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Xu H, Lotfy P, Gelb S, Pragana A, Hehnly C, Byer LIJ, Shipley FB, Zawadzki ME, Cui J, Deng L, Taylor M, Webb M, Lidov HGW, Andermann ML, Chiu IM, Ordovas-Montanes J, Lehtinen MK. The choroid plexus synergizes with immune cells during neuroinflammation. Cell 2024:S0092-8674(24)00717-7. [PMID: 39089253 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.07.002] [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: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/03/2024]
Abstract
The choroid plexus (ChP) is a vital brain barrier and source of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Here, we use longitudinal two-photon imaging in awake mice and single-cell transcriptomics to elucidate the mechanisms of ChP regulation of brain inflammation. We used intracerebroventricular injections of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) to model meningitis in mice and observed that neutrophils and monocytes accumulated in the ChP stroma and surged across the epithelial barrier into the CSF. Bi-directional recruitment of monocytes from the periphery and, unexpectedly, macrophages from the CSF to the ChP helped eliminate neutrophils and repair the barrier. Transcriptomic analyses detailed the molecular steps accompanying this process and revealed that ChP epithelial cells transiently specialize to nurture immune cells, coordinating their recruitment, survival, and differentiation as well as regulation of the tight junctions that control the permeability of the ChP brain barrier. Collectively, we provide a mechanistic understanding and a comprehensive roadmap of neuroinflammation at the ChP brain barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huixin Xu
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Peter Lotfy
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Graduate Program in Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Sivan Gelb
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Aja Pragana
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Christine Hehnly
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Lillian I J Byer
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Frederick B Shipley
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Graduate Program in Biophysics, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Miriam E Zawadzki
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Graduate Program in Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard MD-PhD Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jin Cui
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Liwen Deng
- Department of Immunology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Milo Taylor
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard College, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Mya Webb
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Hart G W Lidov
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Mark L Andermann
- Harvard MD-PhD Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Isaac M Chiu
- Department of Immunology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jose Ordovas-Montanes
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Graduate Program in Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Maria K Lehtinen
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Graduate Program in Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Graduate Program in Biophysics, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Harvard MD-PhD Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA.
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2
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Fiadeiro MB, Diogo JC, Silva AA, Kim YS, Cristóvão AC. NADPH Oxidases in Neurodegenerative Disorders: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities. Antioxid Redox Signal 2024. [PMID: 38760935 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2023.0002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Significance: The nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase (NOX) enzyme family, located in the central nervous system, is recognized as a source of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the brain. Despite its importance in cellular processes, excessive ROS generation leads to cell death and is involved in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders. Recent advances: NOX enzymes contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's disease (PD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and stroke, highlighting their potential as targets for future therapeutic development. This review will discuss NOX's contribution and therapeutic targeting potential in neurodegenerative diseases, focusing on PD, AD, ALS, and stroke. Critical issues: Homeostatic and physiological levels of ROS are crucial for regulating several processes, such as development, memory, neuronal signaling, and vascular homeostasis. However, NOX-mediated excessive ROS generation is deeply involved in the damage of DNA, proteins, and lipids, leading to cell death in the pathogenesis of a wide range of diseases, namely neurodegenerative diseases. Future directions: It is essential to understand the role of NOX homologs in neurodegenerative disorders and the pathological mechanisms undergoing neurodegeneration mediated by increased levels of ROS. This further knowledge will allow the development of new specific NOX inhibitors and their application for neurodegenerative disease therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana B Fiadeiro
- CICS-UBI Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
- NeuroSoV, UBIMedical, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - João C Diogo
- CICS-UBI Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
- NeuroSoV, UBIMedical, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Ana A Silva
- CICS-UBI Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
- NeuroSoV, UBIMedical, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Yoon-Seong Kim
- RWJMS Institute for Neurological Therapeutics, Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Ana C Cristóvão
- CICS-UBI Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
- NeuroSoV, UBIMedical, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
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3
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Min JH, Sarlus H, Harris RA. Copper toxicity and deficiency: the vicious cycle at the core of protein aggregation in ALS. Front Mol Neurosci 2024; 17:1408159. [PMID: 39050823 PMCID: PMC11267976 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2024.1408159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The pathophysiology of ALS involves many signs of a disruption in copper homeostasis, with both excess free levels and functional deficiency likely occurring simultaneously. This is crucial, as many important physiological functions are performed by cuproenzymes. While it is unsurprising that many ALS symptoms are related to signs of copper deficiency, resulting in vascular, antioxidant system and mitochondrial oxidative respiration deficiencies, there are also signs of copper toxicity such as ROS generation and enhanced protein aggregation. We discuss how copper also plays a key role in proteostasis and interacts either directly or indirectly with many of the key aggregate-prone proteins implicated in ALS, such as TDP-43, C9ORF72, SOD1 and FUS as well as the effect of their aggregation on copper homeostasis. We suggest that loss of cuproprotein function is at the core of ALS pathology, a condition that is driven by a combination of unbound copper and ROS that can either initiate and/or accelerate protein aggregation. This could trigger a positive feedback cycle whereby protein aggregates trigger the aggregation of other proteins in a chain reaction that eventually captures elements of the proteostatic mechanisms in place to counteract them. The end result is an abundance of aggregated non-functional cuproproteins and chaperones alongside depleted intracellular copper stores, resulting in a general lack of cuproenzyme function. We then discuss the possible aetiology of ALS and illustrate how strong risk factors including environmental toxins such as BMAA and heavy metals can functionally behave to promote protein aggregation and disturb copper metabolism that likely drives this vicious cycle in sporadic ALS. From this synthesis, we propose restoration of copper balance using copper delivery agents in combination with chaperones/chaperone mimetics, perhaps in conjunction with the neuroprotective amino acid serine, as a promising strategy in the treatment of this incurable disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Hong Min
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital at Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
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4
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Asahina R, Takahashi M, Takano H, Yao R, Abe M, Goshima Y, Ohshima T. The role of CRMP4 in LPS-induced neuroinflammation. Brain Res 2024:149094. [PMID: 38914219 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2024.149094] [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: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation has been gaining attention as one of the potential causes of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in recent years. The suppression of excessive proinflammatory responses is expected to be a target for the treatment and prevention of neurodegenerative diseases. Collapsin response mediator protein 4 (CRMP4) is involved in cytoskeleton-associated axonal guidance in the developing brain. Recently, the involvement of CRMP4 in several pathological conditions, including inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a widely used inflammatory molecule, has been reported. However, the role of CRMP4 in LPS-induced inflammation in vivo remains largely unknown. In this study, we generated microglia-specific CRMP4 knockout mice for the first time and examined the role of CRMP4 in an LPS-induced brain inflammation model. We found that microglia after LPS injection in substantia nigra was significantly reduced in Crmp4-/- mice compared to Crmp4+/+mice. The increased expression of IL-10 in striatum samples was downregulated in Crmp4-/- mice. A significant reduction in Iba1 expression was also observed in microglia-specific Crmp4 knockout mice compared with that in control mice. In contrast, the expression of IL-10 did not change in these mice, whereas arginase 1 (Arg1) expression was significantly suppressed. These results demonstrate the involvement of CRMP4 in LPS-induced inflammation in vivo, that CRMP4 suppresses microglial proliferation in a cell-autonomous manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryo Asahina
- Departent of Life Science and Medical Bioscience, Waseda University, Japan
| | - Miyuki Takahashi
- Departent of Life Science and Medical Bioscience, Waseda University, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Takano
- Department of Cell Biology, The Cancer Institute of JFCR, Japan
| | - Ryoji Yao
- Department of Cell Biology, The Cancer Institute of JFCR, Japan
| | - Manabu Abe
- Department of Animal Model Development, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Japan
| | - Yoshio Goshima
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Neurobiology, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama 236-0004, Japan
| | - Toshio Ohshima
- Departent of Life Science and Medical Bioscience, Waseda University, Japan.
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5
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Nógrádi B, Nógrádi-Halmi D, Erdélyi-Furka B, Kádár Z, Csont T, Gáspár R. Mechanism of motoneuronal and pyramidal cell death in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and its potential therapeutic modulation. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:291. [PMID: 38898006 PMCID: PMC11187107 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-02055-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder clinically characterized by muscle atrophy and progressive paralysis. Loss of motoneurons and pyramidal cells is thought to be the center piece of the complex and multifaceted ALS pathology, however, the exact mechanisms laying behind motoneuronal cell death in the spinal cord and motor cortex are still unknown. It was originally proposed that apoptosis plays a fundamental role in motoneuronal demise, nonetheless, later it became clear that other forms of regulated cell death, including necroptosis, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and autophagy-dependent cell death, may also contribute to motoneuron loss. Over the past years, multiple studies aimed to improve our understanding of the contributory role of these mechanisms as well as to offer novel targets for potential therapeutic interventions. The pharmacological inhibition of the ferroptotic pathway and the modulation of the autophagic machinery seem to have particularly promising effects, reducing motoneuron loss and slowing disease progression in transgenic models of ALS. Nevertheless, the potential beneficial effects of necroptosis-targeting interventions were mostly disproven in the latest studies. In this review we aim to summarize the current view on regulated cell death mechanisms that lead to motoneuronal and pyramidal cell degeneration in ALS and showcase their applicability as future drug targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernát Nógrádi
- Department of Neurology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Health Centre, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
- Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Dóra Nógrádi-Halmi
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
- Interdisciplinary Centre of Excellence, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Barbara Erdélyi-Furka
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
- Interdisciplinary Centre of Excellence, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Zalán Kádár
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Tamás Csont
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
- Interdisciplinary Centre of Excellence, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Renáta Gáspár
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary.
- Interdisciplinary Centre of Excellence, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary.
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6
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Wang H, Zeng R. Aberrant protein aggregation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Neurol 2024:10.1007/s00415-024-12485-z. [PMID: 38869826 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12485-z] [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: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal disease. As its pathological mechanisms are not well understood, there are no efficient therapeutics for it at present. While it is highly heterogenous both etiologically and clinically, it has a common salient hallmark, i.e., aberrant protein aggregation (APA). The upstream pathogenesis and the downstream effects of APA in ALS are sophisticated and the investigation of this pathology would be of consequence for understanding ALS. In this paper, the pathomechanism of APA in ALS and the candidate treatment strategies for it are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaixiu Wang
- Department Neurology, Shanxi Provincial Peoples Hospital: Fifth Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030012, China.
- Beijing Ai-Si-Kang Medical Technology Co. Ltd., No. 18 11th St Economical & Technological Development Zone, Beijing, 100176, China.
| | - Rong Zeng
- Department Neurology, Shanxi Provincial Peoples Hospital: Fifth Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030012, China
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7
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Carata E, Muci M, Mariano S, Di Giulio S, Nigro A, Romano A, Panzarini E. Extracellular Vesicles from NSC-34 MN-like Cells Transfected with Mutant SOD1 Modulate Inflammatory Status of Raw 264.7 Macrophages. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:735. [PMID: 38927671 PMCID: PMC11202944 DOI: 10.3390/genes15060735] [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: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease targeting the brain and spinal cord. Non-neuronal cells, including macrophages, may contribute to the disruption of motor neurons (MNs), neuromuscular junction dismantling and clinical signs of ALS. Understanding the modality and the effect of MNs-macrophage communication is pivotal. Here, we focus on extracellular vesicle (EVS)-mediated communication and, in particular, we analyze the response of macrophages. NSC-34 cells transfected with mutant SOD1 (G93A, A4V, G85R, G37R) and differentiated towards MN-like cells, and Raw 264.7 macrophages are the cellular models of the study. mSOD1 NSC-34 cells release a high number of vesicles, both large-lEVs (300 nm diameter) and small-sEVs (90 nm diameter), containing inflammation-modulating molecules, and are efficiently taken up by macrophages. RT-PCR analysis of inflammation mediators demonstrated that the conditioned medium of mSOD1 NSC-34 cells polarizes Raw 264.7 macrophages towards both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory phenotypes. sEVs act on macrophages in a time-dependent manner: an anti-inflammatory response mediated by TGFβ firstly starts (12 h); successively, the response shifts towards a pro-inflammation IL-1β-mediated (48 h). The response of macrophages is strictly dependent on the SOD1 mutation type. The results suggest that EVs impact physiological and behavioral macrophage processes and are of potential relevance to MN degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Carata
- Department of Biological Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (E.C.); (M.M.); (S.M.); (S.D.G.)
| | - Marco Muci
- Department of Biological Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (E.C.); (M.M.); (S.M.); (S.D.G.)
| | - Stefania Mariano
- Department of Biological Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (E.C.); (M.M.); (S.M.); (S.D.G.)
| | - Simona Di Giulio
- Department of Biological Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (E.C.); (M.M.); (S.M.); (S.D.G.)
| | - Annamaria Nigro
- IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, 20132 Milan, Italy; (A.N.); (A.R.)
| | - Alessandro Romano
- IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, 20132 Milan, Italy; (A.N.); (A.R.)
| | - Elisa Panzarini
- Department of Biological Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (E.C.); (M.M.); (S.M.); (S.D.G.)
