Alzheimer's disease (AD), yet little is known about sex-specific effects on the development of AD in the Down syndrome (DS) population. DS is caused by a full or partial triplication of chromosome 21, which harbors the amyloid precursor protein (APP) gene, among others. The majority of people with DS in their early- to mid-40s will accumulate sufficient amyloid-beta (Aβ) in their brains along with neurofibrillary tangles (NFT) for a neuropathological diagnosis of AD, and the triplication of the APP gene is regarded as the main cause. Studies addressing sex differences with age and impact on dementia in people with DS are inconsistent. However, women with DS experience earlier age of onset of menopause, marked by a drop in estrogen, than women without DS. This review focuses on key sex differences observed with age and AD in people with DS and a discussion of possible underlying mechanisms that could be driving or protecting from AD development in DS. Understanding how biological sex influences the brain will lead to development of dedicated therapeutics and interventions to improve the quality of life for people with DS and AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth J. Andrews
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Alessandra C. Martini
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Elizabeth Head
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
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14
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Ocañas SR, Ansere VA, Tooley KB, Hadad N, Chucair-Elliott AJ, Stanford DR, Rice S, Wronowski B, Pham KD, Hoffman JM, Austad SN, Stout MB, Freeman WM. Differential Regulation of Mouse Hippocampal Gene Expression Sex Differences by Chromosomal Content and Gonadal Sex. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:4669-4702. [PMID: 35589920 PMCID: PMC9119800 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02860-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Common neurological disorders, like Alzheimer's disease (AD), multiple sclerosis (MS), and autism, display profound sex differences in prevalence and clinical presentation. However, sex differences in the brain with health and disease are often overlooked in experimental models. Sex effects originate, directly or indirectly, from hormonal or sex chromosomal mechanisms. To delineate the contributions of genetic sex (XX v. XY) versus gonadal sex (ovaries v. testes) to the epigenomic regulation of hippocampal sex differences, we used the Four Core Genotypes (FCG) mouse model which uncouples chromosomal and gonadal sex. Transcriptomic and epigenomic analyses of ~ 12-month-old FCG mouse hippocampus, revealed genomic context-specific regulatory effects of genotypic and gonadal sex on X- and autosome-encoded gene expression and DNA modification patterns. X-chromosomal epigenomic patterns, classically associated with X-inactivation, were established almost entirely by genotypic sex, independent of gonadal sex. Differences in X-chromosome methylation were primarily localized to gene regulatory regions including promoters, CpG islands, CTCF binding sites, and active/poised chromatin, with an inverse relationship between methylation and gene expression. Autosomal gene expression demonstrated regulation by both genotypic and gonadal sex, particularly in immune processes. These data demonstrate an important regulatory role of sex chromosomes, independent of gonadal sex, on sex-biased hippocampal transcriptomic and epigenomic profiles. Future studies will need to further interrogate specific CNS cell types, identify the mechanisms by which sex chromosomes regulate autosomes, and differentiate organizational from activational hormonal effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah R Ocañas
- Genes & Human Disease Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, 825 NE 13thStreet, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Victor A Ansere
- Genes & Human Disease Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, 825 NE 13thStreet, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Kyla B Tooley
- Genes & Human Disease Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, 825 NE 13thStreet, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | | | - Ana J Chucair-Elliott
- Genes & Human Disease Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, 825 NE 13thStreet, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - David R Stanford
- Genes & Human Disease Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, 825 NE 13thStreet, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - Shannon Rice
- Genes & Human Disease Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, 825 NE 13thStreet, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - Benjamin Wronowski
- Department of Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Kevin D Pham
- Genes & Human Disease Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, 825 NE 13thStreet, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA
| | - Jessica M Hoffman
- Department of Biology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Steven N Austad
- Department of Biology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Michael B Stout
- Aging & Metabolism Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Willard M Freeman
- Genes & Human Disease Program, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, 825 NE 13thStreet, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA.
- Oklahoma City Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
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15
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Vorsanova SG, Demidova IA, Kolotii AD, Kurinnaia OS, Kravets VS, Soloviev IV, Yurov YB, Iourov IY. Klinefelter syndrome mosaicism in boys with neurodevelopmental disorders: a cohort study and an extension of the hypothesis. Mol Cytogenet 2022; 15:8. [PMID: 35248137 PMCID: PMC8897849 DOI: 10.1186/s13039-022-00588-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Klinefelter syndrome is a common chromosomal (aneuploidy) disorder associated with an extra X chromosome in males. Regardless of numerous studies dedicated to somatic gonosomal mosaicism, Klinefelter syndrome mosaicism (KSM) has not been systematically addressed in clinical cohorts. Here, we report on the evaluation of KSM in a large cohort of boys with neurodevelopmental disorders. Furthermore, these data have been used for an extension of the hypothesis, which we have recently proposed in a report on Turner’s syndrome mosaicism in girls with neurodevelopmental disorders.