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8
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Jiang S, Xu R. The Current Potential Pathogenesis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04269-3. [PMID: 38829511 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04269-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease mainly characterized by the accumulation of ubiquitinated proteins in the affected motor neurons. At present, the accurate pathogenesis of ALS remains unclear and there are still no effective treatment measures for ALS. The potential pathogenesis of ALS mainly includes the misfolding of some pathogenic proteins, the genetic variation, mitochondrial dysfunction, autophagy disorders, neuroinflammation, the misregulation of RNA, the altered axonal transport, and gut microbial dysbiosis. Exploring the pathogenesis of ALS is a critical step in searching for the effective therapeutic approaches. The current studies suggested that the genetic variation, gut microbial dysbiosis, the activation of glial cells, and the transportation disorder of extracellular vesicles may play some important roles in the pathogenesis of ALS. This review conducts a systematic review of these current potential promising topics closely related to the pathogenesis of ALS; it aims to provide some new evidences and clues for searching the novel treatment measures of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shishi Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, Clinical College of Nanchang Medical College, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, National Regional Center for Neurological Diseases, Xiangya Hospital of Center South University, Jiangxi Hospital. No. 152 of Aiguo Road, Donghu District, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China
- Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Renshi Xu
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, Clinical College of Nanchang Medical College, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, National Regional Center for Neurological Diseases, Xiangya Hospital of Center South University, Jiangxi Hospital. No. 152 of Aiguo Road, Donghu District, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China.
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9
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Lindborg SR, Goyal NA, Katz J, Burford M, Li J, Kaspi H, Abramov N, Boulanger B, Berry JD, Nicholson K, Mozaffar T, Miller R, Jenkins L, Baloh RH, Lewis R, Staff NP, Owegi MA, Dagher B, Blondheim-Shraga NR, Gothelf Y, Levy YS, Kern R, Aricha R, Windebank AJ, Bowser R, Brown RH, Cudkowicz ME. Debamestrocel multimodal effects on biomarker pathways in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis are linked to clinical outcomes. Muscle Nerve 2024; 69:719-729. [PMID: 38593477 DOI: 10.1002/mus.28093] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Biomarkers have shown promise in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) research, but the quest for reliable biomarkers remains active. This study evaluates the effect of debamestrocel on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers, an exploratory endpoint. METHODS A total of 196 participants randomly received debamestrocel or placebo. Seven CSF samples were to be collected from all participants. Forty-five biomarkers were analyzed in the overall study and by two subgroups characterized by the ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-R). A prespecified model was employed to predict clinical outcomes leveraging biomarkers and disease characteristics. Causal inference was used to analyze relationships between neurofilament light chain (NfL) and ALSFRS-R. RESULTS We observed significant changes with debamestrocel in 64% of the biomarkers studied, spanning pathways implicated in ALS pathology (63% neuroinflammation, 50% neurodegeneration, and 89% neuroprotection). Biomarker changes with debamestrocel show biological activity in trial participants, including those with advanced ALS. CSF biomarkers were predictive of clinical outcomes in debamestrocel-treated participants (baseline NfL, baseline latency-associated peptide/transforming growth factor beta1 [LAP/TGFβ1], change galectin-1, all p < .01), with baseline NfL and LAP/TGFβ1 remaining (p < .05) when disease characteristics (p < .005) were incorporated. Change from baseline to the last measurement showed debamestrocel-driven reductions in NfL were associated with less decline in ALSFRS-R. Debamestrocel significantly reduced NfL from baseline compared with placebo (11% vs. 1.6%, p = .037). DISCUSSION Following debamestrocel treatment, many biomarkers showed increases (anti-inflammatory/neuroprotective) or decreases (inflammatory/neurodegenerative) suggesting a possible treatment effect. Neuroinflammatory and neuroprotective biomarkers were predictive of clinical response, suggesting a potential multimodal mechanism of action. These results offer preliminary insights that need to be confirmed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Namita A Goyal
- UCI Health ALS & Neuromuscular Center, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Jonathan Katz
- Sutter Pacific Medical Foundation, California Pacific Medical Center, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Matthew Burford
- Department of Neurology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jenny Li
- Brainstorm Cell Therapeutics, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Bruno Boulanger
- Department of Statistics and Data Science, PharmaLex, Mont-Saint-Guibert, Belgium
| | - James D Berry
- Healey & AMG Center, Mass General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Katharine Nicholson
- Healey & AMG Center, Mass General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tahseen Mozaffar
- UCI Health ALS & Neuromuscular Center, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Robert Miller
- Sutter Pacific Medical Foundation, California Pacific Medical Center, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Liberty Jenkins
- Sutter Pacific Medical Foundation, California Pacific Medical Center, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Robert H Baloh
- Department of Neurology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Richard Lewis
- Department of Neurology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Nathan P Staff
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Margaret Ayo Owegi
- Neurology Department, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Bob Dagher
- Brainstorm Cell Therapeutics, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Yossef S Levy
- Manufacturing, Brainstorm Cell Therapeutics, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ralph Kern
- Brainstorm Cell Therapeutics, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Anthony J Windebank
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Robert Bowser
- Department of Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | - Robert H Brown
- Neurology Department, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Merit E Cudkowicz
- Healey & AMG Center, Mass General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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10
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Zhang W, Zhao X, Bhuiyan P, Liu H, Wei H. Neuroprotective effects of dantrolene in neurodegenerative disease: Role of inhibition of pathological inflammation. JOURNAL OF ANESTHESIA AND TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2024; 3:27-35. [PMID: 38826587 PMCID: PMC11138240 DOI: 10.1016/j.jatmed.2024.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) refer to a group of diseases in which slow, continuous cell death is the main pathogenic event in the nervous system. Most NDs are characterized by cognitive dysfunction or progressive motor dysfunction. Treatments of NDs mainly target alleviating symptoms, and most NDs do not have disease-modifying drugs. The pathogenesis of NDs involves inflammation and apoptosis mediated by mitochondrial dysfunction. Dantrolene, approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, acts as a RyRs antagonist for the treatment of malignant hyperthermia, spasticity, neuroleptic syndrome, ecstasy intoxication and exertional heat stroke with tolerable side effects. Recently, dantrolene has also shown therapeutic effects in some NDs. Its neuroprotective mechanisms include the reduction of excitotoxicity, apoptosis and neuroinflammation. In summary, dantrolene can be considered as a potential therapeutic candidate for NDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjia Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, China
| | - Xu Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, China
| | - Piplu Bhuiyan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Henry Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Huafeng Wei
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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11
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Sobieraj J, Strzelecka K, Sobczak M, Oledzka E. How Biodegradable Polymers Can be Effective Drug Delivery Systems for Cannabinoids? Prospectives and Challenges. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:4607-4649. [PMID: 38799700 PMCID: PMC11128233 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s458907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids are compounds found in and derived from the Cannabis plants that have become increasingly recognised as significant modulating factors of physiological mechanisms and inflammatory reactions of the organism, thus inevitably affecting maintenance of homeostasis. Medical Cannabis popularity has surged since its legal regulation growing around the world. Numerous promising discoveries bring more data on cannabinoids' pharmacological characteristics and therapeutic applications. Given the current surge in interest in the medical use of cannabinoids, there is an urgent need for an effective method of their administration. Surpassing low bioavailability, low water solubility, and instability became an important milestone in the advancement of cannabinoids in pharmaceutical applications. The numerous uses of cannabinoids in clinical practice remain restricted by limited administration alternatives, but there is hope when biodegradable polymers are taken into account. The primary objective of this review is to highlight the wide range of indications for which cannabinoids may be used, as well as the polymeric carriers that enhance their effectiveness. The current review described a wide range of therapeutic applications of cannabinoids, including pain management, neurological and sleep disorders, anxiety, and cancer treatment. The use of these compounds was further examined in the area of dermatology and cosmetology. Finally, with the use of biodegradable polymer-based drug delivery systems (DDSs), it was demonstrated that cannabinoids can be delivered specifically to the intended site while also improving the drug's physicochemical properties, emphasizing their utility. Nevertheless, additional clinical trials on novel cannabinoids' formulations are required, as their full spectrum therapeutical potential is yet to be unravelled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Sobieraj
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, 02-097, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Strzelecka
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, 02-097, Poland
| | - Marcin Sobczak
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, 02-097, Poland
| | - Ewa Oledzka
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, 02-097, Poland
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12
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Pandya VA, Patani R. The role of glial cells in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 176:381-450. [PMID: 38802179 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2024.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) has traditionally been considered a neuron-centric disease. This view is now outdated, with increasing recognition of cell autonomous and non-cell autonomous contributions of central and peripheral nervous system glia to ALS pathomechanisms. With glial research rapidly accelerating, we comprehensively interrogate the roles of astrocytes, microglia, oligodendrocytes, ependymal cells, Schwann cells and satellite glia in nervous system physiology and ALS-associated pathology. Moreover, we highlight the inter-glial, glial-neuronal and inter-system polylogue which constitutes the healthy nervous system and destabilises in disease. We also propose classification based on function for complex glial reactive phenotypes and discuss the pre-requisite for integrative modelling to advance translation. Given the paucity of life-enhancing therapies currently available for ALS patients, we discuss the promising potential of harnessing glia in driving ALS therapeutic discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virenkumar A Pandya
- University College London Medical School, London, United Kingdom; The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Rickie Patani
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom; Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, University College London Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, United Kingdom.
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13
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Genge A, Wainwright S, Vande Velde C. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: exploring pathophysiology in the context of treatment. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2024; 25:225-236. [PMID: 38001557 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2023.2278503] [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: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a complex, neurodegenerative disorder in which alterations in structural, physiological, and metabolic parameters act synergistically. Over the last decade there has been a considerable focus on developing drugs to slow the progression of the disease. Despite this, only four disease-modifying therapies are approved in North America. Although additional research is required for a thorough understanding of ALS, we have accumulated a large amount of knowledge that could be better integrated into future clinical trials to accelerate drug development and provide patients with improved treatment options. It is likely that future, successful ALS treatments will take a multi-pronged therapeutic approach, targeting different pathways, akin to personalized medicine in oncology. In this review, we discuss the link between ALS pathophysiology and treatments, looking at the therapeutic failures as learning opportunities that can help us refine and optimize drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Genge
- Clinical Research Unit Director, ALS Clinic, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Steven Wainwright
- Amylyx Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, and
| | - Christine Vande Velde
- CHUM Research Center, Department of Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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14
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Lopes CS, Pronto-Laborinho AC, Conceição VA, Freitas T, Matias GL, Gromicho M, Santos NC, de Carvalho M, Carvalho FA. Erythrocytes' surface properties and stiffness predict survival and functional decline in ALS patients. Biofactors 2024; 50:558-571. [PMID: 38149762 DOI: 10.1002/biof.2030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Erythrocytes play a fundamental role in oxygen delivery to tissues and binding to inflammatory mediators. Evidences suggest that dysregulated erythrocyte function could contribute to the pathophysiology of several neurodegenerative diseases. We aimed to evaluate changes in morphological, biomechanical, and biophysical properties of erythrocytes from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients, as new areas of study in this disease. Blood samples were collected from ALS patients, comparing with healthy volunteers. Erythrocytes were assessed using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and zeta potential analysis. The patients' motor and respiratory functions were evaluated using the revised ALS Functional Rating Scale (ALSFRS-R) and percentage of forced vital capacity (%FVC). Patient survival was also assessed. Erythrocyte surface roughness was significantly smoother in ALS patients, and this parameter was a predictor of faster decline in ALSFRS-R scores. ALS patients exhibited higher erythrocyte stiffness, as indicated by reduced AFM tip penetration depth, which predicted a faster ALSFRS-R score and respiratory subscore decay. A lower negative charge on the erythrocyte membrane was predictor of a faster ALSFRS-R and FVC decline. Additionally, a larger erythrocyte surface area was an independent predictor of lower survival. These changes in morphological and biophysical membrane properties of ALS patients' erythrocytes, lead to increased cell stiffness and morphological variations. We speculate that these changes might precipitate motoneurons dysfunction and accelerate disease progression. Further studies should explore the molecular alterations related to these observations. Our findings may contribute to dissect the complex interplay between respiratory function, tissue hypoxia, progression rate, and survival in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina S Lopes
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - Vasco A Conceição
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Teresa Freitas
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Gonçalo L Matias
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Marta Gromicho
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Nuno C Santos
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Mamede de Carvalho
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte (CHULN), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Filomena A Carvalho
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
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15
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Gao Y, Lu Y, Liang X, Zhao M, Yu X, Fu H, Yang W. CD4 + T-Cell Senescence in Neurodegenerative Disease: Pathogenesis and Potential Therapeutic Targets. Cells 2024; 13:749. [PMID: 38727285 PMCID: PMC11083511 DOI: 10.3390/cells13090749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
With the increasing proportion of the aging population, neurodegenerative diseases have become one of the major health issues in society. Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), including multiple sclerosis (MS), Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), are characterized by progressive neurodegeneration associated with aging, leading to a gradual decline in cognitive, emotional, and motor functions in patients. The process of aging is a normal physiological process in human life and is accompanied by the aging of the immune system, which is known as immunosenescence. T-cells are an important part of the immune system, and their senescence is the main feature of immunosenescence. The appearance of senescent T-cells has been shown to potentially lead to chronic inflammation and tissue damage, with some studies indicating a direct link between T-cell senescence, inflammation, and neuronal damage. The role of these subsets with different functions in NDs is still under debate. A growing body of evidence suggests that in people with a ND, there is a prevalence of CD4+ T-cell subsets exhibiting characteristics that are linked to senescence. This underscores the significance of CD4+ T-cells in NDs. In this review, we summarize the classification and function of CD4+ T-cell subpopulations, the characteristics of CD4+ T-cell senescence, the potential roles of these cells in animal models and human studies of NDs, and therapeutic strategies targeting CD4+ T-cell senescence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Wei Yang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; (Y.G.); (Y.L.); (X.L.); (M.Z.); (X.Y.); (H.F.)
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16
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Xu CZ, Huan X, Luo SS, Zhong HH, Zhao CB, Chen Y, Zou ZY, Chen S. Serum cytokines profile changes in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28553. [PMID: 38596011 PMCID: PMC11002056 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28553] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder, characterized by progressive limb weakness, dysphagia, dysphonia, and respiratory failure due to degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons. The pathogenesis of ALS is still unclear. Neuroinflammation has been found to be involved in its development and progression. Cytokines play a significant role in the inflammatory process. This study aims to identify novel biomarkers that may assist in the diagnosis of ALS. Methods In Fujian Medical University Union Hospital and Huashan Hospital Fudan University, two independent centers, we prospectively recruited 50 ALS patients, and 41 healthy controls (25 ALS and 26 controls in the first stage and 25 ALS and 15 controls in the validation stage). An 18-plex Luminex kit was used to screen the serum cytokines levels in the first stage. Commercial ELISA kits were used to measure the levels of target cytokines in the validation stage. A single-molecule array HD-X platform was applied to assess the levels of serum neurofilament light chain (NFL). Results The levels of serum IL-18 were markedly increased in patients with ALS in the first stage (p = 0.016). The ROC curve showed an area under the curve at 0.695 (95% CI 0.50-0.84) in distinguishing ALS patients from healthy controls. The IL-21 was decreased in elderly patients when grouped by 55 years old (the medium age). Furthermore, the IL-5, IL-13, IL-18, and NFL had a positive relationship with the disease progression of ALS. We also found that serum IL-18 was markedly increased in ALS patients in the validation stage (167.67 [148.25-175.59] vs 116.44 [102.43-122.19]pg/ml, p < 0.0015). Conclusion In this study, we identified systemic cytokine profile changes in the serum of ALS patients, especially the elevated IL-18, as well as the decreased IL-21 in elder patients. These changes in serum cytokine profiles may shed new light on an in-depth understanding of the immunopathogenic characteristics of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Zuan Xu
- Department of Neurology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
- Institute of Clinical Neurology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiao Huan
- Department of Neurology, Fudan University Huashan Hospital, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, China
| | - Su-Shan Luo
- Department of Neurology, Fudan University Huashan Hospital, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, China
| | - Hua-Hua Zhong
- Department of Neurology, Fudan University Huashan Hospital, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, China
| | - Chong-Bo Zhao
- Department of Neurology, Fudan University Huashan Hospital, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of Neurology, Fudan University Huashan Hospital, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhang-Yu Zou
- Department of Neurology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
- Institute of Clinical Neurology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Sheng Chen
- Department of Neurology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
- Institute of Clinical Neurology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
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17
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Lowry ER, Patel T, Costa JA, Chang E, Tariq S, Melikyan H, Davis IM, Aziz S, Dermentzaki G, Lotti F, Wichterle H. Embryonic motor neuron programming factors reactivate immature gene expression and suppress ALS pathologies in postnatal motor neurons. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.03.587963. [PMID: 38617322 PMCID: PMC11014605 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.03.587963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Aging is a major risk factor in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other adult-onset neurodegenerative disorders. Whereas young neurons are capable of buffering disease-causing stresses, mature neurons lose this ability and degenerate over time. We hypothesized that the resilience of young motor neurons could be restored by re-expression of the embryonic motor neuron selector transcription factors ISL1 and LHX3. We found that viral re-expression of ISL1 and LHX3 reactivates aspects of the youthful gene expression program in mature motor neurons and alleviates key disease-relevant phenotypes in the SOD1G93A mouse model of ALS. Our results suggest that redeployment of lineage-specific neuronal selector transcription factors can be an effective strategy to attenuate age-dependent phenotypes in neurodegenerative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily R. Lowry
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center; New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Tulsi Patel
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center; New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Jonathon A. Costa
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center; New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Elizabeth Chang
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center; New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center; New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Shahroz Tariq
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center; New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Hranush Melikyan
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center; New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center; New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Ian M. Davis
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center; New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Siaresh Aziz
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center; New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Georgia Dermentzaki
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center; New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Francesco Lotti
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center; New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Hynek Wichterle
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center; New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center; New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Columbia University Irving Medical Center; New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Department of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center; New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Center for Motor Neuron Biology and Disease, Columbia University Irving Medical Center; New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Columbia Stem Cell Initiative, Columbia University Irving Medical Center; New York, NY, 10032, USA
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18
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Cohen J, Mathew A, Dourvetakis KD, Sanchez-Guerrero E, Pangeni RP, Gurusamy N, Aenlle KK, Ravindran G, Twahir A, Isler D, Sosa-Garcia SR, Llizo A, Bested AC, Theoharides TC, Klimas NG, Kempuraj D. Recent Research Trends in Neuroinflammatory and Neurodegenerative Disorders. Cells 2024; 13:511. [PMID: 38534355 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060511] [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: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), traumatic brain injury (TBI) and Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are chronic major health disorders. The exact mechanism of the neuroimmune dysfunctions of these disease pathogeneses is currently not clearly understood. These disorders show dysregulated neuroimmune and inflammatory responses, including activation of neurons, glial cells, and neurovascular unit damage associated with excessive release of proinflammatory cytokines, chemokines, neurotoxic mediators, and infiltration of peripheral immune cells into the brain, as well as entry of inflammatory mediators through damaged neurovascular endothelial cells, blood-brain barrier and tight junction proteins. Activation of glial cells and immune cells leads to the release of many inflammatory and neurotoxic molecules that cause neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. Gulf War Illness (GWI) and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) are chronic disorders that are also associated with neuroimmune dysfunctions. Currently, there are no effective disease-modifying therapeutic options available for these diseases. Human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neurons, astrocytes, microglia, endothelial cells and pericytes are currently used for many disease models for drug discovery. This review highlights certain recent trends in neuroinflammatory responses and iPSC-derived brain cell applications in neuroinflammatory disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Cohen
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Annette Mathew
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Kirk D Dourvetakis
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Estella Sanchez-Guerrero
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Rajendra P Pangeni
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Narasimman Gurusamy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Barry and Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Kristina K Aenlle
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
- Miami VA Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), Miami Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Miami, FL 33125, USA
| | - Geeta Ravindran
- Cell Therapy Institute, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Allopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Assma Twahir
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Dylan Isler
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Sara Rukmini Sosa-Garcia
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Axel Llizo
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Alison C Bested
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Theoharis C Theoharides
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunopharmacology and Drug Discovery, Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Nancy G Klimas
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
- Miami VA Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), Miami Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Miami, FL 33125, USA
| | - Duraisamy Kempuraj
- Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
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19
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Amartumur S, Nguyen H, Huynh T, Kim TS, Woo RS, Oh E, Kim KK, Lee LP, Heo C. Neuropathogenesis-on-chips for neurodegenerative diseases. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2219. [PMID: 38472255 PMCID: PMC10933492 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46554-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Developing diagnostics and treatments for neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) is challenging due to multifactorial pathogenesis that progresses gradually. Advanced in vitro systems that recapitulate patient-like pathophysiology are emerging as alternatives to conventional animal-based models. In this review, we explore the interconnected pathogenic features of different types of ND, discuss the general strategy to modelling NDs using a microfluidic chip, and introduce the organoid-on-a-chip as the next advanced relevant model. Lastly, we overview how these models are being applied in academic and industrial drug development. The integration of microfluidic chips, stem cells, and biotechnological devices promises to provide valuable insights for biomedical research and developing diagnostic and therapeutic solutions for NDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarnai Amartumur
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Huong Nguyen
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Thuy Huynh
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Testaverde S Kim
- Center for Integrated Nanostructure Physics (CINAP), Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Ran-Sook Woo
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Eulji University, Daejeon, 34824, Korea
| | - Eungseok Oh
- Department of Neurology, Chungnam National University Hospital, Daejeon, 35015, Korea
| | - Kyeong Kyu Kim
- Department of Precision Medicine, Graduate School of Basic Medical Science (GSBMS), Institute for Anti-microbial Resistance Research and Therapeutics, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Luke P Lee
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea.
- Harvard Medical School, Division of Engineering in Medicine and Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Department of Bioengineering, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA.
| | - Chaejeong Heo
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea.
- Center for Integrated Nanostructure Physics (CINAP), Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Suwon, 16419, Korea.
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20
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Jagaraj CJ, Shadfar S, Kashani SA, Saravanabavan S, Farzana F, Atkin JD. Molecular hallmarks of ageing in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:111. [PMID: 38430277 PMCID: PMC10908642 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05164-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal, severely debilitating and rapidly progressing disorder affecting motor neurons in the brain, brainstem, and spinal cord. Unfortunately, there are few effective treatments, thus there remains a critical need to find novel interventions that can mitigate against its effects. Whilst the aetiology of ALS remains unclear, ageing is the major risk factor. Ageing is a slowly progressive process marked by functional decline of an organism over its lifespan. However, it remains unclear how ageing promotes the risk of ALS. At the molecular and cellular level there are specific hallmarks characteristic of normal ageing. These hallmarks are highly inter-related and overlap significantly with each other. Moreover, whilst ageing is a normal process, there are striking similarities at the molecular level between these factors and neurodegeneration in ALS. Nine ageing hallmarks were originally proposed: genomic instability, loss of telomeres, senescence, epigenetic modifications, dysregulated nutrient sensing, loss of proteostasis, mitochondrial dysfunction, stem cell exhaustion, and altered inter-cellular communication. However, these were recently (2023) expanded to include dysregulation of autophagy, inflammation and dysbiosis. Hence, given the latest updates to these hallmarks, and their close association to disease processes in ALS, a new examination of their relationship to pathophysiology is warranted. In this review, we describe possible mechanisms by which normal ageing impacts on neurodegenerative mechanisms implicated in ALS, and new therapeutic interventions that may arise from this.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cyril Jones Jagaraj
- MND Research Centre, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, 75 Talavera Road, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Sina Shadfar
- MND Research Centre, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, 75 Talavera Road, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Sara Assar Kashani
- MND Research Centre, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, 75 Talavera Road, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Sayanthooran Saravanabavan
- MND Research Centre, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, 75 Talavera Road, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Fabiha Farzana
- MND Research Centre, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, 75 Talavera Road, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia
| | - Julie D Atkin
- MND Research Centre, Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, 75 Talavera Road, Sydney, NSW, 2109, Australia.