Results
Klinefelter syndrome-associated karyotypes were revealed in 49 (1.1%) of 4535 boys. Twenty one boys (0.5%) were non-mosaic 47,XXY individuals. KSM was found in 28 cases (0.6%) and manifested as mosaic aneuploidy (50,XXXXXY; 49,XXXXY; 48,XXXY; 48,XXYY; 47,XXY; and 45,X were detected in addition to 47,XXY/46,XY) and mosaic supernumerary marker chromosomes derived from chromosome X (ring chromosomes X and rearranged chromosomes X). It is noteworthy that KSM was concomitant with Rett-syndrome-like phenotypes caused by MECP2 mutations in 5 boys (0.1%).
Conclusion
Our study provides data on the occurrence of KSM in neurodevelopmental disorders among males. Accordingly, it is proposed that KSM may be a possible element of pathogenic cascades in psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases. These observations allowed us to extend the hypothesis proposed in our previous report on the contribution of somatic gonosomal mosaicism (Turner’s syndrome mosaicism) to the etiology of neurodevelopmental disorders. Thus, it seems to be important to monitor KSM (a possible risk factor or a biomarker for adult-onset multifactorial brain diseases) and analysis of neuromarkers for aging in individuals with Klinefelter syndrome. Cases of two or more supernumerary chromosomes X were all associated with KSM. Finally, Rett syndrome-like phenotypes associated with KSM appear to be more common in males with neurodevelopmental disorders than previously recognized.
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16
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Stites SD, Cao H, Harkins K, Flatt JD. Measuring Sex and Gender in Aging and Alzheimer's Research: Results of a National Survey. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2021; 77:1005-1016. [PMID: 34865028 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbab226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Differences between men and women are common in published research on aging and Alzheimer's disease and Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (AD/ADRD). What do these differences mean? To answer this, rigorous measurement is needed. We investigated current methods for measuring sex/gender in aging and AD/ADRD cohort studies. METHOD An online survey was sent to NIA-funded Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers (ADRCs) (n=38) and investigator-initiated cohort studies (n=38) to assess practices around enrollment of men and women and measurement of sex and gender. RESULTS The response rate was 65.8% (n=50). All enrolled men and all but two investigator-initiated studies enrolled women. Most cohorts (43/50) had no documented definitions for categories of "men" or "women". Over 85% of cohorts relied solely on self-report questions to capture sex/gender data (n=43/50). Issues with administration were also identified (n=7). DISCUSSION Our findings identify gaps in current approaches used to measure sex and gender in aging and AD/ADRD research. We discuss opportunities to bridge these gaps and advance measurement of sex and gender in aging and AD/ADRD research. Changes are needed to ensure inclusion and representation of sociocultural diversity in research samples, and consistency in data collection in aging and AD/ADRD research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shana D Stites
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Hannah Cao
- School of Social Policy and Practice, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Kristin Harkins
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatric Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Jason D Flatt
- Social and Behavioral Health Program, School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV
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17
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Armon C, Wolfson S, Margalit R, Avraham L, Bugen Y, Cohen A, Meiri A, Shorer R. Estimating the X chromosome-mediated risk for developing Alzheimer's disease. J Neurol 2021; 269:2479-2485. [PMID: 34609600 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-021-10826-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Revised: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Parental lineage has been shown to increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in the offspring, with greater risk attributed to maternal lineage. While 40 genes/loci have been linked to the risk of developing AD, none has been found on the X chromosome. We propose a new method to estimate the risk for developing AD mediated by the X chromosome in a subgroup of late-onset AD (LOAD) patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) or early AD and unilateral ancestral history of AD or dementia, and pilot-test it on our clinic data. Records of patients aged 55-80 years presenting to our Memory Disorders Clinic with aMCI or early AD between May 2015 and September 2020, were reviewed, counting patients with a family history of AD or dementia and unilateral ancestral lineage. The X chromosome-attributable relative risk was estimated by calculating the following odds ratio (OR): (women with paternal lineage:women with maternal lineage)/(men with paternal lineage:men with maternal lineage). The proportion of genetic risk borne by the X chromosome is equal to (OR-1)/OR. 40 women aged 66.1 ± 5.1 years (mean ± standard deviation) and 31 men aged 68.1 ± 6.5 were identified. The OR was (18:22)/(6:25) = 3.4 (95% confidence interval 1.1-10.1; p = 0.027). The estimated proportion of genetic risk borne by the X chromosome in this population is 70% (95% CI 12-90%). This paper presents the first application of a new method. The numbers are small, the confidence intervals wide. The findings need to be replicated. The method may be generalizable to other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmel Armon
- Department of Neurology, Tel Aviv University School of Medicine and Shamir (Assaf Harofeh) Medical Center, PO Beer Yaakov, 70300, Zerifin, Israel.