- La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia.
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21
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Sun Z, Zhang B, Peng Y. Development of novel treatments for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Metab Brain Dis 2024; 39:467-482. [PMID: 38078970 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-023-01334-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease that causes paralysis whose etiology and pathogenesis have not been fully elucidated. Presently it is incurable and rapidly progressive with a survival of 2-5 years from onset, and no treatments could cure it. Therefore, it is urgent to identify which therapeutic target(s) are more promising to develop treatments that could effectively treat ALS. So far, more than 90 novel treatments for ALS patients have been registered on ClinicalTrials.gov, of which 23 are in clinical trials, 12 have been terminated and the rest suspended. This review will systematically summarize the possible targets of these novel treatments under development or failing based on published literature and information released by sponsors, so as to provide basis and support for subsequent drug research and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
- Department of Pharmacy, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100730, China.
| | - Ying Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China.
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22
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Scarian E, Viola C, Dragoni F, Di Gerlando R, Rizzo B, Diamanti L, Gagliardi S, Bordoni M, Pansarasa O. New Insights into Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Response in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2698. [PMID: 38473944 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress (OS) and inflammation are two important and well-studied pathological hallmarks of neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs). Due to elevated oxygen consumption, the high presence of easily oxidizable polyunsaturated fatty acids and the weak antioxidant defenses, the brain is particularly vulnerable to oxidative injury. Uncertainty exists over whether these deficits contribute to the development of NDDs or are solely a consequence of neuronal degeneration. Furthermore, these two pathological hallmarks are linked, and it is known that OS can affect the inflammatory response. In this review, we will overview the last findings about these two pathways in the principal NDDs. Moreover, we will focus more in depth on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) to understand how anti-inflammatory and antioxidants drugs have been used for the treatment of this still incurable motor neuron (MN) disease. Finally, we will analyze the principal past and actual clinical trials and the future perspectives in the study of these two pathological mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eveljn Scarian
- Cellular Models and Neuroepigenetics Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Camilla Viola
- Cellular Models and Neuroepigenetics Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Via Agostino Bassi 21, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Francesca Dragoni
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "L. Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Via Adolfo Ferrata, 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Molecular Biology and Transcriptomics Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Rosalinda Di Gerlando
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "L. Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Via Adolfo Ferrata, 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Molecular Biology and Transcriptomics Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Bartolo Rizzo
- Molecular Biology and Transcriptomics Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Luca Diamanti
- Neuroncology Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Stella Gagliardi
- Molecular Biology and Transcriptomics Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Matteo Bordoni
- Cellular Models and Neuroepigenetics Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Orietta Pansarasa
- Cellular Models and Neuroepigenetics Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Via Mondino 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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23
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Mohan S, Alhazmi HA, Hassani R, Khuwaja G, Maheshkumar VP, Aldahish A, Chidambaram K. Role of ferroptosis pathways in neuroinflammation and neurological disorders: From pathogenesis to treatment. Heliyon 2024; 10:e24786. [PMID: 38314277 PMCID: PMC10837572 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24786] [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: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis is a newly discovered non-apoptotic and iron-dependent type of cell death. Ferroptosis mainly takes place owing to the imbalance of anti-oxidation and oxidation in the body. It is regulated via a number of factors and pathways both inside and outside the cell. Ferroptosis is closely linked with brain and various neurological disorders (NDs). In the human body, the brain contains the highest levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are known as lipid peroxide precursors. In addition, there is also a connection of glutathione depletion and lipid peroxidation with NDs. There is growing evidence regarding the possible link between neuroinflammation and multiple NDs, such as Alzheimer's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and stroke. Recent studies have demonstrated that disruptions of lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutamate excitatory toxicity, iron homeostasis, and various other manifestations linked with ferroptosis can be identified in various neuroinflammation-mediated NDs. It has also been reported that damage-associated molecular pattern molecules including ROS are generated during the events of ferroptosis and can cause glial activation via activating neuroimmune pathways, which subsequently leads to the generation of various inflammatory factors that play a role in various NDs. This review summarizes the regulation pathways of ferroptosis, the link between ferroptosis as well as inflammation in NDs, and the potential of a range of therapeutic agents that can be used to target ferroptosis and inflammation in the treatment of neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syam Mohan
- Substance Abuse and Toxicology Research Centre, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
- Center for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, India
- School of Health Sciences, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Hassan A Alhazmi
- Substance Abuse and Toxicology Research Centre, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rym Hassani
- Department of Mathematics, University College AlDarb, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Gulrana Khuwaja
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - V P Maheshkumar
- Department of Pharmacy, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar 608002, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Afaf Aldahish
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kumarappan Chidambaram
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia
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24
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Berthiaume AA, Reda SM, Kleist KN, Setti SE, Wu W, Johnston JL, Taylor RW, Stein LR, Moebius HJ, Church KJ. ATH-1105, a small-molecule positive modulator of the neurotrophic HGF system, is neuroprotective, preserves neuromotor function, and extends survival in preclinical models of ALS. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1348157. [PMID: 38389786 PMCID: PMC10881713 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1348157] [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: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive and fatal neurodegenerative disorder, primarily affects the motor neurons of the brain and spinal cord. Like other neurodegenerative conditions, ongoing pathological processes such as increased inflammation, excitotoxicity, and protein accumulation contribute to neuronal death. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) signaling through the MET receptor promotes pro-survival, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory effects in multiple cell types, including the neurons and support cells of the nervous system. This pleiotropic system is therefore a potential therapeutic target for treatment of neurodegenerative disorders such as ALS. Here, we test the effects of ATH-1105, a small-molecule positive modulator of the HGF signaling system, in preclinical models of ALS. Methods In vitro, the impact of ATH-1105 on HGF-mediated signaling was assessed via phosphorylation assays for MET, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and protein kinase B (AKT). Neuroprotective effects of ATH-1105 were evaluated in rat primary neuron models including spinal motor neurons, motor neuron-astrocyte cocultures, and motor neuron-human muscle cocultures. The anti-inflammatory effects of ATH-1105 were evaluated in microglia- and macrophage-like cell systems exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In vivo, the impact of daily oral treatment with ATH-1105 was evaluated in Prp-TDP43A315T hemizygous transgenic ALS mice. Results In vitro, ATH-1105 augmented phosphorylation of MET, ERK, and AKT. ATH-1105 attenuated glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity in primary motor neurons and motor neuron- astrocyte cocultures, and had protective effects on motor neurons and neuromuscular junctions in motor neuron-muscle cocultures. ATH-1105 mitigated LPS-induced inflammation in microglia- and macrophage-like cell systems. In vivo, ATH-1105 treatment resulted in improved motor and nerve function, sciatic nerve axon and myelin integrity, and survival in ALS mice. Treatment with ATH-1105 also led to reductions in levels of plasma biomarkers of inflammation and neurodegeneration, along with decreased pathological protein accumulation (phospho-TDP-43) in the sciatic nerve. Additionally, both early intervention (treatment initiation at 1 month of age) and delayed intervention (treatment initiation at 2 months of age) with ATH-1105 produced benefits in this preclinical model of ALS. Discussion The consistent neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects demonstrated by ATH-1105 preclinically provide a compelling rationale for therapeutic interventions that leverage the positive modulation of the HGF pathway as a treatment for ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Wei Wu
- Athira Pharma, Inc., Bothell, WA, United States
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25
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Jhooty S, Barkhaus P, Brown A, Mascias Cadavid J, Carter GT, Crayle J, Heiman-Patterson T, Li X, Mallon E, Mcdermott C, Mushannen T, Pattee G, Ratner D, Wicks P, Wiedau M, Bedlack R. ALSUntangled #74: Withania Somnifera (Ashwagandha). Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2024:1-4. [PMID: 38318860 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2024.2311721] [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: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
ALSUntangled reviews alternative and off-label treatments on behalf of people with ALS (PALS) who ask about them. Here, we review withania somnifera (WS) commonly known as ashwagandha or winter cherry. WS has plausible mechanisms for slowing ALS progression because of its effects on inflammation, oxidative stress, autophagy, mitochondrial function, and apoptosis. Preclinical trials demonstrate that WS slows disease progression in multiple different animal models of ALS. Of the five individuals we found who described using WS for their ALS, two individuals reported moderate benefit while none reported experiencing any significant side effects. There is currently one clinical trial using WS to treat PALS; the results are not yet published. There are no serious side effects associated with WS and the associated cost of this treatment is low. Based on the above information, WS appears to us to be a good candidate for future ALS trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sartaj Jhooty
- Department of Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Paul Barkhaus
- Department of Neurology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Andrew Brown
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | | | - Gregory T Carter
- Department of Rehabilitation, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, WA, USA
| | - Jesse Crayle
- Department of Neurology, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Xiaoyan Li
- Department of Neurology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | | | | | - Gary Pattee
- Department of Neurology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | | | - Paul Wicks
- Independent Consultant, Lichfield, UK, and
| | - Martina Wiedau
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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26
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Dadkhah M, Baziar M, Rezaei N. The regulatory role of BDNF in neuroimmune axis function and neuroinflammation induced by chronic stress: A new therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative disorders. Cytokine 2024; 174:156477. [PMID: 38147741 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2023.156477] [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: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders account for a high proportion of neurological diseases that significantly threaten public health worldwide. Various factors are involved in the pathophysiology of such diseases which can lead to neurodegeneration and neural damage. Furthermore, neuroinflammation is a well-known factor in predisposing factors of neurological and especially neurodegenerative disorders which can be strongly suppressed by "anti-inflammatory" actions of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Stress has has also been identified as a risk factor in developing neurodegenerative disorders potentially leading to increased neuroinflammation in the brain and progressive loss in neuronal structures and impaired functions in the CNS. Recently, more studies have increasingly been focused on the role of neuroimmune system in regulating the neurobiology of stress. Emerging evidence indicate that exposure to chronic stress might alter the susceptibility to neurodegeneration via influencing the microglia function. Microglia is considered as the first responding group of cells in suppressing neuroinflammation, leading to an increased inflammatory cytokine signaling that promote the synaptic plasticity deficiencies, impairment in neurogenesis, and development of neurodegenerative disorders. In this review we discuss how exposure to chronic stress might alter the neuroimmune response potentially leading to progress of neurodegenerative disorders. We also emphasize on the role of BDNF in regulating the neuroimmune axis function and microglia modulation in neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoomeh Dadkhah
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran.
| | - Milad Baziar
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1419733151, Iran; Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
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27
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Moreno-Martinez L, Macías-Redondo S, Strunk M, Guillén-Antonini MI, Lunetta C, Tarlarini C, Penco S, Calvo AC, Osta R, Schoorlemmer J. New Insights into Endogenous Retrovirus-K Transcripts in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1549. [PMID: 38338823 PMCID: PMC10855536 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Retroviral reverse transcriptase activity and the increased expression of human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) are associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). We were interested in confirming HERVK overexpression in the ALS brain, its use as an accessory diagnostic marker for ALS, and its potential interplay with neuroinflammation. Using qPCR to analyze HERVK expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and in postmortem brain samples from ALS patients, no significant differences were observed between patients and control subjects. By contrast, we report alterations in the expression patterns of specific HERVK copies, especially in the brainstem. Out of 27 HERVK copies sampled, the relative expression of 17 loci was >1.2-fold changed in samples from ALS patients. In particular, the relative expression of two HERVK copies (Chr3-3 and Chr3-5) was significantly different in brainstem samples from ALS patients compared with controls. Further qPCR analysis of inflammation markers in brain samples revealed a significant increase in NLRP3 levels, while TNFA, IL6, and GZMB showed slight decreases. We cannot confirm global HERVK overexpression in ALS, but we can report the ALS-specific overexpression of selected HERVK copies in the ALS brain. Our data are compatible with the requirement for better patient stratification and support the potential importance of particular HERVK copies in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Moreno-Martinez
- Laboratory of Genetics and Biochemistry (LAGENBIO), Faculty of Veterinary, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain; (L.M.-M.); (R.O.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBER-CIBERNED-ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón (IA2), University of Zaragoza-CITA, C/Miguel, Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Sofía Macías-Redondo
- Instituto Aragonés de Ciencias de la Salud (IACS), Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Aragón (CIBA), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (S.M.-R.)
| | - Mark Strunk
- Instituto Aragonés de Ciencias de la Salud (IACS), Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Aragón (CIBA), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (S.M.-R.)
| | | | - Christian Lunetta
- NEMO (NEuroMuscular Omnicentre) Clinical Center, Fondazione Serena Onlus, 20162 Milan, Italy
- Neurorehabilitation Department of Milano Institute, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, 20138 Milan, Italy
- Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Laboratory Medicine, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, 20162 Milan, Italy; (C.T.)
| | - Claudia Tarlarini
- Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Laboratory Medicine, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, 20162 Milan, Italy; (C.T.)
| | - Silvana Penco
- Medical Genetics Unit, Department of Laboratory Medicine, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, 20162 Milan, Italy; (C.T.)
| | - Ana Cristina Calvo
- Laboratory of Genetics and Biochemistry (LAGENBIO), Faculty of Veterinary, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain; (L.M.-M.); (R.O.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBER-CIBERNED-ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón (IA2), University of Zaragoza-CITA, C/Miguel, Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Rosario Osta
- Laboratory of Genetics and Biochemistry (LAGENBIO), Faculty of Veterinary, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain; (L.M.-M.); (R.O.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBER-CIBERNED-ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón (IA2), University of Zaragoza-CITA, C/Miguel, Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Jon Schoorlemmer
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto Aragonés de Ciencias de la Salud (IACS), Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Aragón (CIBA), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (S.M.-R.)
- ARAID Foundation, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
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Monov D, Molodozhnikova N. Biochemical parameters as a tool to assess the nutritional status of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Front Neurol 2024; 14:1258224. [PMID: 38313408 PMCID: PMC10836144 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1258224] [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: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The research aimed to analyze blood biochemical parameters in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and to determine whether they can be used to assess their nutritional status. Methods The study included 45 patients diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS): 28 (62.2%) were men and 17 (37.8%) were women. The mean age of the study participants was 50.69 ± 7.24 years. The control group consisted of 30 practically healthy individuals. Results Compared with practically healthy individuals, patients with ALS had significantly lower blood parameters, including total lymphocyte count (1.49 ± 0.11 vs. 2.86 ± 0.25, p < 0.05), total protein (60.55 ± 2.38 vs. 77.80 ± 4.41, p < 0.05), albumin (33.70 ± 2.03 vs. 46.49 ± 3.22, p < 0.05), urea (3.09 ± 0.36 vs. 5.37 ± 0.50, p < 0.05), creatinine (51.28 ± 4.42 vs. 70.91 ± 5.13, p < 0.05), and transferrin (1.84 ± 0.12 vs. 2.32 ± 0.10, p < 0.05). These parameters correspond to first-degree malnutrition. There were direct correlations between anthropometric and biochemical parameters in the ALS group. BMI correlated with the blood levels of total protein (r = 0.22, p < 0.05), albumin (r = 0.27, p < 0.05), urea (r = 0.33, p < 0.05), creatinine (r = 0.30, p < 0.05), transferrin (r = 0.18, p < 0.05), and total lymphocyte count (r = 0.20, p < 0.05). PNI correlated with the blood levels of total protein (r = 0.53, p < 0.05), albumin (r = 0.87, p < 0.05), total cholesterol (r = 0.34, p < 0.05), transferrin (r = 0.40, p < 0.05), total lymphocyte count (r = 0.79, p < 0.05), urea (r = 0, 37, p < 0.05), and creatinine (r = 0.32, p < 0.05). Conclusion The study presents compelling evidence supporting the utilization of biochemical parameters, including total protein, albumin, urea, creatinine, transferrin, and total lymphocyte count, for potentially evaluating the nutritional status of individuals diagnosed with ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitar Monov
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Medical University of Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Natalia Molodozhnikova
- Department of Biology and General Genetics, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
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29
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Ai Y, Li F, Hou Y, Li X, Li W, Qin K, Suo X, Lei D, Shang H, Gong Q. Differential cortical gray matter changes in early- and late-onset patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Cereb Cortex 2024; 34:bhad426. [PMID: 38061694 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhad426] [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: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Age at onset may be an important feature associated with distinct subtypes of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Little is known about the neuropathological mechanism of early-onset ALS (EO-ALS) and late-onset ALS (LO-ALS). Ninety ALS patients were divided into EO-ALS and LO-ALS group, and 128 healthy controls were matched into young controls(YCs) and old controls (OCs). A voxel-based morphometry approach was employed to investigate differences in gray matter volume (GMV). Significant age at onset-by-diagnosis interactions were found in the left parietal operculum, left precentral gyrus, bilateral postcentral gyrus, right occipital gyrus, and right orbitofrontal cortex. Post hoc analysis revealed a significant decrease in GMV in all affected regions of EO-ALS patients compared with YCs, with increased GMV in 5 of the 6 brain regions, except for the right orbitofrontal cortex, in LO-ALS patients compared with OCs. LO-ALS patients had a significantly increased GMV than EO-ALS patients after removing the aging effect. Correspondingly, GMV of the left postcentral gyrus correlated with disease severity in the 2 ALS groups. Our findings suggested that the pathological mechanisms in ALS patients with different ages at onset might differ. These findings provide unique insight into the clinical and biological heterogeneity of the 2 ALS subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Ai
- Department of Radiology and Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
- Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Fei Li
- Department of Radiology and Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
- Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Yanbing Hou
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Xiuli Li
- Department of Radiology and Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
- Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Wenbin Li
- Department of Radiology and Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
- Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Kun Qin
- Department of Radiology and Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
- Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Xueling Suo
- Department of Radiology and Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
- Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Du Lei
- Department of Radiology and Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
- Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Huifang Shang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Qiyong Gong
- Department of Radiology and Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Alley, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
- Department of Radiology, West China Xiamen Hospital of Sichuan University, 699 Jinyuan Xi Road, Jimei District, Xiamen, Fujian 361021, China
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Zaccai S, Nemirovsky A, Lerner L, Alfahel L, Eremenko E, Israelson A, Monsonego A. CD4 T-cell aging exacerbates neuroinflammation in a late-onset mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:17. [PMID: 38212835 PMCID: PMC10782641 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-023-03007-1] [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: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an adult-onset progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of upper and lower motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. Accumulating evidence suggests that ALS is not solely a neuronal cell- or brain tissue-autonomous disease and that neuroinflammation plays a key role in disease progression. Furthermore, whereas both CD4 and CD8 T cells were observed in spinal cords of ALS patients and in mouse models of the disease, their role in the neuroinflammatory process, especially considering their functional changes with age, is not fully explored. In this study, we revealed the structure of the CD4 T-cell compartment during disease progression of early-onset SOD1G93A and late-onset SOD1G37R mouse models of ALS. We show age-related changes in the CD4 T-cell subset organization between these mutant SOD1 mouse models towards increased frequency of effector T cells in spleens of SOD1G37R mice and robust infiltration of CD4 T cells expressing activation markers and the checkpoint molecule PD1 into the spinal cord. The frequency of infiltrating CD4 T cells correlated with the frequency of infiltrating CD8 T cells which displayed a more exhausted phenotype. Moreover, RNA-Seq and immunohistochemistry analyses of spinal cords from SOD1G37R mice with early clinical symptoms demonstrated immunological trajectories reminiscent of a neurotoxic inflammatory response which involved proinflammatory T cells and antigen presentation related pathways. Overall, our findings suggest that age-related changes of the CD4 T cell landscape is indicative of a chronic inflammatory response, which aggravates the disease process and can be therapeutically targeted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shir Zaccai
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences and The School of Brain Sciences and Cognition, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Anna Nemirovsky
- The Shraga Segal Dept. of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences and The School of Brain Sciences and Cognition, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Livnat Lerner
- The Shraga Segal Dept. of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences and The School of Brain Sciences and Cognition, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Leenor Alfahel
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences and The School of Brain Sciences and Cognition, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Ekaterina Eremenko
- The Shraga Segal Dept. of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences and The School of Brain Sciences and Cognition, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Adrian Israelson
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences and The School of Brain Sciences and Cognition, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel.
| | - Alon Monsonego
- The Shraga Segal Dept. of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences and The School of Brain Sciences and Cognition, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, 84105, Beer Sheva, Israel.
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López-Blanch R, Salvador-Palmer R, Oriol-Caballo M, Moreno-Murciano P, Dellinger RW, Estrela JM, Obrador E. Nicotinamide riboside, pterostilbene and ibudilast protect motor neurons and extend survival in ALS mice. Neurotherapeutics 2024; 21:e00301. [PMID: 38241160 PMCID: PMC10903100 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurot.2023.10.011] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress and neuroinflammation are major contributors to the pathophysiology of ALS. Nicotinamide riboside (a NAD+ precursor) and pterostilbene (a natural antioxidant) were efficacious in a human pilot study of ALS patients and in ALS SOD1G93A transgenic mice. Ibudilast targets different phosphodiesterases and the macrophage migration inhibitory factor, reduces neuroinflammation, and in early-phase studies improved survival and slowed progression in ALS patients. Using two ALS murine models (SOD1G93A, FUSR521C) the effects of nicotinamide riboside, pterostilbene, and ibudilast on disease onset, progression and survival were studied. In both models ibudilast enhanced the effects of nicotinamide riboside and pterostilbene on survival and neuromotor functions. The triple combination reduced microgliosis and astrogliosis, and the levels of different proinflammatory cytokines in the CSF. TNFα, IFNγ and IL1β increased H2O2 and NO generation by motor neurons, astrocytes, microglia and endothelial cells isolated from ALS mice. Nicotinamide riboside and pterostilbene decreased H2O2 and NO generation in all these cells. Ibudilast specifically decreased TNFα levels and H2O2 generation by microglia and endothelial cells. Unexpectedly, pathophysiological concentrations of H2O2 or NO caused minimal motor neuron cytotoxicity. H2O2-induced cytotoxicity was increased by NO via a trace metal-dependent formation of potent oxidants (i.e. OH and -OONO radicals). In conclusion, our results show that the combination of nicotinamide riboside, pterostilbene and ibudilast improve neuromotor functions and survival in ALS murine models. Studies on the underlying mechanisms show that motor neuron protection involves the decrease of oxidative and nitrosative stress, the combination of which is highly damaging to motor neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael López-Blanch
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine & Odontology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; Scientia BioTech, 46002 Valencia, Spain
| | - Rosario Salvador-Palmer
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine & Odontology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - María Oriol-Caballo
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine & Odontology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; Scientia BioTech, 46002 Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | - José M Estrela
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine & Odontology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; Scientia BioTech, 46002 Valencia, Spain; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, 46100 Burjassot, Spain.
| | - Elena Obrador
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine & Odontology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; Scientia BioTech, 46002 Valencia, Spain.