| | - Sharon Wolfson
- Department of Neurology, Tel Aviv University School of Medicine and Shamir (Assaf Harofeh) Medical Center, PO Beer Yaakov, 70300, Zerifin, Israel
| | - Rivka Margalit
- Department of Neurology, Tel Aviv University School of Medicine and Shamir (Assaf Harofeh) Medical Center, PO Beer Yaakov, 70300, Zerifin, Israel
| | - Liraz Avraham
- Department of Neurology, Tel Aviv University School of Medicine and Shamir (Assaf Harofeh) Medical Center, PO Beer Yaakov, 70300, Zerifin, Israel
| | - Yael Bugen
- Department of Neurology, Tel Aviv University School of Medicine and Shamir (Assaf Harofeh) Medical Center, PO Beer Yaakov, 70300, Zerifin, Israel
| | - Amir Cohen
- Department of Neurology, Tel Aviv University School of Medicine and Shamir (Assaf Harofeh) Medical Center, PO Beer Yaakov, 70300, Zerifin, Israel
| | - Adi Meiri
- Department of Neurology, Tel Aviv University School of Medicine and Shamir (Assaf Harofeh) Medical Center, PO Beer Yaakov, 70300, Zerifin, Israel
| | - Ran Shorer
- Department of Neurology, Tel Aviv University School of Medicine and Shamir (Assaf Harofeh) Medical Center, PO Beer Yaakov, 70300, Zerifin, Israel
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18
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Iversen WL, Cowan RL, Atalla S, Englehart SS, Gure TR, Moss KO, Ryan CM, Scharre DW, Wright KD, Monroe TB. Treating the most vulnerable: A discursive review of experimental pain in Alzheimer's disease. Nurs Open 2021; 9:942-949. [PMID: 34165251 PMCID: PMC8859087 DOI: 10.1002/nop2.922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM The purpose of this manuscript is to summarize research on how experimental pain is experienced by adults with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and to translate results into implications for nurses. DESIGN This discursive review synthesizes the results of three previous research studies exploring experimental pain in adults with AD. METHODS Using a series of fictional clinical vignettes, the authors discuss how the results from three previous papers using acute experimental pain can potentially be translated into clinical practice. The authors also introduce the reader to the concept of research-related psychophysics using introductory definitions and concepts with the impetus to encourage other nurses to consider this research methodology. RESULTS Pain characteristics in AD that differ from cognitively intact controls must be explored to properly address pain in this population. Nurses are well positioned to address these issues in order to provide a high quality of care to adults with AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wm Larkin Iversen
- The Ohio State University College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ronald L Cowan
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Sebastian Atalla
- The Ohio State University College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Sydney S Englehart
- The Ohio State University College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Tanya R Gure
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Karen O Moss
- The Ohio State University College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Claire M Ryan
- Vanderbilt Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Douglas W Scharre
- Department of Neurology, Division of Cognitive Neurology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Kathy D Wright
- The Ohio State University College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Todd B Monroe
- The Ohio State University College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
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Migliore L, Nicolì V, Stoccoro A. Gender Specific Differences in Disease Susceptibility: The Role of Epigenetics. Biomedicines 2021; 9:652. [PMID: 34200989 PMCID: PMC8228628 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9060652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Many complex traits or diseases, such as infectious and autoimmune diseases, cancer, xenobiotics exposure, neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases, as well as the outcome of vaccination, show a differential susceptibility between males and females. In general, the female immune system responds more efficiently to pathogens. However, this can lead to over-reactive immune responses, which may explain the higher presence of autoimmune diseases in women, but also potentially the more adverse effects of vaccination in females compared with in males. Many clinical and epidemiological studies reported, for the SARS-CoV-2 infection, a gender-biased differential response; however, the majority of reports dealt with a comparable morbidity, with males, however, showing higher COVID-19 adverse outcomes. Although gender differences in immune responses have been studied predominantly within the context of sex hormone effects, some other mechanisms have been invoked: cellular mosaicism, skewed X chromosome inactivation, genes escaping X chromosome inactivation, and miRNAs encoded on the X chromosome. The hormonal hypothesis as well as other mechanisms will be examined and discussed in the light of the most recent epigenetic findings in the field, as the concept that epigenetics is the unifying mechanism in explaining gender-specific differences is increasingly emerging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Migliore
- Department of Translational Research and of New Surgical and Medical Technologies, Medical School, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (V.N.); (A.S.)