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Chagas Monteiro KL, dos Santos Alcântara MG, de Aquino TM, Ferreira da Silva-Júnior E. Insights on Natural Products Against Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Curr Neuropharmacol 2024; 22:1169-1188. [PMID: 38708921 PMCID: PMC10964095 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x22666231016153606] [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: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that causes the death of motor neurons and consequent muscle paralysis. Despite many efforts to address it, current therapy targeting ALS remains limited, increasing the interest in complementary therapies. Over the years, several herbal preparations and medicinal plants have been studied to prevent and treat this disease, which has received remarkable attention due to their blood-brain barrier penetration properties and low toxicity. Thus, this review presents the therapeutic potential of a variety of medicinal herbs and their relationship with ALS and their physiopathological pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kadja Luana Chagas Monteiro
- Research Group on Therapeutic Strategies - GPET, Laboratory of Synthesis and Research in Medicinal Chemistry - LSPMED, Institute of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Federal University of Alagoas, 57072-970, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Marcone Gomes dos Santos Alcântara
- Research Group on Therapeutic Strategies - GPET, Laboratory of Synthesis and Research in Medicinal Chemistry - LSPMED, Institute of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Federal University of Alagoas, 57072-970, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Thiago Mendonça de Aquino
- Research Group on Therapeutic Strategies - GPET, Laboratory of Synthesis and Research in Medicinal Chemistry - LSPMED, Institute of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Federal University of Alagoas, 57072-970, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil
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Talebi S, Khodagholi F, Bahaeddin Z, Ansari Dezfouli M, Zeinaddini-Meymand A, Berchi Kankam S, Foolad F, Alijaniha F, Fayazi Piranghar F. Does hazelnut consumption affect brain health and function against neurodegenerative diseases? Nutr Neurosci 2023:1-17. [PMID: 38151890 DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2023.2296164] [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: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A healthy daily diet and consuming certain nutrients, such as polyphenols, vitamins, and unsaturated fatty acids, may help neuronal health maintenance. Polyphenolic chemicals, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, are involved in the neuroprotective pathway. Because of their nutritional value, nuts have been shown in recent research to be helpful in neuroprotection. OBJECTIVE Hazelnut is often consumed worldwide in various items, including processed foods, particularly in bakery, chocolate, and confectionery products. This nut is an excellent source of vitamins, amino acids, tocopherols, phytosterols, polyphenols, minerals, and unsaturated fatty acids. Consuming hazelnut may attenuate the risk of neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, and Huntington's disease due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant qualities. RESULTS Many documents introduce hazelnut as an excellent choice to provide neuroprotection against neurodegenerative disorders and there is some direct proof of its neuroprotective effects. DISCUSSION So hazelnut consumption in daily diet may reduce neurodegenerative disease risk and be advantageous in reducing the imposed costs of dealing with neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shadi Talebi
- Traditional Medicine Clinical Trial Research Center, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fariba Khodagholi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Bahaeddin
- Traditional Medicine Clinical Trial Research Center, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mitra Ansari Dezfouli
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | | | | | - Forough Foolad
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Department of Physiology, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Alijaniha
- Traditional Medicine Clinical Trial Research Center, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
- School of Persian Medicine, Department of Traditional Persian Medicine, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
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Xu Y, Gao W, Sun Y, Wu M. New insight on microglia activation in neurodegenerative diseases and therapeutics. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1308345. [PMID: 38188026 PMCID: PMC10770846 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1308345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Microglia are immune cells within the central nervous system (CNS) closely linked to brain health and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. In response to changes in the surrounding environment, microglia activate and change their state and function. Several factors, example for circadian rhythm disruption and the development of neurodegenerative diseases, influence microglia activation. In this review, we explore microglia's function and the associated neural mechanisms. We elucidate that circadian rhythms are essential factors influencing microglia activation and function. Circadian rhythm disruption affects microglia activation and, consequently, neurodegenerative diseases. In addition, we found that abnormal microglia activation is a common feature of neurodegenerative diseases and an essential factor of disease development. Here we highlight the importance of microglia activation in neurodegenerative diseases. Targeting microglia for neurodegenerative disease treatment is a promising direction. We introduce the progress of methods targeting microglia for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and summarize the progress of drugs developed with microglia as targets, hoping to provide new ideas for treating neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yucong Xu
- Hunan Cancer Hospital/The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of the Chinese Ministry of Health, The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Wei Gao
- Hunan Cancer Hospital/The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of the Chinese Ministry of Health, The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yingnan Sun
- Hunan Cancer Hospital/The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Minghua Wu
- Hunan Cancer Hospital/The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of the Chinese Ministry of Health, The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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Hu Z, Zuo C, Mao C, Shi C, Xu Y. Peripheral immune markers and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a Mendelian randomization study. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1269354. [PMID: 38188028 PMCID: PMC10768049 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1269354] [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: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The peripheral immune system changes in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), but the causal relationship between the two is still controversial. Methods In this study, we aimed to estimate the causal relationship between peripheral immune markers and ALS using a two-sample Mendelian randomization method. Genome-wide association study (GWAS) data on peripheral blood immune traits from European populations were used for exposure, and ALS summary statistics were used as the outcome. The causal relationship was evaluated by inverse variance weighting, MR-Egger, and weighted median methods and verified by multiple sensitivity analysis. Results We found that the increase of one standard deviation of lymphocyte count is related to reducing ALS risk. CD3 on effector memory CD4+ T cell, HLA DR+ CD4+ T cell, effector memory CD8+ T cell, terminally differentiated CD8+ T cell and CD28- CD8+ T cell is also a protective factor for ALS. Among the circulating immune protein, the increase of one standard deviation of α-2-macroglobulin receptor-associated protein (α-2-MRAP) and C4b showed associated with low risk of ALS, while Interleukin-21 (IL-21) increases the risk of ALS. Discussion Our study further reveals the important role of peripheral immune activity in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengwei Hu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Academy of Medical Sciences of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chunyan Zuo
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chengyuan Mao
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cerebrovascular Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Changhe Shi
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cerebrovascular Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yuming Xu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cerebrovascular Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Cerebrovascular Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Institute of Neuroscience, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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36
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Yamamuro-Tanabe A, Mukai Y, Kojima W, Zheng S, Matsumoto N, Takada S, Mizuhara M, Kosuge Y, Ishimaru Y, Yoshioka Y. An Increase in Peroxiredoxin 6 Expression Induces Neurotoxic A1 Astrocytes in the Lumbar Spinal Cord of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Mice Model. Neurochem Res 2023; 48:3571-3584. [PMID: 37556038 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-023-04003-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a severe neurodegenerative disease with selective degeneration of motor neurons. It has been reported that an increase in the levels of inflammatory cytokines and glial cells such as reactive astrocytes is closely involved in the pathological progression of ALS. Recently, the levels of neuropathic cytotoxic (A1) astrocytes among reactive astrocytes have reportedly increased in the central nervous system of ALS mice, which induce motor neuron degeneration through the production of inflammatory cytokines and secretion of neuropathic factors. Hence, elucidating the induction mechanism of A1 astrocytes in ALS is important to understand the mechanism of disease progression in ALS. In this study, we observed that the expression of peroxiredoxin 6 (PRDX6), a member of the peroxiredoxin family, was markedly upregulated in astrocytes of the lumbar spinal cord of SOD1G93A mice model for ALS. Additionally, when PRDX6 was transiently transfected into the mouse astrocyte cell line C8-D1A and human astrocytoma cell line U-251 MG, the mRNA expression of complement C3 (a marker for A1 astrocyte phenotype) and inflammatory cytokines was increased. Furthermore, the mRNA expression of C3 and inflammatory cytokine was increased in C8-D1A and U-251 MG cells stably expressing PRDX6, and the increased mRNA expression was significantly suppressed by MJ33 (lithium[1-hexadecoxy-3-(2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy) propan-2-yl] methyl phosphate), an inhibitor of the phospholipase A2 activity of PRDX6. Our results suggest that the expression of PRDX6 in astrocytes plays an important role in the induction of A1 astrocytes and expression of inflammatory cytokines in the ALS mice model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akiko Yamamuro-Tanabe
- Laboratory of Pharmacotherapeutics, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Setsunan University, 45-1 Nagaotoge-cho, Hirakata, Osaka, 573-0101, Japan
| | - Yurika Mukai
- Laboratory of Pharmacotherapeutics, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Setsunan University, 45-1 Nagaotoge-cho, Hirakata, Osaka, 573-0101, Japan
| | - Wataru Kojima
- Laboratory of Pharmacotherapeutics, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Setsunan University, 45-1 Nagaotoge-cho, Hirakata, Osaka, 573-0101, Japan
| | - Siyuan Zheng
- Laboratory of Pharmacotherapeutics, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Setsunan University, 45-1 Nagaotoge-cho, Hirakata, Osaka, 573-0101, Japan
| | - Naoko Matsumoto
- Laboratory of Pharmacotherapeutics, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Setsunan University, 45-1 Nagaotoge-cho, Hirakata, Osaka, 573-0101, Japan
| | - Shoho Takada
- Laboratory of Pharmacotherapeutics, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Setsunan University, 45-1 Nagaotoge-cho, Hirakata, Osaka, 573-0101, Japan
| | - Mao Mizuhara
- Laboratory of Pharmacotherapeutics, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Setsunan University, 45-1 Nagaotoge-cho, Hirakata, Osaka, 573-0101, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Kosuge
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nihon University, Chiba, 274-8555, Japan
| | - Yuki Ishimaru
- Laboratory of Pharmacotherapeutics, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Setsunan University, 45-1 Nagaotoge-cho, Hirakata, Osaka, 573-0101, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Yoshioka
- Laboratory of Pharmacotherapeutics, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Setsunan University, 45-1 Nagaotoge-cho, Hirakata, Osaka, 573-0101, Japan.
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Rizzuti M, Sali L, Melzi V, Scarcella S, Costamagna G, Ottoboni L, Quetti L, Brambilla L, Papadimitriou D, Verde F, Ratti A, Ticozzi N, Comi GP, Corti S, Gagliardi D. Genomic and transcriptomic advances in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 92:102126. [PMID: 37972860 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102126] [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: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder and the most common motor neuron disease. ALS shows substantial clinical and molecular heterogeneity. In vitro and in vivo models coupled with multiomic techniques have provided important contributions to unraveling the pathomechanisms underlying ALS. To date, despite promising results and accumulating knowledge, an effective treatment is still lacking. Here, we provide an overview of the literature on the use of genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics and microRNAs to deeply investigate the molecular mechanisms developing and sustaining ALS. We report the most relevant genes implicated in ALS pathogenesis, discussing the use of different high-throughput sequencing techniques and the role of epigenomic modifications. Furthermore, we present transcriptomic studies discussing the most recent advances, from microarrays to bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing. Finally, we discuss the use of microRNAs as potential biomarkers and promising tools for molecular intervention. The integration of data from multiple omic approaches may provide new insights into pathogenic pathways in ALS by shedding light on diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, helping to stratify patients into clinically relevant subgroups, revealing novel therapeutic targets and supporting the development of new effective therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mafalda Rizzuti
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Sali
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Melzi
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Simone Scarcella
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianluca Costamagna
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Linda Ottoboni
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Quetti
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Brambilla
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Federico Verde
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonia Ratti
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicola Ticozzi
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giacomo Pietro Comi
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy; Neuromuscular and Rare Diseases Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefania Corti
- Neurology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Delia Gagliardi
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Dino Ferrari Center, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
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38
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Mimic S, Aru B, Pehlivanoğlu C, Sleiman H, Andjus PR, Yanıkkaya Demirel G. Immunology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis - role of the innate and adaptive immunity. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1277399. [PMID: 38105925 PMCID: PMC10723830 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1277399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
This review aims to summarize the latest evidence about the role of innate and adaptive immunity in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). ALS is a devastating neurodegenerative disease affecting upper and lower motor neurons, which involves essential cells of the immune system that play a basic role in innate or adaptive immunity, that can be neurotoxic or neuroprotective for neurons. However, distinguishing between the sole neurotoxic or neuroprotective function of certain cells such as astrocytes can be challenging due to intricate nature of these cells, the complexity of the microenvironment and the contextual factors. In this review, in regard to innate immunity we focus on the involvement of monocytes/macrophages, microglia, the complement, NK cells, neutrophils, mast cells, and astrocytes, while regarding adaptive immunity, in addition to humoral immunity the most important features and roles of T and B cells are highlighted, specifically different subsets of CD4+ as well as CD8+ T cells. The role of autoantibodies and cytokines is also discussed in distinct sections of this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Mimic
- Centre for Laser Microscopy, Institute of Physiology and Biochemistry “Jean Giaja”, Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Başak Aru
- Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Cemil Pehlivanoğlu
- Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Hadi Sleiman
- Faculty of Medicine, Yeditepe University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Pavle R. Andjus
- Centre for Laser Microscopy, Institute of Physiology and Biochemistry “Jean Giaja”, Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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Pisciottani A, Croci L, Lauria F, Marullo C, Savino E, Ambrosi A, Podini P, Marchioretto M, Casoni F, Cremona O, Taverna S, Quattrini A, Cioni JM, Viero G, Codazzi F, Consalez GG. Neuronal models of TDP-43 proteinopathy display reduced axonal translation, increased oxidative stress, and defective exocytosis. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1253543. [PMID: 38026702 PMCID: PMC10679756 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1253543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive, lethal neurodegenerative disease mostly affecting people around 50-60 years of age. TDP-43, an RNA-binding protein involved in pre-mRNA splicing and controlling mRNA stability and translation, forms neuronal cytoplasmic inclusions in an overwhelming majority of ALS patients, a phenomenon referred to as TDP-43 proteinopathy. These cytoplasmic aggregates disrupt mRNA transport and localization. The axon, like dendrites, is a site of mRNA translation, permitting the local synthesis of selected proteins. This is especially relevant in upper and lower motor neurons, whose axon spans long distances, likely accentuating their susceptibility to ALS-related noxae. In this work we have generated and characterized two cellular models, consisting of virtually pure populations of primary mouse cortical neurons expressing a human TDP-43 fusion protein, wt or carrying an ALS mutation. Both forms facilitate cytoplasmic aggregate formation, unlike the corresponding native proteins, giving rise to bona fide primary culture models of TDP-43 proteinopathy. Neurons expressing TDP-43 fusion proteins exhibit a global impairment in axonal protein synthesis, an increase in oxidative stress, and defects in presynaptic function and electrical activity. These changes correlate with deregulation of axonal levels of polysome-engaged mRNAs playing relevant roles in the same processes. Our data support the emerging notion that deregulation of mRNA metabolism and of axonal mRNA transport may trigger the dying-back neuropathy that initiates motor neuron degeneration in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Pisciottani
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Croci
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Lauria
- Institute of Biophysics, CNR Unit at Trento, Povo, Italy
| | - Chiara Marullo
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Savino
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Ambrosi
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Podini
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Filippo Casoni
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Ottavio Cremona
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Taverna
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Angelo Quattrini
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Jean-Michel Cioni
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Franca Codazzi
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - G. Giacomo Consalez
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
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Bakavayev S, Stavsky A, Argueti-Ostrovsky S, Yehezkel G, Fridmann-Sirkis Y, Barak Z, Gitler D, Israelson A, Engel S. Blocking an epitope of misfolded SOD1 ameliorates disease phenotype in a model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Brain 2023; 146:4594-4607. [PMID: 37394908 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awad222] [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: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The current strategies to mitigate the toxicity of misfolded superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) in familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis via blocking SOD1 expression in the CNS are indiscriminative for misfolded and intact proteins, and as such, entail a risk of depriving CNS cells of their essential antioxidant potential. As an alternative approach to neutralize misfolded and spare unaffected SOD1 species, we developed scFv-SE21 antibody that blocks the β6/β7 loop epitope exposed exclusively in misfolded SOD1. The β6/β7 loop epitope has previously been proposed to initiate amyloid-like aggregation of misfolded SOD1 and mediate its prion-like activity. The adeno-associated virus-mediated expression of scFv-SE21 in the CNS of hSOD1G37R mice rescued spinal motor neurons, reduced the accumulation of misfolded SOD1, decreased gliosis and thus delayed disease onset and extended survival by 90 days. The results provide evidence for the role of the exposed β6/β7 loop epitope in the mechanism of neurotoxic gain-of-function of misfolded SOD1 and open avenues for the development of mechanism-based anti-SOD1 therapeutics, whose selective targeting of misfolded SOD1 species may entail a reduced risk of collateral oxidative damage to the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shamchal Bakavayev
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Alexandra Stavsky
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Shirel Argueti-Ostrovsky
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Galit Yehezkel
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Yael Fridmann-Sirkis
- Department of Life Sciences Core Facilities, Faculty of Biochemistry, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Zeev Barak
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Daniel Gitler
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
- The Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Adrian Israelson
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
- The Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Stanislav Engel
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
- The Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
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41
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Dubowsky M, Theunissen F, Carr JM, Rogers ML. The Molecular Link Between TDP-43, Endogenous Retroviruses and Inflammatory Neurodegeneration in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: a Potential Target for Triumeq, an Antiretroviral Therapy. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:6330-6345. [PMID: 37450244 PMCID: PMC10533598 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03472-y] [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: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as motor neuron disease (MND), is a progressive neurological disorder, characterised by the death of upper and lower motor neurons. The aetiology of ALS remains unknown, and treatment options are limited. Endogenous retroviruses (ERVs), specifically human endogenous retrovirus type K (HERV-K), have been proposed to be involved in the propagation of neurodegeneration in ALS. ERVs are genomic remnants of ancient viral infection events, with most being inactive and not retaining the capacity to encode a fully infectious virus. However, some ERVs retain the ability to be activated and transcribed, and ERV transcripts have been found to be elevated within the brain tissue of MND patients. A hallmark of ALS pathology is altered localisation of the transactive response (TAR) DNA binding protein 43 kDa (TDP-43), which is normally found within the nucleus of neuronal and glial cells and is involved in RNA regulation. In ALS, TDP-43 aggregates within the cytoplasm and facilitates neurodegeneration. The involvement of ERVs in ALS pathology is thought to occur through TDP-43 and neuroinflammatory mediators. In this review, the proposed involvement of TDP-43, HERV-K and immune regulators on the onset and progression of ALS will be discussed. Furthermore, the evidence supporting a therapy based on targeting ERVs in ALS will be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Dubowsky
- College of Medicine and Public Health and Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia.
| | - Frances Theunissen
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, Australia
| | - Jillian M Carr
- College of Medicine and Public Health and Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia
| | - Mary-Louise Rogers
- College of Medicine and Public Health and Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia
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Lee SY, Cho HY, Oh JP, Park J, Bae SH, Park H, Kim EJ, Lee JH. Therapeutic Effects of Combination of Nebivolol and Donepezil: Targeting Multifactorial Mechanisms in ALS. Neurotherapeutics 2023; 20:1779-1795. [PMID: 37782409 PMCID: PMC10684847 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-023-01444-7] [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] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive loss of motor neurons in the spinal cord. Although the disease's pathophysiological mechanism remains poorly understood, multifactorial mechanisms affecting motor neuron loss converge to worsen the disease. Although two FDA-approved drugs, riluzole and edaravone, targeting excitotoxicity and oxidative stress, respectively, are available, their efficacies are limited to extending survival by only a few months. Here, we developed combinatorial drugs targeting multifactorial mechanisms underlying key components in ALS disease progression. Using data analysis based on the genetic information of patients with ALS-derived cells and pharmacogenomic data of the drugs, a combination of nebivolol and donepezil (nebivolol-donepezil) was identified for ALS therapy. Here, nebivolol-donepezil markedly reduced the levels of cytokines in the microglial cell line, inhibited nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) nucleus translocation in the HeLa cell and substantially protected against excitotoxicity-induced neuronal loss by regulating the PI3K-Akt pathway. Nebivolol-donepezil significantly promoted the differentiation of neural progenitor cells (NPC) into motor neurons. Furthermore, we verified the low dose efficacy of nebivolol-donepezil on multiple indices corresponding to the quality of life of patients with ALS in vivo using SOD1G93A mice. Nebivolol-donepezil delayed motor function deterioration and halted motor neuronal loss in the spinal cord. Drug administration effectively suppressed muscle atrophy by mitigating the proportion of smaller myofibers and substantially reducing phospho-neurofilament heavy chain (pNF-H) levels in the serum, a promising ALS biomarker. High-dose nebivolol-donepezil significantly prolonged survival and delayed disease onset compared with vehicle-treated mice. These results indicate that the combination of nebivolol-donepezil efficiently prevents ALS disease progression, benefiting the patients' quality of life and life expectancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo Yeon Lee
- DR. NOAH BIOTECH Inc., 91, Changnyong-daero 256beon-gil, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, 16229, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye-Yeon Cho
- DR. NOAH BIOTECH Inc., 91, Changnyong-daero 256beon-gil, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, 16229, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Pyo Oh
- DR. NOAH BIOTECH Inc., 91, Changnyong-daero 256beon-gil, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, 16229, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiae Park
- DR. NOAH BIOTECH Inc., 91, Changnyong-daero 256beon-gil, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, 16229, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Hun Bae
- DR. NOAH BIOTECH Inc., 91, Changnyong-daero 256beon-gil, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, 16229, Republic of Korea
| | - Haesun Park
- DR. NOAH BIOTECH Inc., 91, Changnyong-daero 256beon-gil, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, 16229, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Jung Kim
- DR. NOAH BIOTECH Inc., 91, Changnyong-daero 256beon-gil, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, 16229, Republic of Korea.
| | - Ji-Hyun Lee
- DR. NOAH BIOTECH Inc., 91, Changnyong-daero 256beon-gil, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, 16229, Republic of Korea.
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43
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Chi B, Öztürk MM, Paraggio CL, Leonard CE, Sanita ME, Dastpak M, O’Connell JD, Coady JA, Zhang J, Gygi SP, Lopez-Gonzalez R, Yin S, Reed R. Causal ALS genes impact the MHC class II antigen presentation pathway. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2305756120. [PMID: 37722062 PMCID: PMC10523463 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2305756120] [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: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in RNA/DNA-binding proteins cause amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), but the underlying disease mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we report that a set of ALS-associated proteins, namely FUS, EWSR1, TAF15, and MATR3, impact the expression of genes encoding the major histocompatibility complex II (MHC II) antigen presentation pathway. Both subunits of the MHC II heterodimer, HLA-DR, are down-regulated in ALS gene knockouts/knockdown in HeLa and human microglial cells, due to loss of the MHC II transcription factor CIITA. Importantly, hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) derived from human embryonic stem cells bearing the FUSR495X mutation and HPCs derived from C9ORF72 ALS patient induced pluripotent stem cells also exhibit disrupted MHC II expression. Given that HPCs give rise to numerous immune cells, our data raise the possibility that loss of the MHC II pathway results in global failure of the immune system to protect motor neurons from damage that leads to ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binkai Chi
- Department of Cell Biology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02115
| | - Muhammet M. Öztürk
- Department of Cell Biology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02115
| | - Christina L. Paraggio
- Department of Cell Biology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02115
| | - Claudia E. Leonard
- Department of Cell Biology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02115
| | - Maria E. Sanita
- Department of Cell Biology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02115
| | - Mahtab Dastpak
- Department of Cell Biology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02115
| | - Jeremy D. O’Connell
- Department of Cell Biology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02115
| | - Jordan A. Coady
- Department of Cell Biology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02115
| | - Jiuchun Zhang
- Harvard Medical School Cell Biology Initiative for Genome Editing and Neurodegeneration, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02115
| | - Steven P. Gygi
- Department of Cell Biology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02115
| | - Rodrigo Lopez-Gonzalez
- Department of Neurosciences Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH44196
| | - Shanye Yin
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY10461
| | - Robin Reed
- Department of Cell Biology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02115
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44
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Tang X, Zhan Y, Yang B, Du B, Huang J. Exploring the mechanism of Semen Strychni in treating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis based on network pharmacology. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e35101. [PMID: 37682161 PMCID: PMC10489316 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000035101] [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: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Semen Strychni (SS), known as an agonist of central nervous system, is a traditional herb widely used in treating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in small doses to relieve muscle weakness and improve muscle strength. However, the potential mechanisms and the main components of SS in treating ALS remain unclear. To explore the underlying mechanism of SS in treating ALS based on network pharmacology and molecular docking. The active components of SS were obtained using TCMSP, Herb, ETCM, and BATMAN-TCM. The targets of SS were gained from PharmMapper. The targets of ALS were searched on Genecards, Drugbank, DisGeNET, OMIM, TTD and GEO database. After obtaining the coincidence targets, we submitted them to the STRING database to build a protein-protein interaction network. Gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis were performed subsequently. The active components and targets were further investigated using molecular docking technology. 395 targets of SS and 1925 targets of ALS were obtained with 125 common targets. The protein-protein interaction analysis indicated that SRC, AKT1, MAPK1, EGFR, and HSP90AA1 received the higher degree value and were considered the central genes. The Ras, PI3K-Akt, and MAPK signaling pathway could be involved in the treatment of ALS. Brucine-N-oxide obtained the lowest binding energy in molecular docking. This study explored the mechanism of SS in the treatment of ALS and provides a new perspective for future study. However, further experimental studies are needed to validate the therapeutic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohui Tang
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yingshi Zhan
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Biying Yang
- Department of Neurology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Baoxin Du
- Department of Neurology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingyan Huang
- Department of Neurology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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45