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Pisana, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Vanessa Nicolì
- Department of Translational Research and of New Surgical and Medical Technologies, Medical School, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (V.N.); (A.S.)
| | - Andrea Stoccoro
- Department of Translational Research and of New Surgical and Medical Technologies, Medical School, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (V.N.); (A.S.)
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Iourov IY, Yurov YB, Vorsanova SG, Kutsev SI. Chromosome Instability, Aging and Brain Diseases. Cells 2021; 10:cells10051256. [PMID: 34069648 PMCID: PMC8161106 DOI: 10.3390/cells10051256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Chromosome instability (CIN) has been repeatedly associated with aging and progeroid phenotypes. Moreover, brain-specific CIN seems to be an important element of pathogenic cascades leading to neurodegeneration in late adulthood. Alternatively, CIN and aneuploidy (chromosomal loss/gain) syndromes exhibit accelerated aging phenotypes. Molecularly, cellular senescence, which seems to be mediated by CIN and aneuploidy, is likely to contribute to brain aging in health and disease. However, there is no consensus about the occurrence of CIN in the aging brain. As a result, the role of CIN/somatic aneuploidy in normal and pathological brain aging is a matter of debate. Still, taking into account the effects of CIN on cellular homeostasis, the possibility of involvement in brain aging is highly likely. More importantly, the CIN contribution to neuronal cell death may be responsible for neurodegeneration and the aging-related deterioration of the brain. The loss of CIN-affected neurons probably underlies the contradiction between reports addressing ontogenetic changes of karyotypes within the aged brain. In future studies, the combination of single-cell visualization and whole-genome techniques with systems biology methods would certainly define the intrinsic role of CIN in the aging of the normal and diseased brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Y. Iourov
- Yurov’s Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Cytogenomics of the Brain, Mental Health Research Center, 117152 Moscow, Russia; (Y.B.Y.); (S.G.V.)
- Laboratory of Molecular Cytogenetics of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Veltischev Research and Clinical Institute for Pediatrics of the Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, 125412 Moscow, Russia
- Department of Medical Biological Disciplines, Belgorod State University, 308015 Belgorod, Russia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +7-495-109-03-93 (ext. 3500)
| | - Yuri B. Yurov
- Yurov’s Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Cytogenomics of the Brain, Mental Health Research Center, 117152 Moscow, Russia; (Y.B.Y.); (S.G.V.)
- Laboratory of Molecular Cytogenetics of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Veltischev Research and Clinical Institute for Pediatrics of the Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, 125412 Moscow, Russia
| | - Svetlana G. Vorsanova
- Yurov’s Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Cytogenomics of the Brain, Mental Health Research Center, 117152 Moscow, Russia; (Y.B.Y.); (S.G.V.)
- Laboratory of Molecular Cytogenetics of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Veltischev Research and Clinical Institute for Pediatrics of the Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, 125412 Moscow, Russia
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Vorsanova SG, Kolotii AD, Kurinnaia OS, Kravets VS, Demidova IA, Soloviev IV, Yurov YB, Iourov IY. Turner's syndrome mosaicism in girls with neurodevelopmental disorders: a cohort study and hypothesis. Mol Cytogenet 2021; 14:9. [PMID: 33573679 PMCID: PMC7879607 DOI: 10.1186/s13039-021-00529-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Turner's syndrome is associated with either monosomy or a wide spectrum of structural rearrangements of chromosome X. Despite the interest in studying (somatic) chromosomal mosaicism, Turner's syndrome mosaicism (TSM) remains to be fully described. This is especially true for the analysis of TSM in clinical cohorts (e.g. cohorts of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders). Here, we present the results of studying TSM in a large cohort of girls with neurodevelopmental disorders and a hypothesis highlighting the diagnostic and prognostic value. RESULTS Turner's syndrome-associated karyotypes were revealed in 111 (2.8%) of 4021 girls. Regular Turner's syndrome-associated karyotypes were detected in 35 girls (0.9%). TSM was uncovered in 76 girls (1.9%). TSM manifested as mosaic aneuploidy (45,X/46,XX; 45,X/47,XXX/46,XX; 45,X/47,XXX) affected 47 girls (1.2%). Supernumerary marker chromosomes derived from chromosome X have been identified in 11 girls with TSM (0.3%). Isochromosomes iX(q) was found in 12 cases (0.3%); one case was non-mosaic. TSM associated with ring chromosomes was revealed in 5 girls (0.1%). CONCLUSION The present cohort study provides data on the involvement of TSM in neurodevelopmental disorders among females. Thus, TSM may be an element of pathogenic cascades in brain diseases (i.e. neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders). Our data allowed us to propose a hypothesis concerning ontogenetic variability of TSM levels. Accordingly, it appears that molecular cytogenetic monitoring of TSM, which is a likely risk factor/biomarker for adult-onset multifactorial diseases, is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svetlana G Vorsanova
- Veltischev Research and Clinical Institute for Pediatrics of the Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, 125412.,Yurov's Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Cytogenomics of the Brain, Mental Health Research Center, Moscow, Russia, 115522
| | - Alexey D Kolotii
- Veltischev Research and Clinical Institute for Pediatrics of the Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, 125412.,Yurov's Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Cytogenomics of the Brain, Mental Health Research Center, Moscow, Russia, 115522
| | - Oksana S Kurinnaia
- Veltischev Research and Clinical Institute for Pediatrics of the Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, 125412.,Yurov's Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Cytogenomics of the Brain, Mental Health Research Center, Moscow, Russia, 115522
| | - Victor S Kravets
- Veltischev Research and Clinical Institute for Pediatrics of the Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, 125412.,Yurov's Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Cytogenomics of the Brain, Mental Health Research Center, Moscow, Russia, 115522
| | - Irina A Demidova
- Veltischev Research and Clinical Institute for Pediatrics of the Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, 125412.,Yurov's Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Cytogenomics of the Brain, Mental Health Research Center, Moscow, Russia, 115522
| | - Ilya V Soloviev
- Yurov's Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Cytogenomics of the Brain, Mental Health Research Center, Moscow, Russia, 115522
| | - Yuri B Yurov
- Veltischev Research and Clinical Institute for Pediatrics of the Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, 125412.,Yurov's Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Cytogenomics of the Brain, Mental Health Research Center, Moscow, Russia, 115522
| | - Ivan Y Iourov
- Veltischev Research and Clinical Institute for Pediatrics of the Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, 125412. .,Yurov's Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Cytogenomics of the Brain, Mental Health Research Center, Moscow, Russia, 115522. .,Department of Medical Biological Disciplines, Belgorod State University, Belgorod, Russia, 308015.
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Chanda K, Mukhopadhyay D. LncRNA Xist, X-chromosome Instability and Alzheimer's Disease. Curr Alzheimer Res 2020; 17:499-507. [PMID: 32851944 DOI: 10.2174/1567205017666200807185624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative Diseases (NDD) are the major contributors to age-related causes of mental disability on a global scale. Most NDDs, like Alzheimer's Disease (AD), are complex in nature - implying that they are multi-parametric both in terms of heterogeneous clinical outcomes and underlying molecular paradigms. Emerging evidence from high throughput genomic, transcriptomic and small RNA sequencing experiments hint at the roles of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in AD. X-inactive Specific Transcript (XIST), a component of the Xic, the X-chromosome inactivation centre, is an RNA gene on the X chromosome of the placental mammals indispensable for the X inactivation process. An extensive literature survey shows that aberrations in Xist expression and in some cases, a disruption of the Xchromosome inactivation as a whole play a significant role in AD. Considering the enormous potential of Xist as an endogenous silencing molecule, the idea of using Xist as a non-conventional chromosome silencer to treat diseases harboring chromosomal alterations is also being implemented. Comprehensive knowledge about how Xist could play such a role in AD is still elusive. In this review, we have collated the available knowledge on the possible Xist involvement and deregulation from the perspective of molecular mechanisms governing NDDs with a primary focus on Alzheimer's disease. Possibilities of XIST mediated therapeutic intervention and linkages between XIC and preferential predisposition of females to AD have also been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaushik Chanda
- Biophysics and Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Kolkata 700 064, India
| | - Debashis Mukhopadhyay
- Biophysics and Structural Genomics Division, Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Kolkata 700 064, India
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