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Rani A, Saini V, Patra P, Prashar T, Pandey RK, Mishra A, Jha HC. Epigallocatechin Gallate: A Multifaceted Molecule for Neurological Disorders and Neurotropic Viral Infections. ACS Chem Neurosci 2023; 14:2968-2980. [PMID: 37590965 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00368] [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] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a polyphenolic moiety found in green tea extracts, exhibits pleiotropic bioactivities to combat many diseases including neurological ailments. These neurological diseases include Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. For instance, in the case of Alzheimer's disease, the formation of a β-sheet in the region of the 10th-21st amino acids was significantly reduced in EGCG-induced oligomeric samples of Aβ40. Its interference induces the formation of Aβ structures with an increase in intercenter-of-mass distances, reduction in interchain/intrachain contacts, reduction in β-sheet propensity, and increase in α-helix. Besides, numerous neurotropic viruses are known to instigate or aggravate neurological ailments. It exerts an effect on the oxidative damage caused in neurodegenerative disorders by acting on GSK3-β, PI3K/Akt, and downstream signaling pathways via caspase-3 and cytochrome-c. EGCG also diminishes these viral-mediated effects, such as EGCG delayed HSV-1 infection by blocking the entry for virions, inhibitory effects on NS3/4A protease or NS5B polymerase of HCV and potent inhibitor of ZIKV NS2B-NS3pro/NS3 serine protease (NS3-SP). It showed a reduction in the neurotoxic properties of HIV-gp120 and Tat in the presence of IFN-γ. EGCG also involves numerous viral-mediated inflammatory cascades, such as JAK/STAT. Nonetheless, it also inhibits the Epstein-Barr virus replication protein (Zta and Rta). Moreover, it also impedes certain viruses (influenza A and B strains) by hijacking the endosomal and lysosomal compartments. Therefore, the current article aims to describe the importance of EGCG in numerous neurological diseases and its inhibitory effect against neurotropic viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annu Rani
- Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Simrol, 453552, Indore India
| | - Vaishali Saini
- Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Simrol, 453552, Indore India
| | - Priyanka Patra
- Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Simrol, 453552, Indore India
| | - Tanish Prashar
- School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, Tamil Nadu India
| | - Rajan Kumar Pandey
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institute, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Amit Mishra
- Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Unit, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Karwar, 342030, Jodhpur India
| | - Hem Chandra Jha
- Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Simrol, 453552, Indore India
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Zheng C, Li W, Ali T, Peng Z, Liu J, Pan Z, Feng J, Li S. Ibrutinib Delays ALS Installation and Increases Survival of SOD1 G93A Mice by Modulating PI3K/mTOR/Akt Signaling. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2023; 18:383-396. [PMID: 37326908 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-023-10068-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal multisystem degenerative disorder with minimal available therapeutic. However, some recent studies showed promising results of immunological-based treatment. Here, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of ibrutinib against ALS-associated abnormalities by targeting inflammation and muscular atrophy. Ibrutinib was administrated orally to SOD1 G93A mice from 6 to 19 weeks for prophylactic administration and 13 to 19 weeks for therapeutic administration. Our results demonstrated that ibrutinib treatment significantly delayed ALS-like symptom onset in the SOD1 G93A mice, as shown by improved survival time and reduced behavioral impairments. Ibrutinib treatment significantly reduced muscular atrophy by increasing muscle/body weight and decreasing muscular necrosis. The ibrutinib treatment also considerably reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine production, IBA-1, and GFAP expression, possibly mediated by mTOR/Akt/Pi3k signaling in the medulla, motor cortex and spinal cord of the ALS mice. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that ibrutinib could delay ALS onset, increase survival time, and reduce ALS progression by targeting inflammation and muscular atrophy via mTOR/Akt/PI3K modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengyou Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Weifen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen key laboratory for endogenous infections, the 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science, Center. No 89, Taoyuan Road, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, 518052, China
| | - Tahir Ali
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Ziting Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Jieli Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Zhengying Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Jinxing Feng
- Department of Neonatology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Shupeng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
- Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
- Campbell Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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47
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Jamali AM, Kethamreddy M, Burkett BJ, Port JD, Pandey MK. PET and SPECT Imaging of ALS: An Educational Review. Mol Imaging 2023; 2023:5864391. [PMID: 37636591 PMCID: PMC10460279 DOI: 10.1155/2023/5864391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a disease leading to progressive motor degeneration and ultimately death. It is a complex disease that can take a significantly long time to be diagnosed, as other similar pathological conditions must be ruled out for a definite diagnosis of ALS. Noninvasive imaging of ALS has shed light on disease pathology and altered biochemistry in the ALS brain. Other than magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), two types of functional imaging, positron emission tomography (PET) and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), have provided valuable data about what happens in the brain of ALS patients compared to healthy controls. PET imaging has revealed a specific pattern of brain metabolism through [18F]FDG, while other radiotracers have uncovered neuroinflammation, changes in neuronal density, and protein aggregation. SPECT imaging has shown a general decrease in regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) in ALS patients. This educational review summarizes the current state of ALS imaging with various PET and SPECT radiopharmaceuticals to better understand the pathophysiology of ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - John D. Port
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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48
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Bjornevik K, Cortese M, Furtado JD, Paganoni S, Schwarzschild MA, Cudkowicz ME, Ascherio A. Association of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Clinical Progression in Patients With ALS: Post Hoc Analysis of the EMPOWER Trial. Neurology 2023; 101:e690-e698. [PMID: 37344230 PMCID: PMC10437021 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000207485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects and could be beneficial in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Higher dietary intake and plasma levels of PUFAs, in particular alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), have been associated with a lower risk of ALS in large epidemiologic cohort studies, but data on disease progression in patients with ALS are sparse. We examined whether plasma levels of ALA and other PUFAs contributed to predicting survival time and functional decline in patients with ALS. METHODS We conducted a study among participants in the EMPOWER clinical trial who had plasma samples collected at the time of randomization that were available for fatty acid analyses. Plasma fatty acids were measured using gas chromatography. We used Cox proportional hazards models and linear regression to evaluate the association of individual fatty acids with risk of death and joint rank test score of functional decline and survival. RESULTS Fatty acid analyses were conducted in 449 participants. The mean (SD) age of these participants at baseline was 57.5 (10.7) years, and 293 (65.3%) were men; 126 (28.1%) died during follow-up. Higher ALA levels were associated with lower risk of death (age-adjusted and sex-adjusted hazard ratio comparing highest vs lowest quartile 0.50, 95% CI 0.29-0.86, p-trend = 0.041) and higher joint rank test score (difference in score according to 1 SD increase 10.7, 95% CI 0.2-21.1, p = 0.045), consistent with a slower functional decline. The estimates remained similar in analyses adjusted for body mass index, race/ethnicity, symptom duration, site of onset, riluzole use, family history of ALS, predicted upright slow vital capacity, and treatment group. Higher levels of the n-3 fatty acid eicosapentaenoic acid and the n-6 fatty acid linoleic acid were associated with a lower risk of death during follow-up. DISCUSSION Higher levels of ALA were associated with longer survival and slower functional decline in patients with ALS. These results suggest that ALA may have a favorable effect on disease progression in patients with ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kjetil Bjornevik
- From the Department of Nutrition (K.B., M.C., J.D.F., A.A.), and Department of Epidemiology (K.B., A.A.), Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston; Epidemiology (J.D.F.), Biogen, Cambridge; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (S.P.), Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and Healey Center for ALS, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School (S.P., M.A.S.); Department of Neurology (M.A.S.), Massachusetts General Hospital; Sean M Healey & AMG Center for ALS (M.E.C.), Mass General Hospital, Harvard Medical School; and Channing Division of Network Medicine (A.A.), Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.
| | - Marianna Cortese
- From the Department of Nutrition (K.B., M.C., J.D.F., A.A.), and Department of Epidemiology (K.B., A.A.), Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston; Epidemiology (J.D.F.), Biogen, Cambridge; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (S.P.), Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and Healey Center for ALS, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School (S.P., M.A.S.); Department of Neurology (M.A.S.), Massachusetts General Hospital; Sean M Healey & AMG Center for ALS (M.E.C.), Mass General Hospital, Harvard Medical School; and Channing Division of Network Medicine (A.A.), Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Jeremy D Furtado
- From the Department of Nutrition (K.B., M.C., J.D.F., A.A.), and Department of Epidemiology (K.B., A.A.), Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston; Epidemiology (J.D.F.), Biogen, Cambridge; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (S.P.), Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and Healey Center for ALS, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School (S.P., M.A.S.); Department of Neurology (M.A.S.), Massachusetts General Hospital; Sean M Healey & AMG Center for ALS (M.E.C.), Mass General Hospital, Harvard Medical School; and Channing Division of Network Medicine (A.A.), Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Sabrina Paganoni
- From the Department of Nutrition (K.B., M.C., J.D.F., A.A.), and Department of Epidemiology (K.B., A.A.), Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston; Epidemiology (J.D.F.), Biogen, Cambridge; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (S.P.), Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and Healey Center for ALS, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School (S.P., M.A.S.); Department of Neurology (M.A.S.), Massachusetts General Hospital; Sean M Healey & AMG Center for ALS (M.E.C.), Mass General Hospital, Harvard Medical School; and Channing Division of Network Medicine (A.A.), Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Michael A Schwarzschild
- From the Department of Nutrition (K.B., M.C., J.D.F., A.A.), and Department of Epidemiology (K.B., A.A.), Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston; Epidemiology (J.D.F.), Biogen, Cambridge; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (S.P.), Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and Healey Center for ALS, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School (S.P., M.A.S.); Department of Neurology (M.A.S.), Massachusetts General Hospital; Sean M Healey & AMG Center for ALS (M.E.C.), Mass General Hospital, Harvard Medical School; and Channing Division of Network Medicine (A.A.), Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Merit E Cudkowicz
- From the Department of Nutrition (K.B., M.C., J.D.F., A.A.), and Department of Epidemiology (K.B., A.A.), Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston; Epidemiology (J.D.F.), Biogen, Cambridge; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (S.P.), Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and Healey Center for ALS, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School (S.P., M.A.S.); Department of Neurology (M.A.S.), Massachusetts General Hospital; Sean M Healey & AMG Center for ALS (M.E.C.), Mass General Hospital, Harvard Medical School; and Channing Division of Network Medicine (A.A.), Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Alberto Ascherio
- From the Department of Nutrition (K.B., M.C., J.D.F., A.A.), and Department of Epidemiology (K.B., A.A.), Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston; Epidemiology (J.D.F.), Biogen, Cambridge; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (S.P.), Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and Healey Center for ALS, Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School (S.P., M.A.S.); Department of Neurology (M.A.S.), Massachusetts General Hospital; Sean M Healey & AMG Center for ALS (M.E.C.), Mass General Hospital, Harvard Medical School; and Channing Division of Network Medicine (A.A.), Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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Xu H, Lotfy P, Gelb S, Pragana A, Hehnly C, Shipley FB, Zawadzki ME, Cui J, Deng L, Taylor M, Webb M, Lidov HGW, Andermann ML, Chiu IM, Ordovas-Montanes J, Lehtinen MK. A collaboration between immune cells and the choroid plexus epithelium in brain inflammation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.07.552298. [PMID: 37609192 PMCID: PMC10441321 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.07.552298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
The choroid plexus (ChP) is a vital brain barrier and source of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Here, we use chronic two-photon imaging in awake mice and single-cell transcriptomics to demonstrate that in addition to these roles, the ChP is a complex immune organ that regulates brain inflammation. In a mouse meningitis model, neutrophils and monocytes accumulated in ChP stroma and surged across the epithelial barrier into the CSF. Bi-directional recruitment of monocytes from the periphery and, unexpectedly, macrophages from the CSF to the ChP helped eliminate neutrophils and repair the barrier. Transcriptomic analyses detailed the molecular steps accompanying this process, including the discovery of epithelial cells that transiently specialized to nurture immune cells, coordinate their recruitment, survival, and differentiation, and ultimately, control the opening/closing of the ChP brain barrier. Collectively, we provide a new conceptual understanding and comprehensive roadmap of neuroinflammation at the ChP brain barrier.
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50
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Calafatti M, Cocozza G, Limatola C, Garofalo S. Microglial crosstalk with astrocytes and immune cells in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1223096. [PMID: 37564648 PMCID: PMC10410456 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1223096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, biomedical research efforts aimed to unravel the mechanisms involved in motor neuron death that occurs in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). While the main causes of disease progression were first sought in the motor neurons, more recent studies highlight the gliocentric theory demonstrating the pivotal role of microglia and astrocyte, but also of infiltrating immune cells, in the pathological processes that take place in the central nervous system microenvironment. From this point of view, microglia-astrocytes-lymphocytes crosstalk is fundamental to shape the microenvironment toward a pro-inflammatory one, enhancing neuronal damage. In this review, we dissect the current state-of-the-art knowledge of the microglial dialogue with other cell populations as one of the principal hallmarks of ALS progression. Particularly, we deeply investigate the microglia crosstalk with astrocytes and immune cells reporting in vitro and in vivo studies related to ALS mouse models and human patients. At last, we highlight the current experimental therapeutic approaches that aim to modulate microglial phenotype to revert the microenvironment, thus counteracting ALS progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Calafatti
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Germana Cocozza
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Limatola
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Garofalo
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